Al. Hanging system for windows zone. Concept design. Major Studio Project. Part 2 by Ksenia Semirova

Raffles University

09.2020

Ksenia Semirova | Product Design

HANGING SYSTEM FOR WINDOW ZONE

How might we rethink the concept of blinds to make it a more emotional part of an interior that affecting a mood?

Brief and Timeline

COLOR PHYSIOLOGY—

SUNSHINE & SUNLIGHT—

Average annual sunshine hours in some cities

The least sunny places in the world

The sunniest places in the world

Smart Facades for Solar Control

Do you have SAD?

Philips SmartSleep

Circadian optics light therapy

Lightbox technical characteristics

MOBILES—

Alexander Calder

Emmanuelle Moureaux

Ekko Mobiles

Olafur Eliasson

KINETIC SCULPTURES—

How to make it Live

INTERIOR DESIGN STYLES—

Modern Style

Contemporary Style

Minimalist

Industrial

Scandinavian / Nordic

Traditional

Hollywood Glam

Interior Design Trends 2021

Unit plans in condominiums at Bangkok

PERSONAS—

Persona profile 1

Persona profile 2

A PARAMETRIC APPROACH TO DESIGN—

Substance in Design

Getting started with substance designer

Advanced Pattern & Fabric Creation

Creating old wood planks

ROUGH VISUALIZATION—

CAD PROTOTYPING—

Frame Profile. 90°

Frame profile. 45°

Types of Frames: Square & Triangle

101

Types of frames: Circle

103

render test. Composition 1

105

render test. Composition 2

107

PATTERN TEXTURE—

109

Basic Shapes

111

Pattern Finalization

113

ASSEMBLING ROOMS—

115

Experiments with lighting. Unit 1

129

Experiments with Unit 2

133

FUNCTIONALITY & NAVIGATION—

135

Identity & Functionality

137

FINAL DESIGN—

141

Specification

142

modern style

144

industrial style

147

nordic style

149

hollywood glam style

150

BRIEF AND TIMELINE

INTRODUCTION Walter Benjamin, the German philosopher, and art critics, once said: “The traces coming from the past are neither inert and petrified relics nor simple objects to confine to a museum. They rather need to be read as sort of sparks able to set alight the fuse of the explosive material placed in what has already been. Sparks able to build constellations rich with future in which past meets present”. This statement made almost 100 years ago looks relevant now. Today, when creative ideas must be gained as fast as possible due to the market demands, it seems pertinent to find inspiration in history (as a vast source of already developed ideas). Moreover, when the design approaches are often guiding not by creativity and curiosity, but lawyers or authorities, it seems more relevant to look at national heritage to avoid accusing in any cultural appropriation.

TASK National heritage is not only an excellent source for inspiration or a way to give another life for something from the past but also a way to add some distinctiveness to design. This project aims to find a way to apply traditional Russian art & craft to contemporary objects. The goal is to prove that references from national heritage in modern interpretation can be recognized and accepted these days. DETAILS These days humanity is experiencing a significant shift in social behavior, which causes the revise existing trends and rising new ones. Therefore, it seems relevant to evaluate such a concept as “Home” in terms of both the current reality and described ideas for search ideas for new concept development.

FIND The project requires extensive research from a variety of fields. The success of interpretation depends on how many sources will be studied and critically analyzed. There must be the focus not only on repeating history in the outcome but also on how these findings could be applied in modern homes. It seems relevant to gain several ideas and chose the most interesting for further development. PLAY At this stage, it is essential to focus on questions: How and Why. The general concept must be finalized verbally and visually to avoid difficulties in the next step. MAKE The final concept must be visualized using a variety of digital modeling tools. If necessary, additional skills must be gained to show the best and precise result. TALK Present outcome digitally in different environments with a clear explanation of both the concept behind and product functionality. DELIVERABLES • • • • • • •

Research report CAD model of the product Digital texture (pattern) for the product Digital visualization (product in the interior) Branding elements Mobile app concept Concept presentation board

During

the

semester,

the general product concept was developed. I chose to work on something rather personal with more artistic and emotional than just a particular marketoriented and commercial. So, at this stage, I will not focus on such notions as Persona or market surveys. Instead, before the design stage, I aim to focus on

additional

secondary

research

to combine my artistic intentions with the urge to design a product that can be used in a real-life.

COLOR PHYSIOLOGY

The concept is based on

I want to figure out if

the idea that interaction

there is any relevant data

combination,

about the color in terms

sunlight, and pattern can

of motivation, relaxation,

color

create sophisticated effects inside

that there are many sources about this

or any other effects that researchers

the room

topic, and the most relevant must be

identified during experiments and/ or

identified.

observation.

I will try to avoid any sources published

Another minor reason for this research

in design magazines or similar. I aim to

is to explore this field in terms

As far as color must play a significant

get information mostly about scientific

of identifying the most studied topics

role in the final design, it seems

(psychology

research,

and forming a list of reading to gain

relevant to research more about how

not about visually pleasing color

particular knowledge for the next

color can affect humans. The main

combinations or designers who claim

step

problem that can be seen for now is

their favorite colors as most relevant.

in the future.

and

positively

impact

persons who have to spend a lot of time in confined space, say at home (home-office).

based)

academic

development

[online] (Volume 36, Issue 3), pp.229–234. Available at: <https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/col.20597>

O’CONNOR, Z., 2011. COLOUR PSYCHOLOGY AND COLOUR THERAPY: CAVEAT EMPTOR. COLOR RESEARCH AND APPLICATION,

… Colour psychology and colour therapy claims information found in popular culture suggest that colour prompts a range of different human responses: psychological, biological, and behavioral. Many of these claims lack substantiation in terms of empirical support, exhibit fundamental flaws (such as causal oversimplification and subjective validation), and may include factoids presented as facts. In addition, such claims often refer to outdated research without referring to current research findings. It is therefore advisable to apply the principle of caveat emptor when evaluating magazine articles and Internet websites that focus on colour psychology and colour therapy, plus Recent

theorists

…

consider

the interface between colour and human

response

highly

complex and open to the influence of a wide range of factors and mediating variables.

check with a medical practitioner or psychologist before accepting or acting upon such information.

