Sam Johnson
BA Product Design
I am a hands-on, creative designer with a passion for fashion and textiles. With an enthusiasm for developing futuristic products, I am constantly looking to address present-day issues through design. My own hobbies outside of design frequently serve as inspiration for my work and help me turn each brief into a passion project.
Ziun backpack
As an active cyclist, I am frequently confronted with situations that place me in danger, and after witnessing an accident my brother had while commuting, I was inspired to create something to address the problem of safety that so many cyclists face.
The Ziun backpack is a roll-top backpack with features centered on cycle usage, safety, and off-bike usability. The bag includes a roller system on the front face that dispenses both Hi-vis and reflective fabric that attaches to the underside of the bag in order to be both stylish off the bike and useful on the bike. According to research, both are extremely beneficial in making road users more visible, with Hi-vis being preferred for daytime use and reflectives for nighttime use. This feature enables users to be noticeable at all times of day without sacrificing the desire for a modern, stylish backpack.
Porth
Many people have strong emotional connections to coastal areas, because of their beauty, or the enjoyment and nostalgia they provide. The coast influences the identities of many people worldwide, including myself. The 'Porth Lamp' makes a powerful statement by paying homage to the seaside and attempting to capture the contrast between unspoiled beauty and the built environment. Using texture, the light creates a water-like surface that is tied to a naturally lit spherical frame. By simulating a solar eclipse, the single off-centre lighting element hints at the moon and its gravitational influence on our oceans, while also producing eye-catching shadows.