<h1>Good Design: The Unyielding Truth</h1>By Mahmudul Gani Kanak, Principal Architect, Chinta ArchitectsIn our work as architects and designers, we often find ourselves asking: what makes a design "good"? With time and experience, one insight has become increasingly clear to me—good design is like truth. It exists in its raw, unapologetic form, beyond personal likes or dislikes. You may resist it at first, but its functionality and honesty are undeniable.When I speak of design, I refer to architecture, furniture, and all functional forms of design—creations meant to be used and lived with. These are not abstract art forms with value existing only in interpretation. They are tangible solutions to real problems, serving people in everyday life.<h2>Functionality as Truth</h2>Design that we use—whether a chair, a building, or a space—is defined by how well it serves its purpose. Functionality is the foundation of its truth. A well-designed chair must support the body comfortably; a well-designed house must shelter, inspire, and adapt to its users’ needs. If it fails to fulfill these fundamental purposes, it cannot be considered good design—no matter how visually striking it may be.Good design, like truth, emerges from a clear understanding of purpose. It considers how people interact with the object or space. It aligns form and function seamlessly. When done right, it becomes so intuitive that we almost take it for granted. Think of a staircase that feels effortless to climb or a desk that intuitively supports your workflow. These are truths expressed through design.<h2>Beyond Aesthetics: The Beauty of Use</h2>It’s easy to confuse design with decoration, but good design goes deeper than aesthetics. While beauty enhances usability, it is not the end goal. Design is a craft rooted in solving problems. For example:<ul><li>Architecture is not just about creating visually stunning buildings; it’s about constructing spaces where people can live, work, and thrive.</li><li>Furniture is not merely an object of admiration; it must also offer comfort, durability, and adaptability.</li></ul>Aesthetic appeal enhances usability, but it must never overshadow the practical purpose of a design. In fact, the most beautiful designs are those that arise naturally out of their functionality. Their visual appeal is not an added layer but a result of their essential truth.<h2>The Quiet Challenge of Good Design</h2>What makes good design unsettling at times is its refusal to cater to superficial preferences. It often challenges our habits or preconceived notions, requiring us to adapt. A good chair might not look “traditional” but offers unparalleled comfort. A modern building might not fit the old idea of beauty but provides sustainable solutions for a changing climate.At first glance, such designs might not align with our expectations. Yet, over time, they prove themselves indispensable. This is the quiet strength of good design: it doesn’t seek to please; it seeks to serve.<h2>Truth in Every Scale</h2>At Chinta Architects, we believe in applying this principle of design truth to every scale of our work. Whether we’re crafting a piece of furniture, designing an intimate home, or conceptualizing a large public building, we approach each challenge with the same intention: to uncover the design’s essential truth. We aim to create something that doesn’t merely look good but works beautifully, serves meaningfully, and lasts timelessly.<h2>Living with Truthful Design</h2>When you encounter a good design, you feel its presence in your life. A chair that invites you to sit and relax, a table that transforms your workspace, or a home that shelters you gracefully—all of these serve as reminders of how design can elevate the mundane into the extraordinary.As users, we may not always notice good design immediately. It often operates in the background, quietly fulfilling its role. Yet, its absence is glaringly obvious. Bad design frustrates us, disrupts our routines, and hinders our lives. This contrast is where the truth of good design reveals itself most starkly.<h2>Closing Thoughts</h2>Good design is not subjective. Like truth, it holds its ground against fleeting opinions and passing trends. It serves its purpose with integrity, balancing function and beauty to create something both timeless and transformative.At Chinta Architects, this philosophy shapes everything we do. Our goal is to create designs that endure—not because they conform to what’s popular, but because they express the truth of their function and the needs of the people they serve.You may not always like what we design at first. But if it’s good design, it will earn its place in your life. And that’s the mark of something truly valuable.

Good Design: The Unyielding Truth

Discover how Chinta Architects redefines good design in architecture, furniture, and functional spaces. Learn why functionality, usability, and timelessness are the hallmarks of designs that truly endure.

