Form Follows Function in Brand Design: How design principles shape our Brand Identities
Design plays a critical role in shaping your brand's identity.
As such, it is essential that your design choices are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and purposeful. As a strategic design studio we
This is where the design principle of "form follows function" comes in.
What is "Form Follows Function?"
"Form follows function" is a design principle that suggests that the shape and appearance of an object should be determined by its intended purpose or function. In other words, the form of a product or object should be a direct result of its intended use. This principle is often associated with modernist design, but it has been used in various forms throughout history.
Why is "Form Follows Function" Important in Brand Design?
In brand design, the principle of "form follows function" is critical. A brand's visual identity, including its logo, color scheme, and typography, should be designed with the brand's intended purpose and audience in mind. The design choices should be purposeful and functional, rather than purely aesthetic.
For example, if you are designing a logo for a tech company, the logo should be clean and modern to reflect the company's innovative and forward-thinking nature. On the other hand, if you are designing a logo for a traditional law firm, the logo should be more traditional and formal to reflect the company's professionalism and trustworthiness.
By following the principle of "form follows function," you can ensure that your brand's visual identity accurately represents your brand's personality, values, and goals. This will help you to create a strong and recognizable brand that resonates with your target audience.
Tips for Applying "Form Follows Function" to Brand Design
When applying the principle of "form follows function" to brand design, keep the following tips in mind:
- Understand your brand's purpose and values. Before you start designing, make sure you have a clear understanding of your brand's intended purpose and values.
- Consider your target audience. Your design choices should also take into account your target audience, their preferences, and their expectations.
- Be purposeful in your design choices. Every design choice you make should be purposeful and serve a specific function.
- Stay consistent. Your brand's visual identity should be consistent across all touchpoints, from your website to your business cards.
In summary, "form follows function" is a crucial design principle in brand design. By designing with purpose and function in mind, you can create a strong and effective brand identity that accurately reflects your brand's values and resonates with your target audience.

In essence, "form follows function" is a critical design principle in brand design. By prioritizing function and purpose in our designs, we can create an effective and memorable brand identity that accurately reflects a company's values and resonates with its target audience.