Soiled
Soiled
project image
ROLE
3D Renderer & Animator,
Researcher, Designer
TYPE
Speculative | Material Design
DATE
November, 2021 (1 month)
SK-
ILLS
MAYA
MATERIAL DESIGN
SPECULATIVE DESIGN
ACADEMIC
TEAM OF FOUR
FINAL PROJECT

CON

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TEX

T

BRI
This project is a speculative design project that focuses on key moments and decisions made throughout the design process, as well as the public's engagement with the showcased artifacts. The project required research into the initial framing, interests, research, and related works, exploring various concepts and speculative design approaches. In the later stages involves with shaping the final form, materials, technical approaches, and interactions of the artifact.
The project aimed to provide insights and learnings for future design practices. Its objectives included researching related design concepts, exploring the design space and alternative approaches. In addition, it examined forms, materials, technical approaches, and interactions in relation to the concept. The overall goals were to effectively communicate the work to the general public, demonstrate the functionality of the artifact, and reflect on the design process.
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SHOW
-CASE
PRO-
CESS
research

01

Research

I conducted brainstorming and research, focused on the topic of climate change and related design projects. Also sought inspiration from diverse sources, analyzing concepts and approaches adopted by other projects addressing climate change. One inspiring example was "HORTUS," an interactive cyber-gardening system where visitors contribute CO2 to nourish algae within bio-pixels. These researches guided our design process, leading to various design sketches in the next process.

02

Ideas &
Sketches

We converted our brainstorm ideas into draft sketches, aiming to create a tangible connection between users and climate change. One of the initial concepts was a project planter, enabling users to grow plants while tracking their carbon emissions. Precision light rays controlled plant growth and decay. Throughout the process, the team was captivated by the idea of using a table, adding a playful element to their design concept.
sketch
modeling

03

Modeling

I created the 3D model of the artifact following the elements of an hourglass figure that divides the plant system into monitored sections. Overhead terrariums enclosed independent ecosystems within homes, allowing manipulation of plant growth speed. Additionally, a hanging fixture served as an aesthetically pleasing decoration, utilizing unused space while providing a sense of life. Organic textures were used, employing translucent materials for a frosty, semi-transparent effect, which showcased the internal function of the planter.

04

Public
Showcase

We created a home-like atmosphere with a grate installation, adorned with plants and light bulbs, giving the audience a context for envisioning the Soiled planters in use. A video showcase offered an overview of the project, explaining how to interact with the Planter and its functionality, projected through a projector for better content visibility. Lastly a captivating before-and-after comparison visually demonstrated the carbon emissions of transportation through the mechanism, engaging the audience throughout the exhibition.
public_showcase
CONCLU
-SION
In this project, I took on the roles of a 3D renderer, animator, researcher, and designer, contributing to a speculative design endeavor focusing on climate change. The research phase was crucial, and I found inspiration from various sources, including the interactive "HORTUS" project. The idea development process resulted in intriguing design sketches, and I translated them into a detailed 3D model. The public showcase was a success, as we created an immersive atmosphere with the grate installation and effectively communicated the project through the video presentation. Looking back, improving the coordination between team members during the modeling process could have led to an even smoother workflow. Overall, this project allowed me to apply my skills in material design and speculative design, providing valuable insights for future design practices.