Flow Bookshelf

2024 

The Flow Bookshelf is an adaptive room divider and bookshelf that responds to environmental stimuli like light and sound to create a calmer, more serene space. Using sensors to detect changes in the surroundings, it transmits data to an AI chip, which controls the movement of compartments. Inspired by the natural blooming and closing of flowers, the dividers adjust to optimize conditions for nearby users.

Design Inspiration & Research
The design incorporates biophilic principles, emphasizing order, predictability, and natural patterns like leaves, honeycombs, and waves. These elements reduce cognitive stress by promoting balance, symmetry, and repetition, making spaces feel more open and serene. The use of natural textures such as cork, granite, and textiles enhances acoustic control and light dispersion, reducing overstimulation in office environments.

Functionality & Technology
The Flow Bookshelf operates on a motor-free kinetic mechanism powered by Nitinol shape memory alloy, which enables the partitions to move dynamically in response to noise and crowd density. This silent technology ensures a non-intrusive, calming interaction without harsh or distracting motions.

Aim & Impact
The primary goal of the Flow Bookshelf is to combat overstimulation caused by excessive noise, harsh lighting, and cluttered design in office settings. By integrating high-tech and low-tech materials, the bookshelf adapts to environmental conditions by changing color, texture, or opacity, fostering a peaceful and minimal aesthetic. This AI-powered yet unobtrusive system ensures a seamless, silent transformation of space, enhancing workplace well-being.
Geometric metal shelves with decorative vases and books
Collage of minimalist images: a close-up of a textured leaf, aerial view of ocean waves on sand, Zen garden with stones and sand patterns, abstract ceramic sculpture, and ribbed ceramic vase on a pedestal.
Modern office interior with a wooden desk, computer monitor, white mug, and decorative bookshelf with geometric design and vases.
Person working at a desk near a large window with a city view, next to a modern bookshelf with geometric patterns and decorative items.
Abstract geometric design with intersecting black and white shapes on a metal panel.
Modern office space with large windows, open wooden desk, stylish chair, geometric bookshelf, indoor plants, and urban view.
Modern office interior with a stylish desk, chair, and decorative shelving, featuring geometric patterns. Large windows provide natural light and there are green plants in the background, contributing to a contemporary and inviting workspace ambiance.
Black and white sketches of geometric and natural shapes, including flowers, leaves, and abstract patterns. The designs resemble architectural elements and floral motifs, featuring triangular and polygonal structures with labels like "pattern closed."
Modern shelf with geometric metal framework and a double-sphere vase
Minimalist arrangement of black hardware and objects on contrasting surfaces