Welcome to the Aesthetics of Design Website. This site displays student work in the Aesthetics of Design class at CU Boulder. This site serves as an archive for current and past student projects, and for current students to develop their portfolio and documenting skills. It is also an Open Educational Resource, for anybody interested in how to make these projects, and for educators who might like to teach a course like this: all lecture notes and videos are available, as well as syllabus, schedule assignments etc..
This year’s seventh post, where students present their main project aesthetics.
Main Project Aesthetics: Naturalism and Opposition
The inspiration for my aesthetic 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…
Classic Hollywood Aesthetic Clapperboard
Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives For my main project, I’m building a clapperboard inspired by the Classic Hollywood aesthetic, capturing the look and feel of film production tools from the early to mid-20th century. I’m focusing on the visual language of black-and-white films, vintage typography, and the worn-in, utilitarian tools used behind the scenes…
Trench Watch Aesthetic: Plans and Alternatives
Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives Pocket Watch Donor Movement: 1908 American Waltham For my main project, I am converting an antique pocket watch into a wristwatch, drawing inspiration from World War I trench watch conversions. The aesthetic I am pursuing is historically accurate and utilitarian, reflecting how soldiers in the early 20th century modified…
Main Project Aesthetic – Retro Futurism
After much thought and back and forth I decided to change my main project aesthetic to retro futurism. The reason I decided to change my aesthetic is because I changed what I want to do as my main project. Initially I was going to make my own neon sign but after mulling it over I…
Main Project Plans and Alternatives: Rustic Minimalist Vertical PC Dock
For my final project, my aesthetic will be rustic minimalism and Wabi-Sabi. I admire the minimalism and simplicity this aesthetic embraces, seeking to convey depth and complexity through texture, materiality, and imperfection rather than ornamentation. The combination of natural materials, muted tones, and an appreciation for time-worn surfaces creates a sense of quiet refinement. My…
Cybercrystal Vest: Aesthetic Plans and Alternatives
Primary Aesthetic: Cyberpunk Futurism My Cybercrystal Vest is built around the Cyberpunk Futurism aesthetic, which blends high-tech interactivity, neon lighting, and an edgy, punk-inspired design. This aesthetic is heavily influenced by futuristic urban environments, rave culture, and wearable technology, making it the perfect fit for a vest that visually responds to movement. The black vest…
Vintage Sports Aesthetic: Plans and Alternatives
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 warm and aged…
Main Aesthetic
For the project, I believe I will be doing an upcycling aesthetic. This may seem a bit similar to the previous project, but I am not recycling anything but rather reusing whatever item I find online. At the moment I am looking at a leather briefcase that I may go to purchase later this week.…
Diver vs Dress : Which GMT Is Right For Me ?
When it comes to designing my own GMT watch, I’m faced with a classic dilemma: should I lean into the rugged, utilitarian aesthetic of a diver GMT or the sleek, refined elegance of a dress GMT? Both styles have their merits, but as someone who values both form and function, I find myself drawn to…
Optical Illusion Cutting Board: Distorted Reality Aesthetic
This idea originated from a wooden toilet seat that my parents have at home My toilet seat recently broke which sparked my inspiration to make a new wooden one for my apartment. Then I was thinking, how could I make this relate to the chosen aesthetic of reality distortion? I decided that making an optical…
The Space Cowboy Lamp, and its opposites
For my final project, I am interested in creating a lamp that embodies my love of the aesthetics of sci-fi/space, the wild west, and warm lighting to create the ultimate interactive lighting experience. There’s a bit of a funny thing that happened while I was trying to get ChatGPT to generate some sample images of…
Time and Identity – A Clock Design
Self Identity and expression is something that individualizes us from everyone else. Growing up, I always explored my own form of identity and exploration – noting the things about myself that I loved, hated, changed and never changed over time. Who I am and was is personal to me and it is only through my…
Aesthetic Alternatives – Wabi-sabi and Japanese Calligraphy
For my project, I plan to 3D print neon-inspired signs and incorporate them into a pop art comic book aesthetic. Considering what the opposite aesthetic might be, I found that wabi-sabi contrasts sharply with the ultra-colorful and playful style of pop art. Unlike comic book pop art—which is bold, high-contrast, and often exaggerated—wabi-sabi is more…
Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives
For my main project plan, I’m going to engineer a ski boot warmer/dryer. This has obviously been done before, but I’d like to figure out a way to combine [aesthetic] with functionality to create something unique. I’m toying with a bunch of ideas at the moment, for example: whether to make the heater portable or…
Space Exploration: Aesthetic Plans and Alternatives
