“People think focus means saying yes to the thing you've got to focus on. But that's not what it means at all. It means saying no to the hundred other good ideas that there are. You have to pick carefully. I'm actually as proud of the things we haven't done as the things I have done. Innovation is saying no to 1,000 things.” — Steve Jobs.

This take on innovation could very well be the manifesto of Minimalism and its principle “less is more.” Steve Jobs has taken it to the next level, making him a modern visionary and leader in the Minimalism movement. 

Take the iPhone, it is arguably one of the most iconic pieces of modern design.

By stripping back, Minimalism has never been about being cheap or frugal, rather it is a conscious exploration of form in its simplicity. By stripping away any embellishment, frill and possible distraction, elegance is created. Designers want to say more with less, which is expressed by focusing on function as the design — this is what Minimalism in design is all about.

Since its inception, Zaniboni Lighting with its “function is form” mantra, has embodied Minimalism in both the development and design process of its signature lighting fixtures. By focusing on what is really necessary and stripping back on any non-essentials, the result is exquisite design.

Take the Bongo 4 and its air intakes. Thermal and optical design was stripped down to minimal lines resulting in increased function and a best in class performance.

When function becomes form, the aesthetics that is the purity of form is unveiled.

This minimalist approach is utilized to achieve new and unexpected ways of designing products and architecture. It is transversal; it pervades all arts and industries. It is distinctive in many iconic interior designs, architecture, web design and so much more. 

By truly understanding the product’s functions and intuiting potential uses, Jobs was able to eliminate any unnecessary components resulting in the design masterpiece that is the iPhone today with its signature clean lines and pure function. Exemplifying Minimalism’s “less is more,” is the legacy Steve Jobs has left as Apple Inc.’s visionary and co-creator.