DESIGN NAME: Nomadka
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Multifunctional bag
INSPIRATION: My aim was to design the ultimate bag for versatile, creative and adept people. A bag that would continuously adapt to all their needs, successfully combine ease of use, resilient material, protection from the unexpected and aesthetic perfection. And last but not least a bag you can easily transform from a bag to a backpack.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Nomadka is a multifunctional bag that successfully combines usefulness with durable material, protection from unexpected and aesthetic completeness. You can carry it like a bag or a backpack completely independent from any weather or activity. Coated linen makes it light and comfortable but at the same time strong and water resistant. It is designed for active and spontaneous people who appreciate products able to adapt to their needs in any and all situations.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: When you pull straps on top of the bag, you can use it as a hand bag or a shoulder bag. You roll it down and pull straps in the back of the bag and you can use it as a backpack. Volume of the bag easily adapts to your needs. Outside pocket keeps everything at arm's reach, but deep enough to never fall out. Inside is a handy pocket for your keys, wallet and other smaller valuables.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: First prototype was made in late 2012 for a local design exhibition. The initial response was great, so we moved on to further product development and market research which lasted one year. In 2014 finished product is available for retail.
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: I emphasized the use of natural materials: linen for the body and strong cotton for straps. Special coating provides water and dirt resistance and makes the bag durable. I intentionally used no metal or plastic parts as I wanted to keep the design clean. Each bag is hand made with embroidered logo and maintenance instructions. There are several color options.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Height: 60cm
Width: 43cm
Depth: 18cm
Handle range 10 – 30 cm
Package: 19cm x 22cm x 7cm
TAGS: multifunctional bag, durable, bag, backpack, sustainable, comfortable, water resistant, resilient, clean design
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: First step was to put the technical solution on paper. I did a thorough research over the internet for similar solutions but found none. Patent office confirmed originality and I patented the solution. My next problem was the size of the bag. Sustainable solutions are useful only if they can be applied to general public so I had to determine the universal bag size. I researched the average size of people and calculated right dimensions. I put theory to practice with an old jute potato sack that proved to be good platform for first prototype. Inspired by its texture and waterproof plastic coating I researched some other materials and found perfect solution-linen with water resistant coating. Coupled with strong cotton straps, my bag was ready for market research.
CHALLENGE: It was a challenge to design a product that could satisfy such a big variety of customer needs while still keeping clean design and timeless aesthetic. I tried to avoid any unnecessary clips and metal parts as I hoped to emphasize the importance of clean design. Far from simple yet a satisfying task.
ADDED DATE: 2014-08-19 05:53:05
TEAM MEMBERS (2) : Urska Petric designer and Mihael Dobnikar operations manager
IMAGE CREDITS: Main Image: Alja Herlah
Optional image 1: Alja Herlah
Optional image 2: Urska Petric
Optional image 3: W(isible) photography
Optional image 4: W(isible) photography
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