Similar to the Flower Lamp developed by the Interactive Institute, and the FlowerPod designed by Designnord, the Wilting Flower by Carl Smith communicates wirelessly to the electricity meter and “changes colour and shape depending on the amount of electricity used” [1].

“When electricity use is low the flower glows a healthy greenish-blue and stands tall and open… But as more lights and electrical appliances are turned on the flower closes up and turns red. If energy use remains high, the flower wilts and turns a deep purple before 'dying' - or going out” [1].

As well as encouraging more sustainable behaviour during use this design also attempts to reduce premature obsolescence by creating and sustaining a meaningful relationship between the product and the user. This new design approach to extending product lifespans is commonly known as Emotional Durability. As designer Carl Smith explains, "the hope is that people will become very attached to their flower and try to keep it in bloom by being more aware of their energy consumption" [1].

To learn more about Emotional Durability read: Chapman, J. (2005) Emotionally Durable Design: Objects, Experiences and Empathy, Earthscan, London. For further information on reducing obsolescence through sustainable design see: http://extra.shu.ac.uk/productlife/