Hiatus investigates alternative modes of sensory modality to offer an interactive home lighting solution. Many current lighting solutions have a small window of interaction time between user and object. Hiatus prolongs this interaction, encouraging unorthodox ways in which light can be switched on, and altered to create an elevated atmosphere within the home environment.
The emotional durability of the final design was considered of high importance in the early stages of the design process to develop a concept that was valued beyond its monetary costs; one that had emotive capabilities to go beyond its function. Consequently, the research behind Hiatus began with ‘Slow design theory’ (a discourse which encourages reflective thinking within the design process). Product analysis was done to uncover how these principles could be applied to designs taken to mass production, to understand how theoretical perspectives could be expressed in the physicality and tacticality of the final design.
Hiatus final form has been based around the moment of engagement of returning home from work and hanging up ones belongings. This is symbolised with the modular disc being hung onto the conductive railing to trigger the light, on.
Hiatus is made up of two main components; the conductive wall mount and the modular disc. The concept of the wall mount was designed to create a sculptural aesthetic when the light is not in use, whilst considering a base where the modular disc system can be connected and removed as needed. By incorporating a modular system, the opportunity for later versions of the disc can be considered, creating more options for personalisation and alteration of the light quality as LED technology progresses. By forecasting the future of Hiatus, it creates a sense of longevity to the product, something that could be incorporated in homes for years to come, updating and changing with current trends and the evolving markets.
The modular disc component allows the homeowner to alter light through two main modes assisted by a potentiometer built into the circuit. These are connected to two separate LED tracks in the back of the central dial and outer ring creating the option of both a warm ambient backlight or a cooler task light. Within these two modes, many varied lighting effects can be achieved, suiting any household activity, and in addition, allowing Hiatus to grow with the day as daily tasks evolve and change.
The conductive railing acts as the ‘switch’, connecting to copper contacts located on the back of the modular disc. By sliding the disc left along the railing it increases the intensity of the light, sliding right decreases and turns off the light source. This aspect of the design was to allow the user to gain a more sensory rich experience when altering the light quality.
The visual language of Hiatus final silhouette is intended to mimic its namesake, with Hiatus meaning a break in a sequence, referring to a break in the day; a time to relax and unwind. This is visually shown through the wall mount’s shape, with a break on the right side where the disc travels to switch off, referencing a time to switch off after a long day.
