Journal

The Cap You Always Lose
The Cap You Always Lose
A lens cap is the most-lost object in a camera bag, and it is no accident. A look at why blank things vanish, why a named one comes back, and... Read more...
The Business Card Refuses to Die
The Business Card Refuses to Die
We carry supercomputers in our pockets and still hand each other paper rectangles, or fumble through spelling out a username. A look at why sharing who you are is still... Read more...
Your Name Is Not Neutral
Your Name Is Not Neutral
There are more dentists named Dennis than chance allows. A look at why your own name quietly bends your choices, and why putting it on an object changes how long... Read more...
Made to Order Is a Feature, Not a Delay
Made to Order Is a Feature, Not a Delay
Everything is instant now. So why does waiting a couple of days for something made for you feel better? Because it is. Read more...
The 100-Year-Old Object on Your Keys
The 100-Year-Old Object on Your Keys
The split ring has not changed in a century. That is not laziness. It is the highest compliment a design can earn. Read more...
Why Your Brain Wants the Full Set
Why Your Brain Wants the Full Set
One is nice. The set is irresistible. A short look at the quiet psychology of collecting, and how to use it on yourself for good. Read more...
Good design doesn't shout
Good Design Doesn't Shout
The best objects never end up in the junk drawer. Here is what separates the things we keep from the things we replace, and why we build the way we... Read more...