Mossonoi
Living Sculptures, Minimal Fuss

3D Printed Moss Planter

Additive Manufacturing

Parametric Design

2024

PETG, 3D Printed

White

280 x 90 (widest Ø) mm

Mossonoi is a 3D-printed moss planter designed for support-free production, optimizing material usage. As indoor plants become increasingly popular, the hassle of soil can deter some individuals. Mossonoi addresses this by minimizing maintenance, providing a convenient and functional alternative for indoor greenery. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it also purifies the air by filtering out dirty particles, enhancing the overall living environment.

MSPACO 3D Printing Design Competition — Winning Design

Design Approach

Understanding Colani

Luigi Colani's design theory, ‘biodynamic’, is inspired by Nature's graceful, rounded forms, creating a blend of biomorphic shapes and streamlined aesthetics. "Nature does not make angles. Hips, bellies, and breasts are soft shapes that follow us through life," he noted. Colani often experimented with innovative materials and technology, applying his approach to transportation, product design, fashion, and beyond.

Building a Narrative

The design process began with crafting a narrative for the lamp. Beyond its utilitarian purpose, the goal was to explore how it could tell a unique story. The central idea was to use the lamp's illumination as an extension of its physical form, creating opportunities to play with and sculpt light using its own body.

After careful consideration of various organisms, the cobra was appointed muse for this project. I proceeded to sketch the anatomy of a Cobra in abstract ways to identify its unique features and thought about how to translate them into my design.

Design Variation & Iterations

At this stage of the design, the intended use of the lamp had not yet been determined. This prompted further research into Colani’s work and clients. In his earlier years, Colani primarily created highly exclusive and luxurious products, such as boats, sports cars, and race cars. Consequently, the intended use of the lamp was refined to be an art piece for display in a home, envisioned to sit in front of a feature wall and cast a radiant beam onto it.