A third reason to be cautious about colour psychology and colour therapy information is the practice of occasionally presenting ‘factoids’ as facts. Coined by author Norman

Mailer, factoids are suppositions or inventions presented as fact as illustrated by the Ferrell and McKay line in Anchorman: ‘‘It’s anchorman not anchor-lady, and that’s a scientific fact!’’ Colour psychology and colour therapy information available in popular culture occasionally appear to be factoids presented as facts, such Rewell’s assertions that: ‘‘We are hard-wired to yellow as a stimulus … If your environment is boring and time passes slowly, surround yourself with small amounts of yellow’’. While the theories of Birren, Gerard, Goldstein, and Luscher have their place in the literature on colour, it is important to note that their theories have, to a large extent, been superseded. It is unfortunate

Another reason to be wary of some colour psychology and

that despite the breadth

colour therapy claims is the notion that the ancient wisdom

and depth of contemporary

embedded within some claims represents evidential

empirical studies that focus

proof. For example, Kopacz cites the link between colour

on the interface between

and charkas per ancient Hindu scriptures; and Van Wagner

humans

suggests that chromatherapy was practiced by several

coloured light, the findings

ancient cultures, It is important to note that ancient belief

of these studies rarely

systems are not always a guarantee of veracity as evidenced

and

colour

appear in the information currently

available

popular culture.

by the superseded beliefs that the world is flat, and the sun and moon orbit the earth. While not intending to disparage the wisdom of the ancients, a fair proportion of this wisdom has been superseded by later scientific discovery and the existence of a link with ancient wisdom should not of itself be used as evidential proof of any claim.

Color physiology

is wavelength and is what most people think of when they hear the word “color.” Lightness is similar to brightness and is essentially the white-to-black property of the color. Chroma is similar to saturation and is Some color effects are thought to represent inherent

essentially the intensity or

tendencies to interpret and respond to color in amanner

vividness of the color. Each

similar to that observed in our nonhuman primate relatives.

Other color effects are thought to be rooted in the repeated

may have an inﬂuence on

pairing of color and particular concepts, messages, and

psychological

experiences; over time, these pairings create strong

so only one of them should

and often implicit color associations such that the mere

be allowed to vary in a well-

perception of the color evokes meaning-consistent affect,

controlled experiment.

these

color

attributes

functioning),

cognition, and behavior. Furthermore, it is likely that some color-meaning links, especially those that are observed across time and culture, are a product of the cognitive reinforcement and shaping (via social learning) of an initial biologically engrained predisposition.

… The degree to which the

same

emerges

color

across

effect culturally

distinct countries around the globe (including culturally isolated populations) may be examined. Convergence across countries/populations would suggest that the effect represents a human universal, likely grounded in biology.

ELLIOT, A. AND MAIER, M., 2014. COLOR PSYCHOLOGY: EFFECTS OF PERCEIVING COLOR ON PSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTIONING IN HUMANS,

attributes to attend to are hue, lightness, and chroma. Hue

[ebook] Annual Review of Psychology, pp.95-120. Available at: <https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev-psych-010213-115035>

In most experimental research, the most important of these

To be honest, I was extremely disappointed by this research about color psychology. Furthermore, I was shocked that almost all my knowledge about color has a little value in terms of real science. In design schools, there were neither separate disciplines nor specific attention to color in terms of how it can affect humans. I discovered that most discussions about this topic were based mostly on Itten’s theory, which is essential for any designer. But it is more related to choosing the right color pallet for drawing classes or styling. In my experience, all discussions about relationships between color and mentality were almost always based on some pop-culture claims. In this case, I believe it would be wrong to establish my project on just vague claims without any valid psychology research, which cannot be conducted as a part of this project. For such performance, the collaboration with professional psychologists is highly required. For now, I have to decide on my new strategy. First, I can develop a project keeping in mind that all given color combinations are only related to my choice (“I just like it, I am a designer”). In terms of styling, this approach can take place. In some ways, nicely arranged colors can definitely affect mood. Second, I must think (and research) a bit more to discover alternative approaches. It means that more time will be spent on research, which is not the best option in terms of deadline. On the other hand, I have spent a lot of time developing the concept for this project. So I cannot afford myself to finish it as just a decorative piece.

Color physiology

Suscreen facĚ§ade system by Rocheteau Saillard

SUNSHINE & SUNLIGHT

Analyzing the research

with identifying unusual

about colors, I decided

sources

that I cannot fully establish

direction)

my concept on it. Thus, it

production and collecting

(or for

relevant

least

potential references

needs to research more

observation, and statistics) that show

about the sunlight effect on humans.

the impact of sunlight on a person. My

Before, I thought about sunlight

question for this - it is possible to find

and shading as additional (more

any problem (or statement) that can be

Additionally, it is a lesson that it is

entertaining part) of the concept.

connected to my concept. I am sure it

better to have a backup plan, even if

For

is, but I need extra time to identify it.

the developed concept seems well

now,

probably

becomes

the primary. So I need to use the same approach as in the previous section. It required to find reliable scientific sources (articles with experiments,

Also, it seems right to study a bit about such products as smart facades and take a closer look at materials utilized to produce it. It probably helps me

of sunlight angles to produce exciting renders.

developed and thoughtful.

Sunshine & Sunlight

THE MAP OF WORLD CLIMATE ZONES At school, such maps seemed just dull as a lot of other things sych

geometry

lessons.

During the project, once again, I discovered that high school was not a completely useless time. For now, this map is actually a massive souse for both design and commercial information. Probably, for the first time (since I quit marketing and chose design), I can see how geographic

segmentation

strategy could be effectively applied to the project. Also, I can look at my favorite places (cities) from an absolutely different perspective. It is great to use my travel experience as primary research of the target market. As noted before, this project has a strong artistic side, which is why I will not be focusing on user profiling. Still, I will be oriented to geography as a primary strategy for identifying the potential market.

AVERAGE ANNUAL SUNSHI Here is the list of my favorite cities with an average of sunshine hours. I tried to put an example from each part of the world, where I spent some time and could observe

2473 IN ROME

the weather. I can say that to me, it is vital to living

ROTTERDAM

ARNHEM

1662 IN AMSTERDAM

HAAG

in a place when the Sun is literary shining

a significant amount of time. I am not a winter person at all, which is always a surprise for people once they hear where I come from. Also, I am not a rain person. I do not like to be sad. That is the reason why there no London on my list. And Bangkok is the only place where I can accept the rain. I am

1626 IN BERLIN

1901 IN M

Sunshine & Sunlight

NE HOURS IN SOME CITIES not a big fan of tanning. It is right in a small amount, but spending hours on Sun (like many Russians) is not for me. But still, it is

2623 IN BANGKOK

great to spend some time by the shore. So, to me, Sun is vital as a source of physical and mental health. The second purpose of this list is theÂ market

2222 IN KUALA LUMPUR

2022 IN SINGAPORE

MOSCOW

description no with plain numbers or graphs, but with real pictures that I was taking during my journeys. And for the time of lockdown, these memories were the best way to travel.

