Year
2024-2025
Challenge
Design a sustainable, modular product that fosters a circular lifestyle.
My Role
UX Research
Mixed-Methods Research Product Development
High-Fidelity Prototyping Design Strategy
Tools
Figma,
Adobe Illustrator
Photoshop
Adobe Suite AfterEffects
AutoCAD
Sketchup
Why do we discard household items so easily? In a consumer-driven world, homes often accumulate excess belongings that quickly become obsolete, contributing to waste and environmental harm.
Philosophy
Rooted in sustainability, the traditional East Asian design practice of Jirnoddhar emphasized conservation, repair, and adaptive renovation of temple structures, reflecting a philosophy of longevity and mindful restoration.
Circular Economy
Design philosophies like Cradle to Cradle, Biomimicry, and Design for Deconstruction promote a circular economy, focusing on reuse, repair, and recycling to reduce waste, especially in construction.
Problem Space
In the home context, reducing waste by accommodating changing needs and minimizing the accumulation of unnecessary belongings.
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Why do people discard perfectly usable furniture?
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Changing Needs
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Seasonal Trends
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Aesthetic Sensibilities
Research Question
This interaction design project explores
How can household objects or furniture adapt to life's stages, fostering sustainability and supporting a circular economy?
Design and Research Methodology
Literature + Artifact Reviews
Key takeaways:
Ensuring adaptability
Optimizing small-space functionality
Offering care and repair guidance
Integrating technology to shift from a linear to a circular economy
Design Outcome
Tiny Roots
A desk crafted to grow with you. From childhood creativity to lifelong projects, the Tiny Roots desk is a modular, adaptable heirloom designed to transform and evolve at every stage of life. With its seamless construction and timeless charm, it's not just furniture—it's a treasured gift that endures.
Precedent Product
The desk emerged as a key focus through interviews, as participants frequently highlighted its role across various life stages. Its versatility makes it an ideal subject for design exploration, opening research opportunities in ergonomics and materiality.
Design Values
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Adaptability, Modularity, and Durability – Ensuring the product evolves with changing needs.
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Legacy & Heirloom Quality – Designed to be cherished, gifted, and passed down.
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Personalization – Creating meaningful connections across generations.
Content Strategy
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Adaptability, Modularity, and Durability – Ensuring the product evolves with changing needs.
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Legacy & Heirloom Quality – Designed to be cherished, gifted, and passed down.
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Personalization – Creating meaningful connections across generations.
Reflections and Values
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Promote a shift towards intentional, long-lasting design that adapts to a person's evolving needs over time.
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Challenge the disposable culture of furniture buying, encouraging emotional attachment and sustainability.
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Paves the way for a broader line of adaptable products that grow with individuals, enhancing their everyday experiences