Ella Calas Root
Jan 2025
CCS MA CMF Candidate
1 CALTY SPONSORED STUDIO
Sponsored group project with a CMF, Interior, and Exterior design student that collaborated to create a design for a family of four for 2030 based on a inspiration object from nature.
INTERIOR
EXTERIOR
Exterior / Rendering Matilda Wojtowicz
CMF ELLA CALAS ROOT
DESIGN OMKAR JADHAV
DESIGN MATILDA WOJTOWICZ
INSPIRATION / CONSUMER
INSPIRATION OBJECT:
Conch Shell
Conch are a species of sea snails that live in the ocean. Their shells grow with them throughout their life span in a process called bio-mineralization. From the time the conch snail hatches, it grows new layers of exterior protection. As the snail gets larger, its shell does as well. Their shell acts as a portable shelter and is critical in protecting them from exterior elements as well as their internal health. Their appearance changes over time revealing stunning patterns and colors as the shell grows.
Adaptive / Structural / Fluid
THE AKANA FAMILY
Our family of four resides in Oahu, Hawaii. They run a generational family restaurant located on the coast. Their youngest is 10 years old and they have a 15 year old daughter. They enjoy spending time at by the ocean and playing at the beach with their dog. Their parents enjoy unwinding by going stargazing to take a break from everyday work.
OAHU, HAWAII
Around 70% of Hawaii’s population resides on the main island where temperatures remain around 68–85°F year-round. Locals often enjoy activities like surfing and scuba diving. Hospitality including hotels and restaurants is the primary industry.
Ruth Burke Sean Oulashain
Generated with Adobe Firefly
TREND RESEARCH
POSITIVE CYCLES SERENE SPACES NUANCED TECH
Developing materials from circular or regenerative sources with a focus on Earth-centered design, prioritizing climate-conscious production methods. Emphasis on biodegradable materials, post-consumer waste, and circular economy models.New car production in Europe currently incorporates approximately 23% recycled materials. Projections indicate this could rise to 59% by 2040. (Bain)
Wellness trends are shaping product and interior design by creating calming, nature-inspired spaces. Biophilic design, natural light, and bright colors enhance mood, mental activity, and energy levels. A pilot study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania explored how nature-inspired design elements affect attention, memory, creativity, and mood. While specific statistics were not detailed, the study suggests that such designs can positively influence cognitive functions and emotional states. (Penn Today)
Seamless lifestyle-enhancing technology, with AI supporting healthy routines through habit monitoring. Designed to assist users without causing distractions. This approach aligns with the concept of “Heads-Up Computing,” which emphasizes seamless computing support for daily activities without diverting attention. (Arxiv)
Radiant Matter Studio Saxe
Mui Board
CMF NARRATIVE: COSTAL CONNECTION
In Hawaiian culture , a deep connection to nature is central to life. Natural artifacts like seashells symbolize the bond between humans and the environment , evoking memories of the ocean’s beauty and serenity. Core principles such as malama `āina (care for the land) and malama kai (care for the sea) emphasize the importance of protecting and respecting the natural world .
Jernej Graj
Cristian Palmer
Jordan McQueen
PATTERN DEVELOPMENT
Shell Growth Lines
Fluid Wave Pattern
Linear Growth Patterns
Ella Calas Root
Ella Calas Root
Thierry Meier
EXTERIOR COLOR PALETTE
L : 67.95
a : -11.33
b : 2.4
Coastline Opal Gray
L 79.68
a : 2.96
b : -7.07
L : 82.2
a : 5.28
b 0.97
L : 57.86
a : 7.71
b : -5.16
L : 35.8
a : 5.76
b : 4.36
Lustrous Shimmer
Lava Rock
Beachbreak
INTERIOR PALETTE 1
Creme Atlier
Gisela Colón
Francesco Balzano
Jenna Cooper
Homu Design AU
Soft Brown
Whorl Gray
Queen Conch
White Pearl
Sun Bask Tan
INTERIOR PALETTE 1
Model by Omkar Jadhav
Rendering by Ella Calas
Taglia Ferro
Jeremy Bishop
Lisa Cahill
Moonpath
Precious Coral White Sands
Spindrift
Fine Tephra
INTERIOR PALETTE 1
Model by Omkar Jadhav Rendering by Ella Calas
DIGITAL TRAYS
PHYSICAL TRAYS
2 COLOR LAB
Global product and color palette selection with customer research. The final including product renderings, material selection and physical samples representing chosen colors.
