Welcome to the Aesthetics of Design Website. This site displays student work in the Aesthetics of Design class at CU Boulder. This site serves as an archive for current and past student projects, and for current students to develop their portfolio and documenting skills. It is also an Open Educational Resource, for anybody interested in how to make these projects, and for educators who might like to teach a course like this: all lecture notes and videos are available, as well as syllabus, schedule assignments etc..
This year’s ninth post, where students present top 5 specifications and top 5 contraints.
Hitbox Specifications and Constraints
As this is a type of project I have never done before, I have several specifications and constraints that I would like. As I am making a type of custom controller (a hitbox), I want it to be designed for my preferences and what I want in a controller. Specifications: Sized to my hand: I…
Wants and Constraints
For my car camping buildout project to be a success, I want it to achieve five key objectives: functionality as a bed, functionality as storage, retractability, an inexpensive design, and for the stain I use to match my aesthetic. 1.) This build-out is supposed to be able to be used as a bed so that a…
Water Filter – Specifications and Constraints
My goal for this project is to create a functional and inviting water filter for me and my housemates to filter municipal tap water before consumption. In order to meet this goal, I would like my water filter to meet the following 5 specifications: Easy to dispense water from: Generally, the device should be intuitive…
Modern Accent Table: Specifications and Constraints
Progress Updates The project has been going very well so far, and Spring break gave me a great opportunity to make significant progress on fabrication. I was able to cut all the plywood pieces needed for the build, and I’ve already sanded most of them to ensure a smooth surface for staining later on. One…
Designing an Origami-Inspired Floor Chair: Goals and Constraints
Project Objectives Flat FoldabilityFlat Foldable Pattern [1] The chair must collapse completely flat for efficient storage in my compact studio space. This transformability is essential for maximizing functionality in small living environments, allowing the piece to be neatly tucked away when not in use. Minimalist Aesthetic The design will embrace simplicity, emphasizing clean lines and…
Cylinder Lamp – Specifications and Constraints
Progress Progress is going well. Although I did not get much work done over Spring break, I have made some progress over the last few days. Below are some sketches that show some of the design features of the lamp. Sketch Sketch Footprint Physical Prototype I have constructed a proof of concept prototype.…
Light AMG GT RC Car – Specs & Constraints
Since the last post, I have made a lot of progress towards the fabrication of the light AMG GT RC Car. I have the main body complete, along with the chassis. I am currently working on the electronics and modeling the custom styling options for the body. AMG GT basic body and chassis completed, ready…
Post 9: Top 5 specifications, top 5 constrain
The top five things I want my project to do are: I want my bookends to actually be able to hold up heavy books and be functional on my bookshelf. I want this to happen without having to use it in unison with my current bookends. I want this project to fit on my bookshelf…
Top 5 specifications, top 5 constraints
My project is an entry table that blends mid-century modern design with a modern twist, featuring rounded corners, kerf-cut edges, and inset shelving. Built from layered plywood with leather and rod accents, the piece is designed to evolve visually through the objects placed on it. Fabrication will take place in the BTU Lab/woodshop using materials…
Rustic Catan Specifications and Constraints
As I continue my design for my rustic Catan board game, a lot of specifications come to mind in terms of look and feel. Here’s a list of my top five goals/specifications for this project, in order of priority: Functionality of the Game: While the look of the board matters a ton, the most important…
Post 9: Constraints and Specifications for my Dress GMT Watch
The process in designing and building my own watch has been complicated, but is progressing. All of the necessary materials and components have been ordered and will arrive within the week. I’m not stressed for time since all I will have to do is paint and assemble, so as long as the parts arrive when…
5 Specifications and 5 Constraints 3D Printed Strandbeast
Top 5 Wants: To characterize this project as a success, I want it to achieve these five aspects: a non-plastic appearance, a color scheme that reflects steampunk aesthetics, the ability to walk in place, an alternative power source beyond just wind, and a design that stays true to the original form of a Strandbeest. 1.) I…
Clapperboard Project: Goals and Constraints
As I get deeper into the build process for my vintage-inspired clapperboard, I’ve been thinking a lot about what success looks like for this project—not just in terms of function, but in capturing the specific aesthetic and emotional tone I’m aiming for. Here are the five most important goals I’ve set for this project, in…
Rustic Cottagecore End Table Specs and Constraints
