(08-04-2017, 08:28 AM)jkl Wrote: The primary problem with deskmodding is that once someone has done a thing, it is not special anymore.

I don't think that's an issue, this same phenomena happens with anything creative.
That's a differene between creation and original endeavours, or you make something completely new or you just do something that is rarely seen in the context.

(08-04-2017, 08:28 AM)jkl Wrote: Fourteen years ago, Windows deskmodding with ridiculously colorful icons was a thing which regularly hit the "best desktop" contests - and won. If I did that today, it would probably make them spit at me (or praise me for my retro style...).

It's fun to see this scene evolve. Re-using "forgotten" styles is original in my opinion, and what's truly creative is to give them a new life in a new context.

(08-04-2017, 08:28 AM)jkl Wrote: the best deskmodding is probably which makes you work more efficiently; hotkeys, additional info bars which are always visible, et cetera. You simply never have the chance to show off your desktop in the real world and it will bore you quickly.

This is also one of my favorite aspect of ricing/modding.