MARK SAN BUENAVENTURA

POTTERY BARN

PARLAY BENCH

ASK /

Introduce a new product concept into a growing category (i.e. white space) to freshen up the Pottery Brand furniture line.

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CHALLENGE /

Pottery Barn has a reputation for creating upscale collections that represent expertly crafted American furniture. To continue the brand's growth, innovation needs to be introduced while maintaining the brand's versatile, craftsman-like character.

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PROCESS /

To create new revenue or increased merchandising opportunity, versatility becomes the concept driver as it allows for expanded opportunity for a product's usage and simultaneously provides an introduction to the predominant millenial consumer. 

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The bench is the model furniture piece of versatility; it's a staple item across homes and parks in American history. To keep with this idea of a "commonly found object" and versatility, two elements are key in this design: the use of reclaimed wood and intelligent design cues telling the story of how benches are used. You name it–couples cuddle together on them as they watch the sun set, people sleep on them, friends will straddle it as they play cards... and so on. The distinguishing feature therefore becomes the side-arms/seatbacks to allow for optional sitting opportunities and the use of reclaimed wood adds a touch of varying character resonating the fabric of Americana.

 

This project was a design and build, testing my craftsmanship–the choice of materials, prototyping/testing, and the final product which awarded me an internship opportunity at Pottery Barn.