Playful with Age
December 2024
Ella Calas
PRODUCT INDUSTRY: AI COMPANIONS
Elli-Q AI Care Companion Robot
Globally, people are experiencing epidemic levels of lonliness. Aproximately one in three seniors feel lonely aroiund the world (World Health Organization). This can have a significant impact on an individuals physical and mental health.
With the rapid growth of AI, the demand for artificial companions is growing as well. A survey published by the National Library of Medicine stated that 28% of older adults surveyd felt that an aritificial companion would probably make them feel less lonely.
Elli-Q is designed to provide engagement and interaction for the user like reminders, conversation, activity suggestions and health tracking. She can get to know the user and personalize these suggestions.
CURRENT COLORS
OVERVIEW
The proposed color palette was intended to create a balanced combination of vibrant and energetic colors with calming neutrals to promote approachability, playfulness and engagement.
Over time our eyes change and we percieve color differently than at different points in our lives. Surveys show that older adults prefer bright colors with a medium saturation along with familiar colors found in nature. According to Newsweek, older populations see color as less saturated than younger adults.
Studies have shown that seniors prefer different colors depending on the activity they are participating in. Warm colors were generally prefered for higher energy and stimulating activites where cooler colors were percieved to be more calming (Science Direct).
Joan MacDonald Maciek Miloch
CONSUMER & TREND RESEARCH
GRANDFLUENCING FLAT AGE HEALTH MONITORING
82.3% of Boomers use at least one social media site (Business Dasher). Nearly 25% of grandparents want to learn how to use TikTok as a way to connect with their grandchildren (LSN/TalkTalk).
Smart health monitoring devices are becoming increasigly popular. Over half of adults aged 55 and older now use assistive technology, according to the Association of Health Care Journalists.
Global life expectancy is rising and is expected to increase by nearly five years by 2050 (Healthdata.org). This growth is accompanied by a shift toward using modern tools to bridge generational connections.
UDL Industrial Design
Larry Vox
Elena Tamburini
Elena Tamburini
Iris Afpel Pangaia
Rishabh Gandhi
Candice Blanc and Ulysse Martel
COLOR PALETTE
Emily Small
Citrus
Warm Paprika Pantone 7608 C
Porceline
GLOBAL COLOR SELECTION
JAPAN AUSTRALIA
Orange:
Symbolizes vitality and courage.Linked to celebrations and Shinto rituals.
Lilac: Represents elegance, femininity, and nostalgia.
White: Signifies purity, cleanliness, and new beginnings.Used in rituals, weddings, and funerals.
Blue:
Symbolizes trust, stability, and calmness. Associated with Australia’s vast skies and oceans.
Green: Represents nature, growth, and harmony.Strongly tied to Australia’s landscapes, forests, and environmental awareness.
Lilac: Symbolizes creativity, individuality, and spirituality. Associated with reflection and subtlety.
ITALY
CHINA FINLAND
Red:
Symbolizes love, passion, and vitality. Represents the Catholic Church and Italy’s historic struggles for independence.
Orange: Represents energy, warmth, and optmism. Associated with the sun, Mediterranean culture, and vibrant celebrations.
White: Symbolizes purity, peace, and spirituality.
Pink:
Symbolizes love, romance, and femininity. A modern adaptation of Western influence; less traditional in Chinese culture.
Green: Represents growth, harmony, and health.
Red: Symbolizes luck, happiness, and prosperity.
Blue: Symbolizes calmness, trust, and loyalty. Represents Finland’s natural elements, such as its vast lakes and clear skies.
Lilac: Symbolizes tranquility, creativity, and subtlety. Often associated with springtime and blooming nature.