3054 IN SAN DIEGO

2000

1500

1000

500

Chongching,

Dikson,

Taipei,

Hat Yai,

Hanoi,

Torshavn,

Reykjavik,

Edinburgh,

Dublin,

Brussels,

St.Pierre,

Iqaluit,

Juneau,

China

Russia

Taiwan

Thailand

Vietnam

2000

1500

1000

Faroe Islands

Island

Scotland

Ireland

Belgium

2000

1500

1000

500

St.Pierre & Miquelon

Canada

Alaska

Panama City, Churchill, Panama

Canada

THE LEAST SUNNY PLACES IN THE WORLD

500

THE SUNNIEST PLACES IN THE WORLD

Sunshine & Sunlight

4000

3500

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

Dubai,

Muscat,

Tel Aviv, Israel

Saudi Arabia

Abha,

Baghdad,

Nicosia,

Ierapetra,

Valletta,

Athens,

Marseille,

Yuma,

Phoenix,

Las Vegas,

Tucson,

El Paso,

UAE

Oman

Iraq

3500

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

Cyprus

Greece

Malta

Greece

France

5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

Arizona, USA

Nevada, USA

Arizona, USA

Texas, USA

SMART FACADES FOR SOLAR CONTROL

Suscreen façade system by Rocheteau Saillard

Glass panels created with digital glass printing by Dip-Tech

Suscreen façade system by Shildan

Sunshine & Sunlight

Perforated Facade Panels by Bruag

I found several interesting

on purpose. Using smart

examples

solar

materials in such systems

them

is meaning to utilize either

are just good design and

solar energy or intensity

simple

but

of sunlight to open, close,

some made of exciting,

or change planks angle. Of

innovative

materials.

course, both materials and

simple

mechanisms are patented.

control.

Bruag but

of Some

technology,

uses effective

approach,

These

systems

usually

which is just laser-cutting

aim to cover the whole

intricate patterns on any

construction, which is more

client demand, and Shildan

suitable for some public or

covers the building with

fully private buildings.

simple

pattern

mesh.

The other examples show a different approach, such as applying some mechanical control

the

whole

facade — the rotation angle of plank can be changed

Suscreen façade system by Richter Musikowski

DO YOU HAVE SAD? For people to be formally diagnosed with SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), they must meet the criteria for major depressive episodes coinciding with the fall and winter months for at least two years. Common symptoms of a major depressive episode include: • feeling hopeless or worthless • losing interest in activities you once enjoyed • having problems with sleep

It is scientifically proven that sunlight does have a direct relationship with mood. It has been shown that the more sunlight there is, the more elated feelings a person experiences. Furthermore, studies have found that decreased exposure to sunlight corresponds to an increase in mental health distress, as well as an overall change in mood and cognition. Also associated with changing amounts of sunlight, SAD is a depressive disorder that fluctuates with the seasons and shows how much of an impact the sun can have

• experiencing changes in your appetite or weight

on mental health and well-being. According to the American

• feeling sluggish or agitated.

include pervasive sad moods, irregular sleep patterns,

Psychological Association, symptoms of this disorder fatigue, and craving carbohydrates. Sunlight impacts the release of serotonin and melatonin, which are neurotransmitters that help regulate sleep and emotions. Levels of serotonin, commonly associated with happiness, increase when you are exposed to sunlight and can explain why your mood improves when it is sunny outside. Conversely, the lack of sunlight causes the body to change its cycle of melatonin production, which is involved in sleep. This affects how, when, and how much melatonin is produced which can be linked to other symptoms of SAD, such as irregular sleep patterns and fatigue. Another neurotransmitter, glutamate, is also affected by sunlight. A 2018 study examined mice to test the biological effects of exposure to sunlight and found that sunlight affects how the brain functions. They noticed that the UV rays created urocanic acid in the body, which traveled in the bloodstream to the brain, and caused neurons to produce more glutamate. This increase in

Publishing, H., 2020. Shining A Light On Winter Depression - Harvard Health. [online] Harvard Health. Available at: <https://www.health.harvard. edu/mind-and-mood/shining-a-light-on-winterdepression>. Total Wellness. 2020. How Sunlight Affects Your Mood - Total Wellness. [online] Available at: <https:// totalwellnessmagazine.org/articles/2020/4/13/howsunlight-affects-your-mood>. 26

glutamate changes how neurons communicate, which alters brain functions and could have an effect on motor learning, memory, and mood improvement. This study reveals the mechanisms behind how sunlight affects the brain; understanding these mechanisms could have a significant impact on developing ways to combat these fluctuations in mood.

Sunshine & Sunlight

MOOD DISORDERS

Mood disorders can be susceptible to seasonal influences, with a typical worsening in the winter months. As for empirical examples of seasonal effects on pre-existing mood disorders, Oyane examined more than 10,000 men and women in a single county in Norway. As hypothesized, the researchers confirmed the presence of seasonal effects among participants with mood disorders, characterized by modestly higher levels of depressive symptoms during the period from November through March. Grimaldi examined a representative Finnish community sample of nearly 6,000 individuals. In this study, 85 percent of participants reported seasonal variations in mood, characterized by more intense symptoms in the winter months compared to the summer months. Finally, in a study from the Netherlands, Winhorst examined 2,168 individuals who were part of a larger study on depression and anxiety. As anticipated, a significant proportion of participants in this sample (53.5%) reported seasonal effects with regard to mood, with lower mood most commonly reported during the winter months.

ANXIETY DISORDERS

Anxiety symptoms may also flux with seasonal changes, with a worsening of symptoms during the winter months. As empirical examples, these associations were confirmed in the Oyane and Winthorst studies. In addition, in an Australian study, Marriott et al7 examined 133 patients with anxiety symptoms and panic attacks; as anticipated, investigators confirmed seasonal influences characterized by a worsening of both symptom types during the winter months.

Randy A. Sansone, L., 2013. Sunshine, Serotonin, And Skin: A Partial Explanation For Seasonal Patterns In Psychopathology?. [online] PubMed Central (PMC). Available at: <https://www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3779905/>.

PHILIPS SMARTSLEEP There is an alternative way

to tread SAD such as light

light works just like natural

therapy for those who want

sunlight.

to avoid taking medications (say Bupropion). The idea behind it is to replace the

missing

sunshine

with artificial light. Light therapy

uses

lightboxes

that produce a bright white light. As far as your brain

concerned,

artificial

There are a lot of devices on the market with almost the same functionality and design. Usually, it is round or square shape working mainly as a simple lamp that you need to place around to absorb the light. Phillips

offers

functionality

additional to

such

aÂ device and promotes it as a device for better sleeping and wake-up. It can be used as an alarm and connected with a smartphone to set up the instrument more comfortably. The product is

Sunshine & Sunlight

CIRCADIAN OPTICS LIGHT THERAPY a part of a line of products

In my opinion, the idea

for

of establishing good habits

maintaining

better

health habits.

that

To me, such (actually pretty plain) devices seem a bit overpriced. expensive

The LED

most alarm

by Phillips costs around $250.

