RE: FLAT out loud: Flat Design versus Skeuomorphism?

I definitely prefer flat design over skeuomorphism (thanks to Shirley's post, I now know this term). I have always considered myself a minimalist in training so that is probably why. Also, flat designs  use saturated, pure colors which appeal to my aesthetic.

I agree with Antoinette that they flat design makes it easier to zero in on the intention/action of the design. (thanks for posting that great article!) The less visual clutter there is, the quicker a reader can decode the message.

Here is a BBC article I found on the topic of skeuomorphism: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-22840833.  It is interesting that words are also considered skeuomorphism. Taken directly from the article:

"Skeuomorphs are not strictly something that can be designed," he says. "They occur unintentionally when aesthetic styles are inherited without thinking."

Motors were originally placed at the front of cars because horses pulled carts from the front, he says. The word "horsepower" is itself a skeuomorph, remaining long after the horses had disappeared.

While some may think flat design is a trend, the redesigning of icons that no longer make sense is a necessity. For example, take the cassette tape. Today's youth barely know what a cassette tape is, so why would it make sense to keep that icon to symbolize music. While it is sad for my generation (or maybe just me) to see most of the technology I grew up with die off (vcr, cassettes, cds, etc), it is a reality that we can no longer avoid.