We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Hemal Patel about their original and creative Wall Shelves design work. Hemal Patel is an award-winning industrial designer, that makes our world a better place with their original wall shelves works.
Hemal Patel ("HP") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Terrace Wall Shelves. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
HP : The Terrace wall shelves were inspired by terrace farming practices employed in mountainous regions of the Far East and South America. In much the same way that the hillsides are terraformed to produce flat, cultivatable land, the terraces meandering across the shelf surfaces are carved out of the wood to form large, flat plains which provide practical storage space.
HP : Our focus was to design shelves that are unique and interesting, both aesthetically and functionally. In particular, we wanted to change the way people perceive and interact with such pieces. So, we used terraces and layers to break away from the traditional linear aesthetic of standard furniture, and introduce height and depth (in the form of platforms) as a means to escape the monotony of flat surfaces. Not only does this add character to the designs, but it forces the user to rethink how each piece is to be used by offering a functionality that is unconventional yet familiar.
HP : We hope to grow the range with a series of pieces with a similar aesthetic.
HP : The concept came about very quickly, but prototyping, testing and developing the pieces for volume production took about 6 months.
HP : As we are a start-up we created the pieces to showcase our capabilities to prospective clients, and to build our portfolio. At the time of conception the project was not commissioned, it was a purely speculative endeavour.
HP : Luckily, the shelves were picked up by a London-based brand called HeadSprung!, who are manufacturing and selling the pieces.
HP : We wanted to create something different and unique to other shelves on the market. In order for the project to be successful we knew each piece had to look beautiful, but we also wanted them to be used in a new way, one which was different but intuitive.
HP : No other designs or designers helped influence this work. Mother nature and the farmers and civilisations that cultivated terrace farming on hillsides were our influences.
HP : Our target customers are interior designers and architects for both domestic and contract environments. We also hope to target the design savvy and those interested in art and sculpture.
HP : There are three features that set this design apart from other concepts. First, the shelves' sculptural forms elevate them from just pieces of furniture to functional art. Second, the way light and shadow advance and retreat along the sweeping contours, as you walk around each piece, accentuates the beauty of the carvings and imparts a dynamism rarely seen in furniture. Third and final, the terraces introduce height and depth to the designs, that help break away from the monotony of flat surfaces. These add character to each piece, and they force the user to rethink how the pieces are to be used by offering a functionality that is unconventional yet familiar.
HP : Naming the shelves was easy as it refers to the terrace farming practices upon which the concept is based.
HP : We used 3D modelling software to design the shelves, and then a 3-axis CNC router to prototype and manufacture each piece. We also used specialist machinery to test the strength and durability of the designs, to ensure longevity and fitness for purpose in domestic and contract environments.
HP : The sculptural quality of the shelves are their most unique aspect. Most shelves are flat and linear, but these have 3-dimensional features that elevate their designs from mere wall storage to functional art.
HP : We worked with a joinery company on the finer details of the design, especially in developing the product to avoid warping (caused by material thickness variations), and in simplifying the design for scale-up in production.
HP : Technology allowed us to model the shelves, and fabricate them in a quick, efficient and repeatable way. Without the use of 3D modelling software or automated machinery we would not be able to make the pieces in volume, or at an accessible price point.
HP : In the process of designing the shelves we researched terrace farming to better understand the practice better. We also undertook an image search of terrace farming in South America and the Far East to inform the aesthetics of each piece.
HP : The biggest challenge we faced was to reduce the weight of the largest shelf, whilst maintaining its rigidity to negate warping caused by the varying section thicknesses. Thankfully, we managed to control this issue by introducing internal cavities and ribbing within the shelf to ensure sufficient strength.
HP : From the early reaction we received from the manufacturer and the public we realised we had a design that could be award worthy. This gave us confidence to submit the design to various design competitions.
HP : We learned more about the qualities and processing of wood, we learned about terrace farming, and we learned more about CNC technologies, capabilities and limitations. The project also helped to cement our resolve to work more closely with suppliers and clients, to bring to market better realised, more innovative products.