Primary Aesthetic: Space Exploration Theme Keyboard I’m excited to transform my Red Dragon RGB keyboard into a stunning space-themed aesthetic. To achieve this look, I plan to either spray paint or use acrylic paint to customize the keycaps according to my vision. To ensure clean lines, I’ll utilize masking tape to prevent any overpainting. Additionally,…
Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives
Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives Personal Aesthetic and Design Inspirations My personal aesthetic is a blend of sleek modernism with a touch of nostalgic whimsy. I gravitate toward clean lines, bold typography, and high-contrast color schemes, often infused with a sense of playfulness or surrealism. My design choices lean heavily on the juxtaposition of…
Main Project Plans and Alternatives – Spice Rack
When ideating on what I wanted my main project to be, I had the thought that I want to create something that will be practical for me in the future. I am a senior, and will be graduating in a couple of months and have started considering this such as furnishing my own place. (I…
Stained Glass Project: Plans and Alternatives
My main project will be based on the “reminiscence aesthetic”. Based on my own interpretation from my childhood, I was surrounded by lots of stained glass from my grandparents house. Stained glass have always reminded me of my childhood and I would describe that feeling as reminiscent. For my project, I wanted to create a…
Naturalism or Industrialism – Project Plans and Alternatives
For my main project I plan to build a water fountain that doubles as a planter. I hope to build a fountain that is functional in a design that can house multiple plants, and if possible, water the plants at some regular interval. My first idea for an aesthetic for this project was the naturalist…
Medieval Castle Project: Plans and Alternatives
It took me awhile to find the 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, I plan…
Rustic farm aesthetic fountain
My idea for an aesthetic is the rustic farmhouse style. I believe that this aesthetic is very pleasing to the eye, and quite achievable for a minimal budget. I believe that this aesthetic captures the utilitarian aspect of design, while capturing the force that is time and nature, and the effects that those two…
Design without Orientation – Exploring true design for microgravity enviorments
The Need for Directionless Design in Space Environments Despite significant advancements in space technology, design considerations for microgravity environments have not evolved to fully accommodate the unique physiological and psychological needs of astronauts. On Earth, design is fundamentally constrained by unidirectional gravitational forces, which inform both functional and aesthetic choices. Objects are conventionally created to…
Steampunk Strandbeast Kinetic Sculpture
For my final project, I have chosen to move away from the Tuscan aesthetic outlined in my personal aesthetic post. This decision is primarily due to the reasons I stated at the end of that post. Instead, I will be combining the steampunk aesthetic with something I have wanted to create for a long time,…
Scandinavian/Industrial Modern Furniture and Alternatives
For my project, I plan on making an end table or center console for my living room. This will help to fill some needs in my living space, and allow me to create a piece of furniture I can enjoy for years to come. If I choose to go the end table route, I would…
Minimalist Mic Boom Arm – Plans and Alternatives
For this main project, my original plan was to be able to make a microphone from scratch but due to the scope of that project being quite big and see the time commitment needed gather and learn about the circuity need to make it function, I figured that i happen to stick with something…
Art Nouveau/Cottagecore End Table Plans and Alternatives
For my main project I am planning to make a living room end table with a leaf that folds out. I will design this end table to fit well with my couch and match the vibe of my living room. The folding leaf will be the dynamic aspect of this design, however I may add…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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: A Framed Tree
Figure 1. Inspiration Introduction For my main project, I plan to create a layered wooden wall art piece inspired by intricate laser-cut designs. The goal is to craft a visually engaging artwork that captures depth and contrast using multiple layers of wood and negative space. The piece will feature a tree silhouette against a contrasting…
MCM and Modernist End Table: Plans and Alternatives
Main Project Plans and Further Exploring Inspirations Last week I settled on a few aesthetics I will draw from for my final project in this course. My personal aesthetic is a combination of many aesthetics, including MCM, modernism, post-modernism, and contemporary. While these are slightly conflicting aesthetics, I think that they can all come together…
Main Project Aesthetic and Alternatives: Mid Century Modern Glass Blocks
The plan for my project is to design and build a floor lamp that includes glass blocks as the primary lighting/diffusion element. For my project aesthetic, I plan to follow some of the furniture design elements of the mid century modern movement. Mid-century modern furniture design, popular from the 1940s to the 1960s, emphasizes clean…
Final Project Inital Ideas
For my final project, I wanted to do something that would be useful for me. Also, after last week’s post, I wanted to go with something that would add to my aesthetic. I wanted to show off the nerdy bit about myself, yet add something a bit different. I am a big Formula 1 fan…
