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…
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…
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…
VaporWave, or Futurism Nostalgia
Vaporwave is an aesthetic that developed almost entirely over the internet. It started as a musical style: the result of artists experimenting with what was, at the time, newly available audio editing software. Eventually, the purview of VaporWave expanded to include a complex visual art style and meme culture. It’s generally characterized by it’s use…
Main Project
I came across this picture when trying to find a functional, minimalistic woodworking-based project. My original goal was to create something that would fit into the decor of a log cabin. Since I have moved out of my family’s home, I have been trying to build what I need in the kitchen. Building a spice…
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…
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…
Main Project Plans and Inspirations
Friends have told me that my athletic look is normally a more minimalist athletic look. I normally run hot, so to combat this, I wear shorts and lighter layers a lot of the year. I am also very active and have other activities in the day like attending practice, going to sports, and weight training,…
90s Street Style vs. Hyper-Neon Skiwear
My Final Project Aesthetic – 90s Street Style In order to emphasize comfort and everyday wear in my final design project, I will be making snowboarding pants that are baggy and contain cargo pockets. By making large-fitting pants, I will have enough room to move around and feel comfortable. Additionally, pants such as JNCOs have…
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…
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.…
Cozy Cabin Perk-a-Cola Bottle Display
Introduction Bringing together nostalgia, craftsmanship, and interactive design, the Cozy Cabin Perk-a-Cola Bottle Display is a unique project that integrates aesthetics with electronics to create an immersive showcase. Inspired by the Perk-a-Cola bottles from Call of Duty: Zombies, this shelf not only serves as a visually striking display but also incorporates dynamic lighting and audio…
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 …
Folding Camp Table Project: Inspiration, Aesthetic, and Design Vision
Introduction When designing my product, I wanted to create something that is not only visually appealing but also genuinely useful. For my final project, I want something functional, durable, and tailored to my personal needs. I decided to design and construct a folding camp table—a compact, portable workspace that balances rugged outdoor aesthetics with functionalist…
Wooden Display Stand – Design Preview
For my main project for this class, I plan on creating a wooden staircase shaped display stand to show off numerous trinkets that I’ve collected across the years. Right now a large amount of the random baubles that I own are collecting dust in drawers, and the ones that I do have displayed are difficult…
Rugged Functionalist, Minimalist, Rustic Camping Tables
Defining the Project Aesthetic: Rugged Functionalist For my final project, I’m designing a portable camp table that embodies a mix of functionalism and rugged outdoor design. This table is meant to be more than just a flat surface—it’s a purpose-built tool that serves my specific needs in an outdoor environment. My goal is to create…
Functionalist Inspiration for Final Project
Growing up, I never thought much about aesthetics. If something worked, that was all that mattered. As a kid, I wasn’t drawn to how things looked—only to whether they functioned well. Over time I started to appreciate design more, but my core belief remained the same: function drives form, and when something is designed with…
Liquor Bottle Glasses and Vases
Inspiration and Aesthetic Vision The goal of this project was to upcycle glass liquor bottles into functional drinking glasses and decorative vases while embracing an Industrial Vintage aesthetic. This aesthetic is characterized by raw materials, rugged texture s, and a utilitarian approach that values repurposing and history. Industrial Vintage design often incorporates aged metal, exposed…
Design Preview Report
For my final project, I have chosen to make an Adirondack ski chair, or a lounging outdoor chair made from a collection of vintage ski sets. My dad has spent over 30 years collecting vintage skis, most of which are from the 1990s and early 2000s. He has always dreamed repurposing them into a functional…
Design Report – Hidden Compartment Hobbit Door Art
For my main idea, I’m designing a hidden compartment behind a fantasy-inspired art piece. This piece will incorporate a dynamic locking mechanism—something that blends into the artwork while also serving as a functional element. This project should have a chameleon-like aesthetic—somewhere between minimalist, fantasy, and whimsical. I am shooting for a blend of simplicity, storytelling,…
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…
Art Nouveau Mobile
For my main project I will be creating a Mobile in the Art Nouveau Aesthetic. My main inspiration for this project is the work of Alexander Calder, who pioneered the mobile as a form of kinetic sculpture. His work The S-Shaped Vine is shown as the featured image of this post, this is one of my…
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.…
Post 7: Main Project Plans and Alternatives
