Introduction

Danish entrepreneur, designer and architect Emil Thorup had long dreamt of his own furniture brand. So in the span of only three months he went from dreaming about it to launching it.

Naturally, hiccups will occur in such a short time span and even though it was quite an impressive feat, things could’ve gone smoother.

This case is a great example of how 3D visualization can help designers avoid the most common obstacles prior to a product launch.

What was done and why

The main points of Emil’s troubles in the above image:

• Delayed materials
• Wrong product dimensions
• Damage to the only prototype

Add to that a limited material selection and prototypes not yet ready for the photo shoot, and it’s no wonder he was feeling stressed.

Physical prototypes is a must have in the industry, but by also creating them in 3D, opens up new possibilities and is key to avoiding problems most designers face. The 3D models allows for quickly testing out new materials, colors and dimensions. It’s great for the design process, but it also means that you won’t be delayed by complicated production chains when a change is needed, being surprised by production errors on arival or experience damage to your product during transportation to the photo shoot.

The HÄNDVARK furniture was meticulously modelled to the last detail so close ups were possible, materials tested and a studio setup simulating the real world was created.

(Selection of final 3D furniture images)

Conclusion

The images were done without a single item getting damaged, having the wrong dimensions or being delayed due to a material shortage… It may sound a bit silly and obvious, it being digital and all, but those are very much problems designers face with the traditional photo shoot.

3D visualizations also made it possible to showcase new designs, styles and materials not yet produced. Speeding up a process that would otherwise have taken weeks if not months getting right with expensive physical prototypes.