Austin Niemi 



BREAK-DOWN Breakdown is an elevated, space-conscious DJ booth for the home that breaks down simply for storage and transportation.


 TEAM
Solo, with mentorship from Eric Nakassa

DURATION
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? 




A successful DJ booth should be—


Beautiful
+ Elevates the look and feel of the DJ performance  Functional
+ Organizes & hides cords
+ Supports proper DJing posture  Protective
+ Sturdy build
+ Shields gear from crowd 






Surprisingly, few DJs own a booth.*
Even fewer bring their own tables to DJ.
Why is that?

*From a survey of 20 amateur DJs








MEET NICK Local Amateur DJ
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






















[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]





















[PROCESS—FORM DEVELOPMENT]















[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.








SPACE SAVING 
When not in use, it packs down to 40” x 20”. The vinyl facade wraps around the parts for easy carrying or storage, and the wooden dowels unscrew by hand—no tools necessary.











NEXT PROJECT


Austin Niemi Design
@2025