Solo, with mentorship from Eric Nakassa
10-weeks
Spring 2024
[THE PROBLEM]
Gear is fundamental for a DJ set—headphones, decks, controllers, speakers, adapters, etc. However, one aspect is often overlooked.
DJs shouldn’t have to compromise on their setup. Their workspace
deserves the same attention as the gear on top of it.
[RESEARCH]
Why is the table significant?
What does it contribute to a DJ set?
What does it contribute to a DJ set?
A successful DJ booth should be—
Beautiful
Functional
Protective
+ Elevates the look and feel of the DJ performance
+ Organizes & hides cords
+ Supports proper DJing posture
+ Supports proper DJing posture
+ Sturdy build
+ Shields gear from crowd
+ Shields gear from crowd
Surprisingly, few DJs own a booth.*
Even fewer bring their own tables to DJ.
Why is that?
Even fewer bring their own tables to DJ.
Why is that?
*From a survey of 20 amateur DJs
AGE: 20
LOCATION: Santa Barbara, CA
DJ EXPERIENCE: 1 1/2 year
+ Performs locally.
+ Values aesthetics.
+ Working within a budget.
+ Does NOT own a DJ table.
“Most DJ tables are either crazy expensive or just plain ugly. I don’t want a metal stage setup in my living room.” - Nick, 20
What does the current product landscape look like?
Design Opportunities:
Portable
Space Saving
Beautiful
Personal
How might I reimagine the DJ booth as a piece of home furniture by emphasizing aesthetics, personalization, and everyday function?
[PROCESS—SKETCHES]
Initial sketches focused primarily on portability—exploring unique ways that other pieces of furniture were made portable. At the time, I perceived portability and afforability to be the most important aspects of the design.
The second round of sketches expanded upon earlier ideas of portability: exploring novel ways to reduce the footprint during transport. These three variations look into wheels, folding and knock down constructions.
[PROCESS—FORM DEVELOPMENT]
I then built paper prototypes and a scale model to test the initial CAD concept. While the pegboard improved gear protection and flexibility with layout opportunities, the overall form was too bulky and was made up of too many moving parts.
[PROCESS— FORM INSPIRATION]
[PROCESS— CMF EXPLORATION]
Decided on wood, specifically Baltic Birch plywood, for its durability and elevated appearance. I chose to laminate the wood to protect against spills and offer a variety of color treatments—including black and trending colors like future dusk & cyber lime.
BREAK-DOWN
WHAT IS IT?
Breakdown is an elevated, space-conscious DJ booth for the home that breaks down simply for storage and transportation.
WHY?
DJ setups exists at two extremes: the elaborate,
permanent club stage or the temporary, flimsy folding
table. Breakdown is designed to serve the in between
for amateur DJs who want an aesthetic, functional
setup they can use both at house shows and at home.
MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Plywood keeps the structure lightweight and strong, while laminate protects the surfaces from inevitable spills and scratches. Slot fitted joints eliminate the need for hardware, making setup quick and simple.