PROCESS

A design process usually starts with an idea or a concept. This concept is explored and developed using conventional software to produce a visual output.

But sometimes a design concept demands a particular tool. In that case, we create a specific custom software that changes the process itself. Now we move back and forth between making and using the tool, constantly reshaping the software to open up new possibilities.

Watching a tool in use, a design in the making can be more satisfying than the mere result. So we started doing live graphic design. The creative process becomes the output.

By expanding the classic process, we call our approach extended design.

DESIGN SPACE

Any tool constrains what can be created within the universal design space. In digital tools, settings and interface narrow these possibilities even further. Ultimately, the user’s skills and mindset shape the final design.

By adjusting interface and settings, more of the space can be explored, but only by transforming the entire tool do the possibilities become indefinite.

PROJECTS

We spend part of our time in a creative playground, running self-initiated experiments without a brief. These are simple ideas for manipulating images or creating graphics and typography.

We share our explorations on social media. Clients are often inspired by this experimental work and ask us to tailor something specifically for them.

Other experiments evolve into digital tools that we publish on our website. These tools are free to use and, hopefully, inspire others.