Render using Keyshot and Vizcom
COSTA'S UNITS CARNATION
2026 (4 weeks)
3D Modeling, Rendering, and Physical Prototyping
Objective: Design a product for a specific bird species that is inspired by the visual brand language of ecoBirdy. Incorporate multiple ecological design approaches into the design, materialization, and use of the product.
The Costa's Units Carnation provides a set of individual nesting locations for the Costa's Hummingbirds using organic, connected form to showcase the visual branding of ecoBirdy. The units include a variation in size, shade cover, and form to accommodate the preferences of the consumer and the bird. The design addresses and incorporates dematerialization and behavioral change ecological approaches.
A look into the ecoBirdy brand, aimed specifically at understanding materialization, stylization, and long-term goals of the company.
The Costa's Hummingbird
The Costa's Hummingbird is the client for this product. These birds nest in desert scrubs in the Southwest region of the U.S and weigh approximately three grams. They shelter low to the ground but face a lack of sheltering/nesting locations due to urban development.
Ideation
Throughout my ideation process, I focused on implementing the visual brand language of ecoBirdy into various bird products. I experimented with rounded, integrated forms that functioned to address the needs of the Costa's Hummingbird.
Modeling
I decided to specialize in making a nesting pod for the Costa's Hummingbird due to their habitation loss and survival needs. I 3D modeled my iterations on SolidWorks, focusing on simple forms with minimal added elements.
The final set of nesting pods, modeled on SolidWorks and rendered on Keyshot.
3D Printed forms showcasing a full set.
Molding paste applied and sanded down to minimize texture.
Spray painted with a base color.
Additional paint added to mimic the speckled, recycled plastic of ecoBirdy.
I created appearance models of my final nesting pod forms by utilizing 3D print and wood shop processes.
Final appearance models of my nesting pods; created to visualize scale, form, and user experience.
Details of the Costa's Units Carnations including scale and reference to the user and keyhole for secure application.
