SereniTea
An ambient table display that responds to guests' subtle behaviors, creating interactive experience.
(Interaction Design, Projection Mapping, Computer Vision, Physical Prototyping)
Collaborators: Helen Zhang and Joan Lee
Duration: 4 weeks
Skills: Figma, Fusion, Rhino, After Effects, Python, Java Script, Laser Cutting, 3D Printing
How can interpersonal experiences in a tea shop spark introspection and social engagement?
By exploring how digital perceptions seamlessly integrate with human physical interactions. This blend creates an immersive environment where guests' actions are reflected and amplified, deepening their connection with the space and each other.
Understanding the flow of interactions to create user - centered design.
Mapping user interactions to uncover opportunities and create a holistic experience.
Designing micro-interactions that mirror guest-space connections.
Enhancing the atmosphere with responsive digital projections triggered by the movement of teacups and environmental sounds.
A comprehensive process to develop functional and aesthetic experience.
The research combined cultural studies, patron and staff interviews, and personal experiences, leading to a responsive table that enhances tea-drinking, fosters social interactions, and narrates the tea's journey with reflectiveness, delight, and calmness.
The insights and pivots were focused on enhancing the tea-drinking experience, facilitating ambient interactions, and briefly narrating the tea's story, considering Dobra’s culture, guests' preference for quiet, and the lengthy menu.
Creating Visual Language inspired by the natural patterns of mosaic lily and brand culture of Dobra Tea.
The physical fabrication and visualization process involved extensive ideation, multiple prototypes across various mediums, and thorough user testing to achieve the final design.
Tech breakdown
Serenitea combines computer vision and projection technology for an interactive table experience, tracking teacups in real time with a webcam and Python, while p5.js generates responsive visuals. This cost-effective solution enhances engagement, promoting accessibility and sustainability.
Future Considerations
Focused on execution and learning new prototyping and computer vision skills, I found it challenging to balance narrative and world-building for an established company. In future iterations, I plan to enhance the project by installing it on-site at Dobra Tea, with a permanent projector stand for stability, and refining the table design to align with Dobra Tea’s visual identity. These improvements will solidify the project's effectiveness and ensure seamless integration with the tea shop’s ambiance and branding.