Echos Of Polynesia Chess Set
This five-week project challenged the designer to create a chess set using a family of form to establish hierarchy and recognizability between the pieces. The focus was on developing a cohesive visual language that unified the set while still allowing each piece to be easily distinguished. By carefully refining proportions, shapes, and subtle variations, the design emphasized both functionality and aesthetic clarity, resulting in a set that balanced unity with the clear hierarchy essential to the game of chess.
Cultural Inspiration
Visual and Cultural References Behind the Design
Drew inspiration from Polynesian culture to design a unique chess set
Blended traditional gameplay with rich cultural storytelling
Incorporated geometric tattoo-inspired patterns into the pieces
Selected materials and color palette to honor Polynesian craftsmanship
Created a cultural centerpiece that conveys connection, spirit, history, and artistry
Initial Ideation
Tiki set ideation Sketches to match cultural inspiration
I thought the Tiki set had the most potential but due to project constraints and iconography I could not continue with the tiki set and had to switch my approach to a more cultural inspired set.
Continued Exploration
Developing Chess Set Concepts with Focused Exploration
Chose Polynesian culture as the design inspiration
Explored traditional symbols and art forms
Translated cultural elements into the design of the different chess pieces
Perspective and Orthographic Sketches
Focused Sketching to Solidify Design Choice
Moved forward with the Polynesian culture design direction
Focused on creating a unified family of forms for the chess pieces
Establishing clear hierarchy and recognizability within the set
Final Design
Final Concepts Showcasing the Design Vision
Moved ahead with the hook theme
Incorporated various cultural patterns and symbols
Developed final materiality sketches to preview the finished product
Mid Fidelity Models
Refining Concepts Through Physical Prototypes
Created mid-fidelity models in Fusion 360
3D printed models to test shape and size
Evaluated stability of each piece
Assessed how easily each piece could be grasped
Common Mold Piece
A Common Piece to Unite the Collection
Required to create a common mold piece for the project
Piece had to be incorporated into every part of the set and remain identical across all pieces
Produced using a two-part silicone mold filled with epoxy resin mixed with mica powder
Design inspired by Polynesian culture, featuring an arrow symbol at the center
Arrow symbol represents a warrior — a fitting reference for chess, where players face each other in battle
Laser Cut and Engraving
Transforming Designs into Cut and Etched Surfaces
Used a laser cutter to cut shapes from 1/4” hardwood panels
Glued panels together and sanded them smooth
Laser engraved cultural patterns on the front and back to emphasize the theme
Attached the common molded piece at the center of each chess piece
