Jamieson Davis, Entertainment Unit/Bluetooth Speaker System (Student Awards 2018)

I set out to create a furniture piece that was not only aesthetically pleasing, but also eminently functional. The entertainment unit incorporates a 12-inch subwoofer and two 6-inch coaxial speakers paired with a Bluetooth head unit. I knew from the outset that the design was to incorporate curved features, giving it not only its futuristic appeal but also encouraging one to run their hand over the flowing surfaces. I drew inspiration from the turbine of a jet engine, which in conjunction with the hidden feet and shelf supports, all give the appearance that everything is free floating. The fins sit the subwoofer back in from the face and the double yellow pinstripes combined with the black really work, playing with your perception of depth. Using spotted gum and African toasted wenge as inlays, I covered the joins where the sections of the main carcase met. Similarly, on the inside of the curve, in the same stripe pattern, I created raised features using jarrah and Tasmanian oak. It involved a great deal of testing and accuracy to come up with the correct kerf cut spacing and depth to allow the hardwood veneered plywood to bend to the tight radii and ultimately allow the other components of the project to fit correctly. Overall, I was thrilled with the finished product. The dimensions of the finished piece are 1800W x 600H x 550D (millimetres), completion date October, 2018. Year 12, St John’s Grammar School SA. Teacher: Ian Armitage, Photos: Blue Razoo Photography

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.