Context
MFA Products of Design, School of Visual Arts

Work
Concept, Electronics, Product Design, 3D Prototyping, Photography, Video

Collaborators
Tess Fenn (video)

Xylophorest: Forest Bathing in Your Living Room

Xylophorest is a touch-activated "xylophone" that plays different nature noises ranging from a light rainstorm to crashing ocean waves. It draws inspiration from the Japanese practice of forest bathing and sound therapy. 

This product combines the interactive experience of playing an instrument with the therapeutic, soothing sounds of nature. It can be used at home when you need a meditative break or for other therapeutic reasons. 

Xylophorest was created using a Bare Conductive touchboard and electric paint. I’ve posted a tutorial on how to make it on Instructables. If you're inspired, you can build your own.

A Touch-Activated "Xylophone" that Plays Nature Sounds

Today, more than half of the world’s population resides in cities. As the trend of urbanization continues, the population density of these centers will skyrocket. This means living in smaller spaces and decreased access to nature, leading to detrimental impacts on an individual’s quality of life and health. But here’s some good news: there are opportunities to integrate nature into everyday urban life. That’s where Xylophorest comes in.

BUILDING PROCESS

Experimentation with Electric Paint, Touch Board, and Programming

Context
MFA Products of Design, School of Visual Arts

Work
Concept, Product Design, Engineering, 3D Prototyping

Everything but the Photosynthesis

Say hello to Cloudstera—the dreamier digital version of the photogenic and beloved Monstera Deliciosa plant. This little creation is made from felt, foam sheet, plush filling, a flower pot, acrylic paint, and a custom-wired LED circuit. Instead of performing photosynthesis, it projects colored lighting with a custom-wired LED circuit. Additionally, each individual Cloudstera leaf can be adjusted and moved. Light up the room with fun colors and Monstera leaf shadows.

MILLENNIAL MARKET

According to The Washington Post, millennials’ recent buying habits have largely included the purchasing of plants for their homes—particularly those millennials who live in cities. These urban dwellers are craving nature in any form they can get it in, turning their homes into mini jungles, or “jungalows.”

However, via a Harvard Business Review study, millennials are complete workaholics. Though they crave work-life balance, many millennial workers are actually scared of taking breaks and vacations. This means less time at home and less time to take care of their plants (which may result in an increased number of dead plants…).

And that’s where Cloudstera comes in. Cloudstera doesn’t need to be watered or turned every now and again to face the sunlight in a different indirection. It does, however, blend in with your other plants and double as a nightlight (or party light!).

…Yes, this was written somewhat satirically.