Author ········· Seung Jun Sim (Peter Sim)
Medium ········· Solidwork / Blender / Keyshot / Photoshop
Published ······ Fall 2021
Language ······· English
Material ········· Toquilla palm, Carludovica palmata
Medium ········· Solidwork / Blender / Keyshot / Photoshop
Published ······ Fall 2021
Language ······· English
Material ········· Toquilla palm, Carludovica palmata
The Toquilla palm (Carludovica palmata) is traditionally used for making Panamanian hats and serves as a sustainable and familiar material for production. After being used for shoe storage, it can also be repurposed into vintage hats. The joinery will be constructed from locally sourced Pinus Oocarpa, a durable and fire-resistant wood commonly used in construction. This choice ensures longevity while minimizing environmental impact.
By incorporating Panama’s traditional weaving techniques, the production process benefits from efficiency and cultural preservation. These methods, perfected over generations, ensure that the craftsmanship remains high-quality and durable, reducing the need for synthetic or mass-produced alternatives. This low-impact, handcrafted approach maintains artisanal traditions and provides local artisans with economic opportunities, strengthening Panama’s cultural economy.
This design honors precision, artistry, and sustainability by blending Panama’s rich weaving tradition with Japanese craftsmanship. Locally sourced Pinus Oocarpa in the joinery echoes Kigumi techniques, ensuring durability with minimal waste. The product celebrates handmade craftsmanship and sustainable design by uniting these cultural traditions.
Mechanism Weaving Study
The Panamanian weaving technique is a simple mechanism, and the storage contains three slots on top and four slows on the bottom. The preliminary study of this process was to solve the problem of connecting these two slots without any joinery procedure and weave by hand just like Panamanian hat. The mechanism study itself was motivated from the loom machine system.
The design ensures functionality and precision by carefully calculating the spacing between patterns to accommodate hand placement and shoe depth, optimizing ease of use. A new weaving mechanism is introduced, starting from the center of the top patterned weave, creating seamless top and bottom storage. This innovative approach enhances structural integrity and accessibility, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design solutions.
This versatile furniture piece is a credenza and shoe storage, making it perfect for placement underneath a TV for decoration or practical organization. Its bench-style design allows users to sit comfortably on top while quickly accessing shoes from the storage below, enhancing everyday convenience. Crafted from locally sourced Panamanian wood and using traditional weaving techniques, it blends cultural heritage with modern aesthetics, ensuring it fits seamlessly into contemporary homes.
