Abstract

This paper deals with the information derived from working with actual materials during the design process, and evaluating its influences on the designer's perceptions and knowledge. The main hypothesis is that experience with actual materials during the design process would contribute to the concept and shape development. To demonstrate this, the paper will examine literature in the fields of design studies and observations. Special emphasis will be put on the unique information and design knowledge gained from the tactile experience, and the unpredictable design observations derived while developing the shapes and characteristics of the product. All this, Considering the evolution that took place in last two decades in the means of virtual and digital planning, that contributed to the reduction of tactile experience due to considerations of time, money, availability and/or comfort. The reduction of tactile experience during the design process can be seen everywhere – in design education and in the professional field amongst experienced designers. For example, today one can design a complete object like a chair, item of clothing or an instrument, without experimenting in its final materials - from the idea stage through to the final product. The question raised: are designers fulfilling their role - their ethical and professional designation? The paper seeks to point out the importance of experiencing the actual materials during the design process, without undermining all the other stages and planning tools.