Actually, the design is handled by a high-paid individual called an 'Industrial Designer,' who is supposed to do market research in order to take into account what the desired customer wants. This information is then passed to the Engineer, who makes that design a reality.
Obviously the desired customer for this laptop is easily impressed by 'bling' and is looking for something that conveys status using lots of lights, switches, logos, and a chrome/plastic/leatherette look. I'm surprised it doesn't have faux wood panels on the side.