Joonyeon Jo

STANDING UP TO SITTING provides a novel solution against our sedentary chair-based working culture. Two product combinations, consisting of a ‘Height Variation Desk’ and a ‘Barefoot Motion Ground’, allows users to stay active during productive work. Motion-inducing design components combined with tactile sensations on bare feet helps users to maintain increased level of activity, known to be beneficial for both physical and mental well-being. This project explores how office furniture innovation may help create live, enjoyable and healthy working environments.

Workplace productivity largely depends on general well-being. Recent studies show that traditional chair-based environments are significantly associated with physical and mental health symptoms. Being physically inactive, or prolonged sitting, greatly diminishes muscle function, blood circulation and respiratory function that we so heavily rely on for proper body function. 

The ‘Height Variation Desk’ provides a stealth height variation in standing mode, generating continuous upper body motion without being noticed. In conjunction, the ‘Barefoot Motion Ground’ allows the user to move in walk-like motion while moving side to side nudged by the use of various natural materials to stimulate barefoot tactile sensations. Restoring barefoot sensation serves to increase balance, comfort and blood circulation that allows users to stand and move for longer periods without sitting down.

STANDING UP TO SITTING presents the importance of human-centred design focusing on health, and pioneers how cultural changes can be driven through product innovations.