Using 3dsMax modelling software, multiple table lamp designs were created. Through a rigorous critique process, a basic structure for the lamp was selected. Multiple refinements were made with iterations produced in 3dsMax and then printed 1/4th scale on a Prusa MkIV printer using PLA filament. Once the design was perfected, the lamp was printed in ABS on a Stratsys printer.

The name, Ascension, refers to the elevating spiral of light that emanates from the center of the lamp.

The goal for this project was to create a hardwood sitting stool utilizing modern woodworking techniques and no hardware. A secondary accent material was to be added to improve visual interest. Following initial paper sketches, models were made in foam core and later balsa wood. Weekly critiques were held to refine the concept. Final designs were drafted in AutoCAD and quantity of materials calculated. Hard maple was chosen and dimensioned using the jointer, planer, and table saw. The base of the stool was constructed using glued mortise/tenon and bridle joints. The seat was glued, trimmed with a router, and glued to the base. Three paper strips were chosen as the secondary material and placed across the diagonal span of the legs with cross braces between the strips. Paper strips have a small piece of steel within the layers that attaches to the stool with magnets and allows them to be changed or replaced to suite the needs of the owner.

The name for the stool comes from quanta, discrete packets of energy that define our interactions with our environment and form the basis of quantum mechanics.

The design prompt for this project was to make a flatpack ¾ inch plywood chair that could be CNC milled and disassembled to fit in a suitcase. No hardware or glue could be used for assembly. Initial design sketches were done in paper or cardboard. Group critique was used to narrow design ideas. Models progressed to foam core models initially cut by hand. Once a rough design was established, the design was transferred to AutoCAD. Using Laserworx and the lasercutter, precise foam core models were created with accurate joinery. Joinery logistics and design aesthetics were worked out through a series of critiques. An 1/8th scale model was made in ¼ inch plywood using the lasercutter. After another round of critique, a 2/3rds scale model was milled in ½ inch plywood on a CNC router. The AutoCAD file was transferred to Fusion 360 and constructed into a 3D model and animated. The final chair was milled on the CNC router and assembled.

The name for the chair is Viginticrus and comes from Latin for 20 legs. Inspiration for the chair came from a sculpture by Louis Bourgeois sculpture entitled, The Blind Leading the Blind from 1947.

Intrepid is a sitting stool inspired by the texture of industrial grating and custom automobile grills from the 1930s. It was modelled using 3dsMax software with plans to 3D print a full-size version of the stool once the design was finalized. Multiple iterations of the design were produced throughout the design critique process. The final design was printed on a BigRep 3D printer using PLA.

This 3D tile design evolved from a desire for simplicity and cohesiveness with adjacent tiles. The idea was sketched on paper then modelled with foam core. Modifications to the design were made following group critique. The design was redrawn in 3dsMax, cloned, and rendered to give a sense of the overall patterns. The 2D design was produced in AutoCAD and then sent to Laser Worx for CNC cutting in MDF. A form was created by gluing the MDF pieces together and placing drill holes to prevent air pockets. PVC sheets were then heated on a Formech Vacuum Forming Machine and suctioned over the form to create the 3D tile.

Paper works as an efficient and economical means to explore a design. Here, multiple iterations were produced before the final design was constructed and multiplied.

Using 3dsMax, an original design for functional nested salt and pepper shakers was created. The designs were then 3D printed in ABS. Note: the printed design differs from the renders due to issues with the printing that required design modifications. The screw locking mechanism is fully functional.

Using 3dsMax, a bus stop was designed for the property adjacent to Art Building West on the University of Iowa campus. The goal of the design was both functional and aesthetic, intended to compliment the unique architecture of the Stephen Holl designed building. Photographs of Art Building West were used to add realism to the renders and give a sense of the bus stops location on campus.

Using 3dsMax, the Thonet B9 chair was modelled. An artificial scene for the chair with furniture was modelled and rendered utilizing materials and lighting effects of the program.

Paper modelling was used to prototype and construct a modular wall unit. Final designs were cut using a laser and fabricated by hand.

A 3D framework was modelled, constructed, and hand fabricated utilizing 1/4-inch square dowels with the goal of implying movement.

Using 3dsMax, a ring was designed and rendered. The design was then prototyped in ABS on a 3D printer.

Early work in 3dsMax to design a pavilion with resulting renders.

Simple paper mobius models were created and then altered to improve the design.

A paper model was used to design a simple architectural form. This was then recreated on AutoCAD, cut in MDF on a laser cutter, and constructed.

Paper is an incredibly flexible medium for exploring 3D design. It allows for exploration and efficient prototyping.