Design a domestic product and create a brand with clear visual language, aims and objectives.
Lack of Nature
There are concerns that as more of the population move into urban areas, we are becoming disconnected with nature and this could be affecting our well-being (Keniger, L E, 2013). Urban planner and sustainability professional Jonce Walker explains how people are going out less to experience nature in places such as national parks. He believes nature can help relieve stress in the city due to humans ‘innate biological connection with nature’ which is usually referred to as biophilia (Terrapin Bright Green, 2015).
Stress of City Life
Studies show city residents have a substantially increased risk of anxiety (by 21%) and mood disorders (by 39%) (Peen, J, 2010). This could be down to many factors such as job intensity, pollution, toxins, crowding and noise (Lederbogen, F. et al., 2011).
Moss and birch garden in the NY Times Building by Renzo Piano
Kunsthofpassage Funnel Wall in Germany Metal funnels collect rain and turn in into music
Brand aesthetics
In order to establish a strong brand, products need to be easily identifiable under the same brand. Therefore, I decided to have one material that would be consistent throughout the brand. As part of the brands materials research, I acquired a sample piece of red cedar online so that I could test the finishing process Shou Sugi Ban.
Shou Sugi Ban
Market Research
Here is a collection of ideas which I feel represent the brand and my specific product direction.
Development
Prototype
Timber Yard
I visited the local timber yard to pick out a piece of Cedar of Lebanon. The scent of this wood will add to the natural ambience of the product, as well as being suitable for shou sugi ban.
Making
