Description:

Wave – A Bench in Motion

This project began with a brief to create a nohonga (seat) inspired by the Māori proverb "Kua hua te marama" (The moon is full). It called for a design that acknowledges the deep connection between people and the natural cycles that shape our world – lunar rhythms, tides, seasons, and the balance between whenua (land) and tangata (people). In response, Wave was conceived not just as a seat, but as an experiential reflection on those rhythms, a moment of connection and contemplation within the public realm.

The core idea behind Wave is interaction, a kinetic bench that responds to human engagement by triggering a gentle wave-like motion. This motion embodies the interconnectedness of natural systems, inviting users to reflect on their place and impact within these cycles. Through its dynamic movement, the seat transformed this simple interaction into a contemplative and engaging experience.

The design draws from the Māori lunar calendar (Maramataka) and celebrates themes of renewal, balance, and rhythm. Coloured timber stains represent the pine tree’s lifecycle; foliage, bark, fresh-cut, and weathered colour tones – while a silver surface on the slat sides introduces a subtle ‘conceal and reveal’ effect that echoes the phases of the moon. These thoughtful details enhance the poetic narrative woven into the piece.

Technically, Wave is designed to meet the challenges of the public realm. The structure incorporates Safety In Design (SID) principles with a weight-bearing frame and internal mechanism to enable the wave like motion. Comfortable seating dimensions, narrow gaps, chamfered edges, and a controlled oscillation through shock cords ensure a safe and inclusive experience for all users. Accoya timber and steel components provide strength and long-term durability for the outdoor conditions.

The slats and leg units are precision CNC-routed and designed for modular assembly. Each component slides onto a central pivot beam and is secured with spacers and a capping piece, allowing for quick installation and easy future maintenance. Individual elements can be replaced and recycled over time to avoid wastage.

Beyond its functional purpose, Wave stands as an interactive sculptural object. Its ability to gently move and return to stillness encourages moments of curiosity, delight, and reflection. Observations in use revealed engagement across all ages, transforming the bench into a playful and memorable feature of the public space.

Ultimately, Wave is an exploration of design as both function and story. It bridges traditional craft and innovative engineering, cultural narrative and contemporary form, by reconnecting users with natural rhythms through movement and materiality.