For my main project I will be making a C-shape end table for my couch with a folding leaf extension. I am going for a rustic cottage core aesthetic for this table that will feature exposed wood, warm colors, and painted flower detailing. inspiration (Pottery Barn Allen Rectangular Extending C-Table) rustic cottagecore aesthetic (The Women…
Clock Design Specification and Constraints
A quick overview of my project – I am making an art nouveau inspired clock based around the philosophies of natural systems and organic forms/structures. The primary design is shown below: In this post, I will be discussing the top 5 specifications and top 5 constraints of this project. Specifications: 1. Concept Depiction – Time…
Can Crushing Robot Head: Specifications and Constraints
As I move forward with creating my retro-futuristic robot head, I have a clear vision of what I want the project to achieve, both functionally and aesthetically. The goals I’ve set will guide the process and give me a benchmark to measure success. Goals: Aesthetic Consistency: The robot head must embody the spirit of retro-futurism,…
Vintage Sports Framed Picture Goals/Constraints
5 Goals for My Project While I am trying to complete my project for a vintage sports framed picture, I have a clear vision of what I want it to look like, feel like, and do. The five aspects, or goals, that I want to achieve to determine if the project is successful are outlined…
Specifications and Constraints: Rust Aesthetic Final Project
Specifications and Constraints The goal of my project is to produce an artifact inspired by yard art and the jagged, rusted aesthetic like the “Diesel Punk” like what can be found in the Mad Max movies. Counterintuitively, I plan to cast this aesthetic onto a sort of jagged tree which will serve as a bird…
Pocket Watch Conversion: Priorities and Challenges
As my main project for this class, I’m working on converting a 1907 Waltham Grade 165 pocket watch movement into a functioning wristwatch. The process has been challenging but rewarding, and at this point, I’ve been thinking more critically about what exactly I want this final piece to look like, feel like, and do, and…
Top 5 Specifications and Constraints for my Eye of Agamotto Project
Top 5 Specifications Mystical Aesthetic with Intricate DetailsThe Eye of Agamotto must have an ancient, arcane look that aligns with its depiction in Doctor Strange. To achieve this, I will focus on detailed engravings, layered textures, and a metallic finish. The outer casing should appear weathered, as if it has been passed down through generations…
Space Exploration Keyboard – Specifications and Constraints
Lets explore the innovative technique of hydro-dipping, a unique way to add stunning designs to your mechanical keyboard. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast, a creative professional, or simply someone who loves unique gadgets, hydro-dipped keyboards offer an exciting way to express your individuality while ensuring all the functionality and durability you need. Let’s dive into…
Specifications & Constraints of Chocolate Packaging
Top 5 Things I Want the Chocolate Packaging to Look Like, Feel Like, and Do When it comes to designing chocolate packaging, I want to create something that goes far beyond just wrapping a bar. I want it to tell a story, to feel meaningful, to stand out and most importantly, to feel worth…
CyberCrystal Vest: Priorities and Constraints
As the CyberCrystal Vest project moves into its final stages, I’ve been reflecting on the core goals I want to achieve and the constraints I need to overcome. This piece isn’t just a wearable tech project—it’s a personal expression of style, motion, and immersion. Here are the top 5 things I want the vest to…
Scandinavian Modern TV Console – Specs/Constraints
The top specifications that I want my project to have are the following: I would like the project to achieve an aesthetic somewhat adjacent to Scandinavian modern. Because this is hard to define, I would like to separate this into two more specific goals: a. The concrete…
Top 5 Specifications, Top 5 Constraints
Now that I am a few weeks into the project I am excited to talk about some of the specifications and constraints I have identified in the project. Specifications: Mid century modern aesthetic, I want the project to be distinguishable in its aesthetic Functionality – I want the nightstand to have the overall form to…
Specs and Constraints for Dynamic Bed Frame
Featured photo: telescoping inspiration from Camping World For my dynamic shuttle bus bed frame, there are several things I have in mind that will make it a successful project, both aesthetically and functionally. Additionally, there are a lot of constraints that I will need to work around to ensure that this project meets these requirements.…
Post 9 – Constraints and Specs – Portable AC Unit
My cooler has undergone great progress over my spring break, and it is fully functional yet has room for me to improve its function as well as further explore it’s aesthetical approach. Starting with constraints, there are a few things that I am constrained with. Lets list them first: Aesthetic Approach Insulation / large…
Medieval Fortress: Top 5 Specifications and Constraints
