I think the classic design phrase "form follows function" best describes the ideal. That is, when designing something, and especially when there's nothing to y

I think the classic design phrase "form follows function" best describes the ideal. That is, when designing something, and especially when there's nothing to yet dictate what the form should be, let function guide you to it. If you were to ask "how should a table lamp be designed", I would point to its function -- to give diffuse light and allow switching it on and off -- as the primary guide. Make that work well. Don't let the form get a life of its own that will distract from the function. Rather, the form should serve the function and make it beautiful.