Nomad:
Nomad reimagines end-of-life outdoor gear into a functional, portable seating solution that encourages continued exploration. Grounded in sustainable design principles, the project reworks a vintage Columbia winter jacket and camping chair frame to develop a seating system that balances comfort and compactness. Modular storage features, including a detachable side pocket and water bottle holder, enhance adaptability for hikers and campers. When not in use, the pockets attach to the tote’s side, and the chair folds into its front pocket for transport.
Role & Process: Nomad applies hands-on techniques to transform a vintage Columbia winter jacket and camping chair frame into a functional seating system. Sandblasting and coating restore and reinforce the frame for durability, while pattern development and prototyping refine the seat’s ergonomic support and compactness. Technical seams and reinforced stitching ensure structural integrity. Modular design elements, including a detachable side pockets, were iterated for optimal usability and seamless integration with the system.
Design Concept: A compact outdoor seating solution that stores seamlessly into the provided tote bag.
Modular side pockets attach seamlessly from the tote bag to the chair for versatile storage.
Repurposed Materials:
Sustainable Design Practices: Material sourced from vintage Columbia winter jacket.
Sustainable Design Practices: Repurposing rusted camping chair frame.
Iterative Concept Sketching: Revitalizing form and functionality.
Prototypes and Material Testing:
Sandblasting and protective coatings were applied to restore and reinforce the metal frame for longevity.
Initial prototypes exploring patterns and concepts using card models and low-fidelity materials.
Proof of Concept:
Explored 3D forms and materials through early user testing to refine ergonomic back support.
Pattern Drafting:
Flat patterns and technical drawings used for final construction.
Deconstructing Columbia winter jacket
Nomad chair + tote bag system
Travel tote bag
Reimagined Rest: The portable seating solution is designed to support comfort and rest while exploring through its collapsible and compact form.
Expanded Chair: 19.5”H x 12.5”W x 6”D
Collapsed View: 9.5”H x 6”W x 1”D
Adaptable Design: When not in use, the pockets attach to the tote bag, and the chair folds neatly into the front pocket for effortless transport.
Applied Ergonomics: Adjustable straps with a buckle optimize back panel tension for enhanced lower back support.