Project Type
Cultural Retail & City Souvenir Program
Products Developed
3D Paper Sculpture Memo Pad
3D Paper Sculpture Notebook
Client Objective
Develop a stationery product that represents Spanish architectural identity while remaining practical for everyday use.
Project Background
In many tourist destinations, souvenirs tend to fall into two categories: decorative objects that are rarely used, or inexpensive items that quickly lose relevance after purchase. The client for this project was looking for an alternative approach—something that could represent the architectural character of Spanish cities while also functioning as a daily object.
The idea was to transform recognizable urban landmarks into a form that people could keep on their desks and interact with regularly. Rather than producing a simple printed notebook or postcard, the goal was to develop a paper-based product that combines storytelling, structure, and functionality.
Our team proposed a paper sculpture stationery concept in which the city’s architecture would gradually emerge as the product is used.
Design Challenge
Several challenges needed to be solved during development.
First, the architecture needed to be recognizable but simplified enough to be reproduced through layered paper structures. Spanish city landmarks often contain intricate details such as arches, towers, and layered façades, which required careful abstraction.
Second, the product had to remain functional. A memo pad should still behave like a memo pad, and a notebook should still be comfortable to write in. The sculptural elements could not interfere with usability.
Finally, the project required scalability. The product needed to be manufacturable in consistent quality while maintaining the visual precision necessary for architectural forms.
Solution Approach
The design approach focused on translating architectural silhouettes into layered paper engineering structures.
Instead of recreating buildings as literal miniatures, we worked with simplified structural layers that suggest architectural depth. Each layer represents a section of the skyline, and when stacked together they form a coherent cityscape.
For the memo pad version, the internal paper layers gradually reveal the structure as pages are removed. Over time, the block of paper transforms into a sculptural representation of the city.
For the notebook, the approach is slightly different. The cover structure incorporates layered paper elements that echo the skyline while remaining slim enough for everyday portability.
This method allows the design to balance visual identity, usability, and manufacturing efficiency.
Product Development
The development process involved several stages.
Concept Sketching
Initial sketches explored different ways to simplify architectural forms into layered silhouettes.
Structural Engineering
Designers tested multiple paper thicknesses and stacking methods to achieve the right balance between structural stability and visual clarity.
Prototype Development
Several prototype rounds were produced to refine cutting precision, layer alignment, and overall durability.
Production Optimization
Once the structure was finalized, the design was adjusted to ensure efficient cutting, assembly, and packaging during large-scale production.
The final structure achieves a balance between precision engineering and visual storytelling.
Product Formats
The project includes two primary product formats.
3D Paper Sculpture Memo Pad
● Layered paper structure revealing the skyline gradually
● Designed for long-term desk display
● Functional memo sheets integrated within sculptural structure
3D Paper Sculpture Notebook
● Sculptural cover design inspired by architectural silhouettes
● Standard notebook interior pages
● Portable format suitable for daily writing
Together, the two products create a coherent stationery collection centered around the same architectural theme.
Results & Market Response
After launch, the products were introduced through cultural retail channels and tourist-oriented gift shops.
The memo pad quickly became the centerpiece of the collection because of its unique transformation effect. Users were able to interact with the object daily while slowly revealing the hidden structure inside.
The notebook complemented the memo pad by offering a practical writing format that still carried the visual identity of the project.
Retail partners reported that the products stood out clearly among conventional souvenirs because they combined function, storytelling, and design value.
Project Highlights
Architecture translated into paper structure
The skyline is represented through layered silhouettes rather than literal models.
Daily interaction with design
The memo pad gradually reveals the sculpture as pages are used.
Balanced functionality and aesthetics
Products remain practical while offering visual impact.
Scalable manufacturing
The structure allows consistent production across large quantities.
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