Folding wooden benches that change color depending on how they are assembled are among the key features of "AIXA," a project by Timothy Goodman, a 29-year-old seventh-semester student in the Industrial Design program, who won first prize in the Student Category - Residential Furniture Category at Salão Design Casa Brasil 2011, Latin America’s largest product design competition. Timothy notes that the program “constantly challenges you to think and solve every problem in a different and creative way.”
How did you come up with the idea of creating the benches you named Aixa?
In the "Design 3" course, one of the assignments is based on the guidelines of the Sãlao Design competition. We were asked to create a piece of furniture for young people that would be easy to produce, assemble, and transport. I started with the idea of creating a structure that was fully articulated and foldable. The bench design I submitted for the exercise isn’t the same one; I had to keep working on it before sending it to the competition because it collapsed when you sat on it.
Why did you choose the name Aixa?
The letters that make up the name "Aixa" are derived from the shapes created when the bench is folded.
Why did you choose benches instead of other types of furniture?
Actually, I started out with the idea of making a piece of furniture that combined a nightstand with a wardrobe, but halfway through the design process, it ended up becoming a small bench. The thing is, I got more caught up in the construction method than in the functionality.
What features do these banks offer?
Fold them flat. Plus, you can fold them flat so they don't take up any space, and you can change their color by folding them the other way.
When and where will they be shown in Brazil?
The exhibition will take place at the Bento Gonçalves Event Park (Rio Grande do Sul) from August 2 to 6, 2011, in conjunction with the Casa Brasil 2011 Fair.
How are you going to get them there?
The benches are already in Brazil. I had to take the prototypes there for the jury's final evaluation. It's worth mentioning that ORT helped cover the cost of the tickets.
Will you be exhibiting them in Montevideo as well? Do you plan to market the product?
If there's a chance, I'd like to produce at least one batch. I plan to develop a line of furniture based on the same design principles.
What would you highlight about the Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design?
It constantly challenges you to think and solve every problem in a different and creative way. Each exercise opens up a whole new world of knowledge; just when you’re getting used to designing for one area, you’re introduced to another one about which, at first, you know nothing.
Which classes did you enjoy the most?
The design projects, when it's your turn to build models in the workshop. Although rather than building them myself, I prefer to film others building them; it's a hobby.
Have you already decided what your final thesis will be about?
I'm not sure yet. Right now, I'm working on a project aimed at raising awareness about responsible water use at home. We've been given the opportunity to continue this project next semester.