Concept:
Fabric offers many conceptual benefits in the sphere of furniture, such as saved weight, mobility, tactile experience, playful interactivity, machine washability, ready customizability, and the ability to flat-pack. We are exploring the creative potential of fabric with the intent of applying it in a new and interesting way to alter the user experience and perception of traditional furniture.
Result:
Poise is a reimagining of a nightstand. One can utilize the different surfaces for different applications. Rest a phone on the taught fabric surface for a secure, delicate, and noise dampening hold. Rest a bottle of water on the wooden plank for a stable and rigid hold. Finally, store books, medication, and items you wish you access from bed in the veiled inside compartment. The fabric is a special woven two-way stretch material that is machine washable, fire-retardant, and stain resistant.
Process:
First we explored the different ways in which hard and soft surfaces have been combined in the past. Using that research, combined with several rounds of iteration and abounding creative energy, we finalized the soft/hard material joints that we eventually pared down to three final designs. We selected the plank that was strewn across the top because of the clear connection and readability of what is hard/soft. I had the most fun exploring the University of Michigan Material Library for a fabric that met my two-way-stretch and tactile requirements. My next iteration will explore color - using a dark and textured fabric on the exterior with a bright interior. I also plan to play with the use of planks with different thicknesses.
User:
The intended audiences for Poise are employed post-college graduates establishing permanent (or semi-permanent) homes. They like contemporary styled furniture, but are not satisfied with the quality or the commonality of IKEA. They can afford to spend more than they would purchasing from IKEA, but are not willing to pay the premium for high-end retailers such as Design Within Reach.
