Design: Weekly Summary (June 16-22, 2025)

You're Doing More Design Than You Think

So, I stumbled upon this idea that we're all doing design work, even when we don't realize it. Henrik Jernevad talks about how design decisions are like those little choices we make every day. You know, like deciding what to wear or what to eat for breakfast. It's those small decisions that shape the bigger picture, just like in design. It's not just about the big architectural stuff; it's the everyday choices that matter too. Makes you think, right?

In Uncertain Times, Get Curious & Automattic Acquires Clay

Now, here's something interesting from Creativerly. They talk about how platforms like Mastodon and Bluesky are getting more traffic. It's like when a new coffee shop opens in town, and everyone wants to check it out. They also mention Automattic acquiring Clay, which is a big deal in the design world. Plus, there's a bit about mental wealth and paid promotions. It's a mixed bag of topics, but it all ties back to staying curious and adapting to changes.

Most of the Time is Design

Back to Henrik Jernevad again, who emphasizes that design is a huge part of software projects. It's like when you're cooking a meal, and you realize that the prep work is just as important as the cooking itself. Design is intertwined with implementation, and those everyday decisions can really impact the system. It's a reminder to keep thinking about design to prevent things from falling apart.

Candy-Colored Sculptures by Poh Sin Studio Ornament Aquatic Life

Christopher Jobson introduces us to Pamela Poh Sin Tan's work, which is like a splash of color in a black-and-white movie. Her coral-inspired sculptures are made with sand-coated laser-cut steel and chalcedony stone beads. It's a beautiful blend of nature and art, reflecting her Chinese-Malaysian heritage. It's like finding a hidden gem in a thrift store, something unique and full of character.

I Made Postcards You'd Only Send to Your Enemies

This one's a bit cheeky. Kris St.Gabriel talks about creating postcards meant for enemies. It's like sending a message in a bottle, but with a twist. The process of designing and printing them is shared, along with reflections on past experiences and future plans. It's a fun and quirky take on design, showing that it doesn't always have to be serious.

With Liquid Glass, Less is More - 512 Pixels

Stephen Hackett discusses Liquid Glass in design, which is like adding a touch of magic to a mundane object. The idea is to use it sparingly to highlight content underneath, much like a spotlight on a stage. It's a lesson in restraint, showing that sometimes less really is more.

Inside Pulley's AI-Native Engineering Team

Charlie Guo gives us a peek into Pulley's engineering team, where AI tools are part of the daily grind. It's like having a secret weapon in your toolkit, something that gives you an edge over the competition. They experiment with new AI coding tools almost weekly, sharing their findings and learning from the challenges. It's a reminder that innovation often comes from trying new things and learning from mistakes.

Creating a Semantic Color Palette

Chris Ferdinandi explains how to create semantic color variables for design systems. It's like organizing your closet by color, making it easy to find what you need. This approach makes updating colors throughout the system a breeze, showing that a little organization can go a long way.

iPhone Designer, Sir Jony Ive Becomes a Trustee at the British Museum

Ian Mansfield shares the news that Sir Jony Ive, the mastermind behind the iPhone, is now a trustee at the British Museum. It's like when a rock star joins a legendary band, bringing their unique flair to the mix. His work at Apple and his design collective LoveFrom are well-known, and now he's bringing his expertise to the museum world.

Serpentine Gallery’s Pill Shaped Summer Pavilion Opens

The Serpentine Gallery's summer pavilion is like a time capsule from the 1970s, with its brown, translucent capsule design. Ian Mansfield describes it as reminiscent of old office buildings, but with a modern twist. Designed by Marina Tabassum Architects, it's a space that invites visitors to explore and reflect, much like a walk through a serene garden.

Building the Kilnettle Tape Dispenser

Mike Coats shares his experience assembling the Kilnettle Shrine Talking Tape Dispenser. It's like putting together a puzzle, with each piece fitting perfectly into place. The design files are available online, making it accessible for anyone interested in trying their hand at assembly. It's a reminder that design can be both functional and fun.

Through Lines 263

Scott Boms takes us on a journey through art, design, typography, and music. It's like flipping through a scrapbook filled with memories and inspirations. There's a new monograph by artist Tucker Nichols, an interview with art director Sunra Thompson, and a tour of Maestro Fileteador Gustavo Ferrari’s studio. It's a whirlwind of creativity, with each piece offering a glimpse into the world of design.

These blog posts paint a picture of a world where design is everywhere, from the smallest decisions to the grandest projects. It's a reminder that design is not just about aesthetics; it's about making choices that shape our world. Whether it's through AI tools, color palettes, or quirky postcards, design is a part of our everyday lives, often in ways we don't even realize. So, next time you make a decision, big or small, remember that you're doing more design than you think.