And table lamp

by Circadian Optics sells from $50 to $75. One of the main features of the Phillips lamp is that it can be charged via smartphone. So there is no need to use a plug, and a dressing table will be free of cords. Additionally, both companies highlight that their devices are UV-free.

can

affect

mental

health (and help to avoid taking

medications,

at least reduce the amount) is

excellent.

But

given

devices have no emotional involvement with a person. So products are definitely must be improved.

FEATURES

Frequency

50/60Hz

UV-free

Yes

Voltage

10-240 VAC

Type of lamp

LED

PowerWake alarm

Yes

Number Sounds

Wake-up

Number of relaxation sounds

AUX entry

Yes

FM radio

Yes

Charges mobile phone

Yes

Control by Smartphone

Yes

LIGHT

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

LIGHTBOX TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS Max Lux level

315

Light colors

white, orange, yellow, amber

Sun themes

Number of Brightness settings

Sunshine & Sunlight

The effective sunlighttherapy lamp should produce 10,000 lux.

For a person, it needs at least 30-60 minutes a day to be on sunlight, especially in the morning when research suggests that light is more effective at preventing SAD.

Jewish Museum Berlin

MOBILES

Although,

of paper or plastic in later

a form of kinetic art are

versions. This approach

pure

art

mobiles objects

and

some can say that these things a just for decoration (or dust collection), I disagree. To me, it is something that can affect my current mood. It creates the illusion of calm. It can play with the environment and even hypnotize.

have exaggerated and expression print of their creator, which prevents a person with a clear association with the artist. Mobiles are usually a combination of pretty simple shapes that together create an extremely sophisticated

As a contemporary art piece, mobile

visual effect. Also, such simplicity is

allows interpreting it in a personal

seen in materials choosing. It can be

way. Some iconic examples do not

carcass made in wire and a range

became one of the main reasons to take a closer look at this art and to get some inspiration from it. I tried to look a bit further and bring iconic artworks and modern and commercial utilizing mobile concepts.

ALEXANDER CALDER

Alexander Calder Mobile 1932

Alexander Calder Untitled, 1942

AgnĂ¨s Varda Calder with 21 feuilles blanches (1953), Paris, 1954

Mobiles

Alexander Calder 1 red, 4 black plus x white, 1947

Alexander Calder Big Red, 1959

Jean-Paul on

Sartre

Calder’s

said

mobiles:

a technical degree. I believe this

background

helped

“The forces at work are too

him to establish something

numerous and complicated

creative yet well balanced.

for

any

human

mind,

even that of their creator, to be able to foresee all their

combinations.

each

them,

For

Calder

establishes a general fated course of movement, then abandons them to it: time, sun, heat, and wind will determine each particular dance.” To me, it was interesting to know what Calder had initially been an engineer. He

started

practice

his

after

artistic he

got

Alexander Calder Untitled 1937

“dividing (creating) space with colors.” She uses colors as three-dimensional elements, like layers, to create spaces, not as a finishing touch applied on surfaces. Handling colors as a medium to compose space, her wish is to give emotion through colors with her creations, which range from art, design to architecture. I must say that I admire both artistic approaches and outcomes. These works are the perfect example that art, design, and the commercial side can successfully exist alongside. I also admire the fact that

EMMANUELLE MOUREAUX Emmanuelle Moureaux is a French architect living in Tokyo since 1996, where she established “Emmanuelle Moureaux architecture + design” in 2003. Inspired by the layers and colors of Tokyo that built a complex depth and density on the street and traditional Japanese spatial elements like sliding screens, she has created the concept of shikiri, which literally means

COLOR OF TIME Nov. 16, 2017 - Jan. 8, 2018 Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art & Design

Mobiles

in 100 colors Nov. 8- Dec. 25, 2017 Omotesando Hills Tokyo 100 colors flowers WATCH ART GRAND EXHIBITION Sep. 28 - Oct. 13, 2019

the precise style of the creator (artist) is evident, and it is effortless to identify works. I cannot say that installations are innovative in terms of materials or technology. On the contrary, designs are based on pretty simple methods, and often related to craft, which add more life and emotional involvement.

ISSEY MIYAKE rainbow moirĂŠ April 2018

EKKO MOBILES

Mobiles

Ekko Mobiles is a design

opinion,

and art studio specializing

to tell “the scale” is the only

in creating large custom

distinctive feature of these

hanging mobiles, stabiles,

objects. I cannot identify

ceiling

aerial

the story behind, so it looks

sculpture, and all types

more like an additional (and

of kinetic art. Among clients

unnecessary)

are hospitals, universities,

of space rather than unique

libraries, recreation centers,

artwork.

features,

restaurants,

movie

sets,

corporate

headquarters,

etc. For their creations, the studio is mostly working with wire and aluminum. Although of

the

sculptures

sizes are

impressive, I cannot say that

such

commercial

decoration would attract my attention in real life. In my

size,

better

decoration

It is seen how the right lighting and angle can make some magic in the plain whitewall room. This piece of art is probably one of the best illustrations of the idea that I am keeping in mind. It is funny that being a fan of this artist, I recalled this artwork long after I finalized my general concept. It would be much easier to explain my thought with such apparent reference. This artwork was presented in the exhibition “the speed of your attention” in Berlin, 2018. Behind the show was a collaboration with Joe Dumit, an anthropologist at UC Davis.

OLAFUR ELIASSON Here I put one of my favorite artworks of Olafur Eliason. Retinal flare space (2018) is a combination of color-effect filter glass (cyan, magenta, yellow), a projector, which are simple materials that create a magnificent illusion.

Mobiles

He participated in a workshop at Eliasson’s Berlin studio in the summer of 2018, where he conducted a movement experiment. So even such “a simple” work requires a science person’s participation to make the story not decorative, but thoughtful and genuinely complex.

KINETIC SCULPTURES

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tem quam velitat offici doloriam,

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et endelendunt as soluptatur? Quia

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vellacerovit veris quo vel id eum sed eos modia con el intiusant

and humidity and change the lighting pattern according to specific indexes. ButÂ even with my modest knowledge, I can guess that any kinetic sculpture based onÂ Arduino is using a combination of stepper motors and a range of gears. Such a system can be controlled with either buttons, voice, or even temperature (depends on requirements). The hardest part is assembling a correct code. This process also is not rocket science, especially when some enthusiasts created visual coding applications (such asÂ Visuino).

David Letellier, Tessel, 2010, installation, 400x200x300cm

HOW TO MAKE IT LIVE The easiest way to make any of such sculptures to move is using Arduino to build all the mechanics. It can be sure that most developers and creators are using this technology as the simplest way to make all chain from code to hardware. I am not a professional in this field. The only experience I have was establishing a lighting system for a bathroom that can measure temperature

Kinetic sculptures

To me, it took almost a month to figure out all the coding process for my thermometer project. That time I decided not to focus on such knowledge improvement. I can now assign a task to such a professional or spend a month or two to figure out everything personally. Thus, I prefer to be aÂ concept designer who understands theÂ basics.

