Channels

For over two decades, Design Observer has sparked vital conversations about design and its role in shaping culture, commerce, society, and the planet. Our nine editorial channels reflect the richness of this dialogue, spanning disciplines, eras, and perspectives. Curated from a deep archive and newly commissioned work, these categories offer a window into the evolving impact of design in today’s complex world. Whether you’re looking to revisit foundational ideas or engage with urgent, emerging issues, this is your gateway into design’s ongoing story.

This year, we’re commissioning designers to reimagine the images used to mark each channel, creating a visual representation for each topic that is iconographic yet inclusive, personal and global, and reflecting their broader philosophy about design and the world.

Sarah Gephart is the first designer in the series. She describes them as “a new alphabet for a shared lived experience,” which “aims to create its own playful system.” Read her full statement here.