The Urban Secateur
2025 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master of Fine Arts (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE credits
Student thesis [Artistic work]
Abstract [en]
This thesis explores the re-design of the secateur — a widely used pruning tool found in homes, apartments, and plant nurseries. The project aims to challenge the conventional aesthetics and ergonomics of the traditional secateur by creating an “urban secateur” that blends professional functionality with the refined elegance of bonsai scissors. Designed to accommodate both novice and experienced users, the tool maintains the strength to cut through thicker twigs while presenting a more approachable, humble presence.The research follows a human-centered design process, combining practical prototyping with user feedback to inform shape, ergonomics, and materiality. Rooted in the belief that design should serve both present and future needs, the project emphasizes responsible innovation — balancing function, emotional value, and usability across all stages of interaction.Beyond usability, the project embraces the plant–human connection, acknowledging that early positive experiences with plants can foster care, empathy, and a stronger environmental mindset later in life. By encouraging daily interaction and hands-on plant care, the design supports not only personal well-being but also greater awareness of biodiversity and sustainable living.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2025. , p. 44
Keywords [en]
plant–human connection, indoor gardening, emotional design, ergonomics, responsible innovation, sustainable living, biodiversity awareness, tool re-design
National Category
Design
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:konstfack:diva-10360OAI: oai:DiVA.org:konstfack-10360DiVA, id: diva2:1963716
Educational program
Design Ecologies (Master)
Supervisors
2025-06-122025-06-032025-09-26Bibliographically approved