IDEA GENERATION

SOCIAL CONFIGURATION

Configuration as defined by the Oxford Dictionary (Oxford University Press 2017) is said to be “An arrangement of parts or elements in a particular form, figure or combination.” Likewise, the term social is defined as “relating to society or its organisations.” (Oxford University Press 2017). When combined together, these two terms express a large part of my concept and that is the idea that a design such as outdoor furniture seating can ultimately become the ‘social configuration’. This is not only achieved through the obvious – that a seat such as the one I have designed, demands users to break through the barrier of uncertainty and build a social connection with someone they might not know, or someone that they already know. But also, that the abstract and contemporary form and function of my design is a further encouragement to building these unpredictable connections in a way that is unique and unconsciously known by the user. It can also be argued that the action through which the user choices to connect with the seat is an involuntary action towards various paths of connections. As seen below in figure 1, if one were to sit up straight with their back towards the remainder of the seat, this type of action could be perceived as the user not wanting any form of an inter-personal connection. Whereas, in figure 2, if one were to face the other way in a more relaxed posture, their actions could be perceived by others as open and inviting towards a meaningful relationship.

Figure 1, Rigid Posture I photo by Ashleigh Schaafsma-Fullick 2017

Figure 2, Relaxed Posture I photo by Ashleigh Schaafsma-Fullick 2017

Primary colours:

The idea of incorporating colour into my final design came as a continuation from my last project where the confliction of black and white with other colours played a large role in exploring the social aspects of relationships and connection. My choice for using the primary colours of red, blue and yellow came as a partial inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, my research into the Memphis group, and the idea that when combined together these colours interact to create new colours, or in this case, new connections.

Furthermore, Bauhaus furniture designs are targeted at function over form. This makes the furniture that they manufacture, more socially dynamic and inviting to users needs and wants. Likewise, my final rendering is a small reflection of these aspects that Bauhaus design for as seen through my numerous design elements, and the simple, yet sophisticated balance of form and function throughout.