LAUREN DYER Furniture Designer
CONTENTS
THE ROCKU
THE LEMONADE SET
THE SLOUCH
THE GYM DONKEY
THE PLANTABLES Co.
THE ROCKU
PROJECT BRIEF: To design a piece of furniture for SCP and their Boxed Collection - small, stand-alone pieces of furniture that are seen as affordable, carry-away, impulse buys. The product must fulfil the design-savvy consumer’s desire to buy into a respected and high quality design brand without the need to invest in an entire range.
Multifunctional
Biodegradable
Family-friendly
The ROCKU is a multi-functional rocking stool made of cork designed to be used in a plethora household situations and smaller corporate offices. The shape and size of the ROCKU allows it to be sat on both astride and aside as well as being used a footrest; on its side for under desk use or upright for living space use. Unlike generic ottomans and stools, the ROCKU has been designed to be a fun and cute addition to the household or office while being subtle. Its simple form and features with its soft rounded corners mean the ROCKU is not overapowering in rooms, in keeping with the current minimalist, Scandinavian trends. With links to children’s rocking horses, the ROCKU is a subtle injection of fun to typically adult environments.
DETAILING: Handles The handle has taken anthropometrics into consideration to determine the size and positioning of the handle for maximum comfort and functionality while maintaining a subtle aesthetic.
Skis The skis were part of the development process, refined to allow a smoother rocking movement of the ROCKU. Additionally, the material lost in creating the skis redu-ces the mass of the design, making it more portable.
Rock The ROCKU was inspired by childrens rocking horses. With a current home and office movement towards wellness, the ROCKU injects fun into these adult environ-ments while being gentle enough to add calmness.
RESEARCH
Often made from organic, soft
Functions never defined, up to the
Hardwood and fabric are the most
shapes to look comfortable
consumer’s interpretation
commonly used materials
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
INITIAL DESIGN
DEVELOPMENT 1
DEVELOPMENT 2
FINAL DESIGN
Looks sharp and harsh for a
Curved edges give a
More refined relationship between
Rocking angle more shallow to
typically soft furniture piece
softer aesthetic
organic and geometric
allow a gentler rock
Not clear how to use it or
The rocking angle is too steep,
Handles allow the product
considers ergonomics and
how to move the product
leading to a vigourous rock
to be moved with 1 or 2 hands
anthropometrics in refined measurements
4 48
MANUFACTURING DETAILS
60 29
Plan
Bottom
view
view
Side
End
view
view
0
0
80
290
The ROCKU’s size has been
500
carefully developed to function effectively, consider ing appropriate ergonomics DETAIL B SCALE 2 : 7
and anthropometrics while also being small enough to comply to the size require ments of the SCP Boxed Col lection brief. The seat height has been strategically designed to allow it to be sat
B
448
on astride or aside and also be used as an ottoman.
170
600
THE LEMONADE SET
PROJECT BRIEF: This project concerns itself with the development of a family of at least two objects, one of which shall be manufactured by a casting or moulding technique such as slip-casting, concrete or plaster casting. The activity around which the objects are designed should be solitary and tailored to a particular individual client. The object family will be designed and made to enable a chosen activity to take place. The nature and function of the objects is completely open.
One off piece
Slip - cast ceramics
Food - safe
The Lemonade Set is a handmade range of drinkware, complete with a tray, honey dripper and lemon squeezer designed to aid in the preparation and consumption of homemade lemonade. The use of quality materials combined with bespoke craftsmanship give the product a high - quality feel. Unlike generic drinkware, this lemonade set has taken into account the preparation of the drink as well as the consumption. With the lemon squeezer, honey pot and honey dripper provided, it tells more of a story and makes lemonade drinking more fun. Encouraging chatting and catching up with friends, this set aims to bring people closer through the ritual of lemonade making.
DETAILING: Facetted detail The facetted detail on the base of the ceramics give them a geometric aesthetic that is symbolic of the coldness of the ice and the sharpness of lemons used in the lemonade making.
Tray The walnut tray provided with the set can be used for storage, serving and also preparation; with the back of the tray able to be used as a chopping board.
Narrative plaque The plaque that is embedded into the front of the tray simply says “For when life gives you lemons” – telling the story of the project and acting as a reminder of the set’s purpose.
RESEARCH
Provision of a jug and at least 2
Light coloured ceramic or glaze is
Use of texture in ceramics adds grip
drinking vessels is essential.
popular in cups for clarity.
and also aesthetic value.
