ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the process of design as the 'collaborative' work of furniture-makers and consumers. It provides discussion about cost and design were not separate in the dealings between more 'ordinary' cabinet-makers and customers, and even between famous makers and upper-class customers. Middle-class customers, in particular, often began with the discussion about cost and only then the design possibilities within the budget. Furniture-makers, designers and journal writers were probably aware that a favourable reception of 'convenience' among consumers would depend on the degree of 'comfort'. The chapter considers the communication methods between producers and consumers: the oral, visual and written modes. John Styles explains that the importance of visual sources of design increased in eighteenth-century London for two reasons: demand for drawing skills for luxury products; and international competition, especially with France. It is worth considering whether or not pattern books encouraged 'emulation' among consumers or restricted consumers' choice, presenting 'appropriate' taste for specific social groups.
