As the final project for my Intro to 3D Design class, I was tasked with designing a parklet to provide universally accessible shade and rest. The goal was to combine architecture with modular design to create an interesting and dynamic parklet using a single profile (with some flexibility in manipulating it). Aside from sunlight, I also considered more harsh weather conditions like rain or wind and included an overhang to protect the public. 

My research on various sitting positions guided seating choice of the parklet and ultimately, the ergonomics. I created ten initial concepts, two of which were chosen to prototype using matte board.

Using these two profiles, I modeled them in Rhino3D and experimented with four potential layouts for the parklet. The leaf shaped profile was made thicker for structural integrity and the front design profile was left mostly the same. As a UC Davis student who largely commutes by bike, bike storage was a key feature in my design.

The leftmost parklet implements bike racks at the back and storage/protection for personal belongings under the legs of users. The slant of the seat allows for users to lay down at an angled position with legs draped out at the front or bent. 

Moving to the right, this parklet included the same bike racks as the first iteration but with  redesigned seating. This approach accommodates more traditional seating positions and offers more ergonomic considerations. The divisions between seats also provides accessibility for those who may struggle getting up as well as a privacy screen for those who get overstimulated in public. 

The third iteration uses a different profile and use case. As shown in earlier brainstorming stages, this profile was intended for fetal positions. While it is less common in public, I find it to be the most comfortable position.

The rightmost design removes the notch at the back as a preventative measure for injury to users' heads while locking their bikes. The seats meld into the floor, allowing for both upright seating and supine positions. 

Two designs were modeled more in depth with accompanying use case illustrations.

With the help of my partner, we finalized the design and put together a more in depth model of the layout & surface materials of the parklet. The bike racks are oriented on either sides of the parklet for easy access and a ramp is included to make it accessible to those with wheelchairs. Modifications can be made to individual seats so those with wheelchairs can relax with weather protection. 

Lastly, we worked together to create a life-sized partial prototype of our parklet using cardboard. Below is our prototype, posters, and small-scale prototype that were presented in class.