The Value of Design
CATEGORY—Design
July 2024
Words: Natasha Maben
2 min read
Often dismissed as mere decoration, design goes deeper—it’s the quiet force that shapes our experiences, connecting us to the world in ways we barely understand.
Sure, aesthetics matter, but there’s more to it, beneath the surface.
The real value of design lies in how it pushes the boundaries of intention and purpose—whether it's for a person, a place, or an object.
At its core, design has the power to turn the ordinary into something meaningful, provided it’s approached with intent. Le Corbusier likened a house to a "machine for living," emphasising that design must serve life’s essentials. Seeping into every corner of our lives, the social and economic impacts of design are so entrenched, that they’re often brushed aside.
Yet, change is on the horizon. More fields are embracing design-led approaches and creativity, driving a push for greater accessibility. This shift reveals design’s true power, dismantling elitist barriers and championing inclusivity.
McKinsey’s 2018 report, The Business Value of Design, paints a rather enlightening picture. The very existence of such a report is a sign that design’s significance is being recognised more and more. It’s clear now that good design isn’t just an extra; it’s a game-changer for business. Leading companies are making user-centric design a fundamental part of their strategy. This is something businesses of any size—whether large, tiny, or somewhere in between—can genuinely benefit from.
Through Somewhere—Something, we explore the value of design, through crafted visual identities to tell brand stories for people and small businesses. For us, design is not just about making life better, it is also a meaningful business asset.