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Ponic

This project explores how design can foster meaningful connections between people and nature by integrating natural systems into indoor environments. Grounded in research on well-being, biodiversity, and symbiosis.

 

My objective was to design a beginner-friendly product that supports plant growth and promotes relaxation through a calming, biophilic experience.

“We will never be healthy, satisfied, or fulfilled if we live apart and alienated from the environment from which we evolved.”

— Stephen R. Kellert (known as a father of biophilic design)

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Mood Board

Objective:

To develop a beginner-friendly, biophilic product for indoor spaces.

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The final design will address emotional needs by providing access to nature in indoor environments and filter water effectively through multistage filtration.
 

This is the most beginner friendly option on the market it easily integrates with existing aquarium set up & has intuitive features to ensure both plants and fish in system are healthy. 

How Plants Benefit an Aquarium's Ecosystem:
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Fish waste = ammonia

Plants absorb nitrates

Bacteria converts ammonia to nitrates

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Problems in Existing Designs

Size

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Inadequate Lighting

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Price vs. Quality

 

Lack of Modularity

​Design Criteria

Beginner-Friendly                          Compatible w/ Standard Aquariums                          Intuitive Features

Final Concept:

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Open Spots in Top for Plant Cups

Tube Vertically pulls in Water

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Design Features

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Intuitive & Easy
Slider for Feeding

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Intuitive Plant Insertion

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Four-Stage Filtration

Adjustable Top LEDs

can be made taller for plants like bamboo

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can be made shorter for plants like pothos

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Digital Model

Physical Model

Shae Laufenberg Portfolio

©2025 by Shae Laufenberg with Wix.com

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