Appearance Quote by Peter Behrens
“Don't think that even an engineer, when he buys a motor, takes it to bits to scrutinize it. Even he as a specialist buys from the external appearance. A motor ought to look like a birthday present.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Design Philosophy Lecture, 1915
Engineers judge products by appearance, treating them like gifts, not dissecting them.
In simple terms: Design should be attractive and intuitive.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize aesthetic appeal in engineering.
Themes
design
perception
engineering
Mood
analytical
creative
Type
practical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- product development
- marketing
- industrial design
Key Concepts
aesthetics
user experience
product design
Questions to Reflect On
- How does visual appeal affect usability?
- Can beauty coexist with performance?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on looks may ignore functionality.
