Ordinary Object Collections

The 'Usefulness in Small Things' Book Sheds Light on Everyday Items

Artists and designers have a way of looking at everyday objects to see their special qualities and true potentials, and this 'Usefulness in Small Things' book gives you a glimpse of that perspective.

Put together by Sam Hecht and Kim Colin, co-founders of London design studio Industrial Facility, 'Usefulness in Small Things' focuses in particular on well-designed yet often overlooked examples of industrial design. Having scoured mom and pop shops all over the world, Hecht managed to amass quite a collection of interesting items, all under five pounds.

Filled with great, minimalist photos and eloquent diction detailing the intended purpose, origin, design and the relationship between it and the user for each object, 'Usefulness in Small Things' shows that people should open their eyes and take in their surroundings. Inspiration is everywhere.

Minimalist Industrial Design
The trend of minimalist industrial design highlights the value of well-designed yet often overlooked everyday objects, presenting opportunities for businesses to create practical and aesthetically pleasing products.
Curated Collections
The trend of curated collections emphasizes the value of carefully selected and amassed objects, providing businesses with opportunities to create unique and appealing product assortments.
Appreciation of Ordinary Objects
The trend of appreciating ordinary objects encourages individuals to see the special qualities and true potentials of everyday items, opening up opportunities for businesses to reimagine and innovate with common products.

Industries Being Reshaped

Industrial Design
The industrial design industry can leverage the trend towards minimalist industrial design by creating sleek, functional, and visually pleasing products that enhance the user experience.
Retail
The retail industry can capitalize on the trend of curated collections by offering carefully curated product assortments that cater to the desires and preferences of consumers seeking unique and appealing items.
Product Innovation
The trend of appreciating ordinary objects presents an opportunity for the product innovation industry to reimagine and reinvent common items, creating novel solutions that enhance usability, aesthetics, and functionality.
SCORE
2.2 out of 10
GENDER
30% Men70% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America, Europe, Asia
GENERATION
  • Gen Z
  • Gen Alpha
  • Millennial (primary audience)
  • Gen X (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 38%
Activity 21%
Freshness 8%

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