DECAYED CHESS SET
revisiting a classic design
Inspiration
To begin this project, I found families of form that captivated me.
Simple
Organic
Geometric
Ideation
I explored different forms for chess pieces based off of my inspiration boards.
Exploration
In order to choose a form, I brainstormed concepts for a compelling chess set through mind maps.
Idea Development
Through sketching and clay modeling, I elaborated upon the concepts of both an old stone chess set and a haunted/decayed chess set.
I decided upon the concept of the decayed chess set because I found the story more captivating. This chess set has lost many games, but always returns for another chance at redemption. The scars of past games are displayed on each piece, hinting at how they were individually defeated. Even the king remains at a constant tilt, due to being knocked overs many times at the end of each game.
CAD Modeling
Using Fusion 360, I first modeled a base design for each piece. Then I duplicated each file and edited them to create the decayed pieces.
Because I built complete pieces and then destroyed them in CAD, I had both the complete set and the decayed set to oppose each other.
Physical Prototyping
I 3D printed my CAD models in PLA plastic in order to study the ergonomics of each piece.
I upscaled the models by a factor of 1.5, so that the pieces would be easier to pick up and move around a chess board.
Final Prototypes
The final pieces were 3D printed in clear resin in order to give them a ghostly look that reflects the story behind the project.
Final Renders
This is the final lineup of the decayed chess set rendered in Keyshot.
