Recycling traditional designs. a practical approach

Year: 2009
Editor: Clarke, A, Ion, W, McMahon, C and Hogarth, P
Author: Al-Faisal, Hanan Faisal
Section: EDUCATIONAL CULTURES
Page(s): 324-329

Abstract

Understanding and identifying local design features should not be a design problem; on the contrary, traditional design features should act as design tools and a source of inspiration. The lack of local design resources in developing countries along with other factors is considered a problematic one; it has provoked the impact of globalization in local designs. This paper argues the issue through a personal teaching experience, followed by a practical approach into solving the problem. The suggested approach will not only provide a practical solution for the lack of local resources but will also act as a source of inspiration for designers and enhance the value of local products. This approach is represents through an electronic library (database) in the form of images of traditional design features that have been produced locally; moreover, each image is incorporated with the traditional description associated with its design and use. The proposed library will be the centre of many future researches along its role in design. Moreover, the paper suggests a process for producing and developing the electronic library in order for it to be accessible and affordable for all local designers.

Keywords: Teaching design, interior design, practical approach, e-library, design resources, tradition, and cultural sustainability.