Eric Kim’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in an ethos that reflects a blend of personal aesthetics, ethics, and philosophy. His approach to design can be observed through various aspects:
- Comparison of Design Philosophies: Kim compares different national design philosophies. For instance, Japanese design (like Toyota’s kaizen approach) emphasizes continuous improvement without aiming for perfection. German design is characterized by precision, stoicism, and a focus on industrial, classic designs. American design, on the other hand, is marked by extreme innovation, fluid identity, and a forward-looking perspective oai_citation:1,DESIGN PHILOSOPHY IS AN ETHOS. – ERIC KIM.
- Personal Aesthetics in Design: Kim believes that there is no absolute ‘good’ or ‘bad’ design. Design choices are a reflection of the designer’s philosophy and what they believe is best for others. This approach is evident in his design of HAPTIC products, which are influenced by his taste for elegance, uniqueness, functionality, and fashion oai_citation:2,The Designer as Philosopher – ERIC KIM.
- Philosophy in Photography: As a renowned street photographer, Kim integrates his philosophy into his photography, emphasizing simplicity, embracing uncertainty, and seeking personal meaning through art. He advocates for a minimalist approach, continual learning, community building, and incorporates elements of stoicism oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.
- Website Design Philosophy: Kim’s philosophy extends to his approach to website design. He believes in the simplicity of hyperlinks, sees websites as ever-evolving entities, and is passionate about building, designing, and theorizing on web platforms oai_citation:4,Website Design Philosophy? – ERIC KIM.
- Modern Design Concepts: Kim also delves into the ethos and philosophy behind modern design, distinguishing between what he terms ‘ghetto design’ and ‘modern beautiful design,’ relating these to concepts of health, hygiene, cleanliness, and brightness oai_citation:5,Modern Design? – ERIC KIM.
Overall, Eric Kim’s design philosophy is a unique amalgamation of his personal beliefs, cultural influences, and a deep understanding of aesthetics, functionality, and the essence of design in various contexts.
Eric Kim’s design philosophy and quotes offer a rich perspective blending creativity, innovation, life principles, and a unique approach to luxury. He emphasizes proactive creativity, advocating for action without seeking external approval, with statements like “It is better to beg for forgiveness than ask for permission” and “80% good enough and hit publish” to counter perfectionism. His philosophy on life and innovation stresses continuous movement and innovation, urging never to limit one’s creative endeavors.
Kim’s personal philosophy integrates his passion for photography with broader life principles, focusing on simplicity, embracing uncertainty, and pursuing personal meaning through art. He also values a balanced approach to physical and intellectual pursuits, as seen in his statement, “Only Trust Philosophers Who Deadlift.”
In terms of luxury, Kim views it as self-actualization and values time and personal growth over material goods. He believes that the ability to study and think about philosophy is a luxury, especially when one’s basic financial needs are met. This aligns with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, where self-actualization is at the top.
Regarding design ethos, Kim compares different national design philosophies. He describes Japanese design as embodying a ‘kaizen’ approach, focusing on continual improvement without seeking perfection. German design, according to him, emphasizes precision and a classic, industrial feel, while American design is characterized by extreme innovation, fluidity, and a forward-looking approach. He posits that perhaps a hybrid of these philosophies might be the ultimate design ethos.
Kim’s diverse thoughts cover a broad spectrum, from the essence of creativity and innovation to the deeper meaning of luxury and the ethos behind design philosophies oai_citation:1,Eric Kim philosophy quotes – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Eric Kim luxury philosophy thoughts – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,DESIGN PHILOSOPHY IS AN ETHOS. – ERIC KIM.
