What makes good design?

This is a hard question, seeing as there is a wide world of tastes out there, so if esthetics is going to get in the way because not everyone has the same taste, then that can't be the only thing that makes a good design? So what is it then that makes good design?

I feel design is a form of communication, it is a way for the designer to relay a message to whomever wants to listen to (or look at, or use, or wear) the final product. With that said - what makes good design? Well I would suppose that a design that communicates its purpose, says what it was made to say, is on its way to being a good design.

"Good design conveys information and communicates ideas. Poor design impairs this communication by getting in the way." - Author unknown

"Good design makes good sense" - Author Unknown

Here are a few key words that I found whilst searching for what makes good design: "Balance, proportion, contrast, economy, direction, emphasis, and space."

I do believe all of these are all vital to bringing your message in your design across, making your design as honest as possible, because the only design that can bring its message across is an honest design.

Breathing you into your design is also vital. You cannot design something honest if it is not authentic to you, sure outside influences and inspiration is important, but you cannot just take that, through it together and call it your own design, your personality is the glue that is going to hold all of it together.

So once again – What makes good design?

My answer: A design that is honestly and authentically you, communicates "you" and its message clearly, and is practical for its purpose should be a great design!