Imagine being able to talk with the person who taught you everything you know; being able to speak with them one last time. Alas, after their death, It can only happen in a dream. Black, symbolic of loss and death, and white, symbolic of life and vitality, cover each piece.; scarring in some areas and healing in others. The harshness of each angle combined with the heavy contrast in color allow each person who sits in the chair to assume a new role. “The Wiser”, tall, strong and bold or “The Lesser”, assuming a shorter stance, yearning in imitation of their “master’s” persona.

A bona fide conversation between two people who can overlook their differences in appearance or class strikes up where there is nothing to cover up who they truly are. Bare wood, bare walls, only the two chairs and some light.

This MDF prototype of the “Rocking Vespa” turned out surprisingly functional. It can (mostly) support an adult’s weight. Though construction was difficult given all the joints, I am highly pleased with the outcome. I plan to change the design in a way that would ease assembly: eliminate some connections and widen the joint entries. I would like to round and soften the edges of the seat to improve comfort, and round the decorative pieces to improve the look. I will add two foot bars: right below the seat (above the “wheels”)  for smaller children (like my daughter) and one under the “wheels” for larger children. The handle could also use some redesign to increase strength for rough play. I hope to paint and finish the piece to make it look more like a vespa. I will make the next two models out of plywood or a stronger material to make sure it will last through multiple children and have a longer lifespan.

 This first prototype of my chair has assured me that the design is both functional and of reasonable size.
The main structural integrity of the chair is fine, however the backing of the chair requires some reinforcement.

I will probably need to place a piece of wood perpendicular to the backing of the chair on either side running down to the floor.

The main aesthetic design is a bit different than what I had first envisioned however I really enjoy it and would like to continue to use this style.

For my next iteration of the chair I would like to keep the form of the chair almost the same but create complex etchings and designs to the chair in order to make it seem more ornate.

The painted prototype has also helped me envision what I would like my color scheme to be. The color also shows very nicely on camera which should make photographing the piece much easier.

The Burnt Sienna with white accents seems to allow the chair to be a part of two different realms; a classic, adult style  and a child’s room style. This can work very effectively with my upcoming altered concept.

After testing the prototype, I’ve made these changes to the rhino file:
– More room for neck/head
– Removed circular cut from bottom
– Made the curve more swirled
– Added an extra panel (more concentrated: more comfortable)
– Tightened the join places for stability
– Added swirled engravings to the sides
– Thickened the back of the chair for strength so you can lean back

The final chair will be built with plywood and spray painted gold.