In the spring of 2024, I began an independent study focusing on Sweden's design principles and their roots in Swedish cultural practices. Coming from a Swedish family, I have always found our Swedish products, such as clogs and tables, to be distinctly unique—a testament to quality design and cultural values.
This project dives into the 'democratic' design philosophy of Sweden, which is found in all levels of the nation's design practices, from ideation to manufacturing.
To visually communicate this research, I designed the "Kilen" chair. Intuitive in construction, built to withstand time, and designed to accommodate anyone, "Kilen" embodies the Swedish principles of quality craft, democratic use, and the value of product aging.
Initial sketches, ideating designs that are intuitive in assembly and inclusive in use.
I utilized laser-cut models to rethink design choices, construction, etc.
I settled on a system that utilizes wedges, seen in pieces such as the Swedish Trestle Table, to hold the chair together, in its entirety.
I used CNC to rough-cut the components. This fabrication method also gave me insight into how to upscale the production of this chair in the future.
Remeasuring and refining the joints of the chair.
I used this model for a critique, which gave me perspective on what design elements need altering.
Seat upholstery.
"Kilen"
A flat-pack chair kit. Intuitive in construction, built to withstand time, and designed to accommodate anyone. Kilen embodies the Swedish principles of quality craft, democratic use, and the value of aging.
"Kilen" Chair
Removal cushion for indoor/outdoor use.
Completely wedge-based construction.
Bookshelf below the seat.
