We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Chris DeGray about their original and creative Integrated Sink design work. Chris DeGray is an award-winning industrial designer, that makes our world a better place with their original integrated sink works.
Chris DeGray ("CD") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Dverse Integrated Sink. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
CD : The main principle behind the D|VERSE Sink System is to offer architects and designers versatile and aesthetically pleasing restroom solutions that integrate seamlessly into various design visions. The inspiration stemmed from the need to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of restrooms, with research into airflow dynamics leading to the innovative feature of directing water away from users to ensure cleanliness and safety. For the recent office expansion that this product was used in, the driving concept was to design a space that embodied Excel Dryer's core values. This company deeply values creative innovation and collaboration, environmental stewardship, and promoting human health and wellness. So, we applied this lens to guide design decisions and create a space that intuitively demonstrates these principles.
CD : The main focus was on creating a customizable, integrated hand hygiene solution that aligns with modern design preferences while enhancing user experience. We aimed to achieve a harmonious blend of form, function, and safety, ensuring a touch-free and spill-free hand washing and drying experience. For the recent office expansion that this product was installed in, we had an exciting opportunity to showcase the D|VERSE integrated sink systems throughout the expansion. The main conference room creates a flexible meeting space that can expand to host larger company events. This was a perfect place to showcase the company's latest innovation while promoting excellent hand hygiene in this central gathering space.
CD : Future plans include expanding the customization options further and integrating more advanced features to meet evolving user needs. We also aim to collaborate with more architects and designers to incorporate the D|VERSE Sink System into a broader range of projects, enhancing restroom functionality and aesthetics worldwide.
CD : The design process for the D|VERSE Sink System took approximately one year, from October 2022 to September 2023.
CD : This design was pursued out of inspiration to address the gaps in current restroom solutions, particularly the need for aesthetically pleasing, functional, and safe hand hygiene systems. It was driven by the desire to innovate and improve upon existing restroom designs and by the need to offer architects and designers versatile options that align with their creative visions for restroom designs.
CD : The design is produced by D|13 Group.
CD : The design was motivated by the need to offer a more integrated, aesthetically pleasing, and functional restroom solution that meets the demands of modern architects and designers.
CD : While the primary inspiration came from internal research and development, feedback from architects and designers about existing restroom solutions influenced the final design to better meet their needs and preferences.
CD : The target customers are architects and designers looking for customizable, high-quality restroom solutions that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
CD : The D|VERSE Sink System's unparalleled customization options, allowing for personalization of color, shape, and materials, compatibility with numerous top-brand soap and faucets, integration of the XLERATORsync Hand Dryer, and commitment to a touch-free, spill-free user experience set it apart from other concepts. Its focus on blending form, function, and safety in a seamless design makes it distinct.
CD : The name "D|VERSE" reflects the design’s versatility and ability to adapt to diverse aesthetic and functional requirements, emphasizing its appeal to a broad range of design visions.
CD : Advanced CAD software and 3D modeling tools were used to design and refine the D|VERSE Sink System, ensuring precision and high-quality integration of all components
CD : The most unique aspect is the seamless integration of washing and drying functions in a single unit with unparalleled customization options, providing a touch-free, hygienic, and aesthetically pleasing solution.
CD : The project involved collaboration with engineers specializing in airflow dynamics, materials experts, and architects to ensure the system's functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
CD : Technology plays a crucial role in ensuring the system's touch-free operation, efficient water and air flow management, and integration of high-efficiency fixtures, enhancing both hygiene and user experience.
CD : Yes, the design was influenced by extensive research into user preferences, restroom design trends, and airflow dynamics to ensure optimal performance and aesthetics. Surveys and focus groups with architects and designers provided valuable insights.
CD : The creative challenge for the D|VERSE Sink System was balancing complete customization with functionality to meet architects’ and designers’ needs. Overcoming these challenges, we designed a basin that directs water away from the user, preventing floor spills, and incorporated touch-free fixtures for improved hygiene. The project harmonized aesthetics with hygiene, addressing the main issues of water control and cleanliness while offering full customization.
CD : The decision was based on our confidence in the innovative aspects of the D|VERSE Sink System and our desire to gain broader recognition for our work and its potential impact on restroom design.
CD : We learned the importance of integrating user feedback into the design process and the value of cross-disciplinary collaboration in achieving a well-rounded, functional, and aesthetically pleasing product.
CD : The D|VERSE Sink System not only represents a significant step forward in restroom design but also aligns with sustainable practices through its use of durable materials and energy-efficient components, reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility.