For my main project I want to create a painting with an early virtual aesthetic. My inspiration for this came from an instagram post from the account @welcome.jpeg, in which they described the recent popularity of recreating the aesthetics from old video games. Artists and content creators are alluding to this aesthetic in many ways,…
Main Project Aesthetics
For my main project, I want to build out the back of my SUV for car camping. This will likely consist of a large flat area to sleep on, storage space underneath, and some way to fold the entire thing in half so that the back seats can come up without taking the entire thing…
Post 8 – Design Preview Report
Epoxy River Table The inspiration for my piece came from my love for nature and always wanting to construct this table from scratch. There wasn’t much stray away from this idea from the beginning and I was pretty set with getting this project done. It will be a coffee table that has a dynamic piece…
CyberCrystal Vest: Design Preview
Introduction The CyberCrystal Vest is a wearable electronic fashion piece that fuses cyberpunk aesthetics, rave culture, and interactive LED technology into a single garment. By integrating custom-designed, 3D-printed crystal spikes with Neopixel LEDs, the vest reacts dynamically to movement, making it a visually striking and immersive experience for festivals, performances, and nightlife. My goal is…
Complete Refurbishment of a Road Bike – A Design Preview
INTRO For my final project, I’ve decided to undergo another bike-related design, but this time, a little more complicated than a repurposed stool, I will make a competition road bike from near scratch. By “near scratch”, I mean I will be starting from only a couple functional pieces. I was very kindly given a second…
Building a Steampunk Strandbeest
What is My Project For my project, I’m creating a steampunk-inspired Strandbeest. A Strandbeest is a wind-powered walking machine originally designed by Dutch artist and engineer Theo Jansen. First introduced in 1990, Strandbeests are fascinating mechanical creatures made from lightweight materials like PVC pipes, using linkages to move like real walking animals. Jansen’s vision was…
Design Preview Report: Dual-Perspective 3D Sculpture
Introduction For my main project, I am developing a rotating 3D sculpture that presents two distinct images depending on the viewing angle. The concept plays with perception, allowing one form to transform into another as the sculpture rotates. This aligns with the project’s emphasis on aesthetics first, function second, where motion itself becomes part of…
Cylindrical Lamp Design Preview
Introduction Many aesthetics define my personal design style. In the past, I have drawn inspiration from Mid Century Modern, Space Age/Atomic Design, Biophilic Design and Bauhaus-esque functional minimalism. It is difficult to choose one style over the others; I believe that every style has merit depending on its context. Fortunately, many of my favorite aesthetics…
Design Preview Specs – Vintage Ski Boot Warmer
Project Overview: For my main project, I will be designing and manufacturing a ski boot and glove dryer—a functional device that ensures ski gear is warm and dry, whether before hitting the slopes or preparing for the next day of adventure. This project combines engineering principles with practical application, focusing on creating an efficient system…
Personal Aesthetic
My personal aesthetic is rooted in clean, straightforward design, favoring simplicity over excess. I am drawn to neutral colors—black, navy blue, white, and other understated shades that exude timeless elegance. I avoid bright, flashy colors, as they often feel too loud or temporary. My style leans into the “old money” look—classic, refined, and effortless—while integrating…
Futuristic Beer Bottle: Complete Project Overview
Introduction The upcycle project for this class has been an exciting and challenging task, requiring resourcefulness, creativity, and hands-on fabrication. The goal was to transform discarded materials into something functional and aesthetically compelling, demonstrating the potential of upcycling as a sustainable design approach. After collecting materials, and experimenting with different configurations, I have finally created…
Main Project Plans and Alternatives: Dual Perspective- Exploring 3D Extrusion from Two Angles
For my main project, I am exploring dual perspective through 3D extrusion, where a single object presents two distinct visual identities depending on the viewing angle. The idea is to extrude two different shapes from perpendicular viewpoints so that, when viewed from one direction, it appears as one form, and from a 90-degree shift, it…
Main Project Plans and Inspirations
I’ve always been drawn to realism, particularly in portrait sketches. There’s something incredibly rewarding about capturing the depth and detail of a subject, whether it’s the intricate contours of a face or the way light falls on a surface. The process of studying proportions, textures, and subtle variations in tone has shaped the way I…
Main project Aesthetic – Plans and Alternatives
Since my last post I have pivoted my aspirations for this project. Originally, I thought a bedside table/lamp would be perfect for me as I will be moving to Chicago next year and wanted something homemade to create a cozy aesthetic for my bedroom. I realized that my main project would have to incorporate a…
Upcycle Progress: ITLL 3D Printer Filament Spool Shelf
