The Ulm School of Design at RMIT Gallery | RMIT University
Updated: February 24, 2025
Summary
In the aftermath of WWII, the Ulm School of Design was founded in 1948 in Germany to train designers for the industry. The Ulm model, spearheaded by Otl Aicher, focused on applying science and technology to industrial design. Known for its innovative and functional solutions, the school produced iconic designs like the compact appliance SK4 and a pioneering family van prototype. The emphasis on simplicity and functionality influenced design education worldwide, with schools in Brazil based on the Ulm School's principles.
Introduction and Background
In 1948, Ulm, like the rest of Germany, was in ruins and needed to be rebuilt. The Ulm School of Design was established to meet the demand for designers in the industry. The school existed from 1953 to 1968.
The Ulm Model of Design
The Ulm model of design, as defined by Otl Aicher, is based on science and technology, involving the decision-making process of industrial production. It focuses on creating innovative and functional design solutions.
Iconic Ulm School Products
The compact appliance SK4, designed by Hans Gugelot with stackable tableware, was a breakthrough in design. The tableware was the first of its kind where every part was stackable, and it was put in the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Innovative Design Concepts
The Ulm School had a leftist bend and designed a family van prototype 20 years ahead of its time. The simplicity and functionality of the designs made them easy to build with cheap materials, addressing the lack of furniture in the school.
Focus on Designer as a Profession
The Ulm School emphasized the role of the designer as a profession, pioneering industrial design education. This concept influenced design schools globally, with two schools in Brazil based on the Ulm School of Design.
FAQ
Q: What is the Ulm School of Design?
A: The Ulm School of Design was established in 1953 to meet the demand for designers in the industry, and it existed until 1968.
Q: What is the Ulm model of design according to Otl Aicher?
A: The Ulm model of design, as defined by Otl Aicher, is based on science and technology, involving the decision-making process of industrial production, and focuses on creating innovative and functional design solutions.
Q: What was the significance of the compact appliance SK4 designed by Hans Gugelot?
A: The compact appliance SK4, designed by Hans Gugelot with stackable tableware, was a breakthrough in design as it was the first of its kind where every part was stackable, and it was put in the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Q: How did the Ulm School of Design address the lack of furniture within the school?
A: The simplicity and functionality of the designs made them easy to build with cheap materials, addressing the lack of furniture in the school.
Q: How did the Ulm School of Design influence the role of the designer as a profession?
A: The Ulm School of Design emphasized the role of the designer as a profession, pioneering industrial design education, which influenced design schools globally.
Q: Which country has design schools that are based on the Ulm School of Design?
A: Two schools in Brazil are based on the Ulm School of Design.
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