The Art & Science of Presentation / Best Packaging 2009
I believe good packaging is an art and a science.
An art because compelling packaging communicates a message through beauty.
A science because the packaging also has to serve a purpose: it must hold something.
The truth is we're surrounded by packaging and we rarely take the time to notice the beauty of elegant packaging. Worse, it often ends up in the trash or recycling bin.
Apple is perhaps the most famous example of gorgeous, highly functional packaging. It's the only packaging I can think of that I store. Because you never know when you might..."need" it.
Amazon.com started offering Frustration-Free Packaging last year. It was a sensation in the world of package design but didn't cause waves outside of that world. Why not?
We associate packaging with waste. And rightly so (that's why Amazon decided to start offering Frustration-Free Packaging in the first place). As consumers, we're bombarded with packaging. In Boulder, at least, when I say I don't need a bag, cashiers don't blink. In fact, cashiers often ask if I'd prefer not to take a bag.
Not so in other parts of the States. You are almost required to take a bag at some places before you leave the store. It's the same in Japan. You order a donut and it is wrapped in cellophane paper before being carefully placed in a small bag. Which is then placed in a bigger bag with handles. It's fun, the packaging, but it's wasteful.
Japan wins the packaging race. I recently wrote about the art of presentation in Japanese culture. It is one of my favorite aspects of Japanese life. It's not the just the packaging, but the earnest way in which the package is given, that matters. It's the intention behind the package that gives life to it.
Speaking of, my favorite package of the year was pretty tiny. And very pretty. And had a secret message inside.
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Sites where you can learn about beautiful presentation:
Presentation Zen
Wear Palettes
Orange Beautiful
Just plain amazing:
26 Years, 85 Notebooks
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What was the best packaging you saw this year?
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Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Reader Comments (3)
I agree. I was going to write about Japan in my presentation post, but didn't know where to begin. I felt the exact same way when I was there nearly two years ago; I imagine many Westerners are. When my boyfriend purchased four scarves that were on sale at a department store, the salesperson took at least twenty minutes to refold them, place them in a box with tissues paper, and box them up. Incredible! I wish Americans took more care and time sometimes...
i can see why this particular packaging stands out in your mind and garners the #1 slot for 2009! congratulations.
I love this post! And you've reminded me of something I'd nearly forgotten. One wouldn't normally lump Japan and Czech Republic together, but everything is beautifully packaged in CR too. Even the meat purchased at the neighborhood grocery store was handed over in a pretty bundle with a ribbon. Thanks for stirring that memory!