Main Aesthetic: Simple Modern
For my main aesthetic, I’m going for a simple, modern look. Right now, I’m planning on making this for my mom, and she’s really into a clean, minimal style for my parents’ house. The kind of table she suggested is super simple, just a round top with four corner legs. The main thing for me…
Minimal vs Maximal Origami Inspired Furniture
Idea and Aesthetics: Origami Chair Design [1] For my main project, I aim to design a functional, space-saving floor chair that folds using origami techniques. I am currently in the process of redoing my small studio living/dinning room to be a floor table, and need some efficient chairs to go with it. Since origami originates…
Main Project Aesthetics: Flint Knapping Tool Set
My current idea for my main project is to make a set of flint knapping tools to replace the cheap(ish) ones I have now. If you aren’t familiar, flint knapping is the practice of shaping chert, flint, obsidian, or other similar materials through percussion (hitting it the stone with antler or copper tools). I currently…
Organic Minimalist Puzzle Holder
Organic Minimalism/Modernism. Photo from [3] and source credit given to Fancy House Design in Dubai.For my main project, I decided to create something that had elements from Organic Minimalism. Personally, I find minimalism very aesthetically pleasing as it gives an appearance of elegance and neatness. However, organic minimalism appealed to me in particular because of…
Main Project – Plans and Alternatives – Ski Chair
For my main project, I have chosen to create a lounging outdoor chair constructed from a collection of vintage ski sets. This project is personal to me because my dad has been collecting these skis for over 30 years and has always dreamed of owning one. I plan on repurposing his collection, mostly 1990s and…
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…
Rugged Minimalism: The Sliding Rail Lamp Post
My main project embodies the concept of rugged minimalism which is a design philosophy that strips objects down to their most essential components while maintaining durability and function. For this build, I am constructing a lamp post using either wood or recycled metal, and integrating a sliding rail mechanism to control its function. When the…
Japandi Minimalist Zen Matcha Stand
I love to make matcha tea and I think the craft of it is so beautiful and delicious. I recently got a new matcha making set and have been keeping it all in my drawers in my kitchen. I think the set is too aesthetically pleasing to keep stored away in a dark place. For…
Water Filter – Aesthetic and Alternatives
I plan on making a water filter for my final project. The aesthetic I plan to use for the decorative base is based on Tibetan design. However, the pipes and other hardware will also contribute to the aesthetic. For the pipes, valve, and other hardware, I am planning on going for a classy, part rustic,…
Race Car Front Uprights
For my main project, I decided to design and manufacture the front suspension uprights for my 1965 Ford Mustang race car project. The aesthetic that I have decided on for this project is an aerospace aesthetic. This aesthetic consists of streamlined shapes and smooth radiused edges. The designs featuring this aesthetic often showcase geometric patterns…
Exploring Final Project Aesthetics
My current plan for this project combines an industrial aesthetic with natural elements, much like my “urban ivy” style that was heavily influenced by Seattle’s skyline, shipyards, and greenery. The centerpiece is a wood-based shelf finished to mimic concrete, offering that cold, edgy ambiance without the complications of actual concrete. I want the texture to…
Magic Crystal Bedside Lamp – Alternatives
My main semester project is going to be this fantasy crystal lamp that acts as both a bedside nightlight and a portable light source one can use to walk around at night in the dark. Magic Crystal Bedside Lamp I want to explore only alternative aesthetics while keep the functionality the same across all the…
Post 7: Plans and Alternatives
For my main project, I’ve identified that the most difficult obstacle I’ll need to overcome is the preparation for the epoxy pour. So far, I’ve cut the original piece into half and sanded it down to a 100 grit surface to remove the dirt and other blemishes of the live edged black walnut wood. I…
Traditional or Modern? Exploring My Project’s Aesthetic
For my final project, I am making a spice spinner for my mom, inspired by traditional Mexican ceramics and pottery. My main aesthetic is based on the ceramics designs, which often have bold colors with hand-painted designs, and a rustic feel. Many Mexican ceramics are made from brown clay, so I want to bring that…
Multifunctional Outdoor-Indoor Blanket Plans
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 things, and light. When I…
Light Cyberpunk RC Car
Within the past week, I have narrowed down my exact plans for my project. I decided on going with a cyberpunk-inspired car body. However, I will not be diving deep into the cyberpunk aesthetic as it is not exactly what I am looking in terms of aesthetic. Specifically, I want to approach the dark undertones…
Different Jewelry Box Aestetics
Main project For my main project, I will be trying something outside of my comfort zone. I will be attempted a traditional Galician aesthetic. Now I am aware that is seemingly random. However, this is because I plan on making a jewelry box in the shape of a Galician Horreo for my girlfriend who is…
Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives.
