Anarchist Design

This research project invites you to collectively explore and define ‘Anarchist Design,’ allowing it to enrich design discourse. Design often reflects anarchist principles. However, when discussing design, ‘anarchy’ is never mentioned. Presented as a loose-leaf thesis, the theory can be rearranged, annotated, and reinterpreted, embracing anarchist design as an ongoing, collaborative process rather than seeking a fixed definition. As a material counterpart, the toolbox and shelves in this set-up were created through workshops. Participants defined anarchist design and reimagined the IKEA BILLY shelf — perhaps an anarchist version is fully modular, or invites others into the act of making. Rosa Hanssen’s personal response is a table, facilitating the conversation. You are invited to arrange a series of cups from least to most anarchist — what criteria would you use? You are encouraged to reflect, contribute, and continue the conversation about what design is, and what it could become.