What is Idiosyncratic design?

First and foremost, what does idiosyncratic mean? It is a characteristic, habit, mannerism, or the like, that is peculiar to an individual. Another definition for this term is the physical constitution peculiar to an individual. Consider it like a signature that is individual to everyone and each person implements it into everything they create. It will be something that that is very unusual.

                When looking at the definition, this is similar to surrealism in buildings. Architects and designers are taking an aspect of the environment, socialism, or mental area of the client and incorporating it into their project. This signature will be unique to that project and will not be seen elsewhere, making the project individual to the client. This is another step to placing individuality into a project. More creativity is allowed in a project and the envelope is pushed to the limit to create something that has never been seen or thought of before. Creativity is key and everyone wanted to accomplish break through designs. 

In order to create an idiosyncratic design correctly, there must be something it relates to or there must be a statement that it is trying to make. Without one of the two, this design will not be accepted in the design world and not be preserved. Designs that are popular are the ones that are preserved and maintained, making them last longer. This is one way for designers and architects to express an idea or a statement subtly. The bolder the statement, the more interesting the design will appear. Keeping in mind that it must still support various activities. When statements are subtle, the message can  be seen more clearly at times due to the fact that the occupants are constantly being exposed through it. 

                Idiosyncratic designs are similar to surrealism. They appear to be something from a fictionist area where anything is possible. Architects and designers were pushing their ideas to new limits. Unfortunately at the time when most of these ideas were explored, the technology to create them was not available. As a result, most of the creations have been left as ideas on paper and not implemented. Credit should be given to this era for developing these creative ideas.

                Architects and designers want their efforts to last but there is a critical balance between what is trending at the moment and what individuality can be put into the project. In order to be successful, all designers must find the perfect balance and implement it correctly. Projects will be viewed upon and credited for years if this is accomplished. 

Sources:

Idiosyncrasy
Idiosyncratic Interiors
OUTSIDE OF THE BOX: 7 DELIGHTFULLY IDIOSYNCRATIC DESIGNS