Contents
Research
Product Style/Language
Models/Sketches
Showcase
Design a housewares product inspired by principles and visuals of modernism.
Selected Product Category: Lighting
Selected User: Young adults working or in school
I was inspired to design a lighting device that would aide the user in practicing mindfulness. After observing how the COVID-19 pandemic affected people’s reliance on their phones and technology, I realized the need for people to connect with themselves and put down their phone.
I wanted to design a calming modernist lighting device for people who feel overly attached to their phone and their schedule.
Research
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When beginning to research designing for young adults, I turned to peers and coworkers for interviews. The main findings were that after a long, tiring day, they prefer to lounge in a room with ambient lighting instead of bright ceiling lights.
80 percent of interviewees wish they had more time for mindfulness during the day. In addition, 60 percent of interviewees admitted it was near impossible to put down their phone at the end of a long day.
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Looking into different options of ambient lighting, I noticed few that promoted the user to be proactive about being in the moment. There was a gap in the market to be filled.
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Modernism encapsulates many facets of design: one being minimalism. Research shows that when a user incorporates minimalist decor into their living space, it can allow more time to prioritize more important things in one’s life. Additionally, it can reduce the user’s stress levels.
Studies show that someone who is more mindful of the world around them is better at organizing their environment. This can have positive effects.
On the other hand, one who is less mindful tends to have a less organized living space. This can lead to unwanted circumstances for the user.
Product style
Modernist forms like circles influenced my design. I also wanted to incorporate soft curves into the product.
Exploratory Models/Sketches
Showcase
SOL is a lighting device that promotes the user to put down their phone and take a moment to be mindful. Designed with a wireless phone charger and removable large bulb meant to be taken with you, it makes relaxation that much easier.
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LED touch light switches, wireless phone charging dock. Light illuminates to let you know when phone is charging. Large bulb charges on the dock. Can be used stationary or taken with you to lounge anywhere.
SOL is here to support users on their journey to a more mindful life. When the charging dock lights up the smiley, you’ll be sure your phone is charged for you after you step away.