IMPLEMENTATION FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION THEORY IN PRODUCT DESIGN

Abstract

The Form Follows Function theory was expressed by Louis Sullivan, a famous architect from America on the early 20th century. The words Form Follows Function was introduced in 1896 from one of his articles The Tall Building Artistically Considered. The shape of a building or an object must be adapted to its function or use. Louis Sullivan explained that a size, space and characteristics in a building must first be addressed solely to the function of the building. The implication is that if the functional aspects are sufficient, architectural beauty will naturally follow. However, as time goes on, the Form Follows Function theory is not only for architecture but can also be applied to product design. The purpose of this study is to prove that the Form Follows Function theory has an important role in product design, especially for the user experience while using the product. A product form must be adapted to its function, so that users can easily use the product. The method used in this research is descriptive research method. Primary data were obtained from case studies and documentations, secondary data were obtained from literature and supporting theory books as a complement. The results show that the application of the Form Follows Function theory is very influential on product design, especially on the user mindset in product operation.
Keywords : Form Follows Function, Product Design, Product, and User.