INDUSTRIAL DESIGN PORTFOLIO
VEXA
BENCH DESIGN
Challenge - Design an outdoor stool made of metal and wood in which the parts can be disassembled and flat stackable - similar to that of an IKEA product.
Concept - A small 1-2 person bench made of galvanized steel and white oak with a stable, weight-bearing structure and elements designed to enable drainage and material expansion through changing seasons. Context of use being a greenspace between buildings.
Result - Vexa is an outdoor stool, suitable for all weather conditions, designed with angular form to create a clean, industrial look that speaks to its stability. It’s function is to offer a comfortable and secure seat for anyone passing by.
Duration 5 weeks
2nd Year Design For Manufacturing Project
Date December 2023
Designed with Zara Speigel + Megan Johnson
FEATURES
INDENT
The main accent of vexa is the indent in the sheet metal along the center of each side. This element makes the stool exponentially more stable and allows for more weight due to the “X” formation of the metal. Additonally, the indent creates a comfortable groove for the user to rest their legs.
SUPPORT BEAM
The support beam adds an element of interest and it is a nessecary component for the structure and stability of the stool. Extra support was needed to prevent the sides from collapsing inwards and buckling out.
DRAINAGE
The gap between the two top pieces of wood was included for visual appeal and also served for drainage and to leave room for the wood to expand/contract due to weather changes.
IDEATION
Our requirements for this project were to include sheet metal and wood as well as designing the parts to be flat packable. Our main focuses lay in having minimal material waste, be able to supported a load as well as the manufacturing being cost effective.
MANUFACTURING
PROCESS
METAL
Galvanized steel sheet metal was used to manufacture the bench's legs. All edges were hemmed for safety and any remaining sharp edges were concealed with wood.
WOOD
The bottom wood pieces fit flush along the bottom metal edges to ensure the corners do not warp and to cover the sharp edges. The wooden support piece was secured at its base using welded metal tabs that insert into the sides of the wood.
ASSEMBLY
All parts come together without the use of any adhesives or glues, enabling the user to disassemble the bench at any time. This design makes Vexa a product that is long lasting and easily repairable.
