HASHBROWN CANYON

Drawing its inspiration from puzzle toys, Xinxao Hui’s Hashbrown Canyon embodies versatility and playful functionality. Mimicking the geometry of jigsaw puzzles, Hashbrown Canyon’s exaggerated interlocking forms and contrasting materials of baltic birch and walnut call attention to its own assembly and potential disassembly. Completed for Christian Adamik’s course Digital Craftsmanship (INT 731) in Spring 2024, the CNC-ed piece can serve dual purposes, functioning as chair or as a table when needed. Additionally, the chair back, or table surface can transform into a dynamic toy car track, welcoming interactive play. Through its functional and whimsical permutations, Hui’s work defines utilitarian expectations, and challenges its user to participate in negotiation between furniture and toy, creating a sense of playfulness and delight.