Sama Bajau Float Design

"This project captures the fun and energy that can be had through a group collaboration. The
research is thorough and the reference to cultural designs and traditions is playful and fun.
Best of all, these design choices are pulled together into a physical paper model that
successfully communicates both the potential and build-ability of this design as a physical
parade float." - Don Carson, WDI Alum

Based on the unique stilt houses of the Sama-Bajau Sea Tribe in the coastal regions of Indonesia, this float ideation is part of a collaborative class project, named "The International Celebration of Conservation". Each team created a float based on a different region of the world, raising awareness for the endangered animals and environments in that area.

For this float, we primarily focused on the vulnerable coral reefs and sea creatures located in the Southeast Asia waters of Indonesia, which also happens to be where the Sama-Bajau tribe is located. Taking heavy reference from their history and culture, the team translated common colors, textures, and materials of their homes and people to create this concept. The team also researched endangered animals in the area and applied geometric forms and indonesian patterns, which matched the overall pop-up book style that the class was using in the design of their floats.