Just because the modern family is busy doesn't mean they don't have time to stop and appreciate handsome design.  As modern technology creeps into all aspects of life, consumers notice the details.  For an item as simple as an iron, it's i
Swans and ships are graceful and majestic, yet purposeful.  Nautical cues provide inspiration for the final design of this product and are intended provide escape from mundane daily chores.
While hardly in its element on the beach, it's easy to notice the nautical influences in the final product.  While the iron certainly serves its purpose as a workaday tool, the aestetics that have developed from careful attention to detail pres
The process of incorporating the desired design cues began with the process of developing empathic sketches.  Well over 100 thumbnails were developed (this sheet alone measuring more than 5 feet in length) before computer assistance was enliste
Here an earlier option demonstrates consideration given to other concepts.  Even at rest, I wanted the iron to display unconventional qualities.
Additional development of forms and their necessity to not impede function.
Continued development of shapes and volumes.
The implementation of computers to develop hand sketches was used to explore shapes and move them to the development phase. This is one of several shapes that would be explored in later mockups.
Another variant of computer aided sketch development.  
I developed 1/2 scale models from the many computer assisted and paper sketches.  From Left to Right:  A lighter take on traditional elements, heavy elements, a combination of elements, very heavy and full volume exploration.
Derived from hundreds or simple empathic and more developed sketches, in this sketch we begin to see the elements of the final shape develop for the first time. 
Continued development of the preferred styling direction.
Often a designer's best work is done in the heat of the moment. These pen sketches on simple lined paper explore the non-traditional approach I wanted to use for interacting with the iron.  Why does a premium iron need to be analog? Additionall
Continued exploration of shapes, styles and details.  
I took the opportunity to explore the details with something as overlooked as the base plate and heating element.  In these baseplate mockups I continued to explore a nautical theme and a more conventional one as well. 
The final shape shows the ability of a surface break and means for construction to be turned into a styling cue.  The lower, dark portion of the iron resembles the water line of a waterfowl or ship moving swiftly through a body of water. 
The baseplate was designed to resemble the movement of water as disrupted by the bow of a ship.
Function must still be present but the need for these details must not detract from the overall design. The cord and power/hot light are hardly glamorous, but they are necessary and consideration was given to their placement and integration.
Viewed from head on, the intent of all elements is visible. The break of the bow is very present when viewed from this angle however the consideration given to other surfaces are readily apparent as well.
A light render and further development.
The process of devising the final design was an act of exploring the options in full scale models. More than three models were developed however, these most closely demonstrate the elements that would be see final production.
Another early mockup exploring lighter styling elements and handle design.
Perhaps the closest to the final design, this version explores surfaces and control placement.  This shape was put through the rigors of ergonomic testing as well (and the handle with re-glued to the body no less then 4 times!).    
The baseplate was constructed from grade 36 steel.  I cut, drilled, and polished this to the drafted specification used for the final design.
Made from several pieces of Renshape, Bondo, and blueprints that I drafted, the form took shape over several weeks.   
The handle was developed into an ergonomically pleasing shape through many studies and trials. 
The completed form before the final epoxy construction and paint.
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