Public Furniture
A public seating solution that creates a sense of privacy within busy environments.
Pod creates a space within a space. Its geometric, enclosing form offers a sense of security while maintaining openness. The design explores how public furniture can better support comfort and personal space in busy, shared environments.
Spring 2023
5 Weeks
Professor: Michael Bretz
Design Partner: Art Hamilton
◤ Problem
Public seating often is uncomfortable and exposed.
In busy environments, furniture is rarely designed to support privacy, flexibility, or a sense of personal space. Without these, it’s hard for people to feel at ease in shared settings.
◤ Research
Prospect & Refuge: a theory of human comfort
Prospect: A clear view of our surroundings
Refuge: A sense of enclosure or protection
POD draws from Prospect and Refuge theory, which suggests people feel most at ease when they have a clear view out and a sense of enclosure. Pod's open-back form creates this balance, offering a feeling of security and personal space while maintaining sightlines outward.
◤ Design Outcome
Pod
Private and versatile public seating
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◤ Contruction
Made from molded plywood and formed acrylic.
POD is constructed from ¾" molded plywood. It is made by gluing multiple veneers together in large forms.
The inside panel is cast with the desired color and heat formed to its final shape.
Cushions are upholstered and attached with Velcro for easy maintenance and cleaning.
◤ Application
How Pod fits into high-traffic areas.
In WWU’s engineering building, a bench at the end of a busy hallway sits between two corridors. It feels exposed and uncomfortable, making the space uninviting.
POD offers a more comfortable and private experience while staying open to its surroundings. Its form maintains visibility and lets natural light pass through, creating a space that feels more welcoming.
◤ Process
Exploration through defined needs.
The ideation process began by breaking down our goals and design criteria. This included what the design must have, should have, and would be nice to have. These lists helped focus early exploration and guide decision-making throughout the project.
Initial brainstorming
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Refining ideas around privacy and flexibility
After initial brainstorming, two main directions stood out. Both are focused on creating personal space in public settings. POD was selected for its ability to offer a sense of privacy while staying open and approachable.
Development
Ergonomic angles of 105° for sitting and 130° for lounging were integrated to maximize comfort. The form was developed by diagonally reflecting the bottom half upward, creating a unique, geometric, and asymmetrical shape.
Adjusting form for better fit
We used CAD human models and a scaled cardboard prototype to test proportions and spatial usability. This process revealed the need to adjust length and height of the form for better ergonomic support.