Foundation Course project related to Interior design

INTERIOR DESIGN STYLES

This part of additional

explanation of why I am

research has two reasons.

offering such a solution

I discovered that during

and not relying on my

vision.

academic

design

experience, I have never paid much

major project (and as a commercial

attention to style topic in terms

designer), I must be able to show not

information can be utilized not only

in terms of precise classification

only in-depth concept development

in this studying project but also might

and

but also a knowledge of a variety

potentially save me a lot of time during

features, apart from one project in the

of possibilities for my product.

a professional performance. To make

foundation course. As a product design

Second, as far as my approach

student, I was mostly focusing on user

for the project is to produce digital

experience

problem-solving

concepts, it seems right to offer

approach. The style was always there

a variety of options where it can

but as a minor part. I believe that in the

be installed based on a precise

identification

and

distinctive

believe

that

such

additional

it more relevant, I decided to show this section to an experienced interior designer to get expert feedback and possibly correct my reference choices.

Interior Design Styles

MODERN STYLE

The modern style is the design and

to the beginning through the middle

decor of the modernism movement,

of the 20th century — the 1900s

which began in the very late 1800s.

through the 1950s. The modern style

Birthed by the German Bauhaus schools

eventually morphed into mid-century

of design and the Scandinavian design emphasis on simplicity and function, the modern decor style is very old. In general terms, modern decor is linked

modern (the 1950s and 60’s) and postmodernism (1970s and 80’s).

Interior Design Styles

CONTEMPORARY STYLE

What is referred to as contemporary

decade passes, the decor trends

style became popular in the 1970s,

of the day will be always be considered

about

contemporary. It is not necessarily tied

postmodernism’s rise in popularity.

to a specific period of time in the same

the

same

time

It was originally a blend of styles before it became recognizable on its own.

The

contemporary

design

borrowed elements from modernism and postmodernism. It also gathered ideas from many other styles such as art deco, deconstructivism, futurism, and more. And yet, the “contemporary” style is always changing. As each

way that the modern style is. Instead, it is an ever-evolving style that reflects what is happening today.

Interior Design Styles

MINIMALIST

The minimalist concept takes notions of modern design and simplifies them further. Colour palettes are neutral and airy; furnishings are simple and streamlined, and nothing is excessive or flamboyant in accessories or décor. Minimalism is ultimately defined by a sense of functionality and ultraclean lines.

Interior Design Styles

INDUSTRIAL

Industrial style refers to frill and fuss-free no-nonsense decor that takes inspiration from the lofty look of warehouses, factories, and other industrial structures. Industrial style decor comprises of stripped back architectural details including the use of bare bricks, metals, and wood, as well as salvaged and recycled materials. Industrial style furnishings are usually hardwearing and often obtained from reclaimed yards.

Interior Design Styles

SCANDINAVIAN / NORDIC

The

Scandinavian

interior

design

functionalism

and

simplicity.

minimalism,

ItÂ also includes the use of natural

simplicity, and functionality. Although

materials, such as leather, wood, and

the Scandinavian design has been

hemp. Furthermore, a Scandinavian

around since the 1950s, it still remains

interior design is often influenced

a popular trend in interior design

by aÂ connection to nature, which

today.

combines natural shapes, abstraction,

characterized

Belonging to the school of modernism, Scandinavian design is a design movement characterized by a focus

and the use of natural elements.

Interior Design Styles

TRADITIONAL

Traditional design style offers classic details, sumptuous furnishings, and an abundance of accessories. It is rooted in European sensibilities. Traditional homes often feature dark, finished wood, rich colour palettes, and a variety of textures and curved lines. Furnishings have elaborate and ornate details and fabrics, like velvet, silk and brocade, which may include a variety of patterns and textures. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s depth, layering and dimensionality within most traditional designs.

Interior Design Styles

HOLLYWOOD GLAM

Also referred to as Hollywood Regency, Hollywood Glam is a design style that tends to be luxurious, overthe-top and opulent. It’s a dramatic design style, perfect for a homeowner who enjoys making a statement. This design style can incorporate some features of Victorian design, including plush, velvet furnishings, tufting and antiques. The colour palettes are particularly bold—think purples, reds and turquoise.

INTERIOR DESIG NAVAL COLOR

STATEMENT PIECES

TREND

This design trend will be proper to eleva

A darker blue color will be

room. Clear spaces are becoming more

the 2021 trend. The new black proper for creating elegant and contemporary spaces.

SUSTAINABLE MODERN DESIGN New bioplastics materials, reused materials and low impact for the environment, will be an upcoming design trend. Designers are dared to create pieces with new and unusual materials.

Interior Design Styles

GN TRENDS 2021 LIGHT WOODS

ate any division, for a more sophisticated

From

Scandinavian

e desirable for decor enthusiasts.

inspirations,

light

woods

will be a trend material for interiors. This material will

used

not

only

for flooring but also for covering walls and ceilings.

GREY – THE COLOR OF THE YEAR The season of 2020-2021 will be highlighted with grey tones.

Interior Design Styles

UNIT PLANS IN CONDOMINIUMS AT BANGKOK

To put the concept in the real

(standard or full-wall size), not a balcony

environment,

look

door. I noticed that some apartments

at Bangkok’s condominiums market.

have pretty narrow windows, which

actually make room almost dark.

Supalai, Lumpini Development, and

I think that such construction looks not

KellerHenson and chose some unit

thoughtful, especially when the price

plans as a starting point for the design

for a flat starts from 9.000,000 baht.

environment.

I tried to avoid such cases.

It must be said that I was explicitly

As I have noticed, only one project

searched two-bedroom units, keeping

(with

in mind that one room can be fully

starting from 23.000,000 baht in not

used as a home office. Also, I paid

finished building) offers a flat with

attention to the shape of the windows.

envisaged working area. I consider it

It was essential to choose units where

an opportunity to work on design also

the second bedroom has a window

for such a market.

checked

I local

decided

developers

highly

expensive

offers —

PERSONAS

REMOTE WORK IS NOT THAT BAD AS I THOUGHT. MY THERAPIST AND I GOT USED TO IT NOW

PERSONA PROFILE 1

Personas

ABOUT

DESIRES, GOALS, DREAMS

Anna is an illustrator in a publishing house. She

• Not to worry about being quit

has never experienced remote work before. Even

• Additional remote work sounds good

in her student time, she tried to find some extra

• One day I will go for a walk again

jobs in places with many people. In Berlin, where she lives and works these days, there are many opportunities to spend free time outside. And the lockdown was a really tough time for Anna. She missed her little daily trips after work and weekends. She was lucky that her employer was

• Never thought that glass of vine outside would be a luxury. But we all deserve it! • I can just spend some time without laptop and relax • It is time to publish my comics

tolerant of remote work, and she could save her job. But sitting at home for weeks was not easy. She started online sessions with a therapist, who offered to join some community and collaborate with someone to make VR exhibition and stuff.

