STARTING LINE

Design is problem-solving, and when solving a problem, first you must deconstruct them. Is the problem an identifiable issue, or the byproduct of bigger undiscovered elements? Step back… Once the entire landscape is visible, start asking meaningful questions that lead to the heart of the problem.

The answers come from the stakeholders and form criteria to give the project a backbone. This is the point of reference for all major decisions along the project.

Furniture design requires problem-solving as well, for it is a visual riddle made up of composition, material, and ergonomic ideals that must coexist in one cohesive piece.

Idea augmentation

The good, the bad, the pretty, and the ugly. The merit of all ideas and how they solve key issues must be explored and laid out visually. Once there are no more ideas, seek engaging conversations about the project and get back to the drawing board. Exchanging ideas in a team setting can act as a catalyst for neat concepts to take shape and become crucial elements of the project.

At this point the best concepts are evaluated, and after favorites are picked, aesthetic factors get refined and functional integrity like ergonomics are explored.

prove & appraise

Certain features of a product need focused attention. These are the features that hold the most weight by solving key problems, or they give the product integrity relevant to the initial criteria.

Quick and efficient prototypes prove out or shine light on faults within the design. Lessons are noted and implemented on future revisions. Incremental refinements and compromises will shape the final product into what should be an agreement between design, engineering, and marketing objectives.

material exploration

Color, finish, textures, and patterns now have their chance to shine. These properties have a purpose nonetheless, and that is to relate to the values of the stakeholders and perform accordingly under use. Aesthetically, if the geometry and composition of the design are good, the materials will give it the last needed push to make it a great piece.

My personal approach revolves around honesty and quality. I let the individual qualities of the materials mingle and complement each other in a balanced manner, sharp contrast is appreciated however.