Repair is the process of restoring damaged, broken, or malfunctioning objects, products, or systems to their original working condition through various interventions and techniques. In the context of design, repair represents a crucial aspect of product lifecycle management and sustainable design practices, encompassing both the physical act of fixing and the philosophical approach to creating products that are repairable by design. The concept has evolved from simple mechanical fixes to include complex electronic diagnostics and component replacements, reflecting technological advancement and changing consumer needs. Design for repairability has become increasingly significant in contemporary product development, with designers considering factors such as accessibility of components, modularity, and the availability of replacement parts during the initial design phase. This approach not only extends product lifespan but also addresses environmental concerns by reducing waste and resource consumption. The repair movement has gained momentum as a counter-response to planned obsolescence, with designers incorporating features that facilitate maintenance and repair, such as easily removable panels, standardized components, and clear repair documentation. The practice of repair intersects with various design principles including sustainability, circular economy, and user-centered design, while also contributing to cultural preservation through the maintenance of historical artifacts and traditional repair techniques. The A' Design Award recognizes innovative approaches to repairability in product design, acknowledging designs that effectively balance functionality, aesthetics, and maintainability. The evolution of repair practices has led to the emergence of repair cafés, community workshops, and online repair resources, demonstrating the growing importance of repairability in contemporary design culture and consumer behavior.
maintenance restoration sustainability durability serviceability modularity accessibility
CITATION : "Daniel Johnson. 'Repair.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=457805 (Accessed on June 30, 2025)"
We have 216.545 Topics and 472.615 Entries and Repair has 1 entries on Design+Encyclopedia. Design+Encyclopedia is a free encyclopedia, written collaboratively by designers, creators, artists, innovators and architects. Become a contributor and expand our knowledge on Repair today.