Lumawaltz
The concept for LUMAWALTZ™ was inspired by the Aurora Borealis. To extend the viewing experience beyond Denali National Park, LUMAWALTZ™ is a self contained fire starter kit that utilizes enviornmentally-friendly chemical packets to change the color of the flames in your campfire to resemble the dancing northern lights.
PROCESS
Throughout the process, I explored four separate design solutions. One, was an octagonal box, another was shaped like a pyramid, and the third was a flattened version of my final product. I was in search of a simple solution that could be packed easily into a backpack, was light-weight, and maintained a system.
Sketches & design ideation.
Early prototype.
THE SOLUTION
In order to coincide with Denali’s “Leave No Trace” initiative, the package is constructed out of stainless steel and would be utilized as a pan to build the fire in. The kit includes 1 set of matches, (1) 4oz packet of tinder, (1) fire pan, (1) mylar bag, & (4) color changing packets.
The design is triangular, so the user can easily place twigs in the corners of the pan to create a teepee shape when constructing the fire.
merchandising & advertisements
LUMAWALTZ™ would be sold in the Denali Northern Lights Gift Shop, located just inside the park. The product would have its own display, stacked into a triangle resembling Denali’s peak. The product will be advertised in neighboring cities and airports near the park.
AR experience
When the consumer uses the LUMAWALTZ™ app to scan the colorful flames, an augmented reality feature displays an animated version of the legends of the Northern Lights narrated by the Athabascan people.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Throughout this project I found myself thriving in research. I scoured every corner of the internet and the library to figure out what made Denali National Park unique. Once settling on the Northern Lights, I found my struggle was how to make a mainstream phenomena unique and engaging. I learned that research can truly drive the design of any project and that pushing myself to challenge the status quo yields the greatest results.