Shopping events such as ‘Black Friday’ and ‘Cyber Monday’ tempt consumers with a plethora of price reductions, promotions and bargains. They tap into a certain form of materialism, that which is often irrational and irresponsible. In a world of increasingly scarce resources, we face a worrisome state of objectionable over-consumption. And yet there are many brands who knowingly exploit self-indulgent consumerists in a bid to satisfy inflated cravings and more importantly, to make themselves a profit. The demand for new, better and cheaper goods is one perpetuated by manufacturers and retailers, trapping consumers in a cycle of never-ending need. To break this cycle is to stop acting as a consumer of goods, acting instead as a user.Well-designed objects will show respect towards the user, leaving room for their self-expression. In turn, the user will treat objects with respect and devotion, holding on to them for as long as possible. In effect thinking about design as something for keeps.A shelf for keepsFurniture manufacturer Vits? makes a straightforward promise: “there will never be a sale because our prices are always fair.” (Source: Vits?) Perhaps by way of protest, the company closes its New York shop on Black Friday. Essentially, Vits? values the consumer as an individual and not as a commodity. Its clean and classic 606 Universal Shelving System was designed by Dieter Rams in 1960 and has been made by Vits? ever s...