Portfolio: Cort Sommer

This semester of Aesthetics of Design has taught me a lot about to undergo larger projects. During my time exploring different aesthetics and ways of fabrication, I reinforced key ideas like time management, hands on crafting, and revitalizing creativity in my work. I completed 2 large projects this semester, an Upcycle project and Final Dynamic Project, each exploring a aesthetic I am very fond of. 

Upcycle Project: A Vintage Bicycle Stool

For my Upcycle Project, I created a vintage bicycle stool. Using a refurbished bicycle seat from a classic 1970s tandem, This stool is a great decoration piece in my garage/workshop. Influenced by the bright, flashy aesthetics of vintage one-speed cruisers, I designed a bike seat stool using a 1970s tandem bike seat. Initially planning to build the frame from recycled bike metal, I shifted to PVC piping due to accessibility and skill limitations. The final product achieved the desired functionality and aesthetic. Looking ahead, I hoped to revisit the project using a metal frame and refine the decal work for a more polished, authentic finish.

Links to Upcycle Project:

Post 2: A Repurposed 1970s Bike Seat as a Stool

Post 3: Upcycled Bicycle Stool

Post 5: A Vintage Bicycle Stool

Final Project: A Competition Road Bike

For my Aesthetics in Design Final Project, I decided to undergo restoration of a competition road bike. With the term “restoration”, I mean that I am not starting from nothing, I do have the benefit of a starting point. That starting point being a salvaged frame of a GT GTR Series 3 road bike from 2009. I was given this bike from a friend of mine at the Environmental Center of CU Boulder. This bike was previously unlocked and left to ruin here on campus and I was given the opportunity to repair it, perfect for this project.

Links for Final Project:

Post 8: Complete Refurbishment of a Road Bike – A Design Preview

Post 9: Competition Road Bike: Specifications and Constraints

Post 10: Competition Road Bike Progress

Post 11: Competition Road Bike Restoration Final Design – Part 1

Post 12: Competition Road Bike Restoration Final Design – Part 2