Archive of Familiar Design

Familiar Design is a new field identified by Isa Bonino, who studies how objects establish trust and familiarity between agents in distinct contexts. Three initial case studies include: how people dressed as birds teach captive birds to be birds and prepare them for release; how reusable Nutella containers once full of chocolate spread have been infiltrating Italian homes for over 50 years as glasses; and how the risk and expectations that come with decision-making at restaurants vary from verbal descriptions in menu design to painstakingly accurate, three-dimensional fake food. A museum-like exhibit emphasises the relevance, social life, development and success of these designs seldom recognised in mainstream design culture.