Project overview
As part of a four-person student team, I contributed to a conceptual research project focused on developing home décor from seaweed bioplastics. The project’s goal was to seamlessly merge aesthetic design with sustainable material innovation. My key responsibilities included material research, experimentation, prototyping, and leading the design visualisation through 3D modelling and rendering, which culminated in a compelling product concept for eco-friendly home decoration.
Partner
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BlueBlocks
Year
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2020
My Contribution
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Research, Sketching, Modelling, Rendering, UI
Website
Challenge
Oil-based plastics have faced growing scrutiny due to their contribution to global pollution and subsequent environmental harm. In response to these concerns, numerous companies are actively addressing the issue by directly targeting the problem of plastics. Blue Blocks, for instance, recognises the significance of utilising biodegradable natural alternatives in the production of home decorations. In exploring potential materials, the concept of seaweed bioplastics emerged as a primary consideration. The aim of the project is to develop a product that seamlessly combines the decorative aspect with the inherent properties of the material.
Inception
Understanding what the consumer wants
To understand more on the needs of the consumers and focus on a target group, as a team we decided to conduct multiple co-creation sessions. With each session, we asked possible consumers around the ages of 18 – 50 about their interest in the subject and their opinion on the possible products that could be made.
The results led to the idea of creating a small figure whose primary material is seaweed. The product needs to be small and transparent and needs to connect with nature, the environment and sustainability.
Process
Ideation
Multiple ideas rose from the co-creation session with the target group. The product was bound to be small and have an aesthetic appeal to it, with a preference on translucency and with a connection to sustainability. Whilst ideating, two ideas rose as the clearest groups to focus on; products that were designed to contain plants within and those which hade a connection to sea animals due to the products connection to the sea. Ths ideas ended up merging together giving a clear idea of the final direction.
Material experimentation
Together, we opted to simultaneously engage in experiments focused on the creation of seaweed bioplastic. To accomplish this, we employed a simple chemical mixture comprising agar, glycerin, and varying amounts of water. With each test, we adapted, refined, and evolved the concept, gradually transforming it into a practical and feasible idea.
Packaging
Similar to the sead statue, the packaging it comes with is made of 90% recycled biodegradable cardboard mixed with pulverized seaweed, making it a nutrient-ich biodegradable material. Inside the packaging, a small pack of earth and seeds
accompanies the statue to simplify the planting process
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