Deconstructivist Interaction Design: Interrogating Expression and Form

In this paper, we propose deconstructivist interaction design in order to facilitate the differentiation of an expressional vocabulary in interaction design. Based on examples that illustrate how interaction design critically explores (i.e., deconstructs) its own expressional repertoire, we argue that there are commonalities with deconstructivist phases in related design disciplines to learn from. Therefore, we draw on the role and characteristics of deconstructivism in the history of architecture, graphic design, and fashion. Afterwards, we reflect on how interaction design is already a means of deconstruction (e.g., in critical design). Finally, we discuss the potential of deconstructivism for form-giving practices, resulting in a proposal to extend interaction design’s expressional vocabulary of giving form to computational material by substantiating a deconstructivist perspective.