Showcase 2024 Student Spotlight: Eva Ellis
Student Spotlight featuring BA (Hons) Furniture and Product Design student, Eva Ellis, and her project, 'Cove'.
By Antonio Cuyas | Published on 23 May 2024
Categories: Student Showcase; School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment;
The project
Cove is a seating concept that represents a transformative shift towards sustainable upholstery practices by utilising 3D knitting technology and ergonomic design. Developed in collaboration with Camira Knit, Cove demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to
sustainable innovation.
This chair features a distinctive self-supporting seat crafted through a seamless 3D knitted sock stretched over a tubular metal frame. By integrating structural support directly into the knitted fabric, Cove offers a sustainable seating solution, eliminating the environmental concerns associated with conventional foam upholstery, without compromising on comfort or ergonomic support. Manufactured with recycled polyester yarn, Cove’s breathable and lightweight tailored fabric pioneers a circular approach to upholstery, whilst digital knitting techniques optimize manufacturing efficiency, resulting in minimal waste production.
This project aims to redefine industry standards by advocating innovation and responsible design practices. Cove’s efforts aim to inspire broader industry adoption of sustainable techniques and materials. Emphasising the benefits of 3D knitting technology, Cove serves
as a catalyst for the future of industry-standard upholstery.
The inspiration behind the project
The utilization of 3D knitting technology in my project was heavily influenced from my time interning at Pearson Lloyd, where I first discovered this innovative medium and was captivated by its potential. Also, inspiration was taken from existing 3D knit chairs, such as the Slow Chair by the Bouroullec’s for Vitra and the Tent Chair by Layer for Moroso. Their physical lightness and ability to create a self-supporting seat demonstrated the potential for 3D knit to replace conventional polyurethane upholstery and become the new industry standard.
Being part of NTU
Overall, Eva's time at NTU has been highly rewarding, despite the disruption caused by Covid in her first year. Eva gained extensive knowledge throughout her course, particularly in her final year. The workshop facilities have been incredibly beneficial, allowing her to bring my designs to life. She would especially like to thank the workshop technicians for their invaluable assistance and support in shaping her project. Support from both the tutors and the technicians has been instrumental in her learning and development, preparing Eva for a career in industry.
Closing remarks
The Furniture and Product Design course has significantly enhanced my technical skills, allowing me to materialize my concepts and freely explore my ideas. The hands-on, practical approach to learning has been instrumental in refining my making skills. Although the degree can be challenging at times, it is ultimately rewarding. The satisfaction of seeing my final year projects exhibited at the degree show alongside my course mates' achievements is incredibly fulfilling.
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