Freshman Design Studio
First Year Studio
The Paper Project is infamous in the College of Design. It is the first project completed by all studio-based majors as part of their First-Year Experience, or "FYE." From early September to mid-October, students complete a series of three-dimensional paper models that exemplify the core principles of design. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, this was the first year that the College of Design taught FYE remotely.
Preliminary Sketches
The nine principles of design we would be representing through our models were: Gestalt, Pattern, Economy, Balance, Proportion, Rhythm, Gradient, Emphasis, and Contrast. We drew initial inspiration from photographed objects in everyday life.
Phase 1 Models
Based on the preliminary sketches, I created my first series of paper models representing each of the design principles. These nine models served as the basis for future iterations. Each model was created on a 3x3-inch scale.
Phase 2 Models
After receiving feedback from my professor, TA's, and peers, I created the second series of models based on their critique. This series of models was created on a 6x6-inch scale.
Phase 3: Hybrid Models
This phase focused on creating models that each exemplified multiple design principles. Each model was based on previous iterations. The three design principles I chose to display through these models were Proportion, Rhythm, and Gradient. Each model was created on a 9x9-inch scale.
Final Hybrid Model
With this model, I aspired to push the concept of my second model forward. Rather than each principle being separate yet awkwardly pushed together, this model successfully integrates these principles.
Project Reflection
Completing this project online proved to be both tremendously challenging and rewarding. This was my first experience working in 3D with physical materials. Through class critiques, I became more aware of areas in which I needed to grow and improve. The result ended up becoming something that was not only able to embody a single principle of design but capable of displaying multiple simultaneously.
