For my upcycling project, I wanted to attempt to make something stylish and functional for my desk that matches the Frutiger Aero aesthetic. It is one of my favorite aesthetics that has come out of the 21st century, and I actively follow several people online who create or collect items related to Frutiger Aero.
This aesthetics has always been very nostalgic to me. The family computer in my house when I was a kid used Windows Vista, one of the largest influences on the aesthetic. Additionally, I grew up on mainly Nintendo products, include the Wii and DS, which had similar aesthetic choices in their hardware and software design. I want this project to have the same feel as what I just described: uplifting, nostalgic, and calming.
For the uninitiated, the Frutiger Aero aesthetic was popular from the mid-2000s to early 2010s and is characterized by glossy textures, vibrant colors, and organic yet futuristic design elements. It features bubbly, glass-like surfaces, swooshes, lens flares, water droplets, floating orbs, and smooth gradients. Often associated with Windows Vista, early smartphone UIs, tech advertisements, and video game menus, it has a sense of sleek modernity, optimism, and digital fluidity.
The materials I plan to use for this project are inspired by the main characteristics of Frutiger Aero. First, I plan to have a water element of some kind, likely using old aquarium equipment that I have found. I will also be using blue and clear plastics, which are one of the defining features of Frutiger Aero inspired design of digital consoles of the period, such as the Wii. I want to integrate lighting with a cool hue, which I will be able to achieve with some older LED strips that I have laying around. The main supporting frame for this project will likely be from an old computer or gaming console from the period, which will depend on what I am able to salvage.
My project will function as a primarily decorative piece, with integrated lighting that can serve as a lamp if needed. Much of how the project will turn out will be determined by what materials I can find in the coming days, as I plan to search several thrift shops, recovery centers, and craft stores.
Credits:
Featured Image: https://skeuoss.net/products/frutiger-aero-office-table-lamp
Image 1: https://skeuoss.net/products/frutiger-aero-fish-lamp
Image 2: https://www.polycarbonatesheetpanel.com/polycarbonate-sheet/solid-polycarbonate-sheet.html
Image 3: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/696369161159341115/
Image 4: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/107593878592399713/