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Showcase 2023 Student Spotlight: Joe Cassidy

Student Spotlight featuring BA (Hons) Furniture and Product Design student, Joe Cassidy and his project, Perfora.

Prefora Design

Perfora by Joe Cassidy

The project

Perfora is a lounge chair inspired by the fusion of mid-century furniture design and modernised production methods with the aim to connect the clean and cold tactility of industrial design and the delicate, thoughtful nature of handcrafted textiles. Its design can act as a piece of functional art that appeals to those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Lounge chair in a living room

The inspiration behind the project

The inspiration for the project began when Joe defined his own personal ethos as a designer. He embarked on a research journey to identify other designers whose values and principles align with his own, helping him to refine my his perspective. He found that he leaned towards the approach that design is to prioritise functionality without disregarding the emotional value a product can hold. His vision for this lounge chair was to blend the honest and understated ethos of industrial design with the luxury design market.

This project was an opportunity for Joe to establish the foundation of his own personal expression into the world of design. The challenges that presented themselves throughout the project helped him grow and allow him to better understand what is possible for future projects. It has also broadened his appreciation for the need of a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Lounge chair disassembled

Being part of NTU

Joe's time at NTU has been a challenging but exciting road of learning, growth, and personal development. He has been pushed out of his comfort zone and had the opportunity to explore experimental ideas and work on collaborative projects that have tested my skills and knowledge. He was given the opportunity to work in industry as part of my placement year where he was able to develop his skills in CAD and product visualisation, which has played a pivotal role in his achievements during his final year.

The relationships, friendships, and connections that I have established during my time at NTU are undoubtedly my most cherished memories that will remain with me long after I graduate. The bonds that I have formed with my peers and colleagues have enriched my university experience, providing me with invaluable support and inspiration.
Lounge chair in a living room

Closing remarks

University is a time of exploration and discovery, and keeping an open mind can be a powerful tool for personal growth. While it is important to seek guidance from your tutors, it is also important to critically evaluate their advice and challenge your own assumptions. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes, the greatest successes come from exploring new ideas and taking calculated risks.

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