Streamlining

One interpretation of machineries aesthetics that often collided with functionalism was streamlining. This trend contrary to functionalism broke objects into pieces and treated them as an unit from many parts, it considered the pieces as the whole without any evident boundaries". As a result new integrated and stunning, smooth and functional silhouettes of objects were created. Thanks to the emerging technologies and advanced manufacturing techniques spurred by a post war society, many of the designs from this era were shockingly advanced and jarringly new. New projects in fact met needs of aircraft, rail, shipbuilding industry.
Followers of this trend recognized a speed as "the present day essence" and their favourite shapes were: tear and oval. This progressive approach of designing was quite fast adapted by society.

Streamlining not only promoted speed, but also diverted attention from operation of objects. Similarly to modernism, it also provided for concealing of: good, wrong and ugliness. As a result bakelite, thermohardening plastic became the main material for artists of this trend. In late years of XX centaury Streamlining was applied not only due to its functionality but also its form.

Designers employed in large number as Norman Bel Geddes or Raymond Loewy, were to provide for change of the style instead of remodeling. They were convinced that this form may differ from function until it clearly denies it. As a result this trend included everything - from toasters up to trailers. Streamlining had an immense influence on American designing industry that launched each year limited series of products. It also involved unaware clients into a cycle of changing fashion - and what is behind of it - a need to be young. When functionality degeneration followed with regard to technology evolution, passing styles lost their moral alibi, as even toys for children were designed according to "streamline" assumptions and were of aerodynamic shape. One critic noted: „Streamlining idea is justified with a three-cycle, as each youngest generation look for modernity in its toys...".