Problem: Microwaves often lack a balance between functional simplicity and playful aesthetics.
Audience: Cat lovers seeking appliances that reflect their personality.
To kick off the research phase, I conducted a survey to gather insights from microwave users, exploring their experiences, preferences, and pain points with their current appliances. This was followed by a competitive assessment to see what's already on the market.
Audience: Cat lovers seeking appliances that reflect their personality.
To kick off the research phase, I conducted a survey to gather insights from microwave users, exploring their experiences, preferences, and pain points with their current appliances. This was followed by a competitive assessment to see what's already on the market.
Microwave User Survey
Competitive Assessment
User Values:
1. Practical Features:
• Quick and simple buttons for common tasks like “+30 seconds”
are preferred.
are preferred.
• Users appreciate physical buttons for reliability.
2. Convenience:
• Users value microwaves that are easy to clean and operate.
• A microwave that allows intuitive use with straightforward instructions.
3. Aesthetic Appeal:
• Some users prioritize a microwave that looks better or fits well in
their kitchen.
their kitchen.
Opportunities for improvement:
1. Enhanced Functionality:
• Introduce a “silent mode” or the ability to mute beeping for
quieter operation.
quieter operation.
2. Modern Design:
• Focus on designing microwaves with an updated, sleek aesthetic.
• Offer customizable looks to match different kitchen styles.
3. Simplified User Experience:
• Intuitive, easy-to-use buttons and instructions.
• Auto-updating features like “+30 seconds” for added convenience.
Frustrations:
1. Noise:
• Loud beeping sounds (particularly when cooking is complete) are a common frustration.
• Lack of a “mute” option is frequently mentioned.
2. Performance Issues:
• Inconsistent performance or outdated designs causing breakdowns.
• Difficulty using certain buttons or settings like timers.
3. Limited Functionality:
• Lack of features such as self-cleaning or air-frying capabilities.
• Buttons that don’t auto-update (e.g., missing a “+30 seconds”).
4. Aesthetics:
• Users dislike microwaves that look “ugly” or fail to match their
desired aesthetic.
desired aesthetic.
5. Physical Limitations:
• Small internal space or poor-quality buttons causing inconvenience.
These valuable user insights provided a clear direction for identifying the necessary features and guided the next steps in refining and developing
my design.
my design.
After analyzing the research and understanding what features worked well in current microwaves, I began the sketching phase. My goal was to explore different design concepts while considering who I was designing for. Inspired by the sleek, high-tech aesthetics of modern microwaves combined with retro influences, I started brainstorming possibilities.
As I reviewed my initial ideas, I noticed an opportunity to create something unique and playful. I decided to lean into a whimsical approach by designing for cat lovers—an audience seeking appliances that reflect their personality and love for furry companions. With this direction in mind, I moved forward to develop wireframes and refine the concept into a functional and visually
engaging design.
engaging design.
With a little more feedback, I refined the wireframe once again.
The door from one, contrast from two and the screen from three. Puurfect.
Next, I focused on exploring variations, colors, and details to make the design more engaging. Inspired by the idea of matching appliances to pets, I created three initial versions to bring this concept to life.
Finally, I created a simple Blender render of the microwave to add depth and visual interest to a potential landing page for a product website.
This project allowed me to explore the balance between functional design and playful aesthetics, all while focusing on the needs and desires of a niche audience. From user research to product rendering and branding, I aimed to create a design that not only stands out visually but also resonates emotionally with its users. This process reinforced the importance of understanding user preferences and translating them into thoughtful, innovative solutions.
I’m excited to continue developing designs that bring joy and personality to everyday products.
I’m excited to continue developing designs that bring joy and personality to everyday products.
