Johnson noted that product aesthetics play a "surprisingly significant role" in consumer behavior. They often influence decisions in ways that people don't consciously realize.
"Our brains are wired to respond to beauty—when a product is visually appealing, it activates reward centers, creating a positive emotional response. This initial impression can set the tone for how we evaluate the product’s functionality, quality, or even value. Importantly, aesthetics can also build trust; a well-designed product suggests care and attention to detail, which we subconsciously associate with reliability," the marketing psychology expert told Bored Panda in an email.
"However, the effect of aesthetics goes beyond attraction—it also plays into self-expression. People often choose products that align with their personal style or identity, making aesthetics a critical driver in everything from impulse buys to brand loyalty. In essence, aesthetics aren’t just about looking good; they tap into deep psychological needs, shaping how we connect with what we buy."
Bored Panda also wanted to get to grips with how designers who work with graphics and packaging can get their message across better. The important thing here, according to Johnson, is to focus on the essentials.
"Graphic and packaging design is all about creating an immediate connection with the consumer, and the brain plays a big role in how these designs are perceived. Simplicity and clarity are key—our brains are wired to process visual information quickly, so designs that are clean and focused tend to be more effective," he said.
"Color psychology is another powerful tool; specific colors can evoke emotions and associations that align with the product’s message. For instance, green often signals health or sustainability, while red conveys urgency or excitement. It's worth noting that while some of these associations appear to be universal, others are culturally contingent. It's important, therefore, for the designer to carefully consider the audience when making these color and design choices," Johnson explained the importance of cultural context.
"Additionally, leveraging visual hierarchy—using size, contrast, and placement to guide attention—helps ensure the most important elements stand out. Designers should also consider how the design feels emotionally; tactile elements, like embossing or texture, can create a memorable sensory experience. Ultimately, the best designs balance functionality with an emotional hook, making the product both intuitive and irresistible."
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Technologies and aesthetics change, consumer preferences and cultural attitudes shift, but no matter how much time passes, some design philosophies continue to stand the test of time.
For example, German industrial designer Dieter Rams, who has had a profound impact on the world of design, is still relevant with his ideas and approaches today. Some ideas are simply fundamental.
Designer Rams came up with his 10 principles of good design which are sometimes known as the 10 commandments of design. Rams saw truly good design as innovative, making a product useful and understandable, aesthetic, unobtrusive, honest, long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and thorough down to the last detail.
And, lastly, good design should—paradoxically—involve as little design as possible.
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That last bit—about how designers should design less—is essential. At the core of ideas that balance function and form, you’ll often find simplicity.
There’s a high level of self-editing and refinement involved where you let go of what is, basically, clutter. Of course, there’s no arguing about taste, but over-designed products can either end up looking like works of art that barely function, or they have so many functions it’s unclear what they even do. Less really is more. And from a creative perspective, it takes a lot of courage and discipline to throw out the fluff.
The online community that we’re featuring was created way back in mid-2011. Over the past 13+ years, it grew from strength to strength. Currently, there are a jaw-dropping 2.3 million members on the subreddit.
It’s a testament not only to the fact that people like looking at unusual and aesthetic things, but also that creativity and quality—when done truly right—will always find an audience.
The moderators who make sure that the group runs smoothly explain that it’s a space to share “amazing design images,” as well as renderings and models.
Everyone’s encouraged to post high-quality pics of interesting designs, including—but not limited to—architectural, graphic, industrial, furniture, and product designs.
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However, this is not an art-focused community. For instance, even though gorgeous and painstakingly created artwork and sculptures are a pleasure to look at, they’re a better fit for other communities. When you create an online group, it’s important to carve out a niche for yourself and to be consistent with it.