Pink: Represents warmth, affection,
ATTRIBUTES / MATERIAL RESUME
Anodized Aluminum
Infinitely recycleable, can be colored without the use of coatings using electricity to change the oxide layer
Frosted Molded Plastic
Creates a soft diffused glow for the lighting element
Easy to clean and very durable
Intuitive and accessable for the user, clear image quality
Easy to clean, hides minor imperfections, soft and pleasant tactile finish
Daniel Rybakken + Andreas Engesvik
Minimalux
Soft Touch Silicone
Touch Responsive Glass
Satin Molded Plastic
Electronics ForU
Cara Supply
JAPAN
CHINA
CHINA
Porceline Pantone 664 C
SPECIAL EDITION: A warm pink shade is available in this color way to act as a happy light for individuals that suffer from seasonal affective disorder.
Blue Zone
3 TREND RESEARCH
Trend research based on a historical refrence as a starting point to develop two potential future trend concepts
COLLECTIVE ZONES
Trend Forecasting of Collaborative Spaces
December 2024
Ella Calas
HISTORICAL REFRENCE
Alexander Girard is known for his use of vibrant colors and playful interior design. He was said to be one of the first interior designers to recognize that interiors should make people comfortable as well as be functional. He was significantly inspired by folk art and this came through in his work.
INDUSTRY LANDSCAPE:
Interior Design in Collaborative Spaces
Over the past year, the market for co-working spaces has grown from $19.05 billion to $22.44 billion, according to a Global Market Report from The Business Research Company.
The U.S. Career Institute states that 65% of employees would prefer to work remotely full-time.
A forbes article published that 85% of Gen- Zers prefer upfront, straightforward and consistent communication. 53% of Gen-Z value more face-to-face and personal interaction over messaging or emails
A survey by Oak Engage found that half (50%) of remote workers feel more isolated and lonely working from home with young workers (those aged 16-24) most likely to be affected
Technological
Research published by Psychology Today indicates that between 60% - 80% of global workers suffer from digital overload, stemming from constant interruptions, work-family concepts, email inudation and information overload
Rapid AI growth
Gen z has a complex view of AI, seeing it as both a tool, but something to be used with caution. Newsweek states that Gen Z is the most skeptical of AI
Mental Health APA states that individuals part of Gen Z are more likely to report health concerns than previous generations. Some calling them “the loneliest generation”
Generational
77% of Zoomers value working for a company that prioritizes diversity, equity and inclusion, according to Talentlms
In research from Deloitte, around 45% of Gen Z employees have changed or plan to change jobs due to climate concerns
As published by Pew Research, nearly half of all Gen Zers belong to a minority group
ResumeLab found that 83% of Gen Z workders consider themselves job hoppers
Lack of flexibility is an issue in the workplace for Zoomers. According to data from Handshake, 82% of this generation thinks remote work should be an option and 70% would be more likely to apply for a job that offered a flexible schedule
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that Gen Z will make up 30% of the workforce by 2030
An American author, Marc Prensky coined the term “Digital Natives” This term is used to describe the first generation, never knowing a world without the internet
AUTOMOTIVE INTERIORS
Automotive companies are addressing increasing demands for adaptability in cabins by focusing on flexible elements that can be collapsed, adjusted, or detached depending on the activity of the user. By taking a human centric approach, traditional interior configurations are changing to meet the changing needs of passengers. (WGSN)
REFLECTIVE COLLABORATORS
Gen Z Age 20-27
It is estimated that Zoomers will make up 30% of the workforce by 2030 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Creative, non-traditional, innovative, self-expressive. They challenge the status quo.
Archetype The Creator
They place a high importance of brand ethics and corporate responsibility.
Generally tend to be informed consumers and will often do their research before making a purchase (Forbes)
TREND 1: Creative Biome
Our physical spaces profoundly effect our overall well-being and productivity. Spaces that place emphasis on natural light, biophilic elements, and spaces for connection are beneficial for us to create. Multi-diciplinary spaces allow sponanaity in the our creative processes by exposure to information and processes that are new to us. Research from MIT’s Media Lab demonstrates that flexible, open environments inspire more innovative thinking than rigid, sectioned setups. These innovative spaces can encourage cross-pollination of ideas and collaboration.
CONCEPT 1: Indicators
CONNECTIVITY
Office space designed by Studioninedots supports a diverse of work programs and has a flexible layout. Soft furniture, a central atrium and ample natural light come together to form a harmonizing and comfortable work environment.
