top of page

Designer

Interactive furniture, exemplified by the intriguing Thermochromic bench and side table, emerge as powerful tools capable of evoking diverse responses, encompassing both positive and negative triggers. Delving into the realm of positive triggers, the Thermochromic side table introduces nuanced situations that can positively influence individuals. In Situation 1, the transformative colour change elicited by placing a hot cup on the table becomes a catalyst for a positive trigger. Those possessing knowledge about the material may find themselves positively affected, experiencing a surge in confidence as they engage with the interactive table. This newfound understanding not only enriches their interaction but also contributes to a bolstering of self-perception.

Situation 2 unfolds as a dynamic interplay of emotions, initiating with initial anxiety and stress triggered by the perceived damage caused by the hot cup. However, as the table gradually regains its original colour through surface cooling, a transformative cycle transpires. This cycle encompasses the phases of initial interaction, followed by anxiety, subsequent 

interaction, and ultimately culminating in a sense of relief. The Thermochromic bench and side table, in this intricate dance of emotions, becomes a conduit for a multifaceted and positively transformative experience. 

On the flip side, the potential for negative triggers surfaces within the realm of interactive furniture. The Thermochromic side table, while offering a visually captivating experience, may inadvertently become a source of negative interaction, particularly in exacerbating anxiety and stress levels. The subjective nature of individual experiences comes to the forefront, as each person navigates the interactive encounter in their unique way. The possibility of overwhelming responses underscores the nuanced impact that interactive furniture can wield, presenting a dichotomy of positive and negative triggers contingent upon the distinct circumstances and perceptions of the user. In essence, the Thermochromic bench and side table, with its potential for diverse triggers, epitomizes the complex interplay between interactive design and the intricacies of human emotion.

While the term 'trigger' is often associated with a negative connotation, it's with noting that, in specific contexts, instigating an interaction can yield positive outcomes

interaction, and ultimately culminating in a sense of relief. The Thermochromic bench and side table, in this intricate dance of emotions, becomes a conduit for a multifaceted and positively transformative experience. 

On the flip side, the potential for negative triggers surfaces within the realm of interactive furniture. The Thermochromic side table, while offering a visually captivating experience, may inadvertently become a source of negative interaction, particularly in exacerbating anxiety and stress levels. The subjective nature of individual experiences comes to the forefront, as each person navigates the interactive encounter in their unique way. The possibility of overwhelming responses underscores the nuanced impact that interactive furniture can wield, presenting a dichotomy of positive and negative triggers contingent upon the distinct circumstances and perceptions of the user. In essence, the Thermochromic bench and side table, with its potential for diverse triggers, epitomizes the complex interplay between interactive design and the intricacies of human emotion.

Interactive furniture, exemplified by the intriguing Thermochromic bench and side table, emerge as powerful tools capable of evoking diverse responses, encompassing both positive and negative triggers. Delving into the realm of positive triggers, the Thermochromic side table introduces nuanced situations that can positively influence individuals. In Situation 1, the transformative colour change elicited by placing a hot cup on the table becomes a catalyst for a positive trigger. Those possessing knowledge about the material may find themselves positively affected, experiencing a surge in confidence as they engage with the interactive table. This newfound understanding not only enriches their interaction but also contributes to a bolstering of self-perception.

Situation 2 unfolds as a dynamic interplay of emotions, initiating with initial anxiety and stress triggered by the perceived damage caused by the hot cup. However, as the table gradually regains its original colour through surface cooling, a transformative cycle transpires. This cycle encompasses the phases of initial interaction, followed by anxiety, subsequent 

interaction, and ultimately culminating in a sense of relief. The Thermochromic bench and side table, in this intricate dance of emotions, becomes a conduit for a multifaceted and positively transformative experience. 

On the flip side, the potential for negative triggers surfaces within the realm of interactive furniture. The Thermochromic side table, while offering a visually captivating experience, may inadvertently become a source of negative interaction, particularly in exacerbating anxiety and stress levels. The subjective nature of individual experiences comes to the forefront, as each person navigates the interactive encounter in their unique way. The possibility of overwhelming responses underscores the nuanced impact that interactive furniture can wield, presenting a dichotomy of positive and negative triggers contingent upon the distinct circumstances and perceptions of the user. In essence, the Thermochromic bench and side table, with its potential for diverse triggers, epitomizes the complex interplay between interactive design and the intricacies of human emotion.

Interactive furniture, exemplified by the intriguing Thermochromic bench and side table, emerge as powerful tools capable of evoking diverse responses, encompassing both positive and negative triggers. Delving into the realm of positive triggers, the Thermochromic side table introduces nuanced situations that can positively influence individuals. In Situation 1, the transformative colour change elicited by placing a hot cup on the table becomes a catalyst for a positive trigger. Those possessing knowledge about the material may find themselves positively affected, experiencing a surge in confidence as they engage with the interactive table. This newfound understanding not only enriches their interaction but also contributes to a bolstering of self-perception.

