Discovering Collectible Design: A Delphi Method Approach

Summary of Background Data The term 'collectible design' is used to describe functional design objects that also hold symbolic value, making them highly sought after due to their particular assets such as rarity, uniqueness, or authenticity. These items are traded in both the art and commercial markets, with auction prices increasing and an expansion in the number of specialist trading platforms suggesting a growing demand. Collectible design may be considered a hybrid market and product category, which includes historical and contemporary design commodities. The functional and symbolic qualities of these items are valued by collectors for a multitude of reasons, including emotional and social identification. Objectives The present study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the world of collectible design. This involved exploring the underlying principles that drive its appeal and market value, as well as analysing its evolving trends. Methods A literature review was conducted to explore the body of knowledge surrounding collectible design, focusing on its aesthetic, functional, symbolic, and market-driven attributes. Subsequently, three semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with experts in the fields of collecting, interior decoration, and the art market. This initial phase identified key themes and areas of uncertainty, indicating the necessity for a structured methodology to further examine collectible design. Accordingly, the Delphi approach was deemed an appropriate methodology for the systematic gathering of expert opinions and the achievement of consensus on critical aspects of collectible design. In the initial phase, a questionnaire was constructed based on the insights derived from the literature review and qualitative interviews. The questionnaire was distributed to a panel of experts, comprising designers, collectors, art and design professionals and academics, in order to elicit their perspectives. In the second phase, a shorter questionnaire was constructed, focusing on issues where consensus had not been reached in the initial round. Results Consensus was reached among experts on the term "collectible design", with a majority (91%) agreeing that it denotes a tangible entity. Furthermore, five images of collectible design were presented to experts, and for each item, participants identified key terms. The analysis revealed that the items were perceived as ‘distinctive’, often emphasising their originality or rarity. Additionally, functionality and craftsmanship were highlighted as important factors. Discussion/Conclusions The present study offers a comprehensive examination of collectible design, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical insights from industry