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Jiwon Kang portfolio
UX UI Case studies
What does a cafe mean to you?
2024 Research & Studies
04, 2024 / PRATT Institute / Transformation A
0. Brief
The project was conducted to gain insights into the community within the cafe. Based on the findings from studying the people and the cafe's atmosphere, I created an experimental tool to discover people's perceptions and expectations of the cafe. This experiment is significant as it revealed the variations in how individuals perceive the same space differently. What does a cafe space mean to you?
1. Observation of place
To observe the community in a cafe, I visited a nearby Starbucks. Then, I marked people's locations in the cafe on the map, drew the routes they took when they moved, and noted their actions, objects, and postures.
2. Observation of people
To gain more detailed insights, I returned to the same place, focused on the people, and documented my observations. I noted three people who were exhibiting different behaviors.
The insights I got from observations were: It felt like there were small spaces within one large space, each serving different purposes. Each of these spaces had a different atmosphere and felt as if they were enclosed by invisible fences. However, despite these divisions, it was apparent that the cafe offered more than just coffee; it provided a multifaceted environment where individuals could engage in various activities and experiences.
1. Tool
To understand how people perceive the cafe place, I developed a tool where participants can design their ideal cafe atmosphere. One map is based on reality, while the other incorporates fictional elements, disregarding gravity.
2. Pieces
There are two types of pieces that can be placed on the map: The "space piece" refers to the desired atmosphere of the participant’s private seat in the cafe. All the “strangers” are doing something and in different situations.
3. Direction pamplet
I also designed a pamphlet that includes directions, information, and questions the participants have to answer.
1. Tool
To gather more answers and insights, I created a digital tool using Figma for the experiment to facilitate easier sharing. This tool mimics a physical exhibition that participants can interact with. The experiment follows a four-step process:
1. Choose cafes that you want to visit
Each cafe has a unique space defined by various abstract lines. Interpret what these lines represent. Also, take the time to listen to the music that complements the space.
2. Place strangers
Feel free to place strangers in the cafe place you choose. (Copies available)
3. Create and place a space piece
Create a cafe space from your perspective, and place the completed 'space' where you would like to sit on the map.
4. Short interview
What was your intention? Answer the five questions below.
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