Interactive Bench
This project is an exploration of the interaction between two seated people. The design consists of two mirrored units that are connected via a piano hinge to create a rotatable seat. This allows to user to choose the configuration of the bench; they can either sit facing towards or away from each other, depending on their relationship.
For the initial sketches, I explored various forms that would force or hint the two users to sit in particular positions. With my final design, I decided to give the users a freedom to choose the seating arrangements, while still implementing a subtle form language that would suggest and restrict the users to certain positions. As well as for aesthetic purposes, the curves at the top of the bench suggest a seat back, while the mirrored curves at the bottom allows a hint of light the shine through.
Initial sketches & development
Model with joinery and construction details.
The figure 8 fasteners provide more support to the floating tenons, as well as preventing the bench top from cracking (as wood expand and contract overtime), since they give the joints some flexibility.
Color variation 1: Walnut wood with steel piano hinge.
Color variation 2: Maple wood with brass piano hinge.
