I was contracted to design and build a "co-working phone booth" for MakerLabs, a large makerspace in Vancouver. Phone booths like this are used in noisy shared workspaces to provide a quiet, comfortable spot to take a call or work. A few project constraints were that it had to be made from recycled materials found in the makerspace, with as many components as possible CNC-cut. It also needed to be modular, easy to diassemble, and easy to build with 1 or 2 people.

The design process involved a series of iterative loops jumping between conversations with future users, sketching ideas, massing models, full-scale prototypes, digital models, and scale modles to refine the ergonomics, design features, and construction approach. The final design featured a seat and counter that seamlessly integrated into vertical acoustic plywood and cork panels. The height of the seat and counter were optimized for different heights and meant to be comfortable in a standing postion, stool style seating, or full seated position. It was constructed from donated 18mm plywood leftover from a design conference and scrap acrylic for the windows and skylight. Built on casters, the booth can be moved easily and disassembled with just a few bolts. While the acoustic performance isn’t perfect, it reduces shop noise enough to create a comfortable space for a call or focused work.