number one

An article about design. Encouraging a return to low-tech objects, a turning away from the dominant upgrade culture, an embracing of one-for-life objects.

Thinking about how the persistent pursuit of New is seductive. New phones, new ipods, new bars, new bikes, new cars, new clothes, new music, new people. It’s a noisy, distracting method. An easy, external barometer of worth. But these imposed indictors tend to shimmer and shift. They demand constant chase and offer little long-term satisfaction.

Internal gauges are harder. They require the creation of personal measures, which are often less publicly celebrated than whizzing gadgets, fancy outfits and shiny acquaintances. They require self-belief and commitment. They are, at once, both terrifying and brilliant: the answer to whether you’re a top-notch, number-one human being lies solely with you.