Sketch Models

I have been searching for a way to create a mullti level serface while not differentiating between the work serface and the hanging out/ eating surface. This may be by one of the surfaces changing height or possibly that there is an option of bar or table seating.  These sketch models are a few that I have made that seem to have some interestion features and forms.  Using cardboard and acetate simulates wood and glass which can give a soft but clean aesthetic.

Narrowing Concepts

Here are a couple of the more interesting concepts that I have generated. I have gone for two surfaces, one for one or mor people to stand around, the other for sitting.  The L shaped island is shaped so that there can be a mixture of chairs, bar stools and standing space. There is storage pictured below the lower levels to put chopping boards, books, homework, pens what ever.

The Island as a Gathering Point

To extrapolate the concept of having the kitchen island as a point for which the family or group come together to prepare a meal and possibly consume it. There are a few further extensions to this that may be explored.

We could consider this as a meeting space for people to sit a socialise at any time. 

• Having a drink
• Kids doing homework
• Playing a game
• Shareing out the paper

With this and the food prep in mind there is some critaria that could be explored

• Inviting
• Easy to come and go from the space
• Engaging with the rest of the space,  projecting into the space
• Accomidating different sized people

And characteristics

• Social
• Fun
• Relaxed
• Informal

Eco-Gen Plastic

PHBV (poly-3-hydroxy butyrate-co-valerate) produced by feeding naturally occurring bacteria sugar that is obtained from corn starch. They store the resulting PHBV polymer much as the human body would store fat. Extracted from the “bug,” the stored “fat” becomes an injection moldable material.

 

 

Contextual Equiry – Task Analysis

It was clear during the contextual enquiry, within in users kitchens,  that the majority of time is spent at the prep station (wher the chopping board is regularly placed). This applies to prep work and other tasks.

The following is a map discribing the tasks surroung the prep station.

Bokashi Test Unit

I just grabbed a couple of small buckets , drilled holes in the bottom of one and nested indide the other. There is a lid that goes on top of the top to seal it.

After five days I already have about 5ml of juice which would make around  1/2 a letre of fertiliser.

The unit and the content give off minimal smell.

Current Bokashi Solutions

Some are better that others most look like buckets which don’t belong in the kitchen.

SHAC’09 Project Plan

Bokashi System

 

The Bokashi system

A system designed to speed up the composting system and make it more efficient.

Also a micro bacteria laden juice is extracted to use a fertiliser.

I would like to find a solution to integrating this into the kitchen, it may also be necessary make the system compatible with regular composting.

Here’s a basic run down of how the Bokashi system works…

from www.bokashi.co.nz 

Earth powered lamp

Another source of energy and a very cool light – I’m not sure about the large quantities of copper and zink required though. 

Artical from http://www.inhabitat.com by Alexandra Kain