HOW IT'S MADE
The Design Process
Stories
by Eddie
INSPIRATION STRIKES AT THE WEIRDEST TIMES
Sometimes, you get an idea in your head, and you have got to sketch it down…
The first sketch of The Sideboard
MATERIAL SELECTION
The next step was to find materials that would allow warmth and contrast to shine through the design.
Hardwood samples from our collection were evaluated against each other and in combination, taking into account availability, workability, finishing and sustainable options.
The final decision was to use Maple and Dark Walnut. Two hardwoods with tight natural grain detail and stunning natural contrast.
To add some texture and further refinement to the Sideboard, I wanted to experiment with Rattan after being inspired by some older style pieces from the 1950's.
The commonly available material comes in many different forms, but mainly in close-weave and large-weave, so our selection became a question of visual appeal.
The close-weave pattern (L) gives a more refined and discreet change of texture than the large weave (R), plus you would be able to directly see inside the cavity, which is undesirable in this instance
The clear contrasts of colour and texture help the Sideboard have a visual impact, elevating it's presence in the room, but remaining unobtrusive.
DETAILS
Different styles of leg were evaluated from the sketch below, taking care not to present unwanted proportions or trip hazards.
FINAL SKETCH
After evaluating our options, choices and selections, a final tweak was done to the original sketch, giving a visual benchmark to start our prototyping process.
The final sketch of The Sideboard with added dimensions and the legs moved to the outer edge of the frame.