The Kohler bathroom project saw us respond to a brief directