Dieter Rams

Books on Dieter Rams offer in-depth insights into his design philosophy, innovative products, and lasting impact on the field of industrial design.

Dieter Rams, a German industrial designer known for his work with Braun and Vitsœ, was born on May 20, 1932. He is renowned for his minimalist design philosophy that emphasizes simplicity and functionality.

In 1947, Dieter Rams began his studies in architecture and interior decoration at Wiesbaden School of Art, which later influenced his design approach and principles.

In 1950, Dieter Rams introduced the principle of 'Good Design', emphasizing the importance of functionality, aesthetics, and psychological aspects in product design.

In 1953, Dieter Rams graduated in architecture with honors from Wiesbaden School of Art, showcasing his dedication and talent in the field.

In 1955, Dieter Rams joined Braun at the age of 23. He later became the head of design at the company and designed many iconic products.

In 1956, Dieter Rams designed the Braun SK 4 record player, showcasing his innovative approach to product design.

In 1957, Dieter Rams designed the Combi Electric Shaver, a revolutionary grooming device that combined functionality and sleek design.

In 1958, Dieter Rams in collaboration with Hochschule für Gestaltung, Ulm, Germany, designed the Pocket Radio (model T3), a compact and innovative radio for on-the-go listening.

In 1959, Dieter Rams was given the opportunity to design furniture for Niels Vitsœ and Otto Zapf by Erwin Braun. This decision was made to boost the market for the company's radios.

In the 1960s, Dieter Rams advocated for making products understandable by clarifying their structure and ensuring they clearly express their function, enhancing user intuition and usability.

In 1961, Dieter Rams became the head of design at Braun, a position he held until his retirement in 1997. During this time, he oversaw the creation of innovative products.

In 1963, the F21 received the 'Supreme Award' at the Interplas exhibition in London.

In 1967, Jonathan Ive started his career as a Product Designer.

In 1968, Dieter Rams designed the cylindric T 2 cigarette lighter for Braun. He insisted on designing the technology inside the lighter, leading to innovative mechanisms being used in successive versions.

In 1969, the 620 chair was awarded a gold medal at the International Furniture Exhibition in Vienna.

During the 1970s, Dieter Rams promoted unobtrusive design, emphasizing that products should be neutral and restrained to serve their purpose effectively without overshadowing the user's self-expression.

Dieter Rams's house, built in 1971, has been safeguarded for the benefit of future generations.

In 1976, Dieter Rams delivered a speech in New York titled 'Design by Vitsœ' where he emphasized responsible design and the importance of understanding people for good design. He also highlighted the dwindling natural resources and called for more responsibility towards the environment.

In 1978, awarded the SIAD Medal by the Society of Industrial Artists and Designers in the UK.

In the 1980s, Dieter Rams advocated for honesty in design, urging that products should not exaggerate their features or manipulate consumers with false promises.

In 1985, awarded the Académico de Honor Extranjero by the Academia Mexicana de Diseño in Mexico.

In 1989, became the first recipient of the Industrie Forum Design in Hannover, Germany, for a special contribution to design.

During the 1990s, Dieter Rams stressed the significance of long-lasting design, contrasting it with fleeting trends and highlighting the importance of timeless products in a disposable society.

In 1992, received the Ikea prize and utilized the prize money to establish the Dieter and Ingeborg Rams Foundation for the promotion of design.

In 1996, received the World Design Medal from the Industrial Designers Society of America.

In 1997, Dieter Rams retired from Braun after a dual career. He believes in achieving the best design through internal design teams.

In 1998, Dieter Rams retired from his position as head of design for Braun A.G. after serving nearly 30 years. Rams is a renowned German industrial designer known for his minimalist and functional approach to design.

In the 2000s, Dieter Rams emphasized the importance of thoroughness in design, ensuring that every detail is intentional and reflects respect towards the consumer.

In 2002, awarded the Commander's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.

In 2003, received the Design Award ONDI in Havana, Cuba, for a special contribution to industrial design and world culture.

In 2007, awarded the Design Prize of the Federal Republic of Germany for his life’s work.

In Gary Hustwit's 2009 documentary film Objectified, Dieter Rams mentioned that Apple is one of the few companies that design products according to his principles. His aesthetics and design philosophy have greatly influenced Apple's products, with specific references to Rams's work for Braun in Apple's iOS 6 calculator and other products.

In the 2010s, Dieter Rams promoted environmentally friendly design, highlighting its role in conserving resources, minimizing pollution, and contributing to environmental preservation.

Dieter Rams, a German industrial designer, joined the electronic devices manufacturer Braun and quickly rose to become their chief of design, a position he held for almost 35 years. He is known for designing many iconic devices and for his philosophy of 'Less, but better'.

In 2012, the BN0106 digital chronograph designed by an unknown individual received the prestigious Reddot design award and IF product design award.

In 2013, Dieter Rams was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Medal at the London Design Festival for his significant contributions to the field of design.

In 2016, filmmaker Gary Hustwit initiated a Kickstarter campaign for the documentary 'Rams', featuring insightful conversations with Dieter Rams about his design philosophy, iconic creations, inspirations, and regrets. The campaign also aimed to preserve Rams's design archive through the Dieter and Ingeborg Rams Foundation.

In the 2020s, Dieter Rams continued to advocate for minimalist design, emphasizing 'less, but better' approach that focuses on essential functions and simplicity in product design.

In 2022, the Museum für Angewandte Kunst in Frankfurt updated and expanded its permanent display 'Dieter Rams. A Style Room' to commemorate Dieter Rams's 90th birthday, featuring photographs by his wife, Ingeborg Rams.