Lilo Bench
May 2015
I designed the Lilo Bench to showcase the strength and beauty of inflated metal, created with a homemade version of the Hydroforming process. A pressure washer is used to pump water into a 2D sheet metal profile, which forces the sheets apart and inflates the object like a metal balloon.
Focusing on this exciting process for my final project at Kingston university, I created over a dozen inflated steel objects; to determine which 2D shapes can be successfully transformed into 3D products. After several experiments with simple shapes, I decided to try a test piece that imitated the complex form of an inflatable plastic 'Lilo'. The test was a success, discovering that the Lilo form makes an ideal bench seat, as the distinctive structure is incredibly strong and surprisingly comfortable.
Wanting to keep strength as my main focus, I designed concrete and steel supports inspired by bridge engineering, providing a solid foundation while also creating the illusion that the Lilo is floating.
After the Lilo is inflated, the edges and surface are sanded smooth before being powder coated. I chose a bright and glossy finish to mimic a plastic inflatable, this gives the bench a soft appearance, so people are often shocked when they discover that it’s actually metal!
Focusing on this exciting process for my final project at Kingston university, I created over a dozen inflated steel objects; to determine which 2D shapes can be successfully transformed into 3D products. After several experiments with simple shapes, I decided to try a test piece that imitated the complex form of an inflatable plastic 'Lilo'. The test was a success, discovering that the Lilo form makes an ideal bench seat, as the distinctive structure is incredibly strong and surprisingly comfortable.
Wanting to keep strength as my main focus, I designed concrete and steel supports inspired by bridge engineering, providing a solid foundation while also creating the illusion that the Lilo is floating.
After the Lilo is inflated, the edges and surface are sanded smooth before being powder coated. I chose a bright and glossy finish to mimic a plastic inflatable, this gives the bench a soft appearance, so people are often shocked when they discover that it’s actually metal!
Winner of the Young Furniture Makers Bespoke Award, for 'excellence in innovation and craftsmanship'
Awarded joint 'Best in Show' at the Young Furniture Makers Exhibition 2015
Awarded joint 'Best in Show' at the Young Furniture Makers Exhibition 2015
