Concept Inspiration

MARO STUDIOS James Turrell

James Turrell is an American artist known for his works within the Light and Space movement. His light installations deppicted here from his exhibition at Pace Gallery from February 11 - August 14, 2020 inspired the circular light motif in the Kota logo design. Continuing this circlular form throughout the design unifies the office space and conveys the ideology of technology used for creativity which the Kota brand represents. The use of accent neon LED lighting will be integrated into the design, drawing upon the lighting within the existing Kota brand signature which will be offset by the muted colours and grey neutrals utilised in the colour palette.

Photography by Griffiths, D (2020)

‘‘Blade Runner 2049” (2017) + ‘‘Blade Runner ” (1982)

The Blade Runner films informed the designs understanding of a technological dystopia, the opposite concept of the design in which a utopia is achieved through technology. By examining the cultural repsentation of technological advancement through the lens of film media, a greater understanding of the societal fear of science and technology dystopia was formed. Close analysis of what the utopia is not helped to ascertain what it would mean. Aesthetically, the industrial futuristic material choices of metals, concrete and lighting will be implemented within the space but fashioned within the framework of a utopian society. In this way, the concept of a futuristic utopian society was represented.

Species 2 by Fredrikson Stallard (2015)

Species 2 is a sculpture piece made from polyurethane, glass fibre and polyester by Brittish avant garde artists Patrik Fredrikson and Ian Stallard for Momentum exhibition during London Design Festival 2015. Species is a study on evolution through furniture design which looks at the conflicting thoughts of human comfort and the use of inviting natural materials. The stone like materiality was used as inspiration for the organic earth and rocky structure for reception. The deep red wine colour which symbolises both life and death is incorporated into the colour palette with its complimentary green and toned down light pink. In this way, this sculpture was used to convey our connection to the land and the earth by grounding the design within the physical roots of nature.

“Neo-Utopian Sublime” by Lizza Littlewort (2014)

This artwork by Lizza Littlewort encapsulated the ideology of a technologcal utopia and the positive relationships between technology, nature and human. Lizza’s background in history, fine arts and architecture can be seen in her work. The bright colours and randomness of nature as it surrounds a curved futuristic building form relates to how technology and the earth can coexist and thrive under advancements. The human astronaut suggests an otherworldly view of the narrative, that it in fact depicts another planet. This wonder and awe of new discoveries reflects the human instict to create, experiment and design. Ultimately this artwork was used as inspiration for the designs atmosphere, narrative and ethos; the integration of technology, nature and human which aligns with Kota’s brand identity.