Good design. High performance.

Are these mutually exclusive? Sometimes, you have to make a choice. A good design seems to take its toll on performance. The tricks and hacks you use for creating some high-performance component seem to be against the principles of good object design.

Maybe, I'm too inexperienced. Maybe, it is possible to make a well-designed component which is efficient too. But, what's the use of a comb when I lose all my hair? Quick! Someone, help me find it now!

BTW, if you thought I am talking about software, you are right. Take care ...