Prototyping with squares

A new object based on a simple idea often requires some form of iterative approach. We wanted a combination of squares and rectangles to get some kind of non-repetitive layout. So we started with a simple matrix and merged squares to get new shapes.

The idea was to create a table mat for our collection. This would nicely sit next to the I Want Moore that we already had. The plan was to break the matrix into shapes to get different impressions, breaking rhythms, avoiding long lines. We drew 6 prototypes, plotted one, carved one out of plywood to make the final table mat. The different prototypes definitely have a 70’s look to them.

So first, the matrix

A few tests using a pen and paper approach

The one test we decided to turn into a prototype

Cutting the prototype in a plywood sheet using the CNC

The final prototype