[narayanb]

I disagree to the general notion that 'skeuomorphism is bad'. it is just harder to focus on both the texture and the other subtle parts of it and still not focus on the usability, transitions and the flow. In the Metro (flat) design it becomes easier to focus on typography and interactions which makes it easier for designers, I think both are equally exploitable by a good designer.

[sgdesign]

I'm certainly not saying that skeuomorphism is bad, and I don't think anybody that knows what they're talking about is saying that. And it's also important to keep in mind that skeuomorphism and realism are two different things.

But it's definitely true that if you do decide to go the route of realism, you impose a lot of constraints on your design that will A) take up a lot of your time and effort and B) close the door to a lot of options because they would break realism.

[narayanb]

I didn't mean that you implied. I meant the general assumption, especially the Google designers discourage you specifically from being skeuomorphic. they call it bad. I agree with your point completely.