Uncommon Sense
A design installation by 123 West Design Collective
Uncommon Sense is a sensory experience showcasing the many ways design impacts our emotional state using brilliant colors, invocative smells, tactile materials, aural frequencies, and subtle movements. The materials used in the installation showcase the ingenuity and beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, using reclaimed materials from tribal timber processes, surfboard manufacturing, and local horticulture. Special thank you to The Hub in downtown Port Angeles, WA for providing an amazing space to create in and the Seattle Design Festival for hosting and coordinating an amazing 2025 event.
01
Structure
The structure was designed by Kyle Zimmerman and built with the help of Port Angeles High School students Lizzy Shaw and Becca Manson. The wood is sawn, dried and dimensioned by the Makah Sawmill in Neah Bay, WA and thermally-modified by CRTC in Port Angeles, WA.
02
Biophilia
The plant vessels were designed and built by Ricki Carr of Terrestrial Consultations and by using reused lanterns from Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area. By connecting a PlantWave device to the plants, we can experience the harmonics of the plants in a whole new way.
03
Light and Shadow
The ceiling-hung light panels and the plant shelves were created by artist Todd Fischer by using reclaimed fiberglass scraps and resin from the surfboard manufacturing process at Bauer Surfboards.
04
Color and Texture
Port Angeles artists Mary B. Truly (ribbons), Brady Black (spray paint), Bayloo (acrylic paint), Grant Waldron (weaving), and Fitz of Ani-Fab (carving) all contributed to the sensory experience of the installation through their unique blend of creativity.
05
Showtime
Uncommon Sense is a full-fledged collaborative experiment in generative design by humans. The structure changed form dozens of times throughout it's first summer, culminating in the final design submitted to Seattle Design Festival.
06
Adapt and Reuse
As part of our mission to constantly adapt and reuse all the materials we work with in our study, we continue to find new and innovative ways to connect art and design. Right photo: Uncommon Sense v2.
