Tables...

3D Printing Test Run

The Sawtooth Building

Over the last couple of weeks, we have been asked to assist with putting together a number of different space plan options for the symposium CDI will be hosting in October. Along with drawing the plans in AutoCAD, we have made a number of site visits to view the space and have made returning trips to take overall dimensions. The event will be held at the Sawtooth Building, which is currently under renovation, in Winston Salem.

Changing shape...

Colored area represents the experimentation with the shape of the "sliders". Colorless area represents the unrevised shape.

Modeling...

Screen Captures...

Visualizations...

Abacus Inspiration...

Abacus Street Drain

This new, playful twist on a storm drain cover is a brilliant reintrepretation of the usually dull and disengaging storm drain cover. The unexpected pop of color in a biege oasis adds to the interest and draw exhibited by this object.

Abacus Bench

The Abacus bench is another piece that encourages interaction on the part of the user. By constantly needing to manipulate the object to accomodate size and comfort, an intimate relationship is formed between bench and user. A thought process is needed in this seemingly mundane movement of sliding the object, however the user is required to think about their size, seating position, and actions to take place while interacting with and enjoying this flexible object.

Abacus

The abacus is a counting instrument that has been around for centuries. Often used by young children and displayed as artifacts by collectors, the instrument is an incredibly engaging object when compared to its simplistic design. Simple slides engage the user physically, mentally, and emotionally. With the introducation of color and texture, the piece can become a work of art encouraging the user to create patterns and images.

Material Inspirations...Lucite anyone?...

Illusion of floating

To give this table top surface the element of defying gravity, the designer has used a Lucite base, which visually disappears.

Lucite Table

Inspiration Documentation...Lilly Pads...

Lilly Pads

Lilly Pads

Lilly Pads

Curves Ahead...

Putting it together...

These images start to help with visualizing how the elements of the space will go together. The colors of the table have changed from a solid green to a combination of warm colors. The structure of the table would possibly be a clear plastic such as Lucite or Plexiglass that could be heat bent during the construction process.

Inspiration...

Cezanne Large Bathers as inspiration

Through offering a multitude of table heights without overwhelming the space with too many tables, too few tables, or too complicated to adjust tables, the breakout area can accomodate the surface needs of loungers, recliners, belly-layers, up-rights, and by-standers without requiring a large move from their choosen seating position.

Presenting...

Out of Our Minds...

The photographs below were taken of Out of Our Minds Studio in Downtown Winston-Salem. Out of Our Minds Studio is a professional production company with professionals who have expertise in areas such as modeling, programming, animation, etc. We visited the company to see their space, particularly the library area. The photographs offer points of inspiration particularly with the storage but also with the table and seating design.

The lighting in particular is a memorable element of the space. Spot lights are used to highlight both the shelves and artifacts stored in this area.

The complimentary colors (yellow and violet) intensify the space, while adding a playful elements.

The built-in nature of the shelfing makes it feel unified with the space as though it was always meant to be there. By encompassing a variety of heights, the shelving allows are a number of storage options.

Other areas around the office continue to exhibit the playful colors. The bright red seating area allows for an informal meeting space and also adapts to provide additional seating around the office when needed.

Design Status...

Floating table

Abacus table

The abacus table would utilize a combination of materials including plywood (blocks), rectangular steel tubing (slides/supports), and circular steel tubing for frame. Tubular steel will be welded.

The floating table would also utilize a combination of materials including plywood (table tops and bases), and solid steel rod for leg supports. Hardware will have to be identified that will allow pieces to move.

Abalillie Table