Roji

by Asa Li

Project Description

Play. Something that was once so important to us as children is now mostly seen as immature, unproductive, and unfitting for us as adults in a society that places an emphasis on productivity and work. However, research into play in adulthood shows that the benefits are far-reaching, with effects of improved cognitive functioning, dealing with stress with greater ease and fluidity, and creative thinking and laughing.

The Roji project set out to explore how a desk toy designed for adults could affect positive societal change regarding play in adulthood. The intent behind Roji was to create a product that encourages more playful behaviours and perspectives, through unstructured object play with sensory and artistic engagement. The product consists of twelve magnetic, resin-coated rocks and a magnetic hardwood base. The natural, simplistic form and materiality of the product is suitable for adults of all ages and creates a calming, playful, meaningful product that is unobtrusive in its environment.

By designing a playful toy for adults, we expand the space for play in adulthood, contributing to the growing recognition of the importance of play. This works to dismantle the stigma and slowly bring the normalcy of play back into our adult lives.

Bio

Hi, I’m Asa.

I’m a Sydney-based designer inspired by the amusing aspects of life and creating enriching experiences for the user. With a playful, hands-on approach to my designs, I enjoy putting the “fun” in functional.

My skills, developed through my interest in graphic and illustrative design, lie in communicating concepts in clear visual form through modelling, sketching, and rendering. This also gives me an interdisciplinary approach to the conceptualisation and visualisation of ideas.

In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors and trying new things, learning new skills in textiles, photography, and other creative pursuits.

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