DEVELOPMENT SKETCHES
SET DETAILS
x1
x2
x1
White ceramic jug
White ceramic cups
White ceramic honey pot
x1
x1
x1
Walnut honey dripper
Walnut lemon juicer
Walnut tray
The size of each of the components of the lemonade set has been carefully developed to function effectively, considering appropriate ergonomics and anthropometrics, while also being a small enough size to easily store, move and use. The ceramic components have been strategically designed to allow it to all be made out of one mould, ensuring all of the dimensions are consistent throughout the products. The tray has taken anthropometrics into account in the design of the size and the chamfer to allow maximum functionality while maintaining a subtle aesthetic.
SLOUCH
PROJECT BRIEF: To design seating solutions for reception areas. This could be anything from a modular seating system to a break-out area within a workspace, or a more private study booth within an open-plan office etc. Exploring the notion of how this seating is used in different sectors and scenarios is key. Through thorough research of the Morgan brand, clientele and Morgan’s competitors, develop and design a solution to reception seating
Customisable
Ergonomic
Contract durable
Slouch is a collection of contract furniture comprised of a single seat, a double seat, a single perch and double perch. It designed to be used in office breakout spaces for people to relax on for a short period of time, maybe after a stressful morning or just to get away from the desk. Unlike generic office furniture, Slouch uses a combination of organic curves and angled geometry to create an interacting set of comfortable furniture. The back of the Slouch collection seats are angled to give the impression that the sofa almost fell into that position; creating a comfortable and casual aesthetic as well as considering different anthropometrics.
DETAILING: Legs Tapered ash legs support the seats and give them lift off the floor, making them more stable and easier to get out of. They are attached directly to the inner plywood frame for strength.
Geometric shaping The geometric shaping of the Slouch allows the pieces to sit together, give a variety of different configurations, complement the organic side profile and give the set a casual, relaxed feel.
Slanted backs The slanted backs of the single seat and double seat are the key to giving the Slouch a relaxed feel, as if the seats fell into place. It also makes the chairs comfortable for people of different heights.
RESEARCH
Using 90 degree tesselation is very
There is a need for single and double
All very structured and formal in feeling
common - branch out
seats for variation
and layout - be more fun
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
INITIAL DESIGN
DEVELOPMENT 1
DEVELOPMENT 2
FINAL DESIGN
Looks out of proportion and
Looks more in proportion than
Interesting, different design with
A more three dimensional design
very low to the ground
the initial idea
necessary detail
with an interesting narrative
Blatant trip hazard - need
Less of a trip hazard but
Very one dimensional and an
Would be viable to manufacture
to find another way of adding
the support seems unnecessary
upholstery nightmare
and use in a space
interesting detail
MANUFACTURING DETAILS 2” CMHR foam kvadrat upholstery plywood cross-braces
2” chip foam seat
plywood side panels plywood seat panel
EXAMPLE CONFIGURATIONS The sizes of the Slouch collection have been carefully developed to function effectively, considering appro priate ergonomics and anthropometrics as well as how the pieces will work as a group. The seat height has been strategically designed to be low enough to feel relaxed linear configuration including office tables
and casual, but not too low that it is difficult to get out of. The back height has taken
Meeting / group seating
anthropometrics into consideration to ensure there
surrounding table
is adequate back support while also being at a height to support people leaning against them. Private seating centred around office plants
THE GYM DONKEY
PROJECT BRIEF: To design and manufacture a high quality prototype a specific furniture typology that is typified by the Isokon Donkey range – portable, free standing storage. The design must be able to be produced using CNC router technology. Investigate other contemporary uses for this unique storage type as well as the current domestic landscape.
Multifunctional
Portable
Family-friendly
The gym donkey is multi-functional, versatile piece of furniture to fit in with the Isokon Donkey range. Its small but sturdy stature means it can be used in a variety of settings, and makes the home fitness trend more achievable. Its simple form and features mean it can be used not only as a gym donkey, but as a general storage piece of furniture. Unlike typical storage furniture, the Donkey family have been designed to be friendly and helpful additions to the household areas without taking up much room. With houses becoming ever smaller, an efficient use of space is one of the most important features of the Gym Donkey. With a gentle, rounded shell and a low centre of gravity, the Donkey is a stable and sturdy piece of furniture capable of holding many household objects, reducing clutter and maximising space available – important for small-space and minimalistic lifestyles that many people lead.
