Rhys O’Sullivan
Rhys O’Sullivan is an industrial designer driven by creativity, innovation, and a passion for problem-solving. With experience across multiple areas of design including mass-manufactured products, packaging, sustainability, and UX/UI, he enjoys exploring a wide range of creative challenges and continuously developing new skills. Specialising in 3D modelling, prototyping, and CAD development, he is confident working across a variety of industry-standard software to transform ideas into refined and functional outcomes.
Alongside his technical abilities, O'Sullivan is a strong collaborative designer who has experience working with real-world clients and team-based projects. His approach combines creative thinking with practical understanding, allowing him to develop thoughtful solutions that respond to real user needs while working effectively within constraints. Through experimentation, adaptability, and a willingness to push ideas further, he strives to create engaging and innovative design outcomes.
The Circular Souvenir is a project created in collaboration with Drayton Manor Theme Park that transforms retired ride parts into authentic souvenirs. Much like cars, theme park rides rely on thousands of components that naturally wear out over time and need replacing. While some of these parts can be recycled, others are too costly or complex to process efficiently, meaning they are often sent to landfill or left unused in storage.
One of the main inspirations for this projects was F1 Authentics, a company which transforms authentic Formula 1 car parts into collectible souvenirs. By redesigning these materials into functional everyday objects, the parts gain greater emotional and collectible value than the raw materials alone. The Circular Souvenir follows the same principle for theme parks, turning retired ride components into unique keepsakes for fans.
Each product uses a genuine ride component as a central part of its design. It was important to keep these parts in their original condition, preserving the scratches and marks that make each piece unique. Although refinishing processes such as powder coating could improve their appearance, this would remove the authenticity and character that separates them from other products.
The additional structural components are manufactured using FDM 3D printing. This process was chosen for its adaptability, strength, geometric flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, making it well suited to small-scale production and complex custom forms.
Concept render of products inside gift shop
Ride it. Remember it. Keep it.