Design from Within. A Study for Endemic and Endogenous Design Processes

“Designing From Within” stands for a specific area of interest and a related new design approach characterized by endogenous and endemic processes. Starting from a culture studies theoretical framework, in which anthropology intertwine with artifacts’ social life, in this paper, we will investigate the possibility to think of designed objects as a direct and pure representation of humans activities (=endogenous), and/or rooted in specific geographical and cultural contexts (=endemic). Moreover, we will analyze how adjacent subjects, such as material studies and circular design could play a fundamental role in explaining how endemic and endogenous design is defined and what are its principles and methods. Finally, we will illustrate and reflect on a case study based on the use of bioplastics within the viticulture sector, providing a ground for reflection on a specific design scenario within which to test our assumptions.