Parenthesis Desk
CONTEXT
ArtCenter College of Design
Los Angeles, Furniture Program
BRIEF
How might we design furniture that enhances productivity and comfort for individuals in hybrid work environments, seamlessly supporting both remote and in-office settings?
SCOPE
Based on the brief, I designed a minimalist desk tailored for computer users who need a compact workspace focused on efficiency. The design emphasizes simplicity, allowing the laptop to be easily concealed at the end of the workday, thereby fostering a sense of calm and tidiness.
CONCEPT
I got an idea of using industrial cylinder aluminum cut-offs to build a desk. I aimed to create a piece that conveyed a sense of balance while exploring the concept of tension - combining direction with steadiness. I envisioned the two cylinders with caps actively creating the gap between them by moving apart, with the leather both embracing and subtly restricting their movement, thus maintaining their position.
PARENTHESIS
The title of the table, (Parenthesis) highlights the functional purpose of the gap it features. This space acts as a shelf, inviting you to place your laptop or notebook when it's time to step away from work for the day, thereby symbolizing a healthy work/life balance. Additionally, Parenthesis suggests moments of pause and afterthoughts.
SOFTWARE
Rhino
Fusion 360
Keyshot
Illustrator
FABRICATION
The desk was crafted partly by me and partly by professional fabricators whom I chose to collaborate with. Throughout the process, I built mock-ups and two prototypes before constructing the final piece. In the photos below, a welder assists me in building the first prototype, and in the third photo, I am using a metal lathe to create the four caps. The last photo showcases two different finishes that I tested.
Welder
Lathe
Sanded finish vs Shiny finish
MATERIALS
An alluring contrast and interplay emerge between the soft leather and the sturdy aluminum.