This will be written as if I were still at this point in the semester! My upcycle project was going very smoothly – I had created an initial design in CAD and started sourcing materials from around the ITLL. Materials Sourcing I spread the word among my coworkers to save any empty spools when a…
Final Project Idea: Reversible Bucket Hat
For my final project, I’ve decided to make a bucket hat that embodies both a neutral and a bold aesthetic. Hats have always been my go-to accessory for elevating my outfits. Beyond style, they serve a functional purpose for me—covering my hair on bad hair days, shielding my face from the sun, and even acting…
Design Preview – Minimalist Spice Rack
For my main design project I will be creating a minimalist spice rack. My inspiration for this project came when I decided that I wanted something that could serve practical use for me as I venture off into the world after graduate. As an RA, I have lived in the dorms for the past few…
Design Preview: Rustic/Naturalistic Catan Board
For my project, I plan on making the exciting game of Catan but with a naturalistic/rustic aesthetic. Catan is a complex and strategic board game where players take on roles as a settler, with their goal to expand and each victory points. Players build and develop on the board by trading and acquiring resources. The…
Design Preview: Slice of Nature
My personal aesthetic is filled with bright colors, sunshine, nature, and greenery. I have always gravitated towards bold, contrasting colors in my personal spaces, and find that they make me feel more alive and present. I love natural light as well, and coupled with plants and nature, I find that these elements define my personal…
Medieval Castle Project: Design Preview Report
It was a challenging choice to find the right concept for my project, but I have finally landed on an aesthetic I am happy with, something cool I can make, and a dynamic component that will hopefully work well and add to the project. Building on my upcycle project and my available resources and interests,…
Dolls Design preview
For this project, I decided to stick with my personal aesthetic, which is a cutesy or kawaii aesthetic; however, I want to incorporate some of the gyaru fashion aesthetic into my project. According to Wikipedia, the kawaii “ is a Japanese cultural phenomenon which emphasizes cuteness, childlike innocence, charm, and simplicity.” It started to take…
Design Preview – Mid Century Modern Nightstand
As you may have seen in my last post I am planning on creating a mid century modern nightstand. This project mostly came about due to the fact that I currently do not have a nightstand so I have no convenient place to store things near my bed or put things on such as drinks,…
Main Project: Optical Illusion Cutting Board
I am designing and creating a cutting board that incorporates an optical illusion pattern using different hardwoods. This idea originally stemmed from a wooden toilet seat my parents own, which features a lion graphic. My initial inspiration came from wanting to craft my own wooden toilet seat after my current one broke. However, after researching…
Japandi Minimalist Zen Matcha Stand
I love making matcha tea and find the craft of it to be both beautiful and delicious. I recently got a new matcha making set and have been keeping it all in the drawers in my kitchen. I think the set is too aesthetically pleasing to keep stored away in a dark place. So for…
Design Preview: Glass Block Lamp
What am I going to make? 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…
Hand-Made Camo Snowboard Pants Design Preview
Inspirations Snowboarding since the age of 13, I have gone through various brands when it comes to apparel on the mountain. From my mom’s old Burton pants to now Apres Blanche XL snowboard pants, my style has changed drastically over the years. It was not until this season where riders such as Jill Perkin and…
Miniature Bank Vault
Introduction For my main project I will be creating a safe with a circular vault door at 1/12 (dollhouse) scale. Growing up in Delaware, there was not much to do so I would often visit Philadelphia for its culture and history. The city of Philadelphia is the birthplace of banking in the United States of…
Rustic Farm Fountain Design Preview
Rustic farm design is an aesthetic that evokes the simplicity, charm, and ruggedness of farm life. It celebrates the beauty in the imperfections of handmade or well-worn items, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This design aesthetic can be broken down into several key characteristics: utilitarian design and weathered, heavily-used elements. By understanding these components,…
Space Exploration Keyboard -Design Preview Report
Today, space exploration is more vibrant than ever, with missions to Mars, the discovery of exoplanets, and the ever-expanding International Space Station. Agencies like NASA and private companies such as SpaceX are leading the charge, envisioning the colonization of other planets and the potential discovery of extraterrestrial life. Why Space Exploration Theme ? Space exploration…
Water Filter – Design Preview
After doing the ‘Alternatives’ exercise last week I decided that I really liked how my water filter project might look with an Art Nouveau Aesthetic. I modified the plans slightly to make it more practical, with straight tubing and a smaller base. Design Preview Sketch The materials I plan on using are as follows: Laser…
Design Preview Report Stained Glass
