Furniture Intro

Design Phases

A systematic roadmap that guides designers from understanding a problem to delivering a functional and beautiful space

Design Phases Importance

They help designers work logically avoid costly mistakes communicate clearly and ensure safety comfort and functionality

Programming or Problem Definition Phase

The foundation of the project focused on understanding client needs wants and expectations

Client Brief

A document produced in the programming phase that summarizes client requirements and project goals

Concept Development Phase

The stage where ideas begin to form and the overall vision and design direction are established

Design Concept

The central idea that guides the style form and direction of the design

Schematic Design Phase

A phase that focuses on layout planning and organizing design data in a functional way

Preliminary Design

Early design solutions that explore basic layout and spatial organization

Design Development Phase

The stage where design decisions are refined and detailed

Construction Documentation Phase

The technical phase that produces buildable drawings and instructions

Working Drawings

Detailed drawings used for construction and fabrication

Specifications Sheets

Documents that outline materials finishes and technical requirements

Construction Phase

The stage where the design is built and installed on site

Post Occupancy Evaluation Phase

A phase after completion that evaluates whether the space functions as intended

Design Process

A structured method that helps designers move from an idea to a buildable functional furniture piece

Problem Definition

The foundation of the design process that identifies the user purpose constraints and budget

Research and Analysis

A stage that builds knowledge before designing through user market and technical research

User Research

Research focused on body dimensions behavior comfort and safety needs

Anthropometrics

The study of human body dimensions used to inform ergonomic design

Market and Style Research

Research on existing furniture types trends materials and cultural influences

Technical Research

Research on joinery hardware systems and standard sizes

Ideation

A creative thinking stage involving brainstorming mood boards and concept keywords

Design Development (Furniture)

The process of refining form ergonomics materials and construction logic

Refinement of Form

Improving design through proportion balance rhythm and visual weight

Ergonomic Considerations

Design considerations related to comfort reach posture and safety

Materials Selection

Choosing appropriate materials such as wood metals plastics glass and upholstery

Construction Logic

Ensuring feasible joinery structural stability and proper assembly methods

Prototyping and Testing

Creating models and mock ups to test comfort strength safety and usability

Prototype

A physical or digital model used to test and evaluate a design

Technical Documentation

Preparing detailed drawings and specifications for production

Production Planning

Designing within real world manufacturing limits such as cost fabrication and material efficiency

Final Evaluation

Assessing the finished design based on functionality comfort durability aesthetics and sustainabilit