Dezeen School Shows: a music player designed for easy assembly is among the industrial design projects from Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Also featured is customisable furniture designed to be suitable for e-commerce transactions and a 3D-printed guitar.

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Institution: Metropolitan State University of Denver
School: College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering and Design, Department of Industrial Design
Course: Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design
Tutors: Doug Golenz, David Klein, John Wanberg, Amy Kern and Ted Shin

School statement:

"The Industrial Design Department at MSU Denver blends creativity, craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology to prepare students for a rapidly evolving global design industry.

"Our balanced curriculum integrates traditional skills with advanced tools – students move seamlessly from hand-built models to CNC machining, 3D-printing and AI-assisted concept development.

"Housed in state-of-the-art facilities, students have access to advanced materials labs, a dedicated softgoods studio and visualisation tools for both low and high-fidelity prototyping.

"Industry partnerships and real-world projects ensure that learning is rooted in practical application and professional standards.

"Faculty bring deep professional experience, guiding students to develop independent, critical and globally aware design perspectives.

"Collaborative projects with international partners, community organisations and leading companies connect students to diverse contexts and opportunities.

"Graduates emerge as entrepreneurial, technically fluent and adaptable problem-solvers – equipped to work across consumer products, transportation, softgoods and socially engaged design.

"They leave not only with industry-ready skills, but with the mindset to use design as a strategic force for innovation, sustainability and meaningful impact."

Ambra by Gaven Oliver

"In an increasingly isolating world, Ambra explores how lighting can support human connection and promote socialising. A modern abstraction of the hearth, Ambra is a table lamp designed for gathering.

"Mindfully created around the physiological effects light has on the human pysche.

"Crafted from natural materials, Ambra cultivates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, drawing people in like a moth to a flame."

Student: Gaven Oliver
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: Doug Golenz

Mule by Alexa Eastep

"The Mule bike is an electric cargo bike designed to solve the everyday struggles of commuting.

"As car prices rise and electric technology improves, electric vehicles are becoming more accessible and increasingly in demand.

"This bike was specifically designed to get you where you need to go without sacrificing cargo or style."

Student: Alexa Eastep
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: John Wanberg

Shapeshifter by Elliot Martin

"A multi-day backpack built for comfort. Hiking with weight is hard; it often amplifies pain and discomfort.

"That's why dialling in the fit of your pack is crucial. The shapeshifter pack adjusts at key areas to distribute the load around your unique body shape."

Student: Elliot Martin
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: Doug Golenz

Adagio by Dean Reitz

"Adagio is a physical media console for the new generation of music listeners.

"Designed for easy assembly for direct-to-consumer shipping, with adaptability and manufacturing in mind, the Adagio console offers media storage, intuitive control and a sculptural aesthetic.

"Through the use of American red oak for its sound resonance and lower cost, and aluminium for its light weight and strength, the Adagio elevates simple materials with a high attention to detail."

Student: Dean Reitz
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: Doug Golenz

Periocians 'X' by Mitchell Jones

"Periocians 'X' is a mechanic creeper built for versatility, comfort and durability. It's made for small shop owners, hobbyist mechanics and mobile mechanics who need a tool that adapts to different jobs and environments.

"With an adjustable frame, modular and adjustable storage and polyurethane wheels, it's easy to use, transport and store.

"This design came together through hands-on prototyping and testing, leading to a tough, ergonomic creeper that works wherever you do."

Student: Mitchell Jones
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutors: Doug Golenz

The Taocaster by Christopher-Robin Tao

"This 3D-printed guitar was designed objectively with mass-manufacturing in mind. Fully embracing the advantages of additive manufacturing as the guiding industrial design principle.

"There have been other printed guitar iterations, but this design takes careful consideration of the technical nuances of the additive process.

"Using no glue and standard hardware, this instrument can be adapted to a commercial setting and the DIY/hobbyist crowd alike."

Student: Christopher-Robin Tao
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: Doug Golenz

Gander EDC by Ty Schauer

"The primary objective of this project was to design and develop a line of pocket knives featuring disposable blades.

"Emphasis was placed on establishing a strong and distinct brand identity and ensuring effective product visualisation."

Student: Ty Schauer
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: Doug Golenz

Talon: Tactical Helmet by Joseph Taylor

"The standard-issue tactical helmet for the US Marines, Army and Navy has proven to be extremely reliable in combat; however, these helmets have created problems over time, such as heavy attachment weight and overall comfort.

"The Talon Tactical Helmet not only aims to reduce ergonomic stressors, but also to bring a futuristic look to the military.

"Features, such as a built-in heads-up display, infrared camera module and a quick-release gas mask help provide soldiers a stronger tactical advantage on the battlefield."

Student: Joseph Taylor
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: John Wanberg

Bento Electric Bike Design by Kevin Aragon, Dwight Rider, Carlos Hernandez, Andrew Baxter and Lydia Snyder

"Electric mobility in Denver inspired the creation of a two-wheeled, battery-powered cargo scooter unlike anything currently on the market.

"Drawing from the organised design of a Japanese bento box, the prototype offers ample, well-structured storage for items such as pizzas or cases of drinks while remaining compact and manoeuvrable.

"Built from a redesigned aftermarket scooter converted from gas to electric, it showcases how innovative thinking and emerging technology can redefine urban transport and delivery solutions."

Students: Kevin Aragon, Dwight Rider, Carlos Hernandez, Andrew Baxter and Lydia Snyder
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: Doug Golenz

FIT furniture by Melissa Hendrickson

"Furniture designed for an era of e-commerce. This system offers easy customisation while maintaining standard components for manufacturing efficiency.

"It is meant to empower customers to create and quickly assemble a personalised piece without paying a premium.

"The design can apply to many different pieces while maintaining stability, durability and personality."

Student: Melissa Hendrickson
Course: Professional ID Studio
Tutor: Doug Golenz

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Metropolitan State University of Denver. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

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