Usable

Good design is sometimes designed to be noticeable. The noticeable parts can communicate how the product works. A sofa is obviously designed for you to sit on it.

When living room furniture is arranged for good Feng Shui, user centered design principles can be found. Seats should be up to 8 feet apart in order to keep a good conversation distance. There should be walking space to move freely through.

Signifiers are a primary tool for design detail. They tell the user how to use a product without needing a sign or instructions. Cushions are the signifier to sit because they are softer than sofa arms. But sofa arms may be rounded so they are comfortable to sit and lean on.

It’s better to make the product more usable without relying an instruction set.