The One Object Designers Can’t Live Without: Insights from Creative Minds
Every designer has their go-to item—a special tool or object that they simply can’t do without. It’s the first thing they reach for in the morning, the one that stays close at hand throughout the day, and if it ever goes missing, it would throw their whole routine off balance. These cherished items vary: they can be beautifully crafted, shockingly practical, or hold deep personal significance. Whatever their form, these objects play a vital role in the creative process.
I spoke with several designers to find out what these essential items are. Their choices show us something intriguing about creativity—not all inspiration and productivity come from high-end gadgets or the latest technology. Sometimes, it’s about personal rituals and carefully selected tools that make each designer’s practice unique.
Discover the Everyday Inspirations of Designers
Let’s take a look at some of these magical objects that inspire designers in their daily lives:
1. Eames Lounge Chair
Stuart Murray, the creative mind behind Retrovintage, sings praises for his classic Eames lounge chair. This timeless piece, made of leather and plywood, has been a staple in homes since its creation in 1956. “It’s sculptural yet incredibly comfortable,” he shares. “Its generous proportions and perfect tilt make any room feel more organized.” For Stuart, its timeless elegance is what makes it indispensable. And if the original is too pricey, he points out that there are many quality replicas available.
2. Classic Moleskine Notebook
Mike Goldsworthy, from ilk Agency, describes his Moleskine notebook as his “brain’s backup drive.” This beloved item is where he jots down ideas, details of complex projects, and works through his creative chaos. The Moleskine has gained a cult following among creatives, partially because of its association with famous figures like Hemingway. But Mike appreciates its simplicity and reliability as a space for his non-linear thoughts.
3. Oasis Mug
Stew Williams, also from ilk Agency, opts for a humble yet essential item: his worn-out Oasis mug. “I can’t work without my daily supply of tea or coffee,” he says. This simple cup represents more than just caffeine; it’s a piece of his personality and an everyday reminder of comfort. The nostalgia tied to the mug is a lovely bonus.
4. EMSHOI A5 Notebook
After years of searching for the perfect notebook, Conrad Wells from M&C Saatchi Consulting found the EMSHOI A5. “I tried a wide range of options,” he recalls, “but none met my needs. This one has the right size, sturdy pages, and even a pen holder!” His only worry now is that it might vanish from stores, forcing him to restart his quest.
5. Winsor & Newton Fineliner
For Ruth Fogden, a senior designer at ilk Agency, a reliable pen is her essential tool. She loves her Winsor & Newton fineliner for its simplicity and dependability. “I use it for quick notes and sketches to bring ideas to life,” she notes. In a digitally dominated world, there’s something refreshing about the tactile experience of writing with a pen.
6. Caran d’Ache Mechanical Pencil
Brad Scott, principal at Applied Design, treasures his Caran d’Ache mechanical pencil, a cherished gift from his wife that upgraded him from a basic Bic. “It’s beautifully crafted and helps clear my mind when I work,” he explains. In a time when many rely heavily on digital tools, Brad values the freedom a pencil offers. “Design can be messy, and I love that I can erase and try again.”
7. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Ben Gardner, also from ilk Agency, emphasizes the importance of noise-cancelling headphones. “While I could live without them, blocking out distractions in a busy office is a game-changer,” he shares. These headphones create a peaceful environment, allowing him to focus and stay productive.
8. 130 Alphabets & Other Signs
Roy Burns III from Lewis Communications has a well-loved tool: a copy of 130 Alphabets & Other Signs. This unique collection of fonts and symbols from the past has been a continual source of inspiration for his work. “It’s not just a clip-art book; it’s curated to inspire creativity,” he explains.
9. Moleskine Cahier XL Plain Journal
Geoff Johnson, also with Lewis Communications, has a long-standing fondness for Moleskine’s Cahier XL Plain Journal. “The proportions and paper quality are spot on,” he mentions. This journal’s flexibility lets him jot down ideas without the fear of being too formal.
The Essence of Designer’s Essentials
So, what connects an iconic chair, a simple mug, a special pencil, and a treasured book? These items reveal personal choices that reflect how designers cultivate their best work environment, whether through comfort, caffeine, or reliable resources.
In the end, the objects they can’t imagine living without are not just tools; they are extensions of their creative process and personalities. A chair offers a space to think. A mug fuels ideas. A notebook acts as a safety net for wandering thoughts.
Creativity thrives not merely on high-tech devices or rare inspirations but also on humble, familiar objects that steadily support the daily grind of work. Remove these items, and while ideas might still arise, the joy and comfort in creating could take a hit.
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Original Text – https://www.creativebloq.com/design/product-design/designers-reveal-the-one-object-they-cant-live-without