Situation 2 unfolds as a dynamic interplay of emotions, initiating with initial anxiety and stress triggered by the perceived damage caused by the hot cup. However, as the table gradually regains its original colour through surface cooling, a transformative cycle transpires. This cycle encompasses the phases of initial interaction, followed by anxiety, subsequent 

Interactive Furniture 

Human interaction stands as an elemental need, comparable to the indispensable requirements of sustenance such as food and water. This intrinsic requirement finds its roots in the intricate connection between social interaction and the release of dopamine in the brain, thereby underlining its indispensable role in maintaining optimal human health. The dynamics of human interaction, however, unfold in a complex tapestry, especially in the context of contemporary society, where numerous factors come into play when initiating an interaction. The daunting questions that traverse an individual's mind before embarking on a conversation, such as how to approach someone, what to say, and decoding their body language to gauge their inclination towards interaction, often result in overwhelming anxiety. This anxiety can manifest in individuals either refraining from interaction altogether or grappling with the challenge of initiating a conversation.

Enter the concept of interactive furniture, a transformative idea that could potentially revolutionize social dynamics. Interactive furniture introduces a novel approach to addressing the intricacies of human interaction. 

By seamlessly integrating elements of interactivity into the design of furniture pieces, it proposes a unique solution to the challenges associated with initiating and navigating social engagement. The proposition is that these non-living entities could serve as a preliminary point of interaction—a stepping stone, so to speak. The advantage lies in the fact that interaction with inanimate objects is inherently less overwhelming and anxiety-inducing compared to engaging with other humans. This innovative approach holds particular promise for individuals grappling with loneliness, offering them a less intimidating and gradual path to social engagement, ultimately contributing to a bolstering of their self-esteem.

The pervasive nature of loneliness, an experience universal to all, assumes varied forms influenced by an array of factors. Emotional loneliness, marked by the absence of meaningful relationships; social loneliness, characterized by a perceived deficit in the quality of social connections; and existential loneliness, a profound sense of fundamental separateness from others and the broader world, collectively shape the diverse landscape of loneliness. The reverberations of loneliness extend beyond 

Can furniture serve as a conversation starter/Ice breaker?

Can furniture help build social interactive confidence?

emotional well-being, permeating into mental health and overall quality of life. The consequential side effects are both numerous and profound, including an elevated risk of early mortality, heightened blood pressure, compromised sleep quality, lower educational attainment, diminished likelihood of career progression, and poorer work performance.

Given the profound implications of loneliness on holistic well-being, the integration of interactive furniture emerges not only as a solution to the challenges of human interaction but also as a potential remedy for loneliness and its far-reaching effects. This innovative approach not only aligns with the evolving nature of societal dynamics but also holds the promise of positively impacting mental and physical health, paving the way for a more interconnected and supportive society.

Interactive bench 

01.08 - 20.01

Thermochromic table

01.08 - 20.01

Transparency 

01.08 - 15.09

Interactive bench 

01.08 - 20.01

Thermochromic table

01.08 - 20.01

Transparency 

01.08 - 15.09

The interactive bench stands as the crowning achievement in a carefully curated trilogy, dedicated to delving into the expansive realm of furniture's capability to not just facilitate but elevate human interaction. Within the intricate design of the bench lies a captivating interactive feature, centered around its cushions. These cushions undergo a revolutionary dyeing process, employing cutting-edge Thermochromic pigments. This avant-garde technique transforms the bench into an interactive canvas, inviting individuals to engage with it in a distinctive and dynamic manner.

The crux of this interaction lies in the responsiveness of the cushions to the human touch. As a person sits or lays a hand on the bench, the cushions undergo a spellbinding metamorphosis, transitioning in colour. This captivating transformation is orchestrated by the higher temperature of the human body in contrast to the bench itself. In essence, this innovative feature creates a tangible and visually 

alluring link between the user and the bench, fostering a unique and personalized interaction.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the interactive bench embodies a philosophy of enhanced connectivity and engagement. It becomes a conduit for a sensory experience, elevating the act of sitting or touching into a dynamic interplay of colors and temperatures. This intentional fusion of design and interactivity not only captivates the senses but also serves as a testament to the profound potential of furniture in transcending its conventional role.

In essence, the interactive bench goes beyond being a mere piece of furniture; it emerges as an artful expression of the fusion between aesthetics and functionality. It exemplifies the transformative power of design, showcasing how furniture, when infused with innovative interactive elements, can transcend its utilitarian purpose and become a catalyst for meaningful and enriching human connections.

