A shelf made of ceramic: material exploration of using ceramic in furniture design

Ceramic is an uncommon material for furniture design and manufacturing due to both practical and economical issues. Therefore, ceramic furniture products withhold a very small place in the world of design. An iconic example of such unique furniture, Ci Zuo Dun, can be found China. However, very little is known about its background. Therefore, this thesis aims to expand the territory of ceramic furniture by exploring the story of Ci Zuo Dun as well as the connection between ceramic material and furniture products. In addition, this thesis creates a modern day example of ceramic furniture. The theoretical part of this thesis investigates the ancient representative of ceramic furniture in China: Ci Zuo Dun. One of the findings indicates that in the old days, it was people’s needs that helped to create the relationship of ceramic and furniture, and the most well-known ceramic furniture in the world was invented. Based on this investigation, this thesis comes to realize that people’s need in the olden days has disappeared, and a new relationship needs to be forged. Since ceramic is a commonly used material in architecture and the connection between furniture and architecture is widely acknowledged, this thesis argues that ceramic should be a material choice for furniture design and manufacturing as well. The design part of the thesis consists of creation of a ceramic shelf prototype. Its purpose is to vividly demonstrate the connection between ceramic and furniture established in the theoretical part of the thesis. Meanwhile, it showcases the possibility of using ceramic to design a functional furniture. Moreover, the multiple material concept in the design can be adapted to improve practical issues discovered in today’s ceramic furniture design. Expanding the territory of ceramic furniture will enhance the ability of furniture to provide new experiences to people regarding colour, texture and tactile feelings. Furthermore, it strengthens the application of ceramic, widens its use and deepens its connection to the daily life. Both product and material will take the benefit of the newly born “Ci Zuo Dun”, and a new life will be given to the two of the oldest and most traditional design fields.Työ on ARTSin taiteen maistereiden opinnäytekokoelmass