CARDINALS NOSH
Duration | 5 Weeks
Date | Spring 2025
Design Goals | My main goals for this project was to create an inviting enviroment for a cardinal, which is a native bird in Ohio. I chose a contained feeder to keep predators away along with multiple resting areas for the birds to cling onto.
SANCTUARY FOR A CARDINAL
The northern cardinal is also known as the Ohio state bird and is native to Cincinnati. These birds like open spaces rather than tight-fitting birdhouses. Typically nest in shrubs and stay away from human houses.
Wingspan | 9.8-12.2 Inches
Weight | 1.5-1.7 Ounces
Length | 8.3-9.4 Inches
Height | 4.3-5.1 Inches
While looking at materials and researching, I chose this inspiration for my final design, combining a beautiful green acrylic to play off the red feathers of the cardinal.
MATERIALITY INSPIRATION
During my first couple of sketching pages, I focused on adding perches and trying to keep it open concept as much as possible. I was thinking about different materials that may work or add to the design of the product. I also focused on experimenting with the way the house would be placed, hung, or stand alone.
INITIAL IDEATION
I proceeded to add shading and further my thought of making a feeder, although I didn’t have an exact developed idea, I was still very focused on creating open spaces. A feeder seemed more suitable as cardinals don’t typically use birdhouses. I was also into the idea of the house being screwed into the tree, this way it would be sure to not move and alter the food when the birds use it.
FURTHER IDEATION
I selected this box figure with a bent curve from top to bottom. I experimented with different ways the curves could be presented and different ways it could have perches. I also began to think about the alternatives to how I could represent these cutouts for easy access so the cardinal is able to leave and flee.
FINAL DESIGN DIRECTIONS
During this process, I quickly made a couple of models to get a good idea of size and scale. This also helped me get a quick visual imagery and begin to decide which direction I wanted to focus on and move forward with.
LOW FIDELITY MODELS
This mid-fidelity model I used with a basic acrylic plastic, which I demonstrated to my peers. I was easily able to slide it in with a slot that I achieved using a table saw. The tension-bent pieces were laser cut. I then heat-bent the perches and used a bandsaw to put the square out for the suet.
MID FIDELITY MODEL
FINAL IMAGES