As a textile designer, I've long been captivated by various products' intricate interplay of color, material, and finish (CMF). This enduring curiosity has driven me to explore the profound significance and technical intricacies inherent in different materials and finishes. My journey with color, a fundamental design element, has been integral to my education and has profoundly shaped my design trajectory.
When the opportunity arose to intern at Whirlpool India, specializing in CMF design, I eagerly seized the chance to expand my horizons and acquire fresh knowledge. My enthusiastic approach led me to embark on a journey of delving into materials and envisioning a project set in the year 2035. This endeavor granted me the freedom to explore a multitude of avenues. My extensive research expedition encompassed in-person interviews and an in-depth analysis of emerging trends. This invaluable data was the foundation for projecting trends over the next 15 years. Rather than imposing preconceived notions, I allowed the inherent qualities of materials to guide my exploration. I meticulously selected the most promising candidates from a vast pool of samples, shaping the foundation for distinct collections.
At the heart of my project lay the holistic CMF experience. I bestowed each sample with names inspired by songs, creating an emotional connection with users. These versatile samples empowered consumers to personalize their aesthetics or moods by interchangeably combining them, thereby enriching the buying experience with an extensive array of choices.
My journey illuminated the boundless possibilities within a single material and a specific technique, imparting a profound lesson in respecting and listening to the material itself. Beyond trend research and consumer behavior analysis, my project encompassed mood boards, sketches, infographics, and user experience design. This comprehensive skill set equipped me to navigate a multifaceted project independently, fostering the spirit of innovation and creativity.
