MDF has weaknesses that make it an undesirable material to use; particularly, its intolerance to water. Swell is a representation of how a weakness can be exploited to create something purposeful and elegant. It is meant to explore the swelling properties of MDF as a locking mechanism rather than a defect.
The form of the side table was meant to highlight the process of pouring. The interlocking joints are activated via swelling wherein hot water is poured from the top and diverted through its channels. Both process and results are visually emphasized by the dye.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
18MM colored MDF
Hot water
Fabric dye
Andy Nicholson
Mitchell Ransome
Naveed Farro