Furniture no longer has to be static objects, they can be elements that breathe life into a room

Union of two timeless materials, wood and textile

Interactive bench 

01.08 - 20.01

Thermochromic table

01.08 - 20.01

Transparency 

01.08 - 15.09

The design process underlying the creation of the interactive bench unfolds with a meticulous focus on the interplay between two fundamental elements: wood and thermochromic cushions. This carefully orchestrated union gives rise to a truly distinctive piece, where the importance of each component is unequivocal. The synthesis of wood and thermochromic cushions is not merely a combination of materials but a thoughtful endeavor to strike a perfect balance, a balance that defines the uniqueness of this particular furniture item.

In the grand tapestry of furniture-making history, textiles and wood have stood as timeless companions, forming the very backbone of furniture craftsmanship. However, the interactive bench breathes new life into this age-old tradition. It ventures beyond the conventional boundaries, infusing 

a contemporary flair into the classic pairing of wood and textile. In acknowledging the intrinsic significance of both wood and thermochromic cushions, this design not only pays homage to the enduring legacy of these materials but also redefines their roles in a modern context.

The deliberate effort to find equilibrium between the warmth and sturdiness of wood and the dynamic responsiveness of thermochromic cushions is what sets this piece apart. It becomes a testament to the artistry inherent in the meticulous balance between traditional and innovative elements. As the interactive bench emerges from this synthesis, it not only stands as a functional piece of furniture but also as a work of art, a manifestation of the synergy achieved by honoring the essence of both wood and textiles in the evolution of contemporary design

Process of design

Interactive bench 

01.08 - 20.01

Thermochromic table

01.08 - 20.01

Transparency 

01.08 - 15.09

Selecting the right wood for the bench proved to be a thoughtful process, especially when juxtaposed with the intricacies of the thermochromic fabric. While wood is inherently simpler in nature compared to the fabric, the challenge lay in finding a harmonious union between the two materials. Deliberations centered on which wood variety would best complement the fabric's aesthetics and how different wood grains would interact with the cotton fabric. After careful consideration, I opted for beech and yellow wood for the bench, 

strategically chosen to enhance the fabric's visual impact. The choice aimed to create a synergy between the warmth and character of the selected woods and the transformative nature of the fabric. In terms of design, I embraced a configuration where multiple pieces of wood were juxtaposed, aligning seamlessly with the overarching design concept. This arrangement, akin to a thermometer, not only mirrored the essence of the bench but also resonated with the transformative quality of the heat-changing fabric.

Interactive bench 

01.08 - 20.01

Thermochromic table

01.08 - 20.01

Transparency 

01.08 - 15.09

To bring this vision to life, I employed a simple dowel system for joinery, ensuring that the various pieces of wood were securely in place. This approach not only provided structural stability but also aligned with the overall design ethos, contributing to the seamless integration of form and function in the creation of this unique and visually captivating bench.

Process.

Interactive bench 

01.08 - 20.01

Thermochromic table

01.08 - 20.01

Transparency 

01.08 - 15.09

Textile

Development

Unique hand-dyeing technique using pigment rather than dyes

Step 3: Formulate the dye bath by skilfully combining the pigment powder and textile medium in precise quantities, where the pigment amount dictates the eventual colour intensity.

Step 4: Extract the yarn from the preparation solution, allowing excess water to drain, a critical phase in ensuring optimal dye absorption in subsequent steps.

Step 5: Immerse the prepared yarn into the dye bath, facilitating the absorption of the vibrant hue, a pivotal stage in achieving the desired visual impact.

Step 6: Mitigate excess dye material, and judiciously air-dry the yarn, adopting a meticulous approach to maintain strand separation and avert clumping. 

This process safeguards the material's original texture, preserving its inherent qualities.

 

This methodical, step-by-step approach not only successfully addressed the challenges posed by the unique nature of Thermochromic pigment but also catalysed the creation of a bespoke dyeing technique. By meticulously tailoring each step, this method not only ensures the preservation of the fabric's intrinsic characteristics but also accomplishes the intended visual impact. Through these intricate procedures, the development of the thermochromic textile stands as a testament to the fusion of innovation and craftsmanship in overcoming multifaceted challenges

The evolution of the thermochromic textile unfolded as a prolonged and intricate journey, characterized by a succession of challenges that spurred the demand for innovative solutions. A central concern surfaced due to the distinctive nature of the material itself, defined by the presence of Thermochromic pigment as opposed to conventional dyes. In contrast to dyes that permeate the fabric, pigments, by their nature, linger on the surface, compelling the inclusion of a binder—a factor that potentially introduced alterations to the material's texture.

To navigate these complexities, a meticulously crafted and distinctive dyeing method emerged, delineated by the following sequential steps:

Step 1: Commence by sourcing yarn with cationic properties, deliberately chosen for its positive charge that enhances the binding of pigments to the material's surface.

Step 2: Immerse the selected yarn in a warm water and vinegar solution, strategically designed to soften the yarn and enhance the dispersion of the dye, setting the foundation for the subsequent stages.

Process

bottom of page