e
Today's Urban Design Observation: Failures of Design Lead to the Need for Aftermarket Products
Enter a caption (optional)The storefront for this appointment-only, high-end jewelry store in SoHo has a shabby appearance.
Enter a caption (optional)The black paint probably looked chic for the first week after it was applied. But now it is chipped and peeling, and we see that black is a poor choice because it readily shows dust. The paint is also peeling on the "Fuck Off, Don't Sit Here" protuberances.
Enter a caption (optional)About those protuberances. The job of the designer is to create a space that serves the client's needs. But these windows have been set back, meaning passersby can sit on the sill. This store doesn't want that, so has installed the protuberances.
Enter a caption (optional)I inspected them and they are made from injection-molded plastic. They, too, have not weathered well and are cracking.
Enter a caption (optional)
Enter a caption (optional)Reader Mike pointed out that these protuberances are plastic closure strips like these, used for corrugated roofing. If the designer had anticipated the client's needs, there would be no need for them to have purchased and installed these strips. But because the need was unanswered, the closure strip company is able to make some extra sales, and some handyman or carpenter is then hired to install them. A failure of design, then, has unwittingly contributed to the economy.
-
oFavorite This
-
Q4Comment
Design Firm Projects
Core77
Industrial Design
Resources
Industrial Design
Resources
-
Design Directory
Find the Best Design Firms in the United StatesGo -
Hero Lighting SystemWhipsaw for GlintGlint Hero is the first luminaire that can point light in any direction without moving the fixture itself.
-
Google's SchaftSpeck Design for GoogleSpeck Design partnered with Google's Schaft Robotics to create a functional skin for the Schaft robot.
-
Neurable Enten Headphone DesignFresco Design for NeurableNeurable, a Boston-based tech startup had a mission to bring BUI technology to everyday with groundbreaking EEG headphones to help...
-
MyGo ContainersSpitfire Industry for Cook's directReusable, recyclable to-go food containers that replace single-use paper and Styrofoam boxes on college campuses and beyond.
-
GameStop 800 store fixture updateProject Duo for GameStopDesign brief: Custom-design, prototype, manufacture and deliver an updated, full store fixture package to 800 + stores across the US.
-
Myokore Trainer System - SoftGoods Design FirmstudioFAR - softgoods design firm for Myokoresoft goods design firm, softgoods design firm, soft goods designer, softgoods designer, soft goods industrial designer, softgoods industrial designer, technical...
-
MjölnirTandem Product DesignMjölnir speaker.
K
{Welcome
Create a Core77 Account
Already have an account? Sign In
By creating a Core77 account you confirm that you accept the Terms of Use
K
Reset Password
Please enter your email and we will send an email to reset your password.
Comments
I don't know that this is a failure of design per se. The building was probably there well before the tenant moved in. Who's to say the original occupant didn't enjoy sitting on the window sill him or herself after a long day.
A "failure of design" is also responsible for the creation of the word: retrofit.
No, the strips are not special. They are closure strips you used to support corrugated roofing. You can find them at Home Depot. They have been repurposed to keep people from sitting.
Will update the post to reflect this. Thanks Mike!