For my Upcycle project, I’ve chosen to explore the nautical aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the ocean, maritime structures, and coastal architecture. This aesthetic is often defined by a combination of weathered textures, deep blues, crisp whites, natural wood, and metal accents, all of which evoke the feeling of being near the sea. From old fishing boats to historic lighthouses, the nautical aesthetic carries a sense of adventure and timeless beauty.
https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.aILRwEG5SfgpyWlBk2o7KwHaH7?rs=1&pid=ImgDetMain
To bring this aesthetic to life, I am building a lighthouse using old soda cans, reclaimed wood, and other repurposed materials. The lighthouse is an iconic maritime structure that has guided sailors for centuries, making it the perfect subject for a project focused on nautical design.
The primary structure of my lighthouse will be built using soda cans. Their cylindrical shape makes them a great base for replicating the traditional form of a lighthouse, and they can easily be stacked or cut up to achieve height.
https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.aILRwEG5SfgpyWlBk2o7KwHaH7?rs=1&pid=ImgDetMain
To provide a stable foundation, I will use old wood. Weathered wood aligns perfectly with the nautical aesthetic, mimicking the aged wooden docks, boardwalks, and ships associated with maritime settings. Depending on what I find, I may sand down and stain the wood or leave it rough to preserve its rustic character.
Beyond soda cans and wood, I am still considering additional materials to enhance the overall aesthetic. Rope, metal fixtures, or even glass could add interesting textural elements, reminiscent of ship rigging and lantern glass found in traditional lighthouses.
I chose the nautical aesthetic because of my love for the sea and all things rustic. Lighthouses, in particular, symbolize guidance, resilience, and safety, which makes them an inspiring focal point for this project. Additionally, the weathered and repurposed look of nautical design aligns well with the sustainability aspect of upcycling. Many nautical structures, such as boats and piers, are made from materials built to withstand time and the elements, and I want my project to reflect that sense of durability and history.
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I really like how you’ve connected your love for the ocean with the nautical aesthetic, and I think the choice of the lighthouse symbolizes the ocean very well. Using soda cans for the main structure is a smart way to repurpose materials, and the idea of using weathered wood ties in perfectly with the maritime aesthetic you’re going for.
One suggestion I have is to consider how you’ll achieve the right balance between the metal of the soda cans and the look of the wood. Since lighthouses often have a distinct texture from the elements, maybe you could experiment with deforming the cans or using a paint to give them a more weathered look. This might help them blend with the aged look of the wood and other materials like rope or metal fixtures.