NEEDS • Rearrange home stuff to make it comfortable for work and rest • Big working table and comfortable chair —

MOTIVATION • To learn how to work and rest at home

new necessary

• To be mentally healthy without medication

• To adapt a new normal rules

• To enjoy life (even when it is tough)

• To learn meditation • To find better online therapist and yoga classes

LIKES / DISLIKES

FEARS & FRUSTRATION

• Don’t like to show the house via zoom to

• Don’t want to be sick

colleagues

• Don’t want to go crazy

• Sunshine is life

• Being fired

• Socializing online is odd

• It will be for long

• Online grocery shopping is double odd

• Miss meeting with family and friends

WHY IS EVERYBODY GOING MAD? IT WILL END SOON!

PERSONA PROFILE 2

Personas

ABOUT

DESIRES, GOALS, DREAMS

To Jerry, staying at home was not a big deal.

• I have enough money, I can focus on my music

For sure, it is better to play music participating

(and blog)

nice pool or beach party. But arranging sessions

• One day my place in Bangkok and in Porto,

via Zoom is a new fun experience. Actually, not

will be special and unique. Half of year here,

so new. As a famous musician with 7M followers

another - there.

(and regular ads payment), performing online is old news. Viewing such virtual events from the same location (from his current flat home) all the time might be boring to fans, but we have what we have. Thanks to the finance consultant, investing in tech was a great idea. So he can easily buy a nice place in Bangkok and deal with other technical stuff. Hope that this place will be private, and I will mostly play somewhere outside.

NEEDS • Rearrange home stuff to make it comfortable for work and rest

MOTIVATION

• I need the best soundproofing

• Don’t worry, be happy

• Since I stuck at home, I need better stuff

• Happy fans, happy life

around. Hope someone can recommend a good designer

LIKES / DISLIKES

FEARS & FRUSTRATION

• Art objects around inspire!

• Hope next Live will be at least 1M

• 10 new enquirers from fashion brands during

• Jack is a trustworthy financial manager.

last month sounds promising

• Hope my creativity will be enough. Don’t want to share.

Celeste Necklace â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Swarovski Design by Zaha Hadid

A PARAMETRIC APPROACH TO DESIGN

Parametric design defines

that help set up any

as a process based on

creative idea to a range of

algorithmic

thinking

that

enables

During

studying

options or even products.

experience,

the expression of parameters and

I discovered that I am intensely fond of

Also, I see a parametric approach

rules that, together, define, encode

such an approach. I can see a strong

as both something practical and

potential in adaptivity and flexibility not

aesthetically pleasing design. To me, it

only for architecture but for product

has a perfect balance between beauty

design. With such possibilities, any

and utility.

and clarify the relationship between design intent and design response. Mostly it is related to architecture and urban design, where it is vital

product can be unique and truly valuable for any customer. So I believe

to have an option to adapt objects fast

that designers at the current time must

to specific parameters.

be able to operate a variety of tools

developing designers.

objects, But

especially

during

the

fashion

lockdown,

I figured out my ignorance. Also, during the lockdown (or maybe earlier), the Adobe, who is the developer of this soft, figured out a new market for their product. They discovered that fashion and industrial designers could produce faster and easier visualization (in the texturing part) for their ideas in the most sustainable way — avoiding the stage of prototyping. Adobe effectively promoted the Substance with the help of professionals who quickly switched

by Pauline Boiteux

SUBSTANCE IN DESIGN I have heard about this program quite a while mostly as a tool for game or movie designers who need to develop low-res textures but look real. So I have never thought about this soft as a tool for designers who are

A parametric approach toÂ design

their game-texturing skills toÂ designing materials. Personally, I believe that it is impossible to avoid working with physical prototypes fully. Real craft skills cost more than digital in my eyes. But from the other perspective, I see how new market value in creating. And I see a perfect opportunity for my professional development.

Completion time

TWO DAYS

A parametric approach to design

GETTING STARTED WITH SUBSTANCE DESIGNER With this tutorial, I started to explore the Substance Designer soft. At this stage, I aimed to cover basics such as interface introduction and the workflow. This tutorial covers such a task entirely. Each step was explained precisely for a real newbie. Although the outcome is not related to my concept, yet it looks pretty impressive and sophisticated, that was additional motivation to finish the lessons. It took almost two days to finish all parts and get the complete texture. From my experience, it is not so timeconsuming regarding the visual of the outcome. The only concern is that there was no clear explanation of how to apply generated texture in any side software such as Maya or Keyshot.

Completion time

FOUR DAYS

A parametric approach toÂ design

ADVANCED PATTERN & FABRIC CREATION I decided to study Substance when I found terrific works made by Pauline Boiteux (French texture artist). Although most of the examples of textures I noticed were related to game art or fashion, I saw a perfect industrial design opportunity. Regards to the tutorial, it is always a difference between a real teacher and a professional who is sharing his knowledge. I do not care much about this prejudice. To me, education is more valuable. But I can say that sometimes it just needs more time to figure out some explanations. Thus, I spent around four days to finish this tutorial.

Completion time

TWO WEEKS

A parametric approach to design

CREATING OLD WOOD PLANKS The level of this tutorial can be claimed as super-advanced. I spent two weeks getting the presented result. It must be mentioned that is was not the final outcome of the tutorial. I just decided to stop further development for the sake of the project. This tutorial is the perfect illustration of my project’s idea — the material can be changed easily by two or three clicks. But to get it, you need to set up a lot. Or better to say, you need to spend a lot of time once and get a variety of results/ options fast for many projects.

ROUGH VISUALIZATION

There are several tasks

for the next stage. Most

require for this stage. First,

of the experiments will

it is necessary to hoose combinations of basic shapes for the product. Second, to decide on how the lighting will be installed. Third, arrange the basic plan for rooms, including

ideas

about

furniture

navigation, functionality, and control. Since the main idea has already been generated, this stage must mostly figure out some basic technical details.

of 3d modeling. Also, this project, in general, aimed to develop not skills of draftsman but the ability to interpret the massive amount of research

One of the best ways to develop would

in a creative concept and combine

be a collaboration with technical

artistic approach with a practical need.

to make the 3d planning easier.

professionals

Additionally, it is required to make final

could help with the machinery part.

decisions about the basic scenarios (or

In this project, rough sketches are

experience) for the product, such as

using to make general guidance

be made on a stage

(engineers)

who

82 simple Kandinsky (Bauhaus, modern style, chess) Pattern - solar symbolism

• • •

Shapes Each room - large window Place to work - laptop, table, chair

• •

Cabinets, pots, shelfs 2,3,4 - can be also a bedroom?

