Redesigning Timeless Industrial Icons for Contemporary Use

Functionalist aesthetic philosophy, championed by Dieter Rams at Braun from the 1950s to the 1990s, continues to shape the design of select devices, like Apple's iPod, TE's synthesizers, and various other unnamed items.

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2025 June 14 . 11:25 PM

1 min read

Dieter Rams' Functionalist design approach, embraced by Braun from the 1950s to the 1990s,... — Dieter Rams' Functionalist design approach, embraced by Braun from the 1950s to the 1990s, continues to influence the aesthetic of select devices, such as Apple's iPod, Teenage Engineer's synthesizers, and others.

Redesigning Timeless Industrial Icons for Contemporary Use

Diving into the world of contemporary design, Dieter Rams' Functionalist philosophy at Braun continues to cast a long shadow. His principles, exemplified in the sleek and efficient design of devices like Apple's iPod, Teenage Engineering's synths, and the IR7 streaming radio from [2dom], have left an indelible mark on various other tech goods.

Let's take a gander at some of the inventions that followed Rams' footsteps:

Braun Desk Fan Replicas: Much like Rams' originals, these replicas are all about simplicity and functionality, embracing a no-frills approach that maximizes efficiency.
Restored Braun Radios: Restorations of Braun's large-scale radios, such as the TS2, pay homage to Rams' design ethos, combining aesthetic charm with practical functionality.
Apple's Devices: Going beyond just the iPod, Jonathan Ive's designs at Apple – like the iPhone and iPad – carry the torch for Rams' dedication to simplicity and user experience.
Vitsoe Shelving Systems: Although electronic devices, Rams' shelving systems designed for Vitsoe embody the same principles of minimalism and functionality.
Modern Minimalist Electronics: Numerous modern electronic devices that prioritize simplicity and user-friendliness owe a nod to Rams' design philosophy, even if they stray from Braun's exact blueprint.

Rams' impact on consumer electronics and design extends far beyond Braun, reflecting his unwavering commitment to functional, sustainable, and user-centric design.

Still in awe of Rams' design philosophy? Don't forget to check out this awesome replica of a Braun desk fan and the intricate restoration of the TS2 Braun radio.

The functional and efficient design of the replica Braun desk fan and the intricately restored TS2 Braun radio are reminiscent of the electronics technology sphere, demonstrating the lasting impact of Dieter Rams' design philosophy.

Rams' design principles, as seen in modern minimalist electronics and the sleek merchandise like his Vitsoe shelving systems, continue to revolutionize the world of contemporary design, extending his influence far beyond the boundaries of Braun.