Top 5 for building a coffee table
What are the top 5 things you want your project to look like, to feel like, to do? 1. Clean and SimpleI’m going for that modern aesthetic. This means I will have smooth surfaces, clean joinery, no extra stuff (patterns, designs, tapering) 2. Actually FunctionalIt has to work as a coffee table. It can’t be…
Magic Crystal Bedside Lamp
For my project, I want to make a bedside lamp that both acts as a nightlight, and a portable flashlight device for walking around in the dark. Aesthetically I would like it to look like a large crystal, and functionally I would like it to feel magical. Organizing this into a more specific set of…
5 Specifications and 5 Constraints 3D Printed Strandbeast
Top 5 Wants: To characterize this project as a success, I want it to achieve these five aspects: a non-plastic appearance, a color scheme that reflects steampunk aesthetics, the ability to walk in place, an alternative power source beyond just wind, and a design that stays true to the original form of a Strandbeest. 1.) I…
Doodlecore Embroidery Skirts: Specifications & Constraints
For my main project, I’m sewing a skirt and embroidering a doodlecore, water-inspired design onto it. If I have time, I’ll finish a second skirt that’s inspired by lantern festivals. Top 5 Specifications: The skirt fits and is wearable/washable. The skirt twirls/flows nicely. The sewing looks nice (and mostly clean). There aren’t any big problems…
Goals and Constrains: Optical Illusion Cutting Board
Goals 1. To look like the plans that I have I got plans for this project from the original creator MTMwood on youtube. It was 9$ and comes with a full pdf of instructions and a sketchup model of the board. I ended up modifying the model to 3 different types of wood instead of…
Specifications and Constraints
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. I want my project to look cozy, traditional, and handmade. This project is for my mom, and…
Specs and Constraints for Dynamic Bed Frame
Featured photo: telescoping inspiration from Camping World For my dynamic shuttle bus bed frame, there are several things I have in mind that will make it a successful project, both aesthetically and functionally. Additionally, there are a lot of constraints that I will need to work around to ensure that this project meets these requirements.…
Moon Diorama: Specifications and Constraints
Going into this project, I knew that there would be quite a few specifications that I would need to follow in order to achieve the Lunarpunk aesthetic that I am going for, as well as still allow the project to be functional. In order to make sure I achieve these goals, I have listed 5…
Specifications and Concerns: the Board that Follows
As the semester draws to a close, I find myself deeply immersed in my interactive art installation project. What began as a simple concept has evolved into something more complex, challenging me to balance artistic ambition with practical constraints. Above all, I’m striving for elegance in execution. There’s something deeply satisfying about work that’s well-crafted—where…
Cylinder Lamp – Specifications and Constraints
Progress Progress is going well. Although I did not get much work done over Spring break, I have made some progress over the last few days. Below are some sketches that show some of the design features of the lamp. Sketch Sketch Footprint Physical Prototype I have constructed a proof of concept prototype.…
Constraints and Specifications
Determining specifications and constraints is a very important part of any design process. In this blog post, I will detail my top 5 of each. First, the specifications: 1: First and foremost, the flint knapping tools should function. As a tool, the most important job is to perform its job well, especially a custom tool…
Modern Accent Table: Specifications and Constraints
Progress Updates The project has been going very well so far, and Spring break gave me a great opportunity to make significant progress on fabrication. I was able to cut all the plywood pieces needed for the build, and I’ve already sanded most of them to ensure a smooth surface for staining later on. One…
Specs and Constraints of the Wöddha Board
My ideation and fabrication of the Wöddha Board is underway, beginning with an early prototype to answer some questions around form and function. Using cardboard, tape, pipe cleaners, and some makeshift buttons, I was able to design a small-scale version of my box and begin “interacting” with it: This process led to valuable insights, such…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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.…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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: 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…
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…
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 | 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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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 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 Inspirations
My formative years are in the late 90’s and early 2000’s and my group of friends and I were inspired by the punk/grunge/skateboarding scenes. We were a small group of kids in a small town in rural Colorado, and our exposure to anything other than farming and ranching was what we saw on television, or…
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…
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…
The Vintage Surf Aesthetic & Alternatives
In my upcoming project, I’m excited to delve into creating a custom pressed skateboard deck, drawing inspiration from the intertwined eras of vintage surf and classic skate culture. As mentioned in a previous post, my aim is to capture the essence of a time when these two cultures melded seamlessly together. [Image 1] The vintage…
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,…
Urban Ivy Aesthetic
Seattle’s unique blend of urban energy and lush greenery has played a huge role in shaping my personal aesthetic. Growing up, I was constantly surrounded by a skyline of modern skyscrapers, shipyards, and that ever-present misty rain, which pushed me toward an “industrial vine” or “urban ivy” style. I find myself drawn to major 20th-century…
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…
Personal Aesthetic
My personal aesthetic, I don’t think has a name. It draws on a lot of the major elements of my life. My hobbies, my family, my past all affect it in unique ways. I think it is most significantly represented in the clothes I wear. While it also affects my living space, my work, and…
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…
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…
Tuscan Aesthetic
A personal aesthetic I strongly identify with is the Tuscan aesthetic. There is something timeless about its blend of warmth, craftsmanship, and organic imperfection. It values natural materials such as aged wood, exposed stone, and sun-washed stone, creating an environment that feels earthy and inviting. I personally don’t enjoy modern minimalism, I enjoy things that…
Main Project Plans and Inspirations – Favorite World Aesthetics
When thinking about my personal aesthetic, I immediately defined it in terms of the things I love in art and media, as opposed to my clothing or room style, for example. I think this is a truer indication of who I am and what I enjoy. I really enjoy all kinds of art including TV,…
Personal Aesthetic- Sunshine, Reptiles, and Color
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…
Magic Crystal Bedside Lamp
For my main project I would like to stick with the medieval fantasy aesthetic. The problem I currently have a little electric candle that I use as a night light next to my bed. I keep it on at night when I want low light or I take it with me as I use the…
Cardboard Fantasy Helmet
For my upcycle project I took inspiration this leather helmet I found last December at an art market. Figure 1: Leather fantasy style helmet that is the source of my inspiration for this project. The aesthetic is “Medieval Fantasy” along the lines of Lord of the Rings, Dungeons and Dragons, or the countless other properties…
Our current reality: Stupid Futurism
For my upcycle project I am taking inspiration a leather helmet I found last December at an art market. The aesthetic is “Medieval Fantasy” along the lines of Lord of the Rings, Dungeons and Dragons, or the countless other properties that incorporate knights and swords and dragons and the like. I will be using cardboard and…
Dark Earthly Whimsical & Project Plans
I think my personal aesthetic is something like Dark Earthly Whimsical, this doesn’t necessarily capture my own aesthetic but it is one that I always come back to over and over again. This aesthetic means a lot to me because of the movie Coraline. This movie has been my favorite movie for as long as…
Water Filter – Tibetan Design Aesthetic
I have studied water throughout my Environmental Engineering education, and am currently in need of a good water filter at my house to remove chlorine, fluoride, and lead from Boulder tap water (City of Boulder Drinking Water Report, 2024), as well as potentially PFAS. For my final project I would like to incorporate my knowledge…
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
Evan McCleary
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
Lia Cucuzzella
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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