The Metaproject series by RIT happens annually to encourage students to create designs that are described to be "semantically correct, syntactically correct, and pragmatically understandable, but also visually powerful, intellectually elegant, and timeless." The students are working alongside premium furniture imprint Lazzoni and the work was shared on display during NYCxDesign 2023.
The students that worked on the project unveiled their scaled concepts knowing that they may be manufactured as a part of Lazzoni's catalog. The winning design was by Dylan Malone -- the Shell chair is a convertible armchair that is able to transform to function as a lounge seating solution with a simple pull. It went into production to become available to shop.
Seating Solution Design Projects
The Metaproject 13 Series by RIT Taps the Talents of Students
Trend Themes
1. Student-designed Furniture - Opportunities for furniture brands to collaborate with design students for fresh and innovative product offerings.
2. Convertible Seating - Potential for furniture brands to incorporate convertible features into their products, offering versatility and multi-functional use to consumers.
3. Practical Aesthetic Designs - Brands can consider combining practicality with visual appeal in their product designs to offer consumers both usability and style.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Manufacturing - Opportunities for furniture manufacturers to collaborate with design schools to bring fresh and innovative designs to the market.
2. Interior Design - Interior designers can incorporate convertible seating solutions in their projects to maximize space and functionality.
3. Industrial Design - Industrial design firms can consider incorporating practical and aesthetic designs to offer a unique selling proposition to clients.