The IKEA effect - Indianified

In the age of scrolling through reels showcasing awe-inspiring creations, it's hard not to be captivated by the intricate process of crafting something beautiful with bare hands. Whether it's witnessing houses rising in the heart of an African forest or marveling at artisans turning raw materials into functional pieces, the process holds a universal allure.

Counting the Clicks and Claps: The DIY Movement in the Digital Age

Reflecting on our screen time, how many DIY videos have we indulged in this week? How many tutorials have we watched, promising ourselves to try them out soon? The fascination with creation is evident in our digital habits, as we become spectators to the transformative power of hands-on work.

The IKEA Effect Unveiled

Enter the IKEA effect – a cognitive phenomenon where the value we attribute to something increases when we have played a part in its creation. It's that inexplicable loyalty and appreciation for the end product, born out of the laborious process of assembly or creation. In the world of design, this effect becomes a guiding principle, influencing not just the final product but the entire design process.

Architects and the Hands-On Approach: Beyond Blueprints

For architects, the concept of 'hands-on work' extends beyond the drafting table. Many architects immerse themselves in the construction process, bridging the gap between conception and realization. From Vinu Daniels' workshops contributing to built projects to experimenting with prototypes on-site, the tactile connection to the creation becomes an integral part of the design journey.

The Iterative Dance: Micro-arranging and Customizing Design Elements

In the iterative world of design, every tweak and adjustment is a step in the dance of creation. The more time spent customizing and micro-arranging design elements, the stronger the connection to the iteration. This is the heartbeat of originality and the essence of craftsmanship – a dedication to refining the design until it resonates perfectly with the creator.

The Ethical Dilemma: Charging More for Customization

The irony emerges when contemplating the value of time spent customizing a design solution. In a world where off-the-shelf solutions exist, is charging more for customization justified? The answer, rooted in the ethic of design and originality, often nudges designers towards creating something unique from scratch – a process that adds not just value but a narrative to the end product.

From Shelved Designs to Unique Solutions: The Art of Storytelling

In the realm of design, even shelved ideas carry the potential for resurrection. The commitment to crafting a solution from the ground up, irrespective of existing templates, is a testament to the designer's dedication to storytelling through their work. Each design iteration becomes a chapter in a narrative, adding layers to the final creation.

In a world where admiration for handmade wonders and the IKEA effect shape our perceptions, architects and creative designers find themselves navigating a delicate dance between customization and efficiency. The allure of creating something unique, coupled with the intrinsic value of personal involvement, continues to be the driving force behind the magic of design – a magic that weaves stories, connects hearts, and crafts value one iteration at a time.