MENSCHenLICHter
Project Leader Michael Weinmann Organisation micalitoMo Designed By Michael Weinmann Project Location City Parks, worldwide; WDC 2012 Helsinki (?) Project Website micalitomo.blogspot.com Project Category Product Name of nominating Icsid Member organisation The Finnish Association of Designers Ornamo - FinlandA brief explanation of the project
“MENSCHenLICHter” is an innovative lighting design concept for public parks and places. It is human-centered in its approach and execution. Through its human size and shape it brings light to a community on a human level, while sending a positive message through obvious (de-)sign language. Through centrally controlled LED-lights, the amount, color and effect of light can be determined, and used to set moods, influence feelings, and turn park lighting into a nightly light-show event. Not only will “MENSCHenLICHter” change the way of use and installation of public lighting, but also the use of public places. “MENSCHenLICHter” works creative and structuring during the day, and illuminating and attractive at night. Its design is versatile and sustainable, energy and cost efficient, and supportive of human emotions and needs. It is publicly accessible, attractive, human-centered, social, and emotional design. Good design brings out good things in people. We cannot make an impact on the world, if we are not impressed and excited of the world that surrounds us. “MENSCHenLICHter” makes a positive impact on human emotions, needs and behavior, changes social routines for the better, and initiates and encourages communication.
How will receiving the World Design Impact Prize raise awareness of this project and further develop its impact?
Not only will this prize help to promote the concept and the design of “MENSCHenLICHter”, but it also will motivate communities to take a step into the right direction, where public spaces are designed to encourage positive public use, to attract its people on a daily basis to congregate, communicate, and celebrate. The public sector needs this prize to be convinced to take a risk on innovative design. Furthermore, this prize will attract public and private funding to invest in what could become a standard for human-centered design, and for public lighting in communities around the world.
What are the benefits this project has had, and will continue to have, on the community of interest and how will it "create a better world through design"?
The role of design can only be that of a mediator, at best it can supply a stage for us. WE are the actors; human beings are at the center of good design. When our well-being increases, we are prone to listen, to enjoy, and to care about others. “MENSCHenLICHter” brings people together, and brings out the good in people. If communities around the world will understand the role of design in public spaces, and the impact of design on the well-being of their people, “MENSCHenLICHter” has delivered its message, and has fulfilled its purpose.