Good Design: The Truth Behind Functional Architecture and Timeless Design

<h3 data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Types of Boards You Can Use in Interior Projects</h3>When it comes to interior design and furniture-making, selecting the right board material is crucial for achieving durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness. There are various types of boards available in the market, and they can be categorized based on their manufacturing process and composition. In this blog, we will explore four common types of boards and help you understand their characteristics, uses, and suitability for your interior projects.<h4>1. Plywood</h4>Plywood is a versatile and widely used board made by slicing timber into thin sheets, typically 2-3 mm thick, and layering them one on top of the other. The sheets are arranged in alternating grain directions, which significantly reduces bending and enhances the board's strength.In Bangladesh, plywood is often made using timber from the Gordon tree. This choice is largely driven by economic and ecological factors. Gordon trees grow quickly and are more affordable compared to other strong timbers found locally, making them an ideal resource for cost-effective plywood production. In contrast, other countries may use hardwoods like birch or oak for plywood production, depending on availability and application.<img src="https://akijboard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot_1.png" alt="Akij Plywood" width="361" height="348"> Where to use plywood:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Ideal for cabinetry, wardrobes, and other furniture requiring strength and durability.</li><li>Suitable for wall paneling and partitions in both residential and commercial spaces.</li><li>Can be used as a base for laminates and veneers to enhance aesthetics.</li></ul>Finishes suitable for plywood:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Veneer: Offers a natural wood finish and enhances the aesthetic appeal.</li><li>HPL (High-Pressure Laminate): Provides a durable and scratch-resistant surface.</li><li>Paints: High-quality paints adhere well and provide a smooth finish.</li><li>Acrylic and Glass: Used for modern designs requiring a glossy and reflective surface.</li></ul><h4>2. Particle Board</h4>Particle board is a low-cost material made by compressing wood particles, sawdust, and sometimes jute stick particles with adhesive under high pressure and heat. It is lightweight and economical but lacks the strength and water resistance of plywood.Because of its affordability, particle board is a popular choice for budget-friendly projects. However, it is less durable and prone to damage from moisture, making it unsuitable for areas with high humidity. <img src="https://www.xingang-wood.com/uploads/202132724/durable-particle-board-e103238793482.jpg" alt="China Customized Durable Particle Board E1 Manufacturers, Factory - Wholesale Quotation - XINGANG" width="609" height="457">Where to use particle board:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Best for temporary furniture or low-load applications such as office workstations and bookshelves.</li><li>Suitable for interior components like wardrobe backing and lightweight panels.</li><li>Avoid using in kitchens, bathrooms, or other damp environments.</li></ul>Finishes suitable for particle board:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Melamine: Provides a durable and economical finish for low-impact areas.</li><li>HPL: Can be used but is less durable compared to application on plywood.</li><li>Paints: Requires multiple coats for a uniform finish; lower quality paints may chip over time.</li><li>Acrylic: Limited use due to weaker bonding properties.</li></ul><h4>3. MDF Board</h4>Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) is made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residues into wood fibers, which are then mixed with resin and compressed into dense sheets. MDF is smoother and more uniform than particle board, making it an excellent surface for painting and veneering.While MDF is stronger than particle board, it is still less robust than plywood and tends to absorb moisture, which can cause swelling. Proper sealing and surface finishing are essential for durability.<img src="https://coppsbuildall.com/img/products/5419.jpg" alt="MDF Board, 4 ft x 10 ft x 3/4&quot; (18.5 mm) - Products - Copp's Buildall"> Where to use MDF:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Ideal for interior furniture with intricate designs, such as decorative cabinets and moldings.