I am planning on sticking with the same aesthetic that I used for my first project, “Ski Bum”, but also tying it more into my own aesthetic so that I make something that I will actually use. The ski bum is all about a carefree, adventurous lifestyle, deeply rooted in the culture of skiing, snowboarding,…
A Modern Take on Rajasthani Mirror Work
Hello, everyone! After much thought and way too much Pinterest scrolling, I’ve finally settled on my aesthetic—Rajasthani mirror work. But then came the big question: traditional or modern twist? The Struggle of Choosing a Design Once I made this decision, I did what any rational person would do—I asked my mom. Being the…
Final Project Plans
Not even a week and my project has already changed. This seems to be a pattern with my projects. Before, my plan was to build a custom drum practice pad that doubles as a stick bag and holder. While this seemed like a cool idea, I eventually ran into a thought: Any time I use…
Wooden Buddha Board (Wuddha Board?)
Initially, I was gearing up to center my final project around music, such as capturing the shape of music in a visual way or adding more tactile stimuli to the average listening experience. I was almost certain that I would land on a variation of a chlandi plate or ferrofluid speaker, but struggled to find…
Hidden Compartment Designs
My main project has a chameleon-like aesthetic—somewhere between minimalist, fantasy, and whimsical. I am shooting for a blend of simplicity, storytelling, and playfulness. 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…
Mid-Century Modern Aesthetic: Watch Winder and Alternative Aesthetics
After considering different aesthetics and styles that would look good incorporated in my room, I have decided to follow through with the mid-century modern aesthetic. I enjoy the clean lines and the organic shapes that accompany the aesthetic. Using this aesthetic to create my project will create a cool-looking decoration that can help my room’s…
More or Less Paul
My heavy acoustic guitar background just as heavily influences my high opinion of the traditional form of a guitar, acoustic or non. What sound necessitates in an instrument dependent on its shape yields a fluent, natural, and inherently beautiful form that deserves translation into the electric variation of lutherie where shape, in some cases, influences…
Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives
While exploring different aesthetics for my project, I found myself continually drawn to one aesthetic in particular: Solarpunk. The vision of a green and optimistic future has always made me love this aesthetic. Creating something futuristic yet natural seems very challenging. I’m notorious for not keeping plants alive, and this idea adds too much unpredictability.…
Main Project Plans and Alternatives: Mountain Shelf
For my main project, I will be recreating a mountain shelf I previously made. I discussed my ideas and inspiration for this project in detail in Post 6. The aesthetic I am aiming for is Rustic Modern. The Rustic aspect comes through the use of natural materials, specifically wood, while the Modern style is reflected…
Main project plans and alternatives – Portable AC unit – Post 7
Before I write further, I would like to initially refer to this you tube video for giving me inspiration: My apartment gets unnecessarily hot in the summer months. While my roommates have bought other sorts of smaller AC units such as window mounted ones, I have not. I also do have a cooler that isn’t…
Falling or Swinging?