DETAILING: Laminate Shell The laminate shell has been shaped with a soft radius and filleted edges to give the design softness. The straight edges of the laminate exterior contrast this and coordinate with the inner shelving.
Shelving The shelving has been manufactured with 9mm birch-faced plywood for strength and durability. Domino joints allow the design to hold heavy gym equipment and other household items.
Rope The rope shelf has been brought to the design to add texture and softness that coordinate with that of the laminate shell. It allows storage of many items and lends itself to having items hung over it.
RESEARCH
Laminate plywood often used by Isokon
Painted MDF and coloured laminates
Many Isokon pieces juxtapose soft, organic
in Donkeys and other ventures
are the 2 ways to add colour
laminates with sharp, straight shelves
CONCEPT SKETCHES
MANUFACTURING DETAILS jute rope shelf
coloured laminate finish
laminated plywood shell
The Gym Donkey has been carefully designed and developed, considering the important Isokon philosophies as well as relevant ergonomics and anthropometrics to create a truly functional 4th Donkey. The manufacturing processes and finishes have been chosen in order to maintain the important family resemblance of the 3 previous Donkeys.
THE PLANTABLE Co.
PROJECT BRIEF: Design and prototype a product that aims to reduce air pollution in indoor environments. The product should be heavily based on PDP: Part A (the research section) and take the findings of this into account. Areas for further research should include, but are not limited to phytoremediation (the use of plants to clean the environment) and technological solutions.
Customisable
Ergonomic
Branded business solution
The Plantable Co. is a business concept that manufactures Plantables. The Plantables are designed to combat indoor air pollution through the process of phytoremediation. They use a combination of cushion moss, English ivy and gravel (instead of soil) to provide the plants needed to filter the air. Unlike generic furniture design, The Plantable Co. gives customers the opportunity to design their own furniture from set components. There are three sizes, a side table, a coffee table and a dining table, with three different shapes and leg types available. The range incorporates different styles in order to suit as many people as possible, and combat air pollution more effectively.
DETAILING: Glass top A solid glass top to all of the tables provides them with a usable surface area, enhancing functionality, and also gives a high perceived value, due to the use of high-quality materials.
Plants and moss The use of cushion moss and English ivy gives the Plantables their phytoremedial properties. They take little care, only needed watering or misting once a week, and will root in gravel instead of soil.
Ash timber Solid ash timber is one of the options available for the framework and legs of the Plantables, should the customer choose it. It gives a high perceived value and durability to the product.
CONCEPT SKETCHES
PRODUCT DIMENSIONS 1800
500
The sizes of the Plantables are variable. There is a dining table
1500
option, a side table, and a lower coffee table. Anthropometrics and
1500
1200
ergonomics have been carefully considered throughout the sizes of all of the products and the choice that the customer has in size allows them to be fitted into a variety of households. The heights have taken seating anthropometrics into consideration while ensuring there is appropriate surface area for the
350
650
50
6
tables to function.
50
30
BRANDING DEVELOPMENT THE
PLA NT A B
LE CO
INITIAL IDEA
DEVELOPMENT 1
FINALISED IDEA
Solid foundation that represents
The green added brightens up
Addition of the name shows what
the product and the process.
the logo and has connotations
the product and business is about.
with environmental benefit. Clear and simple font choice emphasises
Needs colour and the name or details of the business included
Needs the inclusion of a name or something more as it is still too simple.
the imagery, which is the focus of a logo.
BRANDING RESOURCES THE A
PLA N
TA
B
THE PLAN T
LE
B
CO
million 1.5
CO
LE
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION air pollution p e n et r a t e s lungs deeply and causes
premature deaths per year
serious
severe
health problems
food crops
m i l l i o n 7
im p a c t o n
1 2
natural h u m a n
50-90% cooking, cleaning, smoking, printing, photocopying, furnishing, combustion.
1. Choose your size
2. Choose your shape
4. Place your order
3. Choose your plant combination
5. Wait for your delivery
6. Enjoy your table from The Plantable Co.
d e a t h s i n 2 012 a l o n e
2 sources:
home sources:
HOW TO GET YOUR PLANTABLE
o
of Florida’s coral reefs have died
of time people spend in their own home
n
e
is
able
to
store
w ill ow
a r o u n d
t r e
3
e
8 k
g
of pollutants
LAUREN DYER Nottingham Trent University BA (Hons) Furniture & Product Design Email : laurend.design@outlook.com Mobile : 07973 857861 www.linkedin.com/in/laurenddesign www.instagram.com/laurend.design www.issuu.com/lddesign