It is an old and often debated saying: Design makes or breaks the product. But in an era when even websites and social media have to look neat for their users, design has become something even more vital: It dictates our experience with the product as well.

Indonesia has never been short of mesmerizing output from various corners of its creative industry, though it might be easy to overlook the closest ones around us. The best product designs are often in our bags, closets or even our phones, graphically. Here is some of what consumers, art enthusiasts and Indonesian designers have been fawning over this year.

Manual Jakarta’s new identity launch by Studio Woork

Talking about the social media realm, the identities of online publications also hinge greatly on design. In this case, art director and graphic designer Andrea Reza believes one studio deserves all the praise for its job in this field. “I love Studio Woork’s rebranding work for Manual Jakarta,” he shared. With the studio’s help, the local publication got its fresh Monocle-look which is showcased in a stunning Instagram video. “The studio always succeeds in translating a concept into a concrete final product, not merely following the trend. Its visual approach also turned out bold, feels current and has an international charm,” he added.

Alpine series by ORBITGear

An essential part of work and lifestyle, a bag (or “technical gear”, in fashion terms) needs to strive in both aspects – at least that is what designer Reza Arista thinks. “I like this bag series’ colorway, modular system and material,” explained the Blindspot Studio designer. The usual look and comfort of the brand’s outdoor gear have always delighted Reza, but this year they went into new territory. “This is ORBITGear’s first colorway that uses a white camo pattern,” he added, noting how good it turned out to be.

Popular

Indonesia one step from Olympics after beating South Korea

Opposition weakens as rivals pledge support for Prabowo

Golden generation