Marco Sidoli
Winner of travel grant of DKK 30.000.
Design an inclusive kitchen for all
Marco Sidoli’s problem statement is: How might I design an inclusive kitchen that caters to the evolving needs of individuals, combining technology and human-tactics approaches for affordability and accessibility, while enhancing social well-being and reducing isolation within the household?
During his design process, he aims to gather knowledge by engaging with people with different expertise and including diverse cohort of kitchen users. To develop his action-research, he plans to adopt the 6C Model, which provides a structured framework aiming at developing novel and innovative solutions. The 6C Model comprises of six different forms of knowledge production: Collect, Comprehend, Conceptualize, Create, Collaborate and Communicate. This framework places significant emphasis on investigating both the problem and the solution in tandem, making it an effective management tool for mapping a project and selecting relevant design methods etc. for open, complex problem- solving. A crucial overall approach in the design process, particularly for the success of this project, is collaborative design (Co-Design). It involves collaboration with all stakeholders, including users, experts, and fellow members of the design team, with the primary objective of creating an inclusive design that caters to the needs of all users. In conclusion, the modular kitchen he envisions revolves around all of us. It changes along with our ever-evolving needs, blends technology and traditional methods while keeping it affordable for a wider audience. This it is not just about a kitchen, it’s a space where everyone can experience a sense of independence.
Marco plans to conduct his investigation between UD Living Lab, Belgium and Gio TirottoDesign Studio, Italy with the support of Designskolen Kolding, Denmark from January 2024 to June 2024. The expect outcome of this research is the construction of a full-scale kitchen model. This model aims to demonstrate and highlight the application of Universal Design principles within the context of traditional industrial design practices.
Watch the pitch below.
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Marco Sidoli
's investigation
Marco has started his investigation in Belgium and Italy. Below you can read posts along the way from his journey, in which he details his experiences and the insight he has gained thus far.
January 2024
Workshops
Exciting Update on My Bevica Fonden Project: Designing the Kitchen of the future!
This past week marked the start of the second step in my journey as I visited the UD Living Lab in Belgium. As a visitor researcher, my primary goal was participatory observation, diving deep into understanding how we interact with our kitchen spaces.
A huge shoutout to Erwin Vanroye for his invaluable contribution in assembling a diverse group of users who enriched my research with their insights. Together, we embarked on an explorative cooking workshop, designed to uncover the strengths and weaknesses of contemporary kitchen designs.
But that’s not all – I have also facilitated a co-creation workshop! Participants used Lego to visualize their ‘kitchens of the future’ offering a playful yet profound perspective on what the future of kitchen design could look like.
These activities are part of my ‘collect’ phase, where I aim to gather as much data as possible. This rich information will be pivotal in analyzing current trends and translating this research into a tangible, innovative kitchen design.
Thank to participants and collaborators, Gio Tirotto Designskolen Kolding Jan Vanrie Hubert FROYEN Richard Herriott
Stay tuned for more updates to revolutionize the kitchen design!
February 2024
Co-design
Designing the kitchen of the future: A Journey of Co-creation between aesthetic and inclusivity
As I venture further into the Bevica Fonden project, the vision for the kitchen of the future grows clearer and more inclusive. In this second phase, I’ve had the privilege of co-designing with users of diverse abilities. This collaborative effort is not just about merging functionality with aesthetics; it’s about redefining the market appeal through a Universal Design approach.
These collaborative efforts have not only broadened my design perspectives but also deepened my understanding of inclusivity. It’s becoming increasingly clear that inclusive design transcends accessibility, aiming to create spaces and objects that are meaningful and user-friendly for everyone.
Looking ahead, I am excited to bring these innovative concepts to life through VR testing, ensuring my designs are both practical and resonate with users on a personal level.
One of my biggest takeaways so far is the power of design to break down barriers. The aim is not just to create a space that’s accessible but to design a kitchen where every element feels like it’s been tailored for you, regardless of your needs.
I extend my gratitude to Gio Tirotto for his support and innovative spirit.
Erwin Vanroye at UD Living Lab for his role in connecting me with diverse individuals and create a community around this project.
Thanks also go to Designskolen Kolding, and to my thesis supervisor, Richard Herriott, for their guidance and support. And, of course, a special shoutout to Bevica Fonden for their belief in my mission.
March 2024
Design inspiration
Designing the kitchen of the future: Bridging Innovation and Accessibility
Last week was full of inspiration, thanks to my time with Gio Tirotto. Working together, we’re finding ways to make kitchens look great and work even better. Gio taught me that the design should always make sense for how something is used. He also said I should “start designing from your limits,” which has really opened my eyes during this creative journey.
We’re now at an exciting point where our ideas are about to get tested in the real world. Our next stop is the UD Living Lab, where we’ll use virtual reality to see how our designs work with people of different abilities. This is a key part of making sure our kitchens are good for everyone.
This project is teaching me how to make designs that are not only new and exciting but also ready to be made and used by everyone. It’s all about working together and sharing ideas to make something truly special.
Big thanks to the Bevica Fonden to give me this amazing chance. Gio Tirotto’s team Giovanna De Vita for the continuos support.
Also, a shoutout to Designskolen Kolding and my thesis supervisor Richard Herriott for all the guidance and support.
We’re getting closer to making a kitchen that’s for everyone, showing that good design is about including everyone.
Stay with us for more updates as we keep working on making the kitchen of the future.
June 2024
NOTA Kitchen at 3 Days of Design
I’m excited to announce that I just finished my first exhibition at 3 Days of Design, where I presented NOTA KITCHEN, my Master’s Degree research project in Design for People at Designskolen Kolding, funded by my Bevica Fonden award.
Step inside a place where design transcends boundaries. NOTA Kitchen is a new spatial product, a narrative of inclusion and innovation. Our project weaves Universal Design into the heart of industrial design, sculpting a kitchen that adapts and resonates with evolving needs.
Technological integrations, while impressive, underscore the indispensable role of humans. Instead, my research want to emphasise, that incorporating users’ unique perspectives—focusing on their emotional needs, cultural preferences, and overall user experience—is crucial. Technology alone may offer efficiency, but a combined human-technological approach reveals deeper insights into creating genuinely inclusive environments.
This event was an incredible opportunity to showcase our work. NOTA KITCHEN is more than just a product; it’s a reimagined kitchen space that blends functionality with style, ensuring accessibility is a core feature.
Design Studio Partner: Gio Tirotto.
Technical Partner: S2 S.p.A., Elio Latini (HiD and Alumaxx), FBSprofilati, QuadroDesign and Erwin Vanroye (UD Living Lab).
Interview at 3 Days of Design
Check out our interview with Marco at his exhibition during 3 Days of Design. In this conversation, he delves into the innovative approach and ambitious goals of his project. This includes how he has utilized universal design and the benefits it has brought. Marco also shares his experience as a participant in the Bevica Scholarship Programme and discusses how it has provided valuable support and inspiration for his journey.