Metaphor Chair

Metaphor Chair is a conceptual project focused on exploring how the traits and characteristics of others can be represented through design. The chair serves as a metaphorical representation of a classmate, translating their defining qualities into materials, forms, and functional elements. This 1/4 scale model explores how materials and aesthetics of objects can be interpreted into human qualities.

Project prompt

The assignment challenged students to design a chair that metaphorically represents a classmate’s defining traits. By analyzing their personality, preferences, and hobbies, the goal was to translate these elements into a physical design that communicates their essence. This exercise emphasized conceptual thinking and the integration of metaphor into functional objects.

Concept Evolution

Inspiration

The client, *CLASSMATE, inspired the design with traits such as creativity, perseverance, and thoughtfulness, alongside hobbies like skateboarding and guitar playing. These aspects informed the chair’s combination of flexible, dynamic elements with strong and resilient materials. Inspiration was also drawn from grunge and skateboard aesthetics, incorporating exposed metal, graffiti-like textures, and natural materials.

Initial concepts

Early sketches explored various chair forms and materials to represent the client’s traits. Ideas included:

• A wooden frame for adaptability and flexibility.
• Steel reinforcements to symbolize inner strength and perseverance.
• Interchangeable fabric cushions to encourage creativity and user customization. These initial ideas were refined to balance metaphorical representation with functionality and practicality.

Final design

The final concept featured a lounge chair with a wooden frame reinforced by steel rods. The design included:

• Adjustable chains to modify the recline angle, reflecting thoughtfulness and adaptability.
• Interchangeable cushions for personalization, symbolizing creativity.
• A combination of flexible and strong materials to embody perseverance and resilience.

Prototyping & construction

Wooden frame

• Designed in CAD and cut from 1/4-inch birch plywood using a bandsaw.
• Drilled and assembled using steel rods and bolts for a secure yet flexible structure.

Steel rods

• Positioned at key points to provide structural integrity and enable chain adjustments for the recline feature.
• Trial and error determined the optimal placement for three anchor points.

Cushions & fabric

• Foam bases were covered in fabric and attached to a wooden seat.
• Bottom cushions were designed to slide along the armrests, allowing users to change materials easily.

Final product

The Metaphor Chair integrates dynamic and static features to reflect the client’s characteristics. Adjustable elements like the chains provide ergonomic customization, while the cushions offer opportunities for creative expression. The chair’s minimalist design emphasizes functionality and metaphorical storytelling.

Review & learning outcomes

The project highlighted the importance of aligning design decisions with conceptual intent. Key takeaways included:

• Designing around a metaphor from the start produces stronger concepts.
• Balancing aesthetic goals with structural requirements is essential.
• Further development could improve the cushion attachment system and enhance material finishes.

Future iterations might include staining the wood, integrating removable backrest cushions, and exploring additional materials to elevate the design’s visual and functional qualities.

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