Overview For my final project, I am focusing loosely on the reminiscence theme. Since a lot of my childhood is surrounded by stained glass, I wanted to do something with stained glass and/or have the stained glass look. I am planning to make a glass terrarium. I want to use mixed materials like glass, and…
Indoor-Outdoor Blanket Design Preview
My Inspiration and Artistic Vision To summarize my previous post about inspirations and project ideas, the aesthetic of my final project draws from how I view my personal aesthetic in both the indoors and outdoors. What I mean by this is that my aesthetic is rooted in a love of the outdoors, warm weather, colorful…
Mirror, Mirror on the Fabric: My Final Project design preview 
After far too much Pinterest scrolling (and some mom-approved decision-making), I’ve finally settled on my final project: a modern take on Rajasthani mirror work. The goal? A wearable piece that blends traditional craftsmanship with a bold contemporary aesthetic—because why not bring a little sparkle to everyday life? Why Rajasthani Mirror Work? Rajasthani sheesha (mirror) embroidery…
Scandinavian/Industrial Modern TV Stand
The overall goal for my final project is to create a piece of usable furniture that meshes well with both my personal aesthetic and existing furniture. At the current moment, my space is lacking a high-quality entertainment center, and I think this project is a great opportunity for me to help refine my space, gain…
Design Preview Spec 2025 – Microphone Boom Arm
Brainstorming When brainstorming ideas for my final main project, I wanted to create something that would serve a functional purpose in my day-to-day life, similar to my upcycle project. I often encounter various issues that bother me throughout my daily routine, and I realized that a simple item could help either fix these problems or…
A Gyroscopic Watch Winder
My main inspiration for this project is the gyroscopic watch winder I saw online. The watch winder is made by a YouTuber named Practical Engineer. While looking for watch winders online, I realized I might be able to make one. After talking to my friend, who did it alone, I realized I could make one…
Post 8 – Design Preview Report
Introduction At first, I was very unsure of my personal aesthetic, as I believe it could be many different things. However, taking a step back and looking at my bedroom, I think my style is best categorized by the “urban” aesthetic and “vintage” aesthetic. I already have aspects of these aesthetics in my bedroom, but…
Design Preview Report
Project Title: Arcane ChronoSphere – A Magical Timepiece What I Am Going to Make For my main project, I will create an interactive Arcane ChronoSphere, a mystical timepiece that visually represents time passing with dynamic movement and shifting light patterns. The ChronoSphere will use LED animations and rotational mechanics to symbolize different aesthetic themes, such…
Custom Longboard Design Preview
In recent weeks, I’ve embarked on an exciting project to redefine skateboard design by merging the laid-back vibes of surf culture with the robust character of old school skate decks. This design journey is not only about building a skateboard but also about crafting a piece that resonates with both the aesthetics of surfing and…
Naturalist-Inspired Bamboo Lamp
Lighting plays an integral role in shaping the ambiance of a space. For the longest time, I used only an overhead light. As I grew and matured, I realized that lighting influences the warmth, balance, and overall feng shui of a room. My maturity caused me to seek a harmonious light balance to my space,…
Levitating Mask
Gift For an Anime Nerd My final project is a helmet based on the accessory of the protagonist in the anime Code Geass. This item will stand on a magnetic levitation display that will slowly rotate the object while levitating it using a permanent magnet. This object is intended as a gift for my boyfriend…
Pocket Watch to Wristwatch Conversion: A Main Project Overview
An oversized pocket watch conversion by Colorado-based company Vortic. For my main project, I am converting a 1907 Waltham Grade 165 (~0s, 15J) pocket watch movement into a wearable wristwatch. I chose this movement because, as a 0s movement, it has a modest 29mm diameter, making it well-suited for wristwatch conversion without looking overly large…
Design Preview Report: Sustainable socks
What and Why? Problem: Textile waste is a huge contributor to overall waste and global warming. From the documentary ” The True Cost”, Americans throw away 82 pounds of textile waste each year = 11 million tons. Additionally, the council for textile recycling states that Americans recycle or donate only 15 percent of clothing, making…
Rustic Cottagecore End Table Design Preview
For my main project I will be making an end table for my couch with a folding leaf extension in the rustic cottage core aesthetic. I chose this aesthetic because I really enjoy it and it matches my current living room decor. I also knew I wanted to use wood to create this end table…
Light Cyberpunk AMG GT RC Car
As a happy hobbyist in the RC airplane area, I enjoy messing around and building different RC aircraft. I’ve dabbled in creating a drone to building an entire RC airplane from foamboard. The only problem comes to the flying part. I am terrible at piloting. Every aircraft I have is either broken or has major…
Design Preview: Artistic Vinyl Speaker
