Flow is a bold planter system which embraces modernist principles to bring in-home agriculture into the future. Blending hydroponics with traditional growing methods in a system enhanced by smart technology creates an innovative experience.
Duration
6 weeks
Materials
5052 aluminum, PETG
Dimensions
Length: 30 cm
Width: 15 cm
Height: 42 cm
About Hydroponics
Hydroponics is an extremely effective method of growing plants in water without soil. It allows the growing of plants indoors all year-round regardless of season, climate, or environment.
All that is needed is water, a controlled light source, nutrient solution, and a pump to circulate the nutrient-rich water through the plant’s roots.
Visual Inspiration
Geometric forms create the basis for designs which embrace raw materials while blending the line between mid-century modernist principles and aspirations for a utopian future.
Developing a Direction
My initial goal, inspired by my work with SolarSENSE, was to develop a smart plant sensor for consumers to use in their homes. From there I expanded the concept with the aim of designing a full experience. The question remaining was what form factor that experience would take.
First Concept
I explored developing Flow as a wall-mounted solution for home hydroponics to maximize growing volume while being space-efficient.
User Testing
I built a quick model out of cardboard to get user feedback from friends and professors. Concerns arose regarding the hassle of wall-mounting such a product, water spilling on walls and floors, and lack of available mountable wall space. I pivoted to explore other experiences.
Market Research
There are many competitors in this space but they are all similar in styling and functionality. They tend to feature cheap feeling plastic, poor build quality, and uninspiring designs.
Form Study
Upon deciding on a cube based geometric form, I drew up a pattern in Illustrator, printed, cut, and taped it together, to get a very quick representation of what it would be like.
Working with Sheet Metal
I went to my local metal supply store in Phoenix and got my materials. For this project, I used 16-gauge 5052 aluminum sheets because they are light weight, durable, and easy to work with/form.
Finishing
After rounding all corners, deburring, and sanding the metal, I polished the aluminum to a mirror finish. I then sealed the inside of the water tank with a food-safe rubber coating to prevent leaks and corrosion.
Reflections
Tempe, Arizona’s skyline glistens with glass towers which take on reflections from the sun, sky, and clouds creating the effect of blending into the natural environment. With Flow, I was inspired by this architectural style. The polished finish embraces the raw material while blending into its environment.