For this project, there end product is relatively straight-forward in my mind, with little room for it to come out wrong or poorly constructed, given its nature as a mainly 3D printed piece. As a reminder, my project is taking inspiration from images like the featured image from AVA Bitter (1), or the below image…
Doodlecore Embroidery Skirts: Specifications & Constraints
For my main project, I’m sewing a skirt and embroidering a doodlecore, water-inspired design onto it. If I have time, I’ll finish a second skirt that’s inspired by lantern festivals. Top 5 Specifications: The skirt fits and is wearable/washable. The skirt twirls/flows nicely. The sewing looks nice (and mostly clean). There aren’t any big problems…
Vertical PC Dock: Specs and Constraints
For my final project, I’m designing a rustic minimalistic vertical PC dock that can securely hold two devices simultaneously. The goal is to create something that looks clean and natural, fits a modern desk setup, and blends aesthetic design with practical function. Figure 1: Final wood cut to thickness before machining Top 5 Specifications: Aesthetic…
Glass Block Lamp: Top 5 Specifications and Constraints
For my main project, I plan to make a mid-century modern furniture inspired floor lamp. I will glass blocks and diffused LED strips as the primary lighting element, and the frame will be manufactured using finished wood. The overall height of the lamp will be ~3.5 feet tall, and be powered by a wall plug.…
Specifications and Constraints for the Toy Piano
Before I even started this project, I knew I would run into issues and unanticipated roadblocks, so I feel okay admitting that there are some things my project will not accomplish. However, there are still some things I am determined to make work. Here are my top five specifications and top five constraints for my…
Goals and Constraints: Bamboo Lamp
For my project I am making a lamp that’s body is made of bamboo. The base will be made out of wood but the body that holds the lightbulb, lampshade, and wiring will be made of bamboo. I bought bamboo and did not do too much planning before ordering and buying my materials and it…
Specifications and Constraints of Making your own 90’s Street Style Snowboarding Pants
An Introduction When making your own pants, and with any project, it is important to consider the specifications and constraints of your design. In regard to sewing snowboarding pants, there are many aspects that will allow in my pants fitting well and being successful along with many aspects that may contribute to my downfall. 5…
Post 9-Top 5 specification/constraints rustic farm style fountain
Top 5 Specifications 1: Must look rustic. Maybe like it was designed in the early 20th century. 2: Must appear to be a heavily used piece of equipment. I could do this by adding dents to the exposed pipes. 3: Must have a working pump to generate the flowing water as my moving aspect. 4:…
Race Car Uprights Top 5 Specifications and Top 5 Constraints
For my design project, I decided to build a set of front suspension uprights for my 1965 Ford Mustang race car. The suspension uprights are an assembly that interfaces the wheel hubs, brakes, and control arms to allow the load transfer from the wheels to the suspension of the vehicle. For this project, I decided…
Artistic Vinyl Speaker: Specifications and Constraints
See my design preview post and project introduction post for further details about my project design and timeline… [2] Casa Batlló Exterior …
5 Specifications and Constraints of Final Project
I am really excited about my final project. It will show off some of my favorite things, Formula 1 and Legos. I have four large sized sets that have a rough dimensions of 25 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 5 inches tall. The four I have are for McLaren, Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull.…
Magnetic Shoe Display: Specs and Constraints
When designing and building my shoe display, there were a few things that I wanted it to have that helped dictate my design and material selection. 1. Cohesive One of my primary goals for the shoe display was to maintain a cohesive, seamless visual presence — as if carved from a single, uninterrupted wood block.…
Magic Crystal Bedside Lamp
For my project, I want to make a bedside lamp that both acts as a nightlight, and a portable flashlight device for walking around in the dark. Aesthetically I would like it to look like a large crystal, and functionally I would like it to feel magical. Organizing this into a more specific set of…
Top 5 for building a coffee table
What are the top 5 things you want your project to look like, to feel like, to do? 1. Clean and SimpleI’m going for that modern aesthetic. This means I will have smooth surfaces, clean joinery, no extra stuff (patterns, designs, tapering) 2. Actually FunctionalIt has to work as a coffee table. It can’t be…
Top 5 for Microphone Boom Arm
As a reminder of what I happen to be doing for my main project, I happen to be making a minimal aesthetic low profile microphone boom arm that is meant to be mounted to my table. I will be making model of it in SOLIDWORKS and then print a working model in the ITLL using…
Hidden Compartment Constraints and Goals
