Design for Public Services: A Brief Recap

[Tiffany Wan]

It's been a while since I've updated you from Hong Kong! At the beginning of the month, the Hong Kong Design Centre hosted Bo Linnemann to speak about “Design for Public Service.” Linnemann is the founder of the Dutch design firm Kontrapunkt; you'll recognize many of their clients, from Lego to Carlsberg beer, and Adidas to Lenovo. When we talk about timeless work, Linnemann's definitely qualifies.

 

Not an empty chair was left at this Tuesday, late-afternoon seminar. In fact, it was standing room only as Linnemann shared his work and process from his large undertaking with the Dutch government. He's essentially rebranded it. He spoke about how he created visual identities and unity among different Ministries, the Ministries of Education, Defence, Culture, and Finance are just a few. Linnemann’s own deep understanding of the Dutch monarchy led him to modify the crown in a variety of ways that would be the best representation of the State and the Ministry’s responsibility. The compilation of work is nothing less of incredibly elegant.