Skarva

A modular public furniture set, with a focus on inclusivity and community.

• Learn more

04

Ushi

Waste not, want not.

Background

Individual project

This was my graduate project in industrial design where I explored if design had the potential to be a key in solving the multifaceted problem of food waste. Design was used as both a method of research and a development tool when shaping the product concept.About one third of all food produced is wasted each year, this excess is responsible for about 10% of the global greenhouse gas emissions annually.

Process

For the duration of this project I used lots of different ideation and visualization methods, everything from clay to digital renditions and sketching, not to mention model building.My workflow contained a lot of variety but my primary workload consisted of research and sketching while iterating and narrowing the scope of the project.

Result

The product was developed in a response to consumers' longing for the food that they purchase to have a long shelf life. By extending the shelf life of milk at home we can reduce the risk of it going bad when forgotten, while also prolonging freshness.Ushi uses an intuitive visual nudge that indicates the correct storage temperature for your milk while also alerting you of cooling inadequacies, without the need for prior knowledge. When you bring along Ushi to the table it shifts hue when warming up, reminding you when it is time to put the milk back in the fridge in order to avoid a reduction in shelf life.

Odor

Saving both the planet and your wallet.

Background

Individual project

I was tasked to design a device, which utilizes particles in the air to detect food spoilage. Enabling the user to make an informed decision if they should toss the food. This individual school project lasted a few weeks.

Process

Throughout the project I used sketching to develop my ideas and try different things.With modeling clay I could try all my ideas in a more concrete context, instead of only working theoretically. Making sure i got the proportions and shape right.

Result

The project resulted in a sleek and modern device utilizing a combination of aluminium, rubber and glass.I choose these materials to ensure it will last through the turmoil of a kitchen and always be easy to use no matter if your hands are dry or not.

Wool pack

Cutting down on plastic packaging.

Background

Hybrid project

We were tasked to design a solution to low grade wool, a byproduct from sheep raised for consumption. It can't be used for clothes, because of the differing quality of the wool fibers and is therefore often burned.This school project lasted a few weeks, my group and I did a material study exploring wool's properties. Afterwards we branched of to do further study and conceptualize possible solutions individually.

Process

We tested the properties of the wool by exposing it to harsh conditions. Freezing temperature, open flames, boiling water with differing solvents and extreme compressionAfterwards documenting findings and brainstorming use cases for the unique properties of the material.

Result

The project resulted in a packaging material I call Wool pack. It has all the benefits of wool in a bubble wrap format. Although it mimics a traditional bubble wrap it has properties that could outshine it depending on what you want to package and send.Not to mention the environmental benefits of taking care of waste product while also eliminating plastics in packaging. Possible packaging use cases include cermaics, tech and food.

Skarva

Modularity for everyone.

Background

Group Project

We were tasked to design an inclusive solution for a public space of our choosing. This group project lasted a few weeks and was centered around a product development method called diversity driven design.Diversity driven design is a development process in which you form your basis around product requirements with the most demanding user in mind.

Process

After we had brainstormed and sketched up our idea, we began using models made out of modeling cardboard, they enabled us to explore possible configurations and how one might package an already assembled set for transport.

Result

The project resulted in a modular and inclusive furniture. Skarva can easily be manufactured with very few parts, keeping costs down. While also allowing for customization and options for pre assembly or on site assembly thanks to the nature of the interlocking shapes.In the configuration examples some spaces that would normally be occupied by seating areas have been removed in order for wheelchairs and strollers to park and be part of the community.

Club

Upcycling for a better tomorrow.

Background

Individual project

I was tasked to design and build a maracas that uses waste as its material. I choose to use well worn and broken hockey sticks that were no longer in use by the local hockey rink.By upcycling we can give new life to what some would consider garbage ready to be put in a landfill. A key point is to increase value, so shredding it for sawdust would not count as upcycling.

Process

By sawing the shaft into several tiny parts and gluing them together I was able to make wooden block, that could be hollowed out and filled with peppercorns to create the sound.

Result

The project resulted in a wooden club that in its shape is reminiscent of a hockey stick. But with the function of a maracas.The shape was inspired by the very hockey sticks the maracas was built from with some minor adjustments in order to accommodate the cavity needed for it to resonate the sound properly while also retaining structural integrity.

Oscar Blix

My core values when it comes to design are; beauty in simplicity, sustainability without compromise and always design with the end user in mind.I am an industrial designer with a passion for minimalism. In my spare time I enjoy photography, sketching, music and cinema. These interest help me stay inspired while also serving as creative outlets.