Aditi Vardhan

Aditi Vardhan
Experience Design

As a designer, my practice is deeply rooted in the exploration of sensory engagement and cultural sensitivity to create immersive experiences that enhance well-being for diverse audiences. This line of inquiry is reflected in my projects "Fluid Emotions," "Feeding Futures" and “The Karuna App." Each project not only investigates the nuanced interactions between sensory experiences and emotional well-being, but also underscores the importance of cultural contexts in shaping these experiences. “Fluid Emotions” delves into the emotional resonance generated by water settings, leveraging the principles of somaesthetics. By engaging with water-based experiences designed to evoke specific emotions, this project illuminates the profound impact sensory stimuli have on our emotional and somatic awareness. It contributes practical insights into how carefully crafted sensory engagements can promote holistic well-being, aligning seamlessly with the broader goal of enhancing user experiences through emotional and sensory design. “Feeding Futures” exemplifies a comprehensive approach to service design by addressing the critical need for accessible breast milk for infants, particularly those in NICUs. This project highlights the importance of stakeholder engagement and cultural sensitivity in creating effective and sustainable health services. By mapping stakeholder interactions and reducing stigma around breast milk donation, it fosters a supportive community that enhances the well-being of vulnerable infants and their caregivers, while addressing gaps and improving the service. “The Karuna App” embodies the essence of inclusive design, particularly for elderly care. Through thoughtful design elements such as intuitive interfaces and familiar aesthetics, this app ensures that elderly users and their caregivers experience a sense of belonging and ease. By prioritising accessibility and personalisation, "Karuna" enhances overall well-being and demonstrates how technology can be empathetically integrated into daily life to support diverse populations. Collectively, these projects are situated within the "For-With" section of our class portfolio, a category that explores the intricate layers of community and the impact of design on social dynamics. This section emphasises the importance of recognising and bridging the ‘gaps’ within communities through empathetic and culturally sensitive approaches. My work fits into this category by actively engaging with diverse communities, acknowledging their unique needs, and designing interventions that foster connection, inclusion, and well-being. By immersing myself in the cultural and sensory dimensions of design, my practice not only addresses immediate needs but also encourages a reflective and inclusive perspective on how we can create meaningful social impact. Through these projects, I strive to demonstrate that design, when approached with empathy and cultural awareness, has the power to transform experiences and enhance the quality of life for individuals across diverse contexts.

How can designers utilise sensory engagement and cultural sensitivity to develop immersive experiences that improve well-being for diverse audiences?

How can designers utilise sensory engagement and cultural sensitivity to develop immersive experiences that improve well-being for diverse audiences?

I chose to delve into the exploration of sensory engagement and cultural sensitivity because it offers a comprehensive approach to designing immersive experiences that cater to diverse audiences' well-being. Understanding how sensory stimuli and cultural context influence emotions allows me to craft environments and products that resonate deeply with users on both emotional and cultural levels. In my projects like the somaesthetics project, feeding futures service design, and the elderly care Karuna app, I've leveraged sensory elements and cultural awareness to create inclusive and empathetic experiences that promote well-being. By incorporating calming sensory stimuli and respecting cultural nuances, I aim to create environments and products that foster relaxation, trust, and connection for users from various cultural backgrounds. Through these projects, I've seen the power of sensory engagement and cultural sensitivity in enhancing the user experience and promoting a sense of belonging and understanding across diverse audiences.

Fluid Emotions

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Feeding Futures

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Empowering Ageing

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aditivardhan44@gmail.com

@aditivardhan09