What truly drives human beings beyond their basic needs? I have a feeling there’s a subtle yet powerful force that moves us toward the future. This force resides in two fundamental concepts: hope and enchantment. They are not merely feelings, but pillars that shape our aspirations and our quest for a better life. Hope is the expectation of continuous improvement, the belief that tomorrow will be more promising, both personally and professionally. Enchantment, in turn, is our ability to be touched by beauty, whether in nature or in art, something that connects us with the essence and quality of life.
Philosophy helps us deepen these concepts. In his work “On the History of Beauty,” Umberto Eco shows us that beauty is not a fixed standard but a cultural construct that changes over time. Beauty is what captivates us, making us recognize an aesthetic harmony. Byung-Chul Han, in “The Salvation of Beauty,” argues that modern beauty is threatened by aseptic perfection and information overload. For him, true beauty lies in what is imperfect and authentic, in what provokes us and pulls us out of indifference.
So, where does design fit into this equation? Design is a bridge to hope and enchantment. It’s the craft that shapes our environment, making it more functional, intuitive, and beautiful. Good design, by solving problems, elevates our quality of life. Think of a product you use daily: if it’s well-designed, it reduces frustration, saves you time, and provides aesthetic pleasure. True design doesn’t seek the artificial perfection mentioned by Han, but the beauty that manifests through form and practical and semantic functions.
Throughout history, humanity has been driven by these two forces. People left their homes with the hope of a better life in new lands. Today, this is the main nourishment for digital nomads, who seek new landscapes and cultures that inspire them. Smart cities integrate tradition and technology, preserving the beauty of their history while also offering opportunities for improvement and places for contemplation.
Looking to the horizon is more than just a symbol of looking to the future. It’s about expanding our perception and simultaneously nourishing hope and enchantment, reminding us that beauty and the pursuit of improvement are, in fact, life’s greatest motivations.
