first-year bachelor design students engaged in a hands-on exploration of form, structure, and materiality through the “Third Dimension” module. This project challenged students to analyze everyday objects, deconstruct their forms, and reconstruct them with an enhanced understanding of design principles.
The Project Brief
The module consisted of two key exercises: the hammer and the birdhouse. In the first, students delved into the anatomy of a hammer, researching its functional design and deconstructing its structure. They began with sketches and a cardboard model to study proportions and joints before crafting a final wooden hammer, refining their craftsmanship along the way.
The second exercise pushed students further, asking them to design and build a birdhouse tailored to a specific bird species. By researching the bird’s behavior and needs, students gained insight into spatial design, construction techniques, and material selection.
The Design Process
Students began by studying existing designs, breaking down their components, and reconstructing them through sectional analysis. Cardboard prototypes served as a foundation for testing proportions and connections, with the final models crafted in wood and other materials. This iterative process taught the importance of precision, problem-solving, and adapting designs based on practical constraints.
Learning Through Making
The Third Dimension module introduced students to fundamental design methodologies while honing their ability to translate concepts into tangible models. Working in SPD’s workshops, they developed confidence in handling materials and tools, laying the groundwork for future design explorations. The project served as a crucial step in their creative journey, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on execution