It’s been a busy few weeks for the new graduates with individual Degree shows still taking place in addition to the big combined ones here in London. Part 2 of New Designers includes furniture, automotive and product design, illustration and spatial design.
Here are a very few items; as ever there are many more talented designers but I just can’t mention them all. I’m also very grateful to the students who provided images.
I gave myself certain parameters this time as the range felt even broader than Part 1. For product design it had to truly fill a need that wasn’t addressed at present and had to consider the environmental implications of production as well as function.I have to admit that this brief cut through a lot of product! Do we really need another indoor plastic growing system? Much as I advocate more growing of food and herbs indoors, lots of different pots , re-useable cartons and containers already exist.
OK, back to a selection of the ones that made it through the filter. My top find was Tom Broadbent, an industrial design graduate whose High Drop device uses the downflow of water through the drainage pipes of high rise buildings to generate energy. I was very impressed and have already begun to spread the word about this fabulous idea.
The rain harvesting garden table by Simon Davies was another great idea and product for the urban outdoor space – why has no-one thought of this before? It’ll work so well in the hospitality sector as well as for residential.
Inspired by outdoor book markets,Fotis Evan’s book display, the Somerset House Bookshop” is another example of creative thinking using straight-forward materials and production methods. You’ll be glad to hear that it is in production for Somerset House.
Alex Gowans’ irrigation pump powered by bicycle was another one that made good practical sense and didn’t require complicated processes or unusual materials to produce, an essential requirement for use in developing rural communities.
Cedric Blanc’s cycle indicators, although made from plastic (recycled I hope!) are an ergonomically efficient way to help cyclists remain visible and turn safely in darkness. I did test them out and would definitely be a customer. The ever-increasing number of potholes in London make indicating during the day an adventure, let alone at night.
Remaining on the theme of cycling, Beth Ward’s cycle panniers for the office are useful for the increasing numbers of commuter cyclists.
A word now on furniture; many designers and makers showed interesting furniture: desks were popular with an extensive range from the very large and deep to little lean-to consoles for tiny spaces. This one is by Phil Proctor for Ercol.
Sebastian Cox uses fast growing and locally sourced wood for his pieces which include lamps, chairs and tables. Sophisticated rustic pieces which work in urban as well as rural environments.
There were some pieces that didn’t meet my criteria but did make me smile e.g. the retro stereo by Martin Skelly: return your i-tune downloads to vinyl quality (put in the crackle) using this technological “reverse” mentality.
That’s it for now. If you’d like the contact details for any of these people please mail me and I’ll provide them.
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