★ Zen Garden
Overview
During my study-abroad semester at NYU Shanghai (I’m actually an NYU Manhattan student), I took an industrial design class that challenged us to create something truly special for the university. Each group received a modest budget of about 2,000 RMB (~$270) to design a piece that could become a permanent installation. While some groups built chairs or sofas, I pitched an idea that was more ambitious: constructing a house-like structure complete with a sofa inside, all within our limited budget.
My Ambitious Idea
From the start, this concept raised quite a few eyebrows among my teammates and teaching assistants. But I couldn’t shake the vision I had in mind: a tranquil space on campus where students could relax, study, or simply take a break from the rush of college life. To convince everyone it was possible, I spent hours in Fusion 360, simulating forces, testing different construction methods, and refining the design to keep it both sturdy and cost-effective. My professor, to my relief, not only approved the idea but also granted us an additional 600 RMB when it became clear we needed a bit more funding.
The Building Process
What followed was a whirlwind of sourcing materials, negotiating deliveries, and lugging three-meter wooden planks to the second-floor workshop. My teammates, a close friend, and I carried every piece by hand, a process that was exhausting yet surprisingly satisfying. Each plank needed two coats of protective finish, with each coat taking 24 hours to dry. I spent countless late nights in the woodshop drilling holes, creating custom fittings, and treating wood, and despite the hard work, I still miss the process.
Design & Features
The final structure features a gracefully curved double cantilever, along with reinforced wooden planks for added durability. Students inside can enjoy natural light while still benefiting from privacy—a perfect spot for reading, studying, or chatting with friends. We call it the Zen Garden because it creates a peaceful oasis from the deadlines, exams, and overall busyness of college life.
Reflecting on the Experience
Looking back, building the Zen Garden was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences I’ve had in college. It tested my design skills, problem-solving abilities, and physical endurance. Though it involved long hours and countless coats of varnish, I’m proud of the result. I hope the Zen Garden remains a cozy retreat on campus, offering a taste of peace in the midst of a hectic university environment.
Day 1 Assembly Time Lapse.
