Concept Precedent Studies

Using my concept to research and look into pre-existing transformable and adaptable design that have been incorporated into architecture, interiors and product design.

ZOKU HOTEL

AMSTERDAM

By: Dutch studio Concrete

“As space is becoming scarcer in urban areas, the way we use it sustainably to meet long-term accommodation requirements is more and more relevant.” - Concrete Architects

This first case study represents flexible, compact living through the use of transformable design. For example, the hotel suite was designed to create micro-apartments giving occupants more space and flexibility (similar to Unite d’Habitation by, Le Corbusier). The apartment is open-plan with a mezzanine level. On the ground floor you have; the living area, dining and kitchen, under-bed offices are also incorporated. The bedroom is on the mezzanine level accessed using the retractable staircase. There are also cubbyholes below the staircase for storage.

Sustainability was a vital part of the design. For instance, using smart solutions e.g. constructing vertically and making use of compact living means there is less use of square metres. Additionally, designers ensured sustainable materials were used. For example bamboo for partition screens, dining table tops, flooring etc. HOW WILL THIS INFLUENCE MY DESIGN?

Having looked at this case study, it has sparked ideas that I could incorporate into my design. For example, adding a mezzanine floor would allow more floor space for occupants but, it would also allow opportunity to add additional spaces underneath for storage or even an under-bed office similar to their design in this case study. Additionally, I really liked their approach of sustainable design by creating smart solutions of compact living and the use materiality. These are elements I would like to include in my design as I think it is very relevant to my site, manifesto and overall design proposal.

This second precedent study uses a similar process to my origami concept. The designers have utilised wooden materials to create partitions and fold-able furniture that can easily be folded away when not in use. The space was divided into segments occupying different uses. The aim of the design was to create a flexible space. By integrating a series of fold-down and sliding devices it allowed the user to adapt the space to their needs.

The theme of the design has similarities to Japanese architecture by using translucent screens that are light and easy to move. Additionally, the architects have described the space as having a similar configuration to “the black box in a theatre: a stage that can alter the domestic setting with simple operations that turn on house into many.”

Just like origami, this precedent study uses minimal materials that transform into multiple things/uses. Moreover, the design process can be replicated and used again throughout the space. For example, the batons of the wood help support the screens and this is replicated throughout. HOW WILL THIS INFLUENCE MY DESIGN?

The use of fold-able and sliding compartments is cleverly used to create a more spacious space for the user. This is something that I would like to use in my own design. I want my users (students) to have enough space and storage without having anything fixed. I like the idea of versatility and the user having control of how they live and occupy the space. However, with this particular design created by Elii Architects, the only downfall is that students might not want to constantly foldaway their things if they are working and want to get back to it. Additionally, it might get confusing for students to figure out the folding mechanisms. Therefore, I think using elements of this precedent is good but, I wouldn’t make the whole space fold-able.

COMPACT APARTMENT

MADRID

By: Elii Architects

“How can you get a multitude of spaces out of only one?” - Elii Architects

TEL AVIV APARTMENT

ISRAEL

By: Ranaan Stern

This room was designed and carefully configured for an artist. The aim was to create a studio with all the facilities and equipment the user would possibly need. For example, the studio included, two desks, 36 drawers, modular storage compartments, pegboard display wall and a folding bed. The space was multi-functional - both for living and working. A similar design to what I want to incorporate into my own proposal.

To ensure space reflected the user needs, the designers had to understand the user. They found that the artist “creates and collects a range of art pieces, most are 2D but also some small sculptures, books and old materials.” Therefore, it was vital to include different storage units, varying in size to keep various things. These storage units were also used for the artists’ tools and materials. In order to minimise confusion, the designers colour coded each drawer, so it made it easier for the user to locate their belongings. A fold-able bed has been incorporated and can easily be folded away.

The use of materials in this project is similar to the previous precedent studies. This project uses lightweight birch for the furniture and flooring. The material works well within the room, giving it a natural, organic and light aesthetic. HOW WILL THIS INFLUENCE MY DESIGN?

This precedent study is very relevant to my design as it focuses on creating a multi-purpose space for an artist. The designers have ensured they have understood the user’s needs (similar to what I’ve been doing by conducting questionnaires). They have managed to design a room that has enough space and storage. Additionally, lighting has also been carefully thought of by adding big windows with blinds and curtains that the artist can easily adjust to their liking. The main part that I really like and will be incorporating into my design is the range of storage units they have included. All the units vary in size and are colour coded which I think is a very clever design.

This example was designed by Japanese designer Yumi Yoshida inspired by origami. Yoshida created a mat that can be folded into a two-seat sofa as well as a flat sheet mat that users can lie on. The Origami sofa has a series of upholstery panels in between two other layers of fabric. “Each of the pieces are separated by a fold allowing the segments to be manipulated into a self-supporting seat.” The colours on the mat also replicates the paper used to make origami.

HOW WILL THIS INFLUENCE MY DESIGN?

This precedent study has a fun element to it which I want to include into my design. It also uses a different material (fabric) compared to the other precedent studies. The material gives it a softer and warmer feel in comparison to the wooden materials used previously. This first example of transformable furniture design was created by two architects based in Bucharest, Romania. The dining table can be folded out and back into the wall when not in use. It takes on this folding element from origami. Again the materials used are similar to previous case studies. Using some form of wood seems to be a popular when designing versatile spaces and furniture.

HOW WILL THIS INFLUENCE MY DESIGN?

Folding furniture seems to be popular strategy to create more room in a space. I could utilise this feature when designing the communal and/or recreational spaces.

PRODUCT DESIGN

TRANSFORMABLE FURNITURE

Image 1: Folding table by Rosu Ciocodeica & Attila Kim Image 2: Origami sofa by Yumi Yoshida