A playful approach to conceptual interior/spatial design, aiming to encourage intergenerational community engagement through sensory interaction.
Final year project
We (gene)Rate Margate
'WE (gene)RATE Margate'
An elevation view of the reimagined Margate Lido. 'We (gene)Rate Margate', an inclusive community space featuring 3 sensory pods, 'Tactition', 'Vision' and 'Audition.'
'Audition' Sensory Pod 'Concave/Convex' Design
'Audition' features multiple sensory games that create sound when the user engages in the activity. The 'Concave/Convex' design generates a 'POP' sound as the foam shapes are pushed back and forth. The 2 person's activity encourages intergenerational interactions and stimulates cognitive function.
'Tactition' Sensory Pod '3-D Blocks' Design
'Tactition' features tactile designs that hone in on the sense of touch. '3-D Blocks' is designed to aid shape recognition and problem-solving skills through a simple yet effective game. The 3-D printed pieces are surfaced with different textures and attached via magnets.
'Vision' Sensory Pod 'Modular Blind' Design
'Vision' features a colourful interactive interior, however the 'Modular Blind' aims to enhance this experience by shutting out the external world, so the user is fully immersed within the colourful interior space. The sound-absorbing properties of the foam also encourage the user to focus on what they can see by inhibiting external sound. The modular nature is both equally functional and playful.
Proposed Site Layout
An aerial view of 'We (gene)Rate Margate', showing each pod in situ within the historic Lido's remaining structures.
Perimeter View
Looking out to sea, the perimeter of the space is adorned with handmade ceramic tiles, surfaced with mosaic shapes inspired by the old Lido's mosaic sign. Providing project identity, a rotating mural is featured turning in the wind.
Collection Overview
A selection of sensory boards, acoustic foam panels and upholstery leatherettes highlights the variety of surfaces present within the collection.
Questions Raised
Users are encouraged to reflect on these interactions and ask themselves the above questions. Direct questions encourage self-evaluation and ground individuals. Additionally isolating the senses can help counteract sensory deprivation in those experiencing Alzheimer's Disease. In extension, any individual will experience enhanced memory creation when tied to a sensory experience.
Gemma Luteijn
Final year project
We (gene)Rate Margate
Work Experience
Woodhouse & Law Interior & Garden Designers, Bath, UK - 1 Year Internship 2020-21
Working as an interior design intern at Woodhouse & Law provided me with a plethora of knowledge, translating my textile design skills into an interior context. Utilising and developing my CAD skills provided an essential basis from which I developed my final collection visualisations. Additionally, exposure to colour, pattern and diverse materials influenced my approach to multimedia textile application. Such a valuable experience enabled me to secure a graduate role in an industry I am most excited to enter.