By Miranda Alvarado

The Tome Mesh Chair creates a practical oasis for book lovers who need their own private space for reading. It utilizes slotting & scoring methods to help uphold good posture. It uses weaving to help with comfort and provides a side table for the next book the user plans to indulge in.

The Tome Mesh Chair creates a comfortable seat for reading and relaxing by using a weaving cushioning technique. It has many structural elements that include a slotted round back which adjusts itself to the angle and weight of its user. It also can be assembled by the user. And yes, it is made from cardboard!

The first initial study before building, was learning how cardboard can be manipulated. The first material manipulations experimented with the cardboard, were with methods of slotting, scoring, jointing and weaving pieces. Some conclusions gathered from experimentation showed how these manipulations have special abilities. This includes how specific manipulations can be used to optimize less materials, use less waste, create precise curves, decrease creases, increase structural quality and add cushioning for comfort.

The first two prototypes failed for many reasons. The first being that the round back of the chair failed to support its user. This is because it ultimately failed against any forces and was not strong enough to resist pressure of its user. The best decision was to use slotting methods to attach its back to the base at the bottom. This allowed the base to help with the weight of its user by redistributing compressions and tensions.

After experimenting with different versions, creating plans & diagrams became very integral. Assembly became the most important part of the process. The priorities behind building were, calculating assembly pieces and cutting neatly. It took many hours to cut each piece precisely and doubled for lamination. It was very important to cut each piece twice so that lamination could add to the overall structure!

The Tome Mesh Chair was made to inspire users to cozy up with their favorite book and stay away from distractions like phones or TV. Sometimes we all need a space to wind down and take a break from the world of technology. This inviting and inspiring rendering became a huge part of telling the story behind every idea. It was hard work to build but it became an oasis from the busiest parts of our lives!