A bit about me
I am a BA (Hons) Furniture & Product Design student at Nottingham Trent University. I’m interested in exploring the benefits of a circular economy in design and I enjoy projects that will challenge me in a new way. My main strengths are using sketching as a method of developing ideas, and CAD software to communicate my designs while observing the restraints set. Working holistically is an important part of my design process. I appreciate every aspect of a design, from the small construction details to the branding.
Projects Women’s Swim Sock following a brief from Speedo. Based on my own research looking at broadening their product range to encourage young women in China to swim. Won 1st prize and awarded Certificate of Excellence by Speedo.
SPiNA
A desktop assistant with silicone lumbar sensor to improve posture and back health in office workers using focused primary and secondary research.
Minimalist desk timepiece designed for the company INSTRMNT that considers brand values and consumer lifestyle.
Flow
BareFaced
Following a brief from Herman Miller and MATTER design consultancy. An adaptable laptop case for the mobile work force based on research into commuting trends.
A personal project outside of university work, developing a range of simple clocks to be batch produced by myself.
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Swim Sock A second skin to enhance your everyday swimming experience, both in the pool and out. Featuring a thin, flexible mesh support panel designed to aid women’s high arched feet. Designed for Speedo
Minimal • Bold • Athleisure
Speedo_Expanding to Chinese Markets Project
Target audience: Young, active women living in the larger cities of China. Inspiration: Current ranges from Ivy Park, Nike, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Gymshark, MAIA Active Wear, Particle Fever
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The dynamic swim sock has a toggle that adjusts around the ankle to make it fit all sizes comfortably. Its rubberised sole gives you grip while walking on wet tiles, and acts as a barrier against bacteria and viruses, making swimming a worry free exercise. The flexible neoprene won’t restrict your movement, plus it’s machine washable and quick drying, making it easy to look after.
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SPiNA A desktop assistant with visual posture alerts. The lumbar curvature sensor docks in the top to charge. Posture is improved through repetitive correction. Research based project
Discrete • Wearable • Tactile
Spina_Low Back Pain Project
Target audience: Professionals spending long periods of time on a computer Inspiration: Theraputica back support, Kinesiology Tape, Ergodepot Chair, Aeron Chair Herman Miller, LumboLift, OpterPose, Juke Tower speaker, minus-nothing speaker.
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The magnet can be used to attach a belt for wear under baggy clothing. For wear under tighter tops and shirts the magnet can be placed on the outside where it will naturally snap into place, clasping onto the clothing and positioning the sensor.
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The Spina sensor is calibrated to remember your healthy lumbar curve angle. You can follow guides through an app which will help you to set it up and ensure it is positioned correctly. The vibration mode on the sensor and light mode on the desk top can also be adjusted.
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Minimalist Timepiece A refined table top clock made from a combination of brushed `aluminium and powder coated steel. Designed for INSTRMNT
Simple • Elegant • Industrial
INSTRMNT_Minimalist Desk Clock Project
Target audience: Young Professionals in the UK who appreciate fine details and well made products. Inspiration: Minimalissimo Magazine, Braun, Muji, Naoto Fukasawa, Eone watch,
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I developed the shape and function of the clock through multiple models using different materials to reach the final design. This, alongside understanding the brand and target market, helped me to develop a suitable product.
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Designed for Disassembly Each part of the clock nests within the next. The pull on the back slides out the body containing the mechanism for access to the batteries. The addition of leather and engraved name links it to their existing products.
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Flow
Adaptable Case Desk There space for essentials like cables and pens and an easy access pocket for on-the-go objects like tickets, phone and keys. The case can expand to act as a desk. Designed for Herman Miller with MATTER studio
Target audience: The mobile workforce - commute to work and work on the go Inspiration: UltraLinx bag, Mo by Matter, Vitra’s office furniture, Soundwave® Geo Ineke Hans, Leica Ultravid, Braun, Theatelieryul Pochette, Fabrik Tokyo
Sleek • Portable desk • Responsive
Herman Miller_Mobile Working Project
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The fold out sections can be tucked below and magnetic closure flap folded in to tilt the laptop to an ergonomic angle. Flow is designed with space to allow the busy commuter to use the case as a portable desk to work on the go.
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Versatile Fabrics From looking at trends in technology and office furniture, I explored geometric textured fabrics and eye catching colours. Designed with protective, breathable neoprene and mesh fabrics to prevent devices from over heating.
Flow
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Business Development Project I have adapted my INSTRMNT clock design into a simple wooden clock which I batch produce. The range is called BareFaced as it focuses on the natural texture and colour of the wood, with a subtle strip of colour around the edge. This project allows me to use the workshop regularly and has also developed my business skills.
www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LDSmithDesign
BareFaced Clocks
EMAIL: larad.smith@btinternet.com INSTAGRAM: @lds.design LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/in/laradsmith WEBSITE: laradsmith.co.uk