Bubble Vase

An Eco-Friendly Vase Design Combining 3D Printing and Oriental Lacquer

The inspiration behind the Bubble Vase design came from the designers' exploration of new technologies and their desire to create unprecedented products. While 3D printing is often portrayed as a flawless technology, Ryu and Lyu embraced its limitations to give their vases a distinctive character. By using eco-friendly plastic and employing a slow and thick 3D printing process, they achieved a unique texture. To further enhance the vases, they applied lacquer, a traditional finish paint in oriental tradition.

The Bubble Vase series stands out with its combination of various shapes and sizes of bubbles. Each vase is a work of art, showcasing similar yet different voluminousness at the center. The use of environmentally friendly plastic extracted from corn starch ensures that these vases are not only visually appealing but also eco-friendly. When the vases reach the end of their life cycle, they decompose completely, unlike traditional plastic vases.

The realization of the Bubble Vase design involved a mix of 3D printing technology and the application of oriental natural lacquer finishing. The use of vegetable plastic extracted from corn starch ensures that the production process is environmentally friendly and does not contribute to pollution. This approach also allows for the establishment of a reliable production system.

The Bubble Vase series includes four different shapes and sizes, offering versatility in floral arrangements. These vases can be stacked to create unique shapes, adding an element of fun and creativity to their use. The silver series, with its distinct color and texture, provides a refreshing alternative to traditional plastic vases.

The Bubble Vase project was carried out in Seoul, starting in May 2018 and concluding in September 2018. The designers conducted extensive research on eco-friendly materials and identified the demand for naturally decomposable plastics. They also explored the potential of 3D printing technology to add new value to everyday objects.

The Bubble Vase design faced challenges in terms of the slow production speed of 3D printing technology. To address this, the designers increased the size of the nozzle and the laminated layer. However, they ensured that the translucent nature of the plastic was maintained, preserving the high-quality aesthetic appeal of the vases.

The Bubble Vase series is a testament to the designers' commitment to innovation and sustainability. By combining cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship, Ryu and Lyu have created vases that are not only visually stunning but also environmentally conscious. The Bubble Vase design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2019, recognizing its practicality, innovation, and adherence to professional and industrial requirements.