I want my project to blend into its surroundings, appearing as just an art piece rather than a functional object. The physical look of the hobbit door design should be detailed yet minimalist, ensuring it remains visually appealing while not drawing unnecessary attention. Beyond its appearance, the feel and experience of interacting with the compartment…
Space Cowboy Lamp – Top 5 specifications, top 5 constraints
The Space Cowboy lamp is shaping up well. I am still in the prototyping / design phase, but have a clearer idea of how it is likely going to end up looking. I believe the illustration below is most likely what it will look like in its final construction. Space cowboy lamp final sketch …
Mountain Shelf: Specs and Constraints
For my main project, I will be creating a mountain shelf with a drawer. After my initial design stage, I have come up with my top 5 specifications and top 5 constraints that I will go over below. Top 5 Specifications Achieves the Rustic Modern Aesthetic Figure 1: Previous mountain shelf I made with the…
Goals and Constrains: Optical Illusion Cutting Board
Goals 1. To look like the plans that I have I got plans for this project from the original creator MTMwood on youtube. It was 9$ and comes with a full pdf of instructions and a sketchup model of the board. I ended up modifying the model to 3 different types of wood instead of…
Indoor-Outdoor Quilt Top 5
I’m making a multifunctional quilt that can be used indoors as a comfy blanket, or outdoors as a picnic blanket. This quilt will have detachable components that help it transition from indoors to outdoors. My previous posts on this design describe my desired aesthetic and project plans. …
Moon Diorama: Specifications and Constraints
Going into this project, I knew that there would be quite a few specifications that I would need to follow in order to achieve the Lunarpunk aesthetic that I am going for, as well as still allow the project to be functional. In order to make sure I achieve these goals, I have listed 5…
5 Specifications, 5 Constraints
For my project, I am working on making a stained glass terrarium. I am going to corporate the following elements, wood, glass, hinges, and glass paint. Top 5 Specifications I want my terrarium’s aesthetic to take first priority. I think the look of it is what I want to focus on is most most valuable…
Matcha Stand Specifications & Constraints
My project is a Matcha Stand that I am making out of wood. I’ve been thinking a lot about what success looks like for me, and how I am going to get there. One of the most important things I want is for the design to feel intentional. I want each object on the stand…
RailGlow: Specs and Constraints
Specifications: As I move closer to completing RailGlow, I’ve started thinking more about what success really looks like for this project. At its core, this lamp is meant to solve a problem in our kitchen where the lighting over the stove is poor. But beyond that, I want it to feel like something that was…
Fountain Planter – Specifications and Constraints
For my project I feel that most of my specifications fall into the functional category, as well as my restraints. Below are the specifications I hope to hit to ensure my project is both functional and fitting of my aesthetic, as well as some constraints that have informed or will continue to inform my design…
Gyroscopic Watch Winder Specifications and Constraints
The main focus of my project is functionality. So, the top 5 specifications are based on how practical it is. The first specification is the ability to spin and wind the watch. My project aims to wind my automatic watch so it does not run out of power while I wear it. If it does…
Specifications and Constraints
For my final project, I am making a spice spinner for my mom inspired by traditional Mexican ceramics and pottery. I want to create something that is both beautiful and functional, incorporating handcrafted details that reflect my aesthetic. I want my project to look cozy, traditional, and handmade. This project is for my mom, and…
Top 5’s
The top five things I want my project to look like, feel like, and do are centered around its appearance, functionality, and how well it integrates into my space. First, the bookshelf needs to fit well dimensionally since it will be placed in the corner of my room. Right now, my books are stacked…
Longboard Constraints and Considerations
When envisioning my custom longboard cruiser project, there are five key qualities that I’m prioritizing to ensure success. Firstly, I aim for the finished deck to mirror the professional appearance of store-bought products, with uniform edges and impeccable finishing details. Secondly, durability is crucial; I need the deck to withstand common wear like razor tail…
Post 9 – Top 5
The top 5 things that I want my project to look like are natural, professional, clean, seamless, as well as handcrafted. The natural look will come from the wood itself and the finish will look professionally done. The finish will include the river in the middle which will be a metallic charcoal grey as well…
Vinyl Lamp: Specifications and Constraints
My main project will consist of making a retro futuristic tableside lamp by upcycling old vinyl records. I have a record player and vinyl collection in my living room in a dark corner and I want to bring some light to the corner in a way that would blend into my collection. I will be…
Project Priorities & Challenges:a modern twist to Rajasthani mirror work!
