ZENIMALS (2024)
To see the Zenimals full portfolio and see all the research conducted, click the link!
https://freight.cargo.site/m/K2288150490228962684423534693316/Assessment-presentation-unit-8-Marie-Roy.pdf
This project’s brief was to accomodate the Neurodivergent workforce in the office. It was in collaboration with one of the Haworth branches in London (Italiano-American office furniture brand), which meant the product had to add-on to their furniture collection, match their values and aesthetic palette and follow their signature making touches. At the end of the project, four students had the chance to have their design exhibited in the brand’s showroom in Farringdon, London during the Clerkenwell Design Week for maximum visibility. I am honored to say I was one of these four!
The product I designed was a series of 5 abstract animal-shaped weighted cushions. The shape was chosen to remind of a childhood comfort animal plushie, but the abstract side of them fit the office landscape more. The aim was for the user to relax at their weight on their lap, use them as emotional support when deadlines get the best of them. They are made with two different fabrics (very carefully chosen with the help of a neurodivergent people panel), with pockets on one side and weighted quilting on the other. This is so the Zenimal feels like a warm hug when you put it to your chest.
EXHIBITION (May 2024)
I had the massive chance to be selected to exhibit this project at the Haworth showroom in Farringdon, London during the Clerkenwell Design Week! I was able to speak to many other designers, students and general public who all gave me great feedback and helped me move forward with my design career.