For my main project, I’m creating a box/enclosure for a pre-made speaker that provides the same feeling as if you were listening to music through a record player. The box will be styled in the modernisme aesthetic and feature a recycled, painted record that spins on top (simulating a normal record player, but not actually…
Design Preview Report on the Toy Piano
This project has already had many iterations and different plans. I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do for my project, but my initial plan was not what I really wanted to make. After coming up with my final idea for a toy piano, I started thinking about another project that I would…
Design Preview – Industrial Planter Fountain
Project Overview For my main project I am aiming to create a fountain combined with a planter, using a DIY fountain kit and forming a scene around it. My goal is to have a piece that can act as an artistic artifact while automating plant watering. I originally planned to pursue a naturalistic aesthetic, however…
Design Preview Report: Doodlecore Embroidered Skirt
Project Planning While deciding what to do for my main project, I considered various options such as a pull-tab book, kite, shelf, backpack, clothing, pop-up book, etc. After considering the time and money I’ll be spending on this project, I decided to make something that would be functional in my daily life. Moreover, I could…
No flat tables in space – an exploration of neuroaesthetics and design for microgravity enviorments
Project Overview Human reactions to design aesthetics are deeply rooted in cognitive and psychological processing (Palmer, et al, 2013). Perception plays a crucial role in aesthetic response, and on Earth, where gravity provides a fixed frame of reference, humans, in most settings, interpret design aesthetics from a single orientation (Greenland & Morgenstern, 1991). However, in…
Vintage Sports Picture Frame: Design Preview
Vintage Sports Aesthetic For the final project, my plan for the aesthetic will be vintage sports. The vintage sports aesthetic captures the nostalgic feel of classic sports memorabilia, drawing from the styles, colors, and materials of past decades. It often features muted, faded colors like deep reds, navy blues, and mustard yellows, giving everything a…
Handmade Spice Spinner with Mexican Ceramic Aesthetic
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. Traditional Mexican ceramics often have bold colors, hand-painted designs, and a rustic feel, which I plan to…
Retro Futurism Vinyl Lamp
For my final project I am going to make a lamp for my living room record collection corner. The lamp will be made with a retro futurism aesthetic. Vinyls and color pop is a stable in retro futurism so I think my project will fit this aesthetic nicely. I wanted to make something that would…
Process of Time – A Clock Design
For this design project, I have decided to make a clock. It will be of the same design philosophy as seen in organic design and art nouveau, however, I am putting my own modern twist on it – This being dramatic shapes, impactful colors, and illusions. This process of designing has and will continue…
SUV Camping Bed Build Out
For my main project, I want to make a car camping build out bed for my Honda Pilot. I hope to use this project on a road trip this summer, allowing me to me enjoy the flexibility of sleeping just about anywhere without having to set up a tent. Functionally I want the bet to…
Retro-Futuristic Can-Crushing Robot Head – Design Preview Report
For my main project, I am creating a retro-futuristic robot head inspired by retro sci-fi aesthetics. This robotic head will be functional as an aluminum can crusher and as a piece of wall art. The internals of the crushing mechanism will be hidden by the facade of the robot head, and I am leaning toward…
Fluid Rusitic Floating Shoe Display
Every Shoe display I’ve found online has the same design and aesthetic—a sleek black U-shaped bar with an LED backdrop to highlight the shoe. So, When I was brainstorming how I wanted to move away from this design and the minimalist luxury aesthetic, I still wanted to maintain some key features, a base that surrounds…
Design Preview: Pop Art & Neon-Inspired LED Sign
For my main project, I decided to design my own neon signs using a 3D printer and LED lights. My primary aesthetic for these signs is pop art, which will add character to my office, where I plan to display them. The main inspiration for this project comes from comic book-style fonts, reminiscent of classic…
Design Preview Report: Classic Rock Hitbox
Progress on my project has been good, and I am entering further stages of it as we speak. Currently, the project has remained the same. It is a Fightstick, a type of specialized game controller, made with a Classic Rock aesthetic. These controllers are specialized for a genre of games known as Fighting Games. The…
Design Preview of Sliding Bedframe
I’ve finally nailed down the design for my sliding bedframe, and it’s been quite the process. The biggest challenge was finding a sliding mechanism that fit my space constraints but could also handle a 400 lb dynamic load. After a lot of searching, I landed on the VEVOR sliding rail system from Amazon. These rails…
Design Preview Report: Sporty GMT Watch
For my final project, I am designing and assembling a custom dress GMT watch. The watch will feature an NH34 movement, a purchased case and bracelet, and a 3D-printed dial that I will design and fabricate myself. This project combines my passion for horology, design, and craftsmanship, with the goal of creating a timepiece that…
