Metal Accessory Planter
Furniture Project | 2023
This modular plantar was completed earlier in my degree for my first furniture class, which I feel still exemplifies both what I appreciate about design and my process. The requirement was to use metal as any component within the house accessory, and to find ways to utilize it within the design. Instead of welding the arms onto the metal rod, I opted for 3D printed clamps which can loosen to adjust he position of the planter arms or remove them entirely. The pots can also be easily removed to allow for different pots and objects to be placed.
The shape of the object was made to represent the movement of water, with water being poured dripping through each pot to the bottom container, where the water ripples. The carved edges are to direct and put emphasis towards the polished steel and the funnel-shaped wood, which mimics the tension of water when a droplet connects. The rod shoots back up to complete this visual cycle. The red was also intentional to make the green of the plants more vibrant and create contrast with its intended purpose.
Ensuring the accessory could be adjusted and modified made the accessory easier to keep around, increasing a factor of its sustainability. Adjusting the height of each arm allows for different plants to be potted and multiple arms at different angles. It also allows for future additions and accessories to be available, such as arms for different functions or different types of pots. Devices assembled like this also create a lot of room for personalization and self-modification, which can create more of a bond between the individual and the object.
More images and files for the project can be found below.
Figure 1: Metal Accessory Planter showcased at the 2025 BDes graduate show Interlude
Additional Project Work
Final planter showcased on a cantilever side table I designed earlier in the year.
Close up of the contrast between the red pots and the green of the plants.
Angled shot of the final planter.
Close up showcasing the clamp mechanics of the 3D print an assembly of the arms.
Close up shot showing the carved details on the interior of the metal base.
Side profile showing the cantilever structure.
Process stage with the molds that were used to create plant pots with a vacuum former.
Initial concept and sketch model to find general scale to work with.
Initial sketches and notes on working with metal and water.