A Conceptual Redesign Model for Cirebon Rattan Rocking Chairs Based on Don Norman’s Emotional Design

<p>This study proposes a conceptual redesign model for Cirebon <em>rattan</em> rocking chairs by integrating traditional craftsmanship with contemporary user needs through Don Norman’s emotional design framework. While Cirebon is well known for its inherited rattan weaving skills, many products remain limited to classic aesthetics and basic functions, creating a gap in emotional value and adaptability for modern lifestyles. Using a qualitative User-Centered Design (UCD) approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with users and craftsmen (<em>n</em> = 22), participatory observation in rattan workshops, and a focused literature review. The data were analyzed using thematic coding and mapped to Norman’s three emotional levels (visceral, behavioral, reflective), followed by a co-design workshop and iterative refinement. Three dominant themes emerged: (1) functional needs (ergonomics, space efficiency, low maintenance), (2) aesthetics and modernity (minimal, adaptive, contemporary taste), and (3) craftsmanship values (weaving techniques, handcrafted uniqueness, cultural heritage). These findings informed design implications, including ergonomic proportions, smooth rocking motion, visible craftsmanship, selective use of Cirebon motifs, and controlled novelty through simplified patterns and hybrid structures. The proposed design was evaluated through user feedback based on digital prototypes, showing strong positive responses in terms of comfort, aesthetic appeal, innovation, and cultural representation. However, the evaluation was limited to visual assessment without physical interaction. This study contributes a structured emotional design framework for craft-based furniture and provides practical guidance for enhancing the relevance and competitiveness of Cirebon rattan products in contemporary contexts.</p>