Wöddha Board Preview
For this semester’s final design project, I will craft a wooden iteration of the zen drawing Buddha Board concept, which currently only exists in ‘disappearing water’ format. This user-driven movement project combines my love for woodworking with my love for creative technology — and generally has a positive effect on mental health. In addition, this…
Design Preview: Old Hollywood Clapperboard
Introduction: Bringing Classic Hollywood to Life For my main project, I am creating a vintage-inspired clapperboard that captures the essence of classic Hollywood. The project is deeply rooted in my appreciation for film history and aesthetics, drawing inspiration from mid-century movie production tools. The goal is to craft a functional yet nostalgic artifact, blending the…
Brutalist Fountain Design Preview
The allure of brutalism lies in its unapologetic embrace of raw materials, geometric forms, and the inherent beauty of structural honesty. It is an aesthetic that eschews ornamentation in favor of the fundamental elements of design, celebrating the strength and permanence of concrete, steel, and other robust materials. This essay explores the design and construction…
A simple modernist coffee table
Woodworking is an incredibly diverse craft that spans a wide range of styles, techniques, and traditions. Growing up, I was fortunate to be around my grandfather, who was an exceptional hobbyist carpenter. He primarily worked in a traditional or colonial style, crafting a variety of tables and structures with intricate grooves and detailed carvings. His…
Vertical PC Dock Design Preview
For my final project, I wanted to create something both practical and personal—an object I use daily and can easily bring home when I move in May. Since I spend so much time at my desk, a functional yet aesthetically refined accessory made sense. After having done a lot of research for desk accessories, I…
Design Review – Portable AC Unit in Modern Aesthetic
The initial inspiration and a resource that would provide great guidance towards my portable AC unit is the following video: The initial need for me to personally do this project is due to how hot my apartment can get in the upcoming summer months, where temperatures often exceed 90 degrees and on occasion surpass…
Design Preview: Folding Floor Chair
What I Am Making Origami Inspired Chair [1] For my main project, I am designing a functional, space-saving floor chair that folds using origami-inspired techniques. My motivation stems from the need for more efficient seating in my small studio living/dining room. Since I am currently redoing my living space to accommodate a floor table, I…
Magic Crystal Portable Nightlight
For my main project this semester, I am designing a portable bedside nightlight that will take the form of a large magical amethyst-like crystal. Inspirations I currently have a little electric candle that I keep between my bedroom and my bathroom. It is very useful to have as a low light bedside lamp while I…
Design Preview | Ski Bookends
For my Final Project, I will be making bookends out of skis for my bookshelf. I will be referencing both my aesthetic and the aesthetic I used for the upcycle project, ski bum. These bookends will be both functional and fun, which reflects the core of the ski bum aesthetic. They will be vintage skis…
Main Project: Bamboo Lamp
The inspiration for my project came from a short reflection I had while sitting in my desk chair. During junior year, one of my friends went abroad and lent me a lamp. The lamp had the shape of a gourd and featured ornate designs etched into the clay-like material that made up the base. The…
Lego F1 Design Preview
As mentioned in prior posts, I intend to make a display for my Lego Formula 1 cars. I do not have a ton of room in my house, being a college student, so I decided to hang them on my wall above my computer since I have some open wall space there and/or some things…
Design Preview: Flint Knapping Tools
For my final project, I will be making a set of aesthetically pleasing and functional tools. This set of flint knapping tools will include an Ishi-stick (indirect percussion tool), a handheld pressure flaker, a carrying sack, and potentially some sort of mallet to use with the ishi stick. The dynamic component of this project will…
Design Preview Report: Mountain Shelf
For my main project, I’m recreating a mountain shelf I made a few years ago—with added details I’ll discuss later. I love this piece because it perfectly aligns with my personal aesthetic. I’m particularly drawn to wood-based creations, which add a rustic charm and warmth to any space. As a Colorado native, I wanted to…
Moon Phase Diorama Design Preview
In my previous blog post, I stated that for my project, have decided to make an educational diorama of the moon’s phases. This diorama will include small artificial plants and planets/stars to enhance the aesthetic. To make this educational, I plan to create a moon out of plastic or paper and place a stepper motor…
Cylindrical Lamp – Inspiration from Alternative Aesthetics
I plan to create a cylindrical lamp for my project. I am drawing from a few aesthetics, namely space age design and functional minimalism. I am also incorporating elements from biophilic design as well as mid century modern. I still haven’t decided between using a sunset LED lamp and a lens or using LED filament…
An Organic Minimalist Take On A Puzzle Holder – what and how??
