Design Innovations

'A Private Space in a Public Place'

'The Shape-Shifting Shelter'

This project was designed to make us move out of our usual creative comfort zones. We were instructed to be as creative as possible, as to actually enjoy our designs, rather than placing emphasis on regulations and the constraints of 'normal' designs.

I proposed to design a 'shape-shifting shelter', which could be located in any of the many high pedestrianised areas of Leeds, which would offer some shelter from the elements for shoppers on a day to day basis.

My development for this project began by using the influences of origami and movement. I began by looking into the simple forms of folding and the mechanics of how the design would actually be able to move and flow. I soon discovered that the different types of folding allowed each shape to move in its own individual way.

I began by making basic sketch models which allowed me to experiment with what would and wouldn't work. I used a range of folding patterns and techniques ranging from simple horizontal and vertical extensions, to shapes which could bend and transform into different three dimensional forms.

The models themselves proved to be more difficult than first anticipated as the movement which was available from beginner origami patterns was limited and therefore limited the amount of experimentation.

Elements of the design such as the materials used, along with alternative shapes could prove beneficial in the final outcome to be produced. It was the repeated mistakes which made me become engrossed in achieving a working model which I could be proud of.

The Annabelle Evenson Memorial Award

Just a little update.

At the opening night of my Degree Show I was awarded the Annabelle Evenson Memorial Award for 'Most Outstanding Progress' in the Final Year. 

Without going into too much detail, I struggled a lot with my 2nd year of my Degree due to a build up of unforeseen circumstances and illnesses which in turn caused me to fail and or just scrape through my modules. In my Final year I have finally been able to put the time and effort into my work which it really deserved, and this award has been the proof and recognition of my transformation.

So, a big thank you to everyone who has helped me get to this stage (you know who you are), and I hope this confidence boost will help me in my future projects and job hunting quest!

Exhibition Update: Free Range

As of a couple of weeks ago, I have been entered into the Free Range London Exhibition this Summer. I cannot begin to describe what an honour this was to be one of the chosen 10 exhibiting from my degree course at Leeds College of Art.

This Exhibition will give me the opportunity to display my work and portfolio to potential clients and/or future employers from the whole of the South of England.

I am greatly looking forward to this opportunity and to gain some experience from the various seminars which will be scheduled for the event.

Updates on the exhibition will be coming soon!

Final Major Project

'The Cask' at Hopkins Brewery

For my Final Major Project, I decided to design a micro craft brewery and bar. This was mainly due to the fact that I thought that this would prove the most challenging yet enjoyable project. 

The project allowed me to experience the brewing process first hand, and to actually learn about what would be made at the new location in Brewery Wharf, Leeds, not just what was needed to design it.

I focused mainly on the bar area for this design, as it was this which would allow me to be my most creative. I decided from the start that I wanted the design aesthetic to reflect the robust industrial processes of the historical brewing methods.

This project was the first which required me to include everything which I had learnt to date. I had to use my skills to produce condition reports, feasibility studies, detailed plans and sections, detailed drawing as well as strong visual representation of my final design. 

Visual progression of the bar interior.

The materials and colours used were to reflect the tones of the beers and ales produced. Warm reds, golds and copper colours highlight key areas of the space, creating as overall warm atmosphere.

Designing for Client

'A Fragment of Time'

Like ESA, Lotherton Hall was another 'live' project. This allowed us to get first hand experience of client facing, and creating a design based on the needs and wants of the users of the new space. 

Lotherton Hall is a historic house in Leeds, which provides tours as well as function and recreational space. However, they wanted to expand into the original stable blocks which were currently disused.

They had decided that they wanted a new space for functions, which would be separate to the more public areas, as well as an over-spill cafe, and a new gift shop and information centre.

Myself and my team mate decided upon the concept 'A Fragment of Time' as we wanted to retain the character and integrity of the building in our new design. There were also a lot of historical features which we felt needed to be incorporated into the new space, to allow parts of the buildings history to shine through.

We also decided to take some influence from a clock mechanism. As time was a feature in our design, as we wanted the space to have the atmosphere of being captured in the historical space.

 

Interior Design Degree Show

I am pleased to announce that I will be exhibiting my Final Major Project in Leeds from the 17-21 June 2013.

Business Cards/Logo

For my Personal and Professional Development Module, I have been required to design my own logo and business card. 

I have wanted to create something simple yet personal to me. 

 I had initially wanted to incorporate birds somehow in to my design. I felt that silhouettes allowed for creative detail without drawing attention away from what the card/logo was to stand for. Me. 

Next I decided to remove the birds altogether. I feel that the simple overlaid pastel circles are understated and still allow for femininity to show through.

I finally chose this as my main logo. I decided to stick with the pastel tones, but simplify the design even further. The initials make the card straight to the point and allow my name to be the most prominent feature of the design.