When we imagine the future, we often think of technology, digital interfaces, or cyber aesthetics. But what if we challenged these conventions and revisited classic, industrial materials instead?
Introducing the AC - 1 Updraft—a conceptual exploration in aluminium. This playful yet thoughtful design reinterprets a timeless material through an abstract lens. Through innovative assembly techniques, we aim to create the illusion of a floating seat, merging industrial craftsmanship with a touch of surreal elegance.
At the joints, polished ball-and-socket elements connect tension cables and steel members, serving as both structural anchors and visual punctuation. These ball joints allow micro-adjustment and controlled movement, so the user can subtly shift posture while remaining supported, transforming what is usually a hidden connector into a tactile, legible part of the design language.
Users can “play” with the resistance and rebound of these springs, experiencing a calibrated mechanical feedback that recalls industrial machinery more than conventional upholstery.
Other prizes IDA Design Award - Honorable Mention HKTDC Watch and Clock Design Competition - Merit Award
