Student Spotlight: Ella Goodenough

The project

Dalia is a flower drying rack, designed for the commercial brief. Aiming to empower customers in effortlessly preserving the visual charm of their blooms.

Balancing functionality and beauty, its design offers an efficient method for transforming fresh flowers into lasting keepsakes. By placing fresh flowers into its adaptable slots, customers can anticipate their flowers drying naturally over a few weeks. These slots accommodate various stem thicknesses and lengths, ensuring efficient drying for a wide range of flower varieties, thus extending their lifespan.

Crafted from aluminium and available in multiple finishes, Dalia seamlessly integrates into any environment.

The inspiration behind the project

The flower industry and supermarkets import more than 80% of our flowers, resulting in a staggering 250,000 tons of flower waste annually. This innovative product seeks to raise awareness among customers about the unsustainable practices in the flower industry and encourages them to cherish their blooms beyond their typical lifespan of five days, potentially extending their enjoyment for up to two years. In essence, it fills a crucial gap in the market by providing consumers with a tangible means to align their floral practices with their environmental values.

In a world where sustainability is increasingly prioritised, this product serves as a beacon of hope within the flower drying industry, demonstrating that even small changes in consumer behaviour can have a significant impact on reducing waste and preserving natural resources. As more individuals embrace the importance of sustainable living, innovations like this have the potential to catalyze positive change on a global scale

Being part of NTU

Beginning university during the COVID-19 pandemic presented its challenges; nevertheless, Ella's journey at NTU has been characterized by a consistent upward trajectory of personal development and self-discovery as a designer. Engaging in both collaborative and individual projects, alongside collaborations with esteemed companies such as Takt, Pearson Lloyd, Habitat, and Magis, has provided her with boundless opportunities for growth. Moreover, during her year-long placement in London, where she managed interior design projects, Ella gained invaluable industry experience. This real-world experience complemented her academic pursuits, providing her with a holistic understanding of design principles and practical insights crucial for navigating the industry landscape.

Beyond the realm of academia and industry, Ella's time at NTU has been enriched by cherished moments with friends and memorable experiences. From university trips to cities such as Paris and Basel, these shared adventures have not only added depth to her collegiate experience but have also fostered enduring connections that will remain treasured for years to come.

Closing remarks

Stay curious! University is a place for intellectual exploration and growth. Keep an open mind, be willing to explore new ideas. Take advantage of opportunities for research, internships, or study abroad programs to broaden your horizons. And don't forget to have fun and enjoy the university experience. Take time to explore your interests, try new things, and create lasting memories with friends.

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