Main project aesthetic will follow my own, eclectic minimalism, as discussed in the last post. the project itself will be a pendulum contained in a metal support system. Ideally the end of the pendulum will be glass rondle to change ans cast light as it oscillates back and forth. The unpredictable and changes lines cast…
Aesthetics of Industrial Security
For my main project, I am designing and constructing a safe featuring a circular vault door. The aesthetic will have an industrial style, incorporating metallic finishes and exposing the door’s internal mechanisms. I am currently developing the CAD model for the vault mechanism. At the center of the door is a ring gear, which ensures…
Post 7: Main Project Aesthetics: Plans and Alternatives
Brutalism, an architectural and design philosophy, emerged in the mid-20th century, leaving an indelible mark with its raw, uncompromising aesthetic. Primarily known for its concrete monoliths, Brutalism championed the honesty of materials and structural integrity over superficial ornamentation. The term itself, derived from the French “béton brut,” meaning raw concrete, highlights this core principle. Brutalist…
Bioactive Terrarium: Plans and Alternatives
The aesthetic of my main project will be colorful, bold, and nature oriented. I am not sure what to call the aesthetic, but it draws heavily on my love of natural light, bright colors, and natural elements like reptiles and plants. I will be creating a planted terrarium with a self-sustaining ecosystem intended for two…
Exploring Sliding Mechanisms for Bedframe
For my final aesthetics project, I am continuing a bedframe design for my shuttle bus. I want to keep a minimalist aesthetic but add functionality to my current bed frame. The idea is to have a telescoping component for spaced wooden slats to slide into each other, effectively making the bedframe compactable to 1/2 its…
Magnetic Shoe Display
For my final project, I plan to make a magnetic shoe display. When looking for inspiration on what’s already out there, all I could find was this or some slight variation of this The aesthetic of this magnetic shoe display can be described as modern, minimalist, and futuristic. The sleek black frame with an illuminated…
Modernisme or Minimalism, an Artistic Record Player
[2] Antoni Gaudi’s Basílica de la Sagrada Família Modernisme is the Catalan word for modernism, also known as Catalan Art Nouveau. Architect Antoni Gaudí is credited with founding this aesthetic, and his works can be seen across Barcelona. Some of his most notable creations using this aesthetic include Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Casa…
Main Project Aesthetics: Water Flow Skirt
Supplies were rationed to support troops and war efforts during World War II. These rations included silk, nylon, rubber, and leather—common materials used in attire. In an effort to save supplies, available materials for clothing design were severely reduced and design elements using extra fabric were prohibited. After the war, fashion designs were freed from…
Aesthetic Plans & Alternatives
(featured image credit: luxury-pianos.com) (image from tomzgoods on ebay) The aesthetic of my main project will be vintage and highly ornamental. I want my final product to look old and well-used. I will use antiquing painting techniques to imitate natural weathering and wear. I personally like this aesthetic because it emphasizes the history of the…
Rustic Display Stand – Plans and Alternatives
For this project, I plan on creating a staircase shaped display stand with a storage compartment in the back that allows me to show off all the various knick knacks that I’ve collected from different experiences across my life. The design is heavily inspired from stands that are intended to display Lego Minifigures in a…
Abby Rindfuss
Adam Hosburgh
Airyl Dayrit
Alex Jessop
Xander Johnson
Allister James Sequeira
Annie Cai
Andrew Chamberlain
Anjali Shadija
Anthony Makuch
Andrea Marks
Anthony Papaianache
Andrew Perper
Andrew Widner
Ariana Ramirez
Arjun Ramachandran
Arden Villanueva
Ayesha Rawal
Ben Erickson
Ben Harming
Ben Haley
Brian Ahn
Bryce Johnson
Bryan Moreno Najera
Brenton Yu
Cason Lane
Cecelia Shoenfeld
Chris Adami-Sampson
Chrisanna Bertuccio
Witt Young
Claire Markus
Clemens Pacher-Theinburg
Cooper Kramis
Cole Romig
Cole Sites
Cort Sommer
Daniel Carranza Valenzuela
DawnMonique Cantu
Seth Strayer
Danny Vesselovskii
David Whisnant
Delos Ashcraft
Dev Mahajan
Ellyse Jensen
Elise Johnson
Eli Skelly
Eric Fiechtner
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Francine Palmos
Garrett Jimenez
Garrison Nazare
Rauba, Grady
Reilly, Greg
Grant Thompson
Isaiah Straubel
Jamie Blanco
Jacob Foley
Jack Franz
Jacob Krajnik
James Overberg
Jaks Praeger
Jax Whitham
Jessica Vo
Joe Yoder
Jules Fischer-White
Kalin Myers
Keith Hemenway
Kyle Chinn
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Lindsey Trussell
Luke Gordon
Matt Bloomfield
Matthew Cumpton
Mateo Esteve
Matt Sherman
Max Van Cleave
Max Williams
Mila Bergmann-Ruzicka
Min Than
Mia Winstead
Nile Brown
Nita Byati
Nick Rios
Pisay Suzuki
Robert Forstbauer
Rystan Qualls
Sam Nicastro
Scott Ehrlich
Seth Dry
Sean Ostrander
Senayt Wolde
Shreya Pradeep Sekar
Sofia Fernandez
Sylvia Robles
Tay Cummins
Tanmay Mhatre
Taylor Wittwer
Thomas Brentano
Tyler L'hotta
Tyler Lloyd
Zoe Cooper
Sammie Duran
Jean Hertzberg
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