Fixture Stool

by Sabrina Baillie

Abstract

The focus of this research is on the negative features of the current furniture design industry and how additive manufacturing (AM), a relatively new technology, can act as an intermediary in solving these issues. The AM process has been theorised as the next production technology to be integrated into the furniture discipline and design industry. The additive technology process, when examined under the scope of furniture design, is shown to have extensive positive impact within rapid prototyping. However, investigation of the manufacturing stage of the technology shows that there are only limited viable artifacts. While designs that incorporate AM technology have been developed, they have not yet been introduced widely into user markets and spaces. This can be attributed to a combination of lack of access to the technology required, limited material range, cost restraints, and design preferences of users. Hence, the aim of this design research is to develop a rationale for bridging the gap in the current furniture space, inviting users into the conversation.

Design Intent

The Fixture Stool is a chair design to address the growing issues in the contemporary furniture industry, relating to the overproduction of timber-based products and waste. The ability of additive manufacturing technology to minimise material waste can directly combat this overuse of raw material and wastage. Additive manufacturing, however, has not yet made an impact on user-centred spaces. The prototype designs that currently exist only function as exploratory examinations of the possibilities of AM as a new technology. Hence, it is important to determine a method to introduce AM design forms into a user-centred space.

In developing a uniform language between an additive manufactured form and the highly valued traditional material, leather, users can more readily embrace an unfamiliar material technology within a zone of comfort. To establish a well-regarded uniform language between two varying materials and technologies, the method of connection becomes increasingly important to the process. Most furniture that incorporates multiple materials utilises a third-party bonding agent, such as glue, screws, or stitching. These methods of assembly are designed to support the materials and minimise the breakage of furniture products when in use. However, these third-party combination methods often mean that the product cannot be disassembled with any ease. Difficulty in disassembly leads to an increase in wasted furniture, especially as seen in the trends of fast furniture. Hence, the Fixture Stool is designed to forgo any use of third-party sealants in its material connection, as this would promote easy disassembly and later repair.

Bio

Sabrina Baillie is a product designer trained at the University of Technology, Sydney. She enjoys exploring her creativity in developing products both by hand and digitally, finding joy in following the design journey of taking initial concepts from prototyping & testing to seeing the final, refined products in use. She is often inspired by nature and its beauty. Her designs take influence from the motifs found in the environments surrounding her, often shown through their organic shapes and forms.

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