•

Place to relax - armchair, sofa •

•

No lines or waves as shape - pattern elements are dense (mean simple). Balance between pattern and texture must be found.

What else

One layer - cut holes. Another - print or other

Pattern - different layers - one effect

To make sophisticated illusion

Why 3?

Rough visualization

Primary design purpose - combine given elements in surface. Next, to combine two or three surfaces in one system.

If other? - Also frame - one style

If fabric, then frame

No need to provide all possible combination - it is AOI responsibility. Vital to show princip

Illusion (magic)

Playing with sunlight or artificial light. It is a therapy

•

Primary functional purpose:

85 by app (do I want to make smart home device?) by sun - start moving when catch/absorb enough energy by timer in the system - just two buttons (simple) placed around system

• • •

Kinetic object, than controlled:

Rough visualization

Light source - Lamp Do I need to provide sun protection surface? Not necessary. It is not blinds - these are three layers of materials

Rough visualization

During this stage, I will focus on pattern application to surface. The essential elements for the pattern were identified previously, so now I need to get the list of shapes for the use. 87

Rough visualization

Instead

sketching,

decided

toÂ experiment with simples shapes made

semitransparent

plastic.

To me, such a practice looks more beneficial. It is easy and faster to get the range of combinations and visually explain the idea of color mixing (that is no longer primary, but I still believe in it). It must be mentioned that I did not choose colors on purpose but took random shits of plastic in a nearby department store. Here I put just random combinations. Some of them I like more than others. Generally, there is a lot of choices for each unit. I tried to arrange shapes more or less proportionally to windowsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dimensions. But for now, it becomes clear that there might be a problem with a full-wall window. Forms must intersect, and should not be enormous. As always, it should be a balance between the object and the environment. For the rest of the units, given combinations might fit just fine.

Electricity cords here

It is made by order product, not Ikea

If high price then welding.

Looks cheap.

Snap joint cord to frame

Must be easy - customer must be able to change segments easily

Rough visualization

92 How to sync without wires? Raspbessy PI? then it is an app

Rough visualization

CAD PROTOTYPING

this

was

securely and tightly inside

start

with

the outer part. So there

prototyping the frames

is no need to make any

for Rhino’s system as

additional parts. The best

decided

stage, to

solution would be making

a more convenient tool

to have a more sleek look. The part

to make such shapes. The material

that will hide the LED is expected

for the system will be made in Maya as

to make of semitransparent flexible

An additional issue is working with

far as this soft is more relevant to work

material. So there is no need to make

the round-shape frames that must

with mesh surface.

any connectors. The hidden part that

have the extra part for stable hanging.

Several problems were identified

will hold the LED is likely to connect.

during stage sketching. The most

On the one hand, it can be some kind

important is the problem of connection

of additional device. On the other

parts. It was decided that outer parts

hand, the frame profile construction

must be connected with welding

requires to place this inner part

a physical prototype.

CAD Prototyping

FRAME PROFILE. 90Â° The most simple construction is a square or rectangle frame. Here is seen how parts can be inserted one onto another. The fabric (or any other material) will be fixed with the part that holds LED.

CAD Prototyping

FRAME PROFILE. 45Â° For the triangular frames, it is essential to avoid spike edges. It was decided to make flat square ends for all potentially hazardous connections.

100

CAD Prototyping

TYPES OF FRAMES: SQUARE & TRIANGLE Here it is presented the full rectangle and triangular frame construction hanged on rails. The dimensions are approximate but overall correspond to the general measurements of chosen rooms.

101

102

CAD Prototyping

TYPES OF FRAMES: CIRCLE Here are half and full circle frames. For the half-circle frame, the anchoring concept is the same as for a rectangle frame since it has 90° connections. For the circle frame, an extra part for stable hanging was included. It must be added that material for such construction should be flexible and lightweight as much as possible. Frames generally are significant size, so materials choice is vital.

103

104

CAD Prototyping

RENDER TEST. COMPOSITION 1 The first experiment with material transparency and full composition. I picked just a raw fabric material to check how transparency works (keeping in mind that now it is anÂ empty environment). Also, I am a bit concerned about the mechanism that should move panels up and down. For now, I modeled the static version. And if I want it, mechanic, these holding-cordsparts must be much larger. Or there is some technical solution (that I have no idea about) that can fit ti such a small room. I do not want to exaggerate the size of these parts for the sake of visual outlook. But I fully understand that this part of the project must be developed further with more technically skilled professionals.

105

106

CAD Prototyping

RENDER TEST. COMPOSITION 2 In this second test, I decided to render another composition and play with the transparency slightly since the first experiment showed that the material is not transparent enough. I also experimented with lighting to get some exciting shading effect, which is the projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aim. The next step will be putting compositions and plying with lighting into developed interiors.

107

108

PATTERN TEXTURE

This is the most challenging

and white parts (normals,

part of the entire project. I

roughness, etc.).

aimed to learn an entirely

new

all three parts as one

soft

without

any

far

consider

supervision and apply knowledge

I spent a significant amount of project

composition,

to my design.

time to gain new technical skills. And

each segment on a separate panel

now, it is time to apply this knowledge.

to prevent visual “noise.” The only

The workflow I chose is the following:

concern is the size of the pattern. My

to generate basic shapes according

references have many tiny details,

to references I developed previously;

and the simplicity of shapes is more

most visible side of this origin. I had

to assemble a composition with

convenient for the concept.

no intention to cite it directly. Instead,

gained shapes; to decide about

I aimed to deconstruct it and apply

colors — either generate full texture

only some parts more abstractly.

in Substance or to make only black

Although the project is generally rooted in traditional Russian Art & Craft, the pattern is the central and

109

I decided to use

110

Pattern texture

BASIC SHAPES The first step in pattern development was to make basic shapes according to the original traditional pattern references. These shapes will be the base for each panel pattern. I must say that following instructions from tutorials are much easier than trying to apply the knowledge to the personal project that does not actually correspond to lessons. So, IÂ say a huge appreciation to Pauline Boiteux (the author of the red fabric tutorial), who put many useful techniques in a huge lesson. Generally, it was tricky to figure out how to combine and modify lines and shapes only initially. The most complicated shape (aÂ square with a cross) I developed pretty fast.

111

112

Pattern texture

PATTERN FINALIZATION On the left page, I put one of my experiments with pattern fabrication. The positive part is that, for now, I feel more confident in working with Substance designer. During the work, I came up with many ideas on applying this knowledge to my personal design projects. The negative side is that I discovered that to get the outcome (visual impression) and for the sake of time, it is better to leave my experiments and generate patterns in Photoshop. To me, this decision was not so easy since I aimed to apply new knowledge to this project. I can only say that I should start to work with simple shapes earlier. Or it is better to say - to restructure my soft studying process. It is small comfort to me, but now I have a personal experience learning new soft more effectively. Unfortunately, this knowledge cost me a better result for this project.

