urbanus by helene plamondon from canada

This design is guided by simple principles of versatility + organization.

The motivations for living and working in close relationship with the streets are as varied as the urban and social environments that prompt such a condition; Vancouver, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Moscow – and many other urban centres – have a range of people relying on the street as a means for commerce, lifestyle, and/or survival, yet circumstances and social situations can vary greatly between these places. The cart is designed to be adaptable to such different locales and functions. It is easily customizable and repaired with local materials. Furthermore, these functions are kept separate; business and pleasure, and storage and shelter, are not mutually exclusive. A collapsible sleeping area has been designed at the centre of the cart, allowing it to stay elevated and dry at all times, and facilitating sleeping/resting even when the cart is fully loaded. The scheme is influenced by various existing designs and concepts; it references ideas of folding, compartmentalization, specialization, mobility, and versatility, and employs these concepts in a simple, functional, and elegant whole. Urbanus: a concept arising from urbane perspectives, for the urban environment.

Materials:
- 4-way-locking swivel castors with breaks
- welded steel or aluminum frame
- rubberized vinyl - used for most surfaces; perforated material = woven and sewn vinyl strips
- ripstop nylon - for rain cover and folding tent component