George Nelson Coconut Chair [Model - Tutorial - Request]

Hieru

I wasn't sure which section to post this in as I want to share my model, modelling technique and ask for advice on improving my model.

Anyway, here is my attempt at the 'Coconut Chair' designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller.

I've uploaded the model to the 3D Warehouse and it includes all the stages of the modelling process, including the proxies used to create the final organic elements with Artisan:

sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=9206c8269407d0eb57c5612b7fe8fc93&prevstart=0

As far as my request for advice is concerned, firstly I would like to know if I'm on the right track when it comes to my use of proxies and whether there might be a better approach to modelling this chair. Any advice would be much appreciated.

Also, there were some features that I wanted to add, but I couldn't really figure out how to model them:

rspierenburg

Wow...that is pretty impressive. Great job!

unigami

@hieru said:

I've uploaded the model to the 3D Warehouse and it includes all the stages of the modelling process, including the proxies used to create the final organic elements with Artisan

I've just started working with Artisan, and this was a helpful tutorial for me....thanks!

Hieru

Glad you found it useful.

I found some problems with the model today, so I updated the 3D Warehouse file - you might want to take a look.

I've also created a textured version of the chair which has been UV mapped properly. It's too large for the 3D Warehouse, so I'll share it here as an attachment.

GeorgeNelson_CoconutChair.zip

Hieru

Humbly bumping the thread as I'm still looking for advice.

Mike Lucey

Thanks David, nice model

Hieru

Thanks

jarynzlesa

super tutorial, supr model, thx for sharing .

mitcorb

Hi, Hieru:
This does not detract from your excellent image and model.
It just so happens that my parents owned one of these in the 1960's with a muted yellow "Naugahyde" upholstery, and every thing about the seams and the special deformation of the shell at the bottom rear appear to be accurate. I think there was a companion otttoman with 4 legs. On the specific model I am familiar with, the shell was not glossy--not that they didn't maybe do a glossy finish-- this one was a white matte surface slightly pebbly as if done in fiberglass, like boat hulls and spray coated with what?--polyester? or some other formula.

I would say the smoothness and regularity of the model mesh suggest your method is very sound and appropriate

Hieru

Thanks for the compliment and practical advice.

I'll definitely correct the shell material in future renders. To be honest I didn't pay attention to the actual chair and selected a glossy finish to help the shell stand out against the background.

Modelling the accompanying ottoman is on my to-do list