The Empath Door

Initial design proposal

The design proposal emerges from deep introspection into the relationship between humans and pets. Inspired by cats' playful interactions with household objects, the concept takes form as a dual-purpose creation: a toy for cats and a monumental indoor structure for humans. This unique design seeks to cultivate empathy by providing us with an opportunity to experience their world, promoting harmonious coexistence and mutual understanding.

As we engage with the design, we're encouraged to empathize with our pets, acknowledging their emotions and needs. It serves as a shared space for pets and humans, fostering meaningful connections and moments of joy and love. This empathetic environment emphasizes the importance of treating pets as cherished companions and respecting their individuality.

In conclusion, the design proposal celebrates the profound connection between pets and humans, promoting empathy and compassion. By bridging the gap between species, it enriches the lives of both pets and humans, fostering a deeper bond and understanding.

Design development and production process

How can wood play a role in the functional materialization of the concept, for cats to determine territory, hide, create a safe and play area? And what can be done for a pleasant feeling for both genres in an exchange space?

The effect of wood becomes perceptible from different angles when touched and with its stance in ambient light. In this sense, red oak provides dynamic visibility with a contrasting vein structure and invites those around it to take a look at its surprising layout. In the design process, a detail that surprised users (ie cats and felines!) was developed and the deep surface texture was added. In this way, a functional depth has been added to the cat's nails. At the same time, it offers people the chance to take a deep look at the unique textures of trees in ambient light, unlike many smooth, slippery wooden surfaces. Thanks to the natural oil selection applied to the red oak, an effect that reveals wood grain colors was achieved.

So how can an heirloom be obtained from mass production? How can a structure be created in this sense? At this point, production methods were examined during the visit to Yonga Mobilya in Denizli. Easily reproducible steps were calculated to construct the structure. In the conversations on the details of the assembly of the parts, elaborate details were worked on. The structure, which was designed as demounted, provides a useful touch in terms of sustainability.