3. Expressions of slow design

Slow design manifests itself in existing objects and spaces, in products and buildings, in real and virtual environments, and in socio-cultural experiences.  Analysis of such manifestations suggests eight distinguishable themes although cross-over and hybridisation between these themes is also observed.  These eight themes - ‘tradition’, ‘ritual’, ‘experiential’, ‘evolved’, ‘slowness’, ‘eco-efficiency’, ‘open source knowledge’ and ‘technology’  - contribute towards understanding the potential benefits of slow design towards individual, socio-cutural and environmental well-being.    This framework provides a platform for further debate while offering a pluralistic, secular canvas for designers to encourage individual and socio-cultural change towards slowing metabolisms for a more sustainable future.

©2004, 2005 Alastair Fuad-Luke. All rights reserved.