Luis Perkins

The design process of the ”Nurture” project, as detailed in the Design Honours Thesis, is a testament to a thorough and professional approach. From the initial stages of ideation to the final prototype construction, the project demonstrates a clear and methodical design journey.

The design process began with an exploration of the hiking equipment industry and an analysis of current design decisions and focuses. I also delved into other aspects of nature and culture and their interconnectedness. Furthermore, I conducted research in anthropology to gain a deeper understanding of our relationship with nature. This research allowed me to examine various precedents and conduct case studies to comprehend what a connection to nature entails. This fieldwork occupied the majority of the first half of the project.

For me, the design process is not always linear. While I conducted literary research, interviewed industry professionals, and gained insights into the hiking industry and our connection to nature, I simultaneously explored ideas and designs related to these themes. This approach enabled me to remain open to a multitude of ideas without being limited by my research.

Regarding meeting or exceeding the design brief, the ”Nurture” project excels. The project aims to bridge the gap between nature and modern living, and this goal is consistently reflected in the design choices and outcomes. The feedback from presentations and the iterative refinement process strongly align with the project’s objectives. The project’s focus on creating a nature-connected experience by designing hiking products, particularly tents, demonstrates a deep understanding of the brief and a commitment to exceeding expectations.

The ”Nurture” project sets a new benchmark for design excellence by rigorously satisfying fundamental criteria for good design, including functionality, accessibility, aesthetics, safety, quality, and sustainability. The tent design meets and exceeds these standards by creating an immersive nature-led experience that enhances the user’s sensory connection to the outdoors. Functionality is evident in the tent’s modular design with its exposure to the natural environment. This allows the users to adapt the shelter to their comfort levels in regard to nature connection, promoting accessibility and inclusivity in outdoor recreation. The aesthetic appeal is achieved through the thoughtful integration of natural elements and a streamlined form harmonising with the environment. Safety and quality are prioritised through durable materials and robust construction techniques, ensuring the tent’s reliability in diverse weather conditions.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design, focusing on minimal environmental impact and fostering a deeper appreciation for nature. This approach reduces the ecological footprint and educates users about sustainable thinking at a deeper level by tapping into their emotional, cognitive and philosophical connections to nature. The project’s commitment to a holistic, high-quality user experience is evident in its attention to detail, from the tent’s ergonomic design to the inclusion of features that enhance comfort and usability during outdoor activities.

By addressing these comprehensive design criteria, ”Nurture” communicates the significant benefits of investing in professional design. It stands as a testament to the potential of well-executed design to elevate user experience and set new standards within the industry. This project exemplifies how professional design can drive innovation and deliver superior outcomes that resonate with both users and the broader community, promoting a culture of quality and excellence in Victoria’s design landscape.

The Tilicho tent exemplifies design innovation by addressing the legitimate need for a deeper sensory connection to nature through an inventive approach. This project transforms the conventional tent structure with its unique, removable roof design, offering an unobstructed view of the surroundings and enhancing the user’s natural experience. The innovative pole orientation allows for a clear top area without the interference of tent poles, setting it apart from standard cross-sectional tent designs that often obstruct the view with structural elements. This clear-top feature frames nature through the tent, creating an immersive user experience.

The research heavily focused on establishing a deeper connection to nature while hiking, encompassing emotional, cognitive, and philosophical dimensions. By specifically targeting the end stage of the hiking experience, the user is able to relax in the tent, gaze out into the natural environment and sky, and reflect on their day and experiences in nature while being fully exposed to and influenced by nature.

The design process was deeply user-centred, involving extensive user testing and iterations based on feedback. This approach ensured that the final product met and exceeded user expectations by providing a comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing shelter. The design’s focus on individual user needs, and its adaptability to various environmental conditions demonstrate a profound understanding of user circumstances, making the Tilicho tent a pioneering solution in outdoor gear design.

The Tilicho Tent, the final outcome of the Nurture project, exemplifies a significant design impact from social, environmental, and commercial perspectives. This innovative tent addresses the social need for enhanced outdoor experiences by providing a sensory connection to nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment among its users. Environmentally, the design adheres to circular economy principles by minimising material usage, employing sustainable processes, and ensuring the tent’s components can be easily recycled or repurposed at the end of their lifecycle. Commercially, the Tilicho Tent sets a new benchmark in the outdoor equipment market, showcasing the benefits of investing in professional design and contributing to Victoria’s reputation as a hub of design excellence. The project’s emphasis on reconnecting individuals with nature supports the broader objective of sustainability by cultivating a mindset that values and protects the natural world.

The Tilicho Tent’s sustainability is deeply rooted in its innovative mono-material design and its mission to foster a stronger connection to nature. By utilising a single type of material throughout the tent’s construction, the design simplifies the recycling process, ensuring that at the end of its life cycle, the tent can be easily repurposed without the need for extensive sorting or specialised recycling methods. This approach minimises waste and promotes a circular economy, aligning with broader environmental sustainability goals.

The emphasis on a nature connection in the design serves a dual purpose: it not only enhances the user experience but also aims to foster a sustainable mindset in its users. By creating a product that encourages outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature, the Tilicho Tent helps to cultivate a greater appreciation for the environment, encouraging responsible and sustainable behaviours. This design philosophy underscores the tent’s role in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable thought, demonstrating how innovative design can contribute to broader ecological goals.