nomi
overview
nomi is a set of smart objects that sense and respond to nature in real time to transform indoor spaces. it takes a whimsical approach, using anthropomorphic qualities of a garden gnome to make the user feel as connected as possible to their outdoor environment.
logistics
in progress
collaboration with michael ji
tools
rhino 3d
3d printing
keyshot
photoshop
01
defining the problem
people are lacking a consistent connection with nature, especially when their lifestyle keeps them indoors frequently. there's been thousands of tried solutions, but none offer an immersive and engaging enough connection.
02
initial concept
the first concept we created used a garden gnome embedded with sensors that relayed information to indoor objects.
03
why a gnome?
gnomes are a magical creature in folklore that are believed to bring good luck and offer a protective barrier
this is symbolic of our project goal - to create an immersive and “protective” peaceful natural space
gnomes serve as a whimsical representation of nature and connection to it
garden gnomes are designed to experience the natural world–we are utilizing the anthropomorphic qualities of them to make the user feel more connected to nature, as if a member of the family is live reporting it to them
04
interior responders
we ran through a wide range of ideas for the objects that would respond to the sensed outdoor data. some were very abstract like the mechanical arms and blooming flower, and some were more literal, like the set of corresponding gnomes.
05
prototyping
we decided to unify form and keep a whimsical design language by changing all interior objects to mushrooms. they would react in real time to sunlight, precipitation, and wind.
we created 4 half-scale models to demonstrate our set of objects.
06
continued development
nomi is a work in progress, and we are currently finalizing CAD, animations, interior components, prototypes, branding and UI.
