The Future Of Design: Guide to Timeless Design by Jefferson Amin.

Just as a key starts a car, for some, an alarm clock ignites the day, while for others, it’s the beauty of a sunrise in a clear sky. Think about how you start and end your day. Whether planned or unplanned, the way you jump-start your day shapes its trajectory and outcome. Your daily routine may seem like a series of mindless yet essential survival actions, but how your day ends and what you achieve is designed by you or someone else. Everything you interact with throughout your day was once visualized and designed.

Amin Jefferson , the Creative Director at Iknite Studio in Buea, Cameroon, and a leader in the design community, presented at the Ulevus Creative Evening Buea. He shared the stories of renowned designers whose innovations continue to impact our daily lives through the objects we use and the visuals we see.

How do we design the future without forgetting the past? How do we merge current, acceptable designs with futuristic concepts that will stand the test of time? Jefferson introduced us to the MAYA — “Most Advanced Yet Acceptable” — Principle created by Raymond Loewy, referred to as the father of Industrial Design. The MAYA Principle connects with the basic human nature, specifically how we respond to change and novelty. When introducing a new product or concept, the change must not be too drastic, as it could create unnecessary difficulty for the end user. Did you know this principle was applied in the design of Apple’s early iPod? Yes, even the iPod was designed with the understanding of how humans react to technological advancements.

In his presentation, Jefferson highlighted other groundbreaking designers who contributed to architecture, graphic design, textile design, film, and furniture. Among them were Ray Eames and Charles Eames, pioneers in the use of plywood, fiberglass, and molded plastic in furniture design.

Here are the 8 key takeaways from Jefferson’s presentation:

1. Form Follows Function – Design should be primarily based on its purpose, ensuring every element serves a functional role while maintaining overall usability and efficiency.
2. Simplicity and Minimalism – Strip designs down to their essential elements. Avoid unnecessary decoration and detail, maintaining clarity and coherence.
3. Human-Centered Design – Focus on user needs, ergonomics, and comfort. Your design should enhance the user experience rather than hinder it.
4. Adaptability and Flexibility – Create designs that can adapt to various contexts, like modular and versatile furniture pieces.
5. Sustainability and Longevity – Build durable designs that stand the test of time, both aesthetically and physically, with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and sustainable practices.
6. Integration of Art and Technology – Blend artistic expression with technological advancements.
7. Playfulness and Creativity – Inject joy and creativity into your designs, especially in furniture and multimedia projects.
8. Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Approach – Embrace collaboration across different fields. Form partnerships with other designers to broaden your perspective and become a multifaceted thinker.

Jefferson concluded with a powerful quote from Maya Angelou: “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” So, as you begin each day, be ready to design. Apply these lessons and continue building on your user-driven, collaborative creativity.

Jefferson’s Design Challenge for You: Create a logo design every day for 365 days. Share a one-minute creative brief on X (formerly Twitter).

Jefferson Amin is a dedicated leader who continues to propel the advancement of design skills within the Buea, Cameroon. His passion for solution-oriented design is admired and highly valued by seasoned and young designers alike.

Where you at the just concluded Ulevus Creatives Evening? What was your key takeaways? We'd like to hear from you.