Would You Buy Your Baby a Rolex? Bringing Heirloom Design Concepts Home

Are we replacing old items too often? Our culture has made it easier for companies to create disposable goods?or items designed to have a short life?that it's hard to separate what we need, from what we want, from what will last. Then there are changing styles and trends. Can stuff be designed and built to be durable, beautiful and affordable enough to last generations?

This is where the term "heirloom design" comes in. This has been a huge challenge in the design world. Products should be well made, attractive and affordable. Period. We only have to look at electronic technology and the automotive industry to know that this challenge has not been met. How many computers, cell phones and cars have you had in the last 20 years?

Earlier this year, I attended the Greener Gadgets conference, where I first heard the term "heirloom design" discussed. Saul Griffith proposed the concept, which he describes as design that is intended to last for generations. He's putting the challenge to the test. This World Changing article explains, "Griffith said he's planning to give his soon-to-be-born son a Rolex and Mont Blanc pen ? and then tell him that these would be the only watch and pen he could use for the next 100 years."

Think he sounds a little out-of-touch by suggesting Rolex and Mont Blanc are green? "[Y]ou have to design things and experiences that will last a very long time that have been thoughtfully designed and are very beautiful," defends Griffith in the World Changing article.

The article also makes an interesting note that World Wildlife Fund gave the world's largest luxury companies terrible sustainability ratings. Griffith's examples involve large initial investments of cash, and may limit heirloom-quality products to people who can afford it. Can we make beautiful heirloom products that are also affordable to everyone?