Max Hite
Product Design PortfolioSelected Works 2023-2024
01. Barrel Side Table
02. Living Table
03. Chrome Light
04. Weighted Whisk
05. WaveFlick
06. Art and Knickknacks
About Me →
Home, Info
02. Living TablePrompt
How can we design an affordable and sustainable furniture solution that seamlessly blends into various environments while serving as a living, evolving element of nature?
Working with Users
In identifying my audience, I found that homesteaders—who prioritize self-sufficiency and sustainable living—focus on eco-friendly design. Another key group, those experiencing a lack of connection with nature (nature deficient), seek ways to reengage with the natural world. My design evolved to meet the sustainability needs of homesteaders while also offering nature-inspired solutions for those looking to reconnect with the outdoors.
Research
Mycelium is capable of developing intricate structures without the need for external inputs like water and sunlight. This adaptability allows it to thrive in environments where traditional growth conditions are limited. Additionally, mycelium contributes to carbon sequestration by capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus cleansing the air around it. Furthermore, mycelium-based molds can support the growth of plants, offering a sustainable medium that integrates with and enhances natural processes.
Mycelium can be molded into various shapes due to its ability to grow and adapt within custom forms. This process typically takes 1 to 3 weeks, during which the mycelium colonizes the mold and hardens, creating versatile structures suitable for various applications.
Ideation
Initial Models
Final Product