What? Thrift Diving’s puzzle board with drawers. My design process closely follows this tutorial. Photo from [5].When considering what to do for my main project, I decided to consider my interests and whether there was anything I could make for my own personal use. What could I create that was dynamic, would be useful to…
Meditation in Time
My project embodies the principles of eclectic minimalism I’ve cultivated and discussed in my previous post—a philosophy that balances clean lines with unexpected elements. At its core, the piece features a pendulum housed within a precisely engineered metal support structure, creating a dynamic interplay between movement and stillness. The pendulum culminates in a handblown glass…
Granola Grunge and Art Nouveau
My Personal Aesthetic My personal aesthetic, which I am deeming “Granola Grunge” draws heavily on the grunge and post-grunge musical movements of the 90’s and early 2000, tempered by the granola aesthetic that is heavily associated with Colorado. A common theme of both aesthetics, and one that is certainly prevalent in my own fashion choices…
Prelude: Making an Electric Guitar
Call it a bucket list item. I once spent a week with a luthier, learning how to build acoustic guitars with him and his two apprentices in southern Alabama. I slept on an air mattress next to a very old Brazilian piano awaiting its turn at refurbishment. Wilder still, the shop was in what used…
Disqualifier: Aesthetic Choice and Logistics
For my main project, I aim to develop a device that propels the wearer’s leg from a standing position into a kick. This concept was inspired by my interest in combat sports, particularly muay thai. Given the dynamic and impact-prone nature of this design, I want to clearly outline the logistics of how it will…
Main Project Aesthetic – Mid Century Modern Nightstand
For my final project I will create a mid century modern nightstand, the main driving force behind this project is my lack of a nightstand and not wanting to purchase a brand new piece of furniture myself. I plan on creating this piece in the mid century modern aesthetic, this aesthetic is characterized by simplicity,…
Design Preview Report – Space Cowboy Lamp
The Space Cowboy Lamp is what I have chosen for my final project for this course. Some of my inspirations for this project are as follows: Elite Dangerous Heads Up Display, Elite Dangerous Elite Dangerous Lakon Ship Interior, Elite Dangerous One of my favorite instances of sci-fi / space that I will be referencing in…
70s Rotating Bookshelf
1. What I’m Making The 1970s were defined by a fascination with geometric experimentation, organic forms, and multifunctional design—aesthetic principles that directly inspire this bookshelf’s hexagonal rotating core. Unlike traditional rectangular or circular shelves, the hexagon strikes a balance between efficiency and visual intrigue. Each of the six sides is angled at 120 degrees, creating…
RailGlow: The Sliding Lamp
*The featured image is purely conceptual and does not fully illustrate the final design intentions of the lamp* Inspiration and Vision: For my main project, I will be designing a lamp whose base and top are connected via a sliding rail. There is a momentary switch that when the lamp is closed, the light is…
Race Car Uprights Design Preview
For my main project, I decided to build front suspension uprights for my 1965 Ford Mustang race car project. This race car must comply with a strict set of rules within the GT1 TransAm section of the Sports Car Club of America General Competition Rulebook in order to be allowed to race in my desired…
Cylindrical Lamp – Main Project Plans
Many aesthetics define my personal design style. In the past, I have drawn inspiration from Mid Century Modern, Space Age/Atomic Design, Biophilic Design and Bauhaus-esque functional minimalism. It is difficult to choose one style over the others; I believe that every style has merit depending on its context. Fortunately, many of my favorite aesthetics share…
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