Flower Ottoman
7 WEEKS | INDIVIDUAL PROJECT | 2019
The task in this project was to investigate upholstery techniques and develop them into a footstool. During class we learned how to use webbing, create patterns, shape foam, and tufting.
My concept for this project was to combine museum architecture elements with oil painting styles to create a Rococo, romantic ottoman. Furthermore, I chose to expand the tufting technique in the design and I wanted the user to experience traditional upholstery tufting in a poetic way.
Upholstery tufting traditionally uses buttons to create depth in the recesses on the cushion as a decorative element instead of buttons, I made flowers that work like buttons; they create depth while decorating the footstool. Since organza is a delicate material that could fray and break, I purposely made the flowers removable.
Moodboard and Ideation
Furniture in the Rococo style is light, delicate, and embellished with plenty of ornamentation, so it is a classic style we often see in museums and vintage homes. Beyond these characteristics, tufted upholstery could be considered one of the most distinctive aspects of Rococo furniture, and I was therefore interested in exploring the tufting technique in my project.
In the process of making mood boards and coming up with ideas, I spend a lot of time studying the vintage furniture, oil paintings, and architectural elements that inspire my design. I wanted to create a more modern and poetic version of the old classic style.
I started creating scale models, trying out different sewing techniques, and playing with different fabrics to see which combination might be the best for my design.
Final Design
Process Documentation