113

114

ASSEMBLING ROOMS

In this step, it is required

is no goal to make pure

to form an environment

style interiors. The idea

where the product can

is to show how a product

be applied. After studying

with a solid background

some

interior

styles,

suitable

color

palettes

for

each

I decided to choose the following:

style. The product will be developed

Modern, Industrial, Nordic, Hollywood

in neutral (natural) colors with different

glam for four selected units. As fas

hues and saturation (following primary

as local flat plans were selected

moodboard).

as a starting point, it is necessary to choose appropriate finishes for rooms and also appropriate furniture and

accessories.

additional

challenge is picking up the most

115

It must be said that the choice of styles is based on both personal preferences and 2021 trends. Also, in my opinion, chosen styles can be easily mixed with stylistically different objects. So there

based

traditional

Russian craft can be successfully placed in an absolutely different environment.

116

Assembling rooms

117

118

Assembling rooms

119

120

Assembling rooms

121

modern style

industrial style

122

Assembling rooms

nordic style

02_hollywood glam style

123

modern style

industrial style

124

Assembling rooms

nordic style

02_hollywood glam style

125

modern style

industrial style

126

Assembling rooms

nordic style

hollywood glam style

127

× Too dark × Shades works incorrectly

128

Assembling rooms

EXPERIMENTS WITH LIGHTING. UNIT 1

129

ADDITIONAL LIGHTING. TABLE LAMP

off

FURNITURE

two chairs

130

one chair

Assembling rooms

FINAL COMPOSITION

131

ADJUSTING LIGHTING

132

Assembling rooms

EXPERIMENTS WITH UNIT 2

CHANGING PANELS POSITION

FINAL COMPOSITION

133

134

FUNCTIONALITY & NAVIGATION

the

beginning

for medical light therapy

of the project, I decided

nor will guarantee suitable

that

the

replacement,

something

system

must

jogging or a simple walk.

simple

for users. The first thought

functionality, and it is better to think

was to make only an on/off switch.

about the application that will manage

I firmly believe that emotional design

the system.

with a strong conceptual background and extensive development must not be complicated, but has to motivate users for fun and creativity. During the development process, it becomes clear that on/off switch will not provide the full range of created

135

either

I still think that the project’s main feature is interaction with sunlight (or with artificial light). There is no need to put extra-functionality such as alarm or radio to convert the outcome

to another

smart-house

gadget. The product is neither fit

Good and robust research end experiments must support such claims. The system aims to distract a person who must stay at limited space from adverse or stressful conditions by

interacting

with

the

external

environment. So, I tried to offer only the necessary functions to managing application.

Figma tutorial duration:

8 HOURS

136

Functionality & Navigation

first,

the system’s

decided

necessary

all

ago approaches to solve a problem

functions

when some new tools can save a lot

plan

and arrange everything for a detailed

of time.

experience map. Such guidance is

Also, the system needs a name and

both illustrates the general steps

IDENTITY & FUNCTIONALITY

at least some minor branding elements

of the user and help to develop

for the interface design. I decided

screens hierarchy. It became clear that

to name the product “AL,” short

some new knowledge must be gained

for the name Alexei. It was chosen in

to provide more professional results.

honor of two people: my grandfather

So, I decided to take an introductory

(who passed away last year) and

course in Figma (an online service

a Russian opposition politician, one

for interface design) to determine

of the product concept’s inspiration

how

sources.

interfaces

are

developing

these days. I could have used old school Photoshop, but I believe that designers must continuously update skills. It is not correct to use 5 years

Brand Identity Elements: logo and colors

137

138

Functionality & Navigation

139

140

FINAL DESIGN

Usually, I am focusing

marketing

Any

the

result

investigation.

actions,

such

planning,

rather than the process.

business

The main benefit of such

the separate task.

an approach is presenting

Overall, I assume that

the final idea most clearly

in this project, I aimed

with 3D visualization. At first, I aimed

This project was treated not in

to take up two main challenges. First,

to try a different way but figured out

a client-brief way. That is the reason I

since this is the last academic task,

that personal projects do not work like

decided not to focus on the marketing

I tried to spend my time studying

that. I cannot be happy with the result

part. But it does not mean I cannot

something new (gain new relevant

I do not believe in, or dignify in a way

see the commercial potential of

skills and get more knowledge about

“at least I presented sketches.” During

my idea. I believe that design and

design or appropriate fields). Second,

this project, I identified the place I want

marketing research is not the same

I attempted to figure out my place in

to take in the design market. Thus, all

in the way of raw data interpretation.

the “design-development chain” and

my efforts were directed to fulfill this

As a conceptual designer, I presented

to identify my strengths (or better

goal.

my vision and the direction for further

to say “competitive advantages”).

141

SPECIFICATION

Al is an alternative solution for communication with the exterior without leaving home. Al aims to distract you from daily routine and to add a bit of magic to your room. If you need to spend a lot of time at home for either work

entirely hidden under the box attached to walls and

or any other reason, windows are the only way to explore

decorated as a ceiling. The size of the box varies from

outside. Al helps to communicate with it in a new way.

the dimensions of a room.

On sunny days, Al plays with sunlight and creates sophisticated shading, turning a room into a magic place. When you need some additional light, you can get it just switching Al on. Al is a modular, fully adjustable lighting system. The basic set contains three panels that are customizing for each

The system is controlled via a mobile app with various dynamic (movements), and lighting presets that can be easily modified and saved as new. The left/right and up/ down speed is setting up via the app. Each panel can be positioned and changed at any time.

client. There are four basic shapes to choose from that

The

can be combined in various compositions. Each panel

The semitransparent fabric for panels looks like natural

is setting on the individual rail. The mechanical part is

lined with a bleached pattern

142

frames

are

made

anodized

aluminum.

Final design

BASIC SHAPES

MATERIALS

The set is a combination of three panels. Here are the options. Rectangle panel can be modified to square or divide to halves.

FABRIC WITH DISTINCT STRUCTURE

ANODIZED ALUMINUM

The material can be either natural or synthetic and looks like linen. It is semitransparent, and the pattern is bleached on the surface. It is presented only in woodish color.

The frame is made of a aluminum that is lightweight but durable material.

FUNCTIONALITY static •

light off •

right ⊲

left ⊳

up ▲

down ▼

light on

light colors

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Frequency

50/60Hz

Voltage

10-240 VAC

UV-free

Yes

Type of lamp

LED

143

MODERN STYLE

144

Final design

145

146

Final design

INDUSTRIAL STYLE

147

148

Final design

NORDIC STYLE

149

light on

HOLLYWOOD GLAM STYLE

150

Final design

light off

151

Ksenia Semirova Raffles University 09.2020