A multifunctional work & relax public structure inspired by the dynamic designs of the coral reef.
Duration: Fall 2019, 6 weeks
This project was done in partnership with the talented Christina Hwee
It started as a "flamingo" stool
We started this project by exploring how we can relieve pain in people who stand for prolonged times. Our original concept was the "flamingo stool" which explored if mimicking the one-leg-up flamingo stance relieved pain. It did not.
Exploring Form Factors
We then explored how various forms on walls and on the ground may help alleviate standing pain. We user tested these forms and found that they varied in degree of effect, but many users expressed their concern or embarrassment for engaging in the use of these forms in public.
Analogous Inspiration
At this point, we felt that we were stuck in a rut and needed some inspiration. So, we headed over to the local art museum, Baltimore Museum of Art, to explore abstract forms in space.
Our focus shifted to more sculptural forms and how we could build a space with forms that were more dynamic in nature. Christina is pictured here standing next to an outdoor sculpture.
Coral Relief
When we went to the museum gift shop, Christina found a book that talked about coral reefs. We were intrigued by the natural ebbs and flows of coral reefs and realized it was the perfect inspiration for making private dynamic spaces in a public setting. Coral Relief was born from this journey.
Prototyping
Designing it
Painted 3D printed parts and folded paper.
3D printing was something Christina and I were very new to. And after many failed attempts and jammed printers, we successfully designed and printed the various elements making up Coral Relief (although, I must admit that some elements were in fact taken from the lab’s disposal container of previous prints- hey, work smarter, not harder!).
Building it
At this point, we had all the 3D printed pieces laid out in front of us and we just needed to figure out how to arrange them. Christina and I started flipping elements and stacking them until we found an arrangement that we liked.
Half Moon Support Form
We incorporated some forms that we previously user tested in our model. This back support is called the half moon due to its shape.
Sand Mat and Triangle Knots
The sand mat offers users the opportunity for dynamic muscle movement in their feet and legs to relieve tension. The triangle knots are protruding triangular forms meant for users to lean their back against to help release tension in the back and shoulders.
Coral Relief is a conceptual structure that creates functional private and semi-permeable spaces in a public setting for use in spaces such as the future break room, shopping center, or airport.
