A 4 week University Project. I was tasked with designing a new light for IKEA, designed to be sold for £30 or less.
The direction for my product, Lumi, was to create a table lamp that can also serve as a mood light/area light. This was achieved by developing a shade that can expand and contract, to focus or spread out the light.
The first step was to quickly gather an understanding of IKEA as a brand. I did this through sketch analysis of existing IKEA products, as well as several visits to an IKEA store, documenting my journey through the store through sketches and photography.
I was particularly interested in the concept of giving products multi-functionality. Through sketch work I explored interesting forms, before developing the ideas further.
While I was still in the concept generation phase, I was quick to get my idea for the expandable shade into physical being, through basic cardboard 'proof of concept' models. I produced several iterations to develop and refine the form of the shade, the comprising 'blades' as well as the resulting effect on the light.
I then personally manufactured a fully working model of my design, which can be easily assembled and disassembled in true IKEA fashion. I used a variety of processes and materials, such as High Impact Polystyrene and MDF to achieve this.
A vital aspect of delivering a product to market is its packaging. IKEA strive to have their products packaged as efficiently as possible, in order to reduce cost and environmental impact. I therefore designed a lightweight yet sturdy cardboard box, to safely transport the flat-packed light. I also designed the graphics on the packaging, to really sell the finished product.