Past
Project 2 - Crumbl
Throughout this project, I discovered the power of using stories as a central element in design. Rather than focusing purely on function or aesthetics, I learned how storytelling can guide design decisions, create emotional connections, and give meaning to form and material choices—like our use of natural pine to echo a sense of familiarity and warmth. This narrative approach helped define our user: someone hesitant to explore nature alone, for whom we designed a comforting, guiding companion. It shaped not only the product but also our visuals, branding, and interaction design, making each element part of a cohesive experience. Through this, I deepened my understanding of Creativity and Aesthetics as storytelling through design, and saw how User and Society is enriched by empathising with lived experiences. I also grew in Technology and Realisation by proposing features that supported the story—like the gyroscope and camshaft for a responsive, almost lifelike quality. Studio sessions reinforced the importance of showing rather than telling, allowing the story embedded in our design to speak for itself.
Debate
I am extremley passionate about communication and persuasation and how you can persuade people of a speicifc viewpoint, idea or concept. This is why I have always enjoyed debating and spend lots of my freetime training for and competing in debate competions.
Debate has helped for me to devleop as a designer in two differerent ways. Firstly, the process and act of debating offers you skills in presenting, thinking on your feet and persuading people of a perspective. Secondly, the content of the debates enrich my understanding in many of different social topics, this in turns helps me to take steps towards my vision of an equitable society, because the acquisition of equity requires an understanding of the world we live in and the diversity that this world holds.
Understanding the importance of the Expertise Areas
The most important aspect of my first year was gaining a basic understanding of what the Expertise Areas actually are and why they are important. This allows me now to better select my courses, understand what skills I need to improve or acquire, and decide where I would like my focus to lie.
Development