Modular gardening stations created by NINE Associati for education of young students fosters a sense of community and curiosity.
NINE Associati
Indian school house by andblack design studio was designed to have fluid spacesthat are interconnected, allowing students to interact with one another.
andblack design studio
CONNECTIVITY
ATTRIBUTES
Earthy Colors
Curvilinear Structure Vegetation Layered Materials Intuitive Tech
COLOR PALETTE
Grounding Paprika
Warm Peach
Natural Light
Baked Earth
Carnelian
French Clay
Terrarium Green
ATTRIBUTES / MATERIAL RESUME
Renewable, low environmental impact, carbon absorbing, biodegradable and durable
Energy harvesting and vibrant panels, can be used for interior and exterior
& recyclable
Organoid
Acoustic panels made from compressed organic matter
Have an earthy smell and tactile quality
Recycled China Tiles
Combination of recycled aluminum and discarded shards of factory ceramics and glass
Made from 100% postconsumer recycled plastic
Heavy abrasion resistance
V8 Architects and Marjan van Aubel Studio
Lichen
Bio-Glass
Bio-Glass
Colored Solar Panels
Camira - Oceanic
Bamboo
Camira
Recycled China Tiles
Organoid
PATTERN NUANCE
Antoine Bridier-Nahmias
DIGITAL PATTERNS
SUBLIMATION SAMPLES
TREND 2: Spacial Flux
Adaptability and modularity are becoming essential at this time with there being many unknowns up in the air. Flexibility adds value to a space and allows employees to be a part of the making of the space in giving them options to make the workplace a space that works for them.
CONCEPT 2: Indicators
Random Studio constructed a temporary exhibition space for the Indetex headquarters titled Shaping Today for Tomorrow. The reflective materials create an immersive experience for employees to see themselves in the space. The futuristic looking space signals the company is seeking to design for what is to come.
Educan is a multi-species education space for dogs, humans and other species designed by Eeestudio and Lys Villalba. Constructed from industrial materials, the space is brough to life through the selective use of color. The spaces can easily subdivided as needed.
Takahama Architects designed an adaptive workspace in a location set for demolition. The subtractive design method peels back layers of materials to expose foundational structure. The unfinished nature of this space communicates an in progress aesthetic. Pictured are benches that can be folded into the floor as needed by the employees. The adaptive nature of the space gives users an active role in creating the space.
CONCEPT 2: Spacial Flux
Random Studio
ATTRIBUTES
COLOR PALETTE
Mauve Glow
Versatile Burgundy
Cement Gray
Muted Violet
Cooling Teal Industrial Blue
PATTERN NUANCE
DIGITAL PATTERNS
SUBLIMATION SAMPLES
ATTRIBUTES / MATERIAL RESUME
Made from 100% postconsumer recycled plastic
Sheet
Satin finished, 100% recyclable and infinitely recyclable
Non-toxic paint, low to no VOCs, recyclable pigment, powders can be collected and reused or recycled, recycleable metal
Recycled Concrete
Crushed glass and concrete reused to create bricks, generally a lower carbon footprint than traditional concrete
3Form Electric Lily
100% recycled plastic sheet
Durable, allows for light to pass though while giving privacy, sound deadening
LeManoosh
Powder Coated Steel
Aluminum
Block Glass
Camira RePlay Zero
Heavy abrasion resistance
Camira
Gent Waste Brick
Emilio Alvarez Abouchard
3Form
4 KEYSHOT STUDY
Minimal compositions to explore the use of custom textures and materials created using keyshot
5 UNDERGRADUATE SERIES
This series includes pieces that were crafted using multiple techniques including soldering, die forming, inlaying, and casting. The main visual focus is mechanical connection. Crafted from a variety of materials including argentium silver, gold filled sheet and 14k gold accents., titanium and mokume gane.
