Version 2 2024-05-30, 16:39Version 2 2024-05-30, 16:39
Version 1 2024-05-18, 22:03Version 1 2024-05-18, 22:03
Posted on 2024-05-30 - 16:39
Overview
Between 2002 and 2004, DACRL collaborated with designers Adam Thorpe and Joe Hunter of Vexed Generation to create the Karrysafe range of bag and body accessories. Funded by the Design Council, this range aimed to help users adopt a 'stealth' approach to carrying their belongings securely, often under clothing, without the designs appearing unattractive or criminal. The designs featured high-performance elements such as electronic alarms, Velcro scrolling closures, and durable materials like Cordura.
Outputs
During its launch season (2002-2004), the Karrysafe collection received significant press attention for its focus on user needs and its effective deterrents and obstacles for potential thieves. The Guardian highlighted the range by stating that the 'war on street crime gets fashionable.' The Karrysafe designs successfully integrated security features while maintaining a stylish and user-friendly appearance.
Impact
Perhaps due to this iterative process of stakeholder review, the Karrysafe range was well received by the press when it was launched in July 2002, highlighting its strengths of addressing user needs, as well as providing deterrents and obstacles to potential abusers. Positive reviews of the designs appeared in most national newspapers, including The Guardian who announced: ‘war on street crime gets fashionable’. The Karrysafe range of bags and accessories raised issues of selfprotection. Karrysafe was also the first of a new product genre to purposefully integrate specialist crime prevention advice into designs, whilst simultaneously offering a range of stylish, practical and user-friendly products.
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Thorpe, Adam; Gamman, Lorraine (2024). Karrysafe. University of the Arts London. Collection. https://doi.org/10.25441/arts.c.7235869.v2