Here we are, mid-Jan. Life is back to the normal and humdrum, the ordinary and everyday….But, let’s think about that for a moment. Let’s think about the objects and products that we buy and use as part of our day to day routine.

We are all looking for the most cost effective way to put the brand in the hand and I believe that the new opportunity lies in consolidating what we already have – and making these brands so much more than just ordinary and everyday. It’s all in the design detail.

What could be more mundane and uniform than your basic takeaway coffee cup? The same the world over apart from the brand name and the graphics stamped on it…Or is it?

The innovative design of the new Shamrock Green Cup eliminates plastic lids by taking a pack that comprises of two different parts (one which is not recyclable) and replaces it with an origami inspired mono-component, biodegradable, functional pack that not only functions but looks so much better than the original http://shamrockcups.com.

And what about a baby’s feeding bottle? Superstar Designer Karim Rashid has created the Iiamo Go: a self-heating bottle – using a rehydrated salt cartridge — that serves body temperature milk without the use of electricity for warming. It’s tactile, colourful, animated, ergonomic – ticking all the boxes for attracting and stimulating children whilst being a very trendy accessory for Mum and Dad. It’s not just a modern take on a new idea but brings a new emotional and aesthetic appeal to the product.

The message here is to look for ways to make the everyday special by being more creative with what you already have – or could have. It’s not just putting the brand in the hand but making the brand more eye-catching and desirable so that we enjoy taking it out and getting pleasure from it time and time again.  And, don’t forget, the better they look, the more likely we are to choose and use them in public and that will attract attention from others…

Design for life – design for your everyday life.

About the Author

Jonathan Ford is a designer and co-founding partner of Pearlfisher. He oversees a portfolio of award-winning designs, including a high profile list of ethical, entrepreneurial and iconic brands. He is also a frequent speaker at high-profile international industry events and regular contributor and commentator in the design and brand press.

Jonathan can also be followed on Twitter—@Jforddesigns