ASSIGNMENT 2: Packaging & Form Follows Function
Lisa Hisamura
DIELINES
PACKAGING
PHYSICAL DESIGN
Due to the visually attractive texture the wired object has, with its spirals and delicate bends, I knew I wanted the packaging to showcase this texture from the outside. When the consumer picked up this object, I wanted them to physically see how detailed and carefully built the sculpture was. This is the reason why I built a package in which the interior is see-through, with the viewer being able to observe the object from two opposite sides. Furthermore, I designed the package so that the top of the wired figure could act as a handle that the consumer would most likely grab onto.
A feature of packaging is to appeal to the consumer for them to take interest in the object, but it also has another important role of protecting the object itself. I knew I wanted to build a package that allowed the user to disassemble, then reassemble the package and put the object inside it for storage. However this was one of my biggest challenges in this project, as it was difficult thinking of design solutions that could well support the weight of the wired sculpture and keep it stable even after multiple uses of disassembling and reassembling. I researched to-go packages that allow the consumer to close the box again for storage and longer use. Ultimately I was able to come up with a design that can easily be fastened onto the handle, yet manages to keep it standing. As for the bottom portion, I created several small components that would help maintain balance from the base. In contrast to a solid object, the wire material made it difficult to create an opening to fit the object through (since it has many gaps). However, after creating various models and drafts, I was able to successfully create a base that could support the sculpture, while allowing the user to freely pull it out and place it back in the package. The top triangle tabs help keep the structure still, and the bottom miniature base also holds it in place. Overall, the package is successful in allowing two functions: showcasing the texture of the wired sculpture and allowing the user to smoothly pull the sculpture out and store it back inside without destroying the package.
FUNCTION
VISUAL DESIGN
The visual design of my package is inspired by perfume packaging, specifically simple, minimalistic styles that give aesthetic, expensive value to the product. In various components of the packaging is a hexagon motif which can be seen on the surface design as well as the form itself. I decided to incorporate a hexagonal shape into the package due to its nature of being similar to a circle, yet still geometric. It gave an impression that the sculpture is freeform yet was still built with some order. Since the object is a reproduction of an air-freshener bottle, I decided to continue that “refreshing” feel with the use of cool colors. I used a light green and a dark green for the main color palette, with some yellow/gold as the accent color to give a more expensive look to the package. The logo shows a droplet with a single line swirling around it, representing the merging of a liquid substance and a physical material (the wire). The font used for the product name seemed the most effective in translating a simple, yet elegant look. Throughout the production of this package, I was conscious of what design choices would further emphasize the story behind the wired sculpture. The hexagons, cool colors, logo and type, and the whole package that places the sculpture at the center of attention are all strategies in helping the consumer understand the background and purpose behind this product.
