CARRIER
IDC 2025 Official Design Competition | Silver Prize
utility stool
Carrier is a 3D-printed PLA stool inspired by the spatial logic of car interiors: compact, efficient, and intentionally compartmentalized. Carrier acts as both furniture and a personal carry-all, reflecting the emotional attachment we have to everyday objects that move with us.
Design A 3D-printed stool that reflects the mindset of Detroit’s automotive legacy. The design should be optimized for additive manufacturing, made in PLA, ship flat, and assemble without any tools or hardware.
The Challenge
inspired by interior side compartments, Iteration One included Integrated storage attached between each leg, housing a variety of daily carry items.
Designed with DFAM in mind, CARRIER reduces unnecessary waste by printing entirely without support structures.
Submission 1.
Following panel feedback, we reduced the number of required parts from 10 to 7 allowing CARRIER to print and assemble more efficiently. Seating area was extended by 3 inches to allow for greater comfort and easier height adjustment.
Supporting extrusion legs were optimized for weight distribution by hollowing areas deemed negligible for load bearing. CARRIER now prints 35% faster and uses less material while maintaining a more streamlined appearance.
Submission 2.
Carrier ships flat with recycled pulp fiber packaging that securely cradles each component. Careful layouts and minimal materials deliver both shipping efficiency and a refined, intentional unboxing experience.
Flatpack Packaging
We were honored to received the 2nd Place prize at the 2025 International Design Conference in Detroit, MI, alongside project partner Solomon Choi.