For my final project, I’m diving headfirst into a modern take on traditional Rajasthani mirror work. It’s not just about the glam…this piece is rooted in nostalgia, creativity, and the chaos of learning a new skill under pressure. Below are the five things I’m aiming for, and the five things that might make me cry…
Specifications and Complications: Slice of Nature
For my main project, I will be creating a planted terrarium with a self-sustaining ecosystem intended for two chameleon geckos (Eurydactylodes Agricolae). These terrariums, called bioactive terrariums, at their foundation consist of a substrate mix, live plants, insects such as springtails and isopods, and the inhabitant of the terrarium. The insects, colloquially known as the…
5 Specifications and constraints for a Jewelry Box
I plan on making a jewelry box in the shape of a Galician Horreo. Galicia is a region in the northwest of Spain where they speak there own language, and live in a really humid, wet climate, closer to say Scotland than Andalusia. Figure 1: Galician Horreo I will take this overall shape and try…
Organic Minimalist Puzzle Holder – Specs & Constraints
Specifications: What are the top 5 things you want your project to look like, to feel like, to do?? I want my project to successfully give off organic minimalism vibes (simple, neat, elegant, etc.). Hopefully people can look at it and recognize the aesthetic I am aiming for without me having to specify it. I…
Specs and Constraints of the Wöddha Board
My ideation and fabrication of the Wöddha Board is underway, beginning with an early prototype to answer some questions around form and function. Using cardboard, tape, pipe cleaners, and some makeshift buttons, I was able to design a small-scale version of my box and begin “interacting” with it: This process led to valuable insights, such…
Specs and Constraints of Building This Guitar
Requirements (or specifications) set the goal, and constraints set the course we need to navigate through. Many, fortunately, have gone before me in guitar making and offer a wealth of direction and advice online. All the same, the specifics of an original design may be themselves unique – both to the designer and to the…
Abby Rindfuss
Adam Hosburgh
Airyl Dayrit
Alex Jessop
Xander Johnson
Allister James Sequeira
Annie Cai
Andrew Chamberlain
Anjali Shadija
Anthony Makuch
Andrea Marks
Anthony Papaianache
Andrew Perper
Andrew Widner
Ariana Ramirez
Arjun Ramachandran
Arden Villanueva
Ayesha Rawal
Ben Erickson
Ben Harming
Ben Haley
Brian Ahn
Bryce Johnson
Bryan Moreno Najera
Brenton Yu
Cason Lane
Cecelia Shoenfeld
Chris Adami-Sampson
Chrisanna Bertuccio
Witt Young
Claire Markus
Clemens Pacher-Theinburg
Cooper Kramis
Cole Romig
Cole Sites
Cort Sommer
Daniel Carranza Valenzuela
DawnMonique Cantu
Seth Strayer
Danny Vesselovskii
David Whisnant
Delos Ashcraft
Dev Mahajan
Ellyse Jensen
Elise Johnson
Eli Skelly
Eric Fiechtner
Evan McCleary
Francine Palmos
Garrett Jimenez
Garrison Nazare
Rauba, Grady
Reilly, Greg
Grant Thompson
Isaiah Straubel
Jamie Blanco
Jacob Foley
Jack Franz
Jacob Krajnik
James Overberg
Jaks Praeger
Jax Whitham
Jessica Vo
Joe Yoder
Jules Fischer-White
Kalin Myers
Keith Hemenway
Kyle Chinn
Lia Cucuzzella
Lindsey Trussell
Luke Gordon
Matt Bloomfield
Matthew Cumpton
Mateo Esteve
Matt Sherman
Max Van Cleave
Max Williams
Mila Bergmann-Ruzicka
Min Than
Mia Winstead
Nile Brown
Nita Byati
Nick Rios
Pisay Suzuki
Robert Forstbauer
Rystan Qualls
Sam Nicastro
Scott Ehrlich
Seth Dry
Sean Ostrander
Senayt Wolde
Shreya Pradeep Sekar
Sofia Fernandez
Sylvia Robles
Tay Cummins
Tanmay Mhatre
Taylor Wittwer
Thomas Brentano
Tyler L'hotta
Tyler Lloyd
Zoe Cooper
Sammie Duran
Jean Hertzberg
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