DESIGN NAME: Balanco
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Stackable Stools
INSPIRATION: With the persistence of the pandemic, staying at home has become a new norm. In most highly populated and dense cities, finding peace and mental wellness can be difficult. Inspired by the pebble towers, Balanco offers a way to find physical and inner balance, while learning to collaborate with others in the process of playing.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Balanco consists of a series of multifaceted blocks, offering unlimited possibilities to arrange, position, and stack. As it requires significant patience and calmness to balance the blocks, it serves as one of the practical yet fun solutions for friends and families to enjoy with one another. When it is not used as objects for play, it doubles as stools and tables for adults and children.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: Balanco functions as play objects, stools and tables. The varying sizes accommodate the ergonomics and heights from young children to adults.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project started in October 2020, and finished in December 2020. It was documented and exhibited as part of the HKTDC's programme in Hong Kong.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Furniture Design
|
PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: The lightweight and solid structure makes it suitable and safe for young children. The earth-tone felt finish aims to invite nature vibes into the house. It is soft and comfortable to touch.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Largest block- 600mm x 450mm x 350mm
Smallest block- 350mm x 350mm x 350mm
Felt finishing and foam-based structure.
TAGS: stool, table, toy, furniture, children, stacking, facets, play, kids, family
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: The design intent was to deliver a design with a strong concept, through aesthetic simplicity.
CHALLENGE: The challenge was to create a series of stackable furniture that is lightweight and safe for children even when the blocks topple over. At the same time, it is solid and strong for adults to sit and stand on them. This obstacle was overcomed as we experimented with various materials, details and manufacturing methods.
ADDED DATE: 2021-08-30 17:53:09
TEAM MEMBERS (1) : Lisa J. Lai and Joel Wong
IMAGE CREDITS: Lisa J. Lai, 2020
|