DI: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?
Shakes : Twin Lotus asked us to design a new dental floss plastic container. After the first round of concepts our team realized the waste that this product created and decided to change the brief and create a case that could be used over a longer period of time.
DI: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?
Shakes : We aimed to create a Design that people would love and would want to keep making a "green" Design by choice. So we needed to focus on making a product that users would be addicted to by habit and finger boredom. First thing that comes to mind is the Zippo which became our reference.
DI: What are your future plans for this award winning design?
Shakes : If there's something that is wrong with this Design it's its packaging which was locked down by a wrong brief and forced by a pushing deadline. So we will redesign the Herbaliste brand and package to make it right this year.
DI: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?
Shakes : Due to the complexity of the upper surface and the internal fitting of the components the final Design nearly required 2 months with another 5 months engineering development.
DI: Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?
Shakes : We were commissioned to create this Design as part of our ongoing retainer contract with our client.
DI: Is your design being produced or used by another company, or do you plan to sell or lease the production rights or do you intent to produce your work yourself?
Shakes : Our Design is sold under the Twin Lotus Herbaliste brand.
DI: What made you design this particular type of work?
Shakes : Since we're an Industrial Design Studio we're capable of working in multiple industries and enjoy the chance to do so, too. We use our expertise to the best no matter what work we are facing.
DI: Where there any other designs and/or designers that helped the influence the design of your work?
Shakes : At that time we were inspired the Polygonal trend.
DI: Who is the target customer for his design?
Shakes : Herbaliste is a brand for young professionals that prefer natural goodness over chemical efficiency.
DI: What sets this design apart from other similar or resembling concepts?
Shakes : In comparison to other Dental Floss packaging this is a keeper!
DI: How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?
Shakes : The Herbaliste brand conveys passion for herbal and natural ingredients.
DI: Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?
Shakes : We used 3D software to create the concept visualization and engineering data. We also 3D printed the design to check for fitting and overall aesthetics.
DI: What is the most unique aspect of your design?
Shakes : The Polygon ice landscape pays homage to the cooling effect of the Dental Floss and also creates a nice talking point when put on a table. We also like the built-in mirror to check your teeth after flossing.
DI: Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?
Shakes : After the finalization of the Design we worked with a Chinese Vendor that specialized in candy boxes and all sort of tin boxes to help realize this product. They were very helpful in creating the product we have today.
DI: What is the role of technology in this particular design?
Shakes : Technology didn't influence the Design.
DI: What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?
Shakes : Creating a right fitting of the internal components was a tricky job and also the intuitive refilling of the filament. We needed multiple prototype to get the right density and feeling for the internal liner.
DI: How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?
Shakes : I've started competing in the A Design competition since last year winning three awards. I intend to compete at least with one entry every year to build the studio's reputation but also increase Thailand's Design Ranking.
DI: What did you learn or how did you improve yourself during the designing of this work?
Shakes : I always push myself and the people we work with to reach for the best. It is the key to creating something great and the key of never getting comfortable so that your mind always stays sharp and hungry.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
Shakes : I think my brain's already blown by all the above questions!