Subtraction in Design
Author Sakshi Seth
Sometimes, the most profound design decisions often involve what we choose to leave out.
Unlike minimalism, which often pursues purity of form and aesthetic restraint, subtraction is less about style and more about intent. It challenges designers to strip back, question excess, and find clarity in essentials.
This month I’ve been looking at projects that embrace that mindset.
Have a read.
Oree Wood Tech Accessories
We’re all conditioned to opt for sleek plastic when it comes to keyboards and trackpads, yet Oree shows what happens when you remove that expectation. Crafted from single pieces of walnut or maple, their wireless keyboard and trackpad feel warm and tactile.
By subtracting the coldness of mass-produced tech, Oree transforms everyday tech into lifestyle objects that sit naturally within interiors. They become something not to endure, but to enjoy.
Mudita Pure
With every ping, our phones ask for constant attention, keeping us scrolling non-stop. Mudita Pure takes a different path by subtracting the very features that keep us hooked. There are no apps, no notifications, no endless scrolling. Instead, the design brings the phone back to its simplest role: calls and texts.
It may not be for everyone, but I personally love the soft curves and straightforward interface. To me, Pure proves that less technology can sometimes create more space for focus, presence and peace of mind.
SenseCommon Cyclist Raincoat
Why should staying dry come at the expense of comfort and style? The Cyclist Raincoat shows how subtraction in design can deliver both. Created by Laura Šilinska, it strips away the fuss of typical rainwear and focuses on the details that matter most to riders.
The elongated A-line silhouette moves with the body, the hood preserves visibility and the sleeves are cut for fluid motion. Lightweight and breathable, it brings a clean, utilitarian simplicity to the daily commute.
&Drip by Nendo
Coffee at home rarely feels calm. Machines whirr, beep and flash as they dominate the kitchen counter. &Drip was designed to change that mood. A soft cube with no obvious front or back, it sits comfortably in the living room, almost like furniture. Brewing is quiet and unhurried, with hidden controls and a lid that opens slowly, turning a daily routine into something gentle.
The design removes the sense of intrusion that usually comes with kitchen tech, leaving only the simple pleasure of making coffee.