</li><li>Great for painted finishes and laminated surfaces in modern interiors.</li><li>Suitable for low-traffic areas and spaces with controlled humidity.</li></ul>Finishes suitable for MDF:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Paints: Provides a smooth finish; high-quality paint is essential to avoid absorption issues.</li><li>Veneer and Laminates: Add durability and aesthetic value.</li><li>Acrylic and HPL: Suitable for contemporary designs; requires a proper primer.</li></ul><h4>4. Plastic Composite Board</h4>Plastic composite boards, often referred to as WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) boards, are a modern alternative made by combining wood fibers and plastic polymers. These boards are highly durable, moisture-resistant, and eco-friendly, as they often incorporate recycled materials.Plastic composite boards are gaining popularity for their ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions and their termite-proof nature. They are slightly more expensive than traditional boards but offer excellent longevity and low maintenance requirements.<img src="https://www.skylinecomposites.com/wp-content/uploads/WPC-foam-board-Range-1.jpg" alt="WPC (wood plastic composite ) Foam Board – SKYLINE composites" width="610" height="407"> Where to use plastic composite boards:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Ideal for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and exterior furniture.</li><li>Suitable for modular furniture and partitions in commercial spaces.</li><li>Great for eco-conscious projects seeking sustainable materials.</li></ul>Finishes suitable for plastic composite boards:<ul data-spread="false"><li>Paints: Requires specialized paints designed for plastic surfaces.</li><li>Acrylic and Glass: Often integrated into designs for a modern look.</li><li>HPL: Durable and resistant to wear and tear.</li></ul><h3>Comparison of Board Types</h3><table><tbody><tr><th>Type</th><th>Material Composition</th><th>Strength</th><th>Moisture Resistance</th><th>Cost</th><th>Best Uses</th></tr><tr><td>Plywood</td><td>Thin wood veneers arranged in alternating grains</td><td>High</td><td>Moderate (depends on grade)</td><td>Moderate to High</td><td>Cabinets, wardrobes, partitions, paneling</td></tr><tr><td>Particle Board</td><td>Wood particles, sawdust, and adhesives</td><td>Low</td><td>Low</td><td>Low</td><td>Lightweight furniture, temporary structures</td></tr><tr><td>MDF</td><td>Wood fibers mixed with resin</td><td>Medium</td><td>Low</td><td>Moderate</td><td>Decorative panels, painted furniture</td></tr><tr><td>Plastic Composite</td><td>Wood fibers and plastic polymers</td><td>High</td><td>High</td><td>High</td><td>Wet areas, exterior furniture, modular designs</td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Comparison of Finishes</h3><table><tbody><tr><td>Finish</td><td>Plywood</td><td>Particle Board</td><td>MDF</td><td>Plastic Composite</td></tr><tr><td>Paints</td><td>Excellent with smooth finish</td><td>Requires multiple coats; lower durability</td><td>Smooth finish with proper primer</td><td>Specialized paints needed</td></tr><tr><td>Veneer</td><td>Natural wood aesthetic</td><td>Not commonly used</td><td>Excellent when sealed</td><td>Not applicable</td></tr><tr><td>HPL</td><td>Durable and scratch-resistant</td><td>Less durable than on plywood</td><td>Durable with preparation</td><td>Highly effective</td></tr><tr><td>Acrylic</td><td>Works well</td><td>Limited use</td><td>Excellent with preparation</td><td>Modern and glossy finish</td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Conclusion</h3>Selecting the right board for your interior project depends on your budget, the intended use, and the environmental conditions of the space.<ul data-spread="false"><li>For strength and versatility, plywood is the go-to option.</li><li>If you are looking for a budget-friendly solution, particle board works well for lightweight and temporary uses.</li><li>To achieve a smooth, painted, or decorative finish, MDF is an excellent choice.</li><li>For water resistance and durability, especially in wet areas, plastic composite boards offer unmatched performance.</li></ul>By understanding the unique characteristics and finishes of these boards, you can make informed decisions that ensure the success of your interior projects.

Types of Boards You Can Use in Interior Projects

"Discover the pros, cons, and best uses of Plywood, MDF, Particle Board, and Plastic Composite boards in interior design. Compare materials, finishes, and costs to make the right choice for your next project."