Form and Function

One of my least favorite things is when something is created to disguise something you need but that's ugly as sin. Like those plastic rocks that people stick randomly on the front of their lawn to hide the utility box.

Why can't we just design everything to be pretty and functional? Like these Swarovski portable USBs (they also have earbuds with crystal detailing). These are fully functional but so pretty they could be jewelry. Check out the full line at Active Crystals.

Some of the best pieces are the limited edition versions sold through Colette in France. They have the lock USB and the earbuds, but my favorite is the red heart USB.

Hopefully more companies will add design elements to their function-driven products.