UNDERGRADUATE SERIES
POD BROOCHES
LURE BROOCHES
FIN NECKLACES
50 Fun Facts about the 50 th State. (n.d.). https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/50-Fun-Facts-about-the50th-State.pdf
Go Hawaii. (2019, March 18). Go Hawaii. https://www.gohawaii.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thoughtcodotcom. (2019). Fascinating Conch Facts. ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/ conch-profile-2291824
Motteler, L. S., & Morgan, P. (2018). Hawaii | History, Map, Flag, & Facts. In Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Ha- waii-state
Queen Conch Facts | Learn About Queen Conch In Key West. (2024, July 23). Key West Aquarium. https://www.keywestaquarium.com/queen- conch WGSN - (2019a). Wgsn.com. https://www.wgsn.com/interiors/article/66b24613c813a00211a93b10
WGSN - (2019b). Wgsn.com. https://www.wgsn.com/interiors/article/671f91eebcf6fadb32a6b9ce#page9 WGSN - Log in. (2019c). Wgsn.com. https://www.wgsn.com/interiors/article/66bf64c04cc0cd79cf69e251
COLOR LAB
Liao, C., & Hsu, Y. (2022). Color Emotion Association and Color Preference for Elder Care Robot Appearance. Coloration Technology. https://doi.org/10.1111/cote.12653
Liu, B., & Wang, C. (2024). Elderly-Centric Chromatics: Unraveling the Color Preferences and Visual Needs of the Elderly in Smart APP Interfaces. International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1080/10447318.2024.2 338659
One-time Enrollment Fee. (2025). ElliQ. https://elliq.com/pages/elliq-care-companion
QWELL. (2022, August 27). Choosing the Right Colour Scheme for Seniors. As people age, they experience physical changes, which is a normal part of the journey. Linkedin.com. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/choosing-right-colour-scheme-seniorsiamqwell/
Resene recommended paint systems. (n.d.). Www.resene.co.nz. https://www.resene.co.nz/homeown/painting-your-home/ paint_systems.htm
Seegert, L. (2023, June 8). Poll shows most older adults use assistive tech to age in place. Association of Health Care Journalists. https://healthjournalism.org/blog/2023/06/poll-shows-most-older-adults-use-assistive-tech-to-age-in-place/
Torres, A., Serra, J., Llopis, J., & Delcampo, A. (2020). Color preference cool versus warm in nursing homes depends on the expected activity for interior spaces. Frontiers of Architectural Research, 9(4), 739–750. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. foar.2020.06.002
WGSN - Log in. (2019). Wgsn.com. https://www.wgsn.com/insight/article/665d7e1ff66d1188467b8656#page934
TREDN RESEARCH
“83% of Gen Z Workers Consider Themselves Job Hoppers, Study Suggests.” HR Dive, www.hrdive.com/news/83-of-gen-z-workers-consider-themselvesjob-hoppers-study-suggests/693539/.
“Beyond Social Media: The Unseen Ways Tech Affects Our Lives.” Psychology Today, 2024, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/positive-media-psychology/202410/beyond-social-media-the-unseen-ways-tech-affects-our-lives.
Blake, Suzanne. “Gen Z Is Most Skeptical of AI: New Study.” Newsweek, 10 Sept. 2024, www.newsweek.com/gen-z-most-skeptical-ai-newstudy-1951710.
---. “Gen Z Is Most Worried about Losing Their Jobs.” Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2024, www.newsweek.com/gen-z-most-worried-about-losing-their-jobs-1968731.
Clark, Scott. “What Does Gen Z Really Want from Brands?” CMSWire, 1 Aug. 2022, www.cmswire.com/customer-experience/do-your-brands-valuesalign-with-those-of-gen-z/.
De Witte, Melissa. “8 Ways Gen Z Will Change the Workforce.” News.stanford.edu, 14 Feb. 2024, news.stanford.edu/stories/2024/02/8-things-expectgen-z-coworker.
Deloitte. “2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey: Living and Working with Purpose in a Transforming World.” Deloitte, 2024, www.deloitte.com/global/en/ issues/work/content/genz-millennialsurvey.html.
---. “Gen Zs and Millennials Doing, Demanding More around Climate Change.” Deloitte, 2023, action.deloitte.com/insight/3378/gen-zs-and-millennialsdoing-demanding-more-around-climate-change.
“Gen Z Brings New Expectations to the Workplace.” Handshake, joinhandshake.com/network-trends/gen-z-benefits-expectations/.
“Generation Z Believes in the Power of Inclusive Collaboration.” Walton Family Foundation, www.waltonfamilyfoundation.org/generation-z-believes-in-the-power-of-inclusive-collaboration.
“Harness Your Environment to Boost Your Creativity | Psychology Today.” Www.psychologytoday.com, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/tracking-wonder/202210/harness-your-environment-to-boost-your-creativity.
Hedges, Tom. “8 Characteristics of Gen Z in 2024.” GWI, 21 Feb. 2024, blog.gwi.com/marketing/generation-z-characteristics/.
Hoyland, Nicky. “Who Are Digital Natives and What Do They Want from the Workplace?” Huler, huler.io/blog/who-are-digital-natives.
Infield, Tom. “Navigating the Challenges of the U.S. Political Landscape.” Pew.org, 2 Feb. 2024, www.pewtrusts.org/en/trust/archive/winter-2024/navigating-the-challenges-of-the-us-political-landscape.
IZEA. “Why Gen Z Values Diversity.” IZEA, 10 Dec. 2021, izea.com/resources/gen-z-values-diversity/. Laderer, Ashley. “Gen Z’s Trauma and Mental Health Crisis | Charlie Health.” Www.charliehealth.com, 1 Mar. 2023, www.charliehealth.com/post/genzs-mental-health-crisis-collective-trauma.
News, Moneycontrol. “72% Gen Z Values Job Satisfaction, Work-Life Balance over Salary, Study Reveals.” Moneycontrol, 21 Sept. 2024, www.moneycontrol.com/news/trends/72-gen-z-values-job-satisfaction-work-life-balance-over-salary-study-reveals-12826774.html.
Oak Engage. “Loneliness in the Hybrid Workplace: Half (50%) of Remote Workers Feel More Isolated and Lonely Working from Home.” Oak.com, Oak Engage, 17 Jan. 2022, www.oak.com/resources/newsroom/stay-connected-this-blue-monday/.
Pandey, Erica. “The Loneliest Generation: Inside the Gen Z Mental Health Crisis.” Axios, 17 Feb. 2024, www.axios.com/2024/02/17/gen-z-depression-anxiety-future-workforce.
Parker, Kim, and Ruth Igielnik. “On the Cusp of Adulthood and Facing an Uncertain Future: What We Know about Gen Z so Far.” Pew Research Center, 14 May 2020, www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2020/05/14/on-the-cusp-of-adulthood-and-facing-an-uncertain-future-what-we-know-about-gen-z-sofar/.
Perna, Mark C. “Deloitte: Almost Half of Gen Z Workers Live with Financial Anxiety Every Day.” Forbes, www.forbes.com/sites/markcperna/2022/05/23/deloitte-almost-half-of-gen-z-workers-live-with-financial-anxiety-every-day/.
Smalls, Jerome. “4 Key Differences between Millennials and Gen-Z.” YMC, 2 July 2018, youthmarketing.com/blog/differences-between-millennials-and-gen-z/.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation. “What the Statistics Say about Generation Z.” The Annie E. Casey Foundation, 13 Nov. 2020, www.aecf.org/blog/ generation-z-statistics.
The Executive Centre. “Third Places: The Missing Link in Your Work Life.” TEC Singapore, The Executive Centre, 25 Oct. 2024, www.executivecentre. com/en-sg/blog-article/how-to-find-third-places-work-life/. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.
“Understanding Gen Z Finances: MX Stats and Research.” Mx.com, 2024, www.mx.com/blog/stats-on-gen-z-finances/. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025. United Way NCA. “The Gen Z Activism Survey.” United Way NCA, 5 Mar. 2024, unitedwaynca.org/blog/gen-z-activism-survey/.
YEC. “Understanding Generation-Z’s Presence in the Workplace (and Why It Matters).” Forbes, 15 Feb. 2023, www.forbes.com/councils/ theyec/2023/02/15/understanding-generation-zs-presence-in-the-workplace-and-why-it-matters/.
Yelton, Scott. “How Gen Z Is Revolutionizing Workplace Collaboration.” Windstream Enterprise, 26 May 2022, www.windstreamenterprise.com/blog/ business-challenge/how-gen-z-is-revolutionizing-workplace-collaboration/.