Charles Abalos
Product Design BDes
Otago Polytechnic
Specialisms: Product Design / Drawing / Modelmaking
Location: Dunedin, New Zealand
Charles Abalos
First Name: Charles
Last Name: Abalos
Specialisms: Product Design / Drawing / Modelmaking
Sectors:
My Location: Dunedin, New Zealand
University / College: Otago Polytechnic
Course / Program Title: Product Design BDes
About
My design journey includes studying towards a Bachelor of Design (Product). This hands-on programme has shaped my ability to design products, services, and systems with a strong focus on human needs and sustainability. It has also developed my skills in conceptualisation, drawing, model making, CAD software, graphic design, and production methods.
A background in visual communication has helped me express ideas through hand drawings and renderings, something I’ve refined over the years. I am critical of myself and take pride in attention to detail, always looking for ways to improve. Growing up, team sports taught me the importance of collaboration and understanding roles, which I bring into every group project.
I've also had the chance to work on client projects with the Association of Rotational Moulding Australasia and Campaign for Wool, and gained practical experience at Silver Fern Farms. Experiences that have helped me grow both creatively and professionally.
Design Studio Major | 2025 This is my final course of my degree, where I independently choose a topic and navigate through the three main phases of design development to create a solution for an identified need, with specialist support. RondéVu reimagines the modern couch as a refined, multifunctional centerpiece for small homes. Blending Art Nouveau curves with minimalist design, it transitions effortlessly from a lounge to a dining setup, featuring a foldable backrest that reveals a central table and hidden ottomans that slide out for additional seating. Designed to celebrate connection, adaptability, and the artistry of living beautifully in small spaces, RondéVu brings functionality and elegance to compact living environments. Special thanks to Otago Furniture for working with me with specialist advice and manufacturing the cushions for my model.
Design Studio Teams | Sprint 1 | Otago Polytechnic | 2025 This sprint-style group project challenged us to design a concept product inspired by an existing brand’s values within a tight timeframe. I strengthened my ability to work efficiently under pressure, stay organised, and make fast, confident decisions to deliver a strong outcome. This was a valuable experience in rapid ideation and collaboration. (Concept project for learning purposes; all brands and references are unofficial.)
Design Techniques 1 | Otago Polytechnic This project focused on developing and applying foundational skills in hand drawing and rendering. It was a great chance to slow down, focus on the fundamentals, and explore how ideas take shape on paper.
Communication Fundamentals 1 | Design Techniques 4 | Otago Polytechnic | 2023 ELEV8 is a project that brings together two briefs: designing a product that combines different materials and creating a booklet to present a physical model. The result is a modern workspace solution focused on organisation, comfort, and visual balance. Made from finished plywood and a laser-cut acrylic base, ELEV8 creates a clean floating-shelf effect with three functional tiers: a base for your laptop or keyboard, a middle layer for essential stationery, and a top platform that elevates your monitor to reduce neck strain. Through this project, I learned how to merge materials cohesively and communicate a design through branding, instructions, and photography.