After finalizing the design of the Heron Coat Hanger, we realized that there was no suitable coat hook to accompany it. As a designer, the advantage is that if there’s no perfect match, we can design one ourselves. We thought that a simple coat hook should be easy to create. Ding Ding! However, it seems that whenever we think this way, things tend to take an unexpected turn.

At the beginning, the designer takes out a blank sheet of paper and a pen because this is the freest mode of creativity. Whatever comes to mind is sketched down, and it’s a truly joyful moment. Various ideas flow freely without any constraints. There’s no need to consider cost, feasibility, or market potential. We pour out our imagination, finding solace and enjoyment in the process.

The next step involves constructing a 3D blueprint. Although we’re working with wood, how does it relate to 3D modeling? For designers, 3D modeling serves as the connection between imagination and reality. During the process of completing the 3D blueprint, our brain is forced to envision the production steps and incorporate real-world dimensions. Many impractical ideas gradually fade away as the product takes shape. As we engage in modeling, new and old ideas intertwine and fuse together, generating even more designs. The video below showcases all the ideas that emerged during the 3D modeling process of the coat hook. It feels like witnessing the entire life of the coat hook flashing before our eyes.

The final step before transitioning to woodworking and prototyping is discussing and making decisions with our team. This is a crucial process because as designers, we can become blinded by our own persistent ideas. Thankfully, our team’s suggestions help us filter out impractical designs, allowing us to focus on improving the promising ones. When starting a brand, designers often cling to designs driven by self-indulgence, but we’ve learned that such stubbornness only leads to dead ends.

Even for a simple coat hook, we can’t underestimate the process of thorough consideration, development, and the inevitable design overhaul. And this is still only the written stage. Once the design is finalized, we delve into the fabrication of the wooden prototype, which is another story altogether. Serious design is never an easy task. (But somehow, each time we still think we can finish it quickly 😂)

Did you see any styles in the sketches that you’d love to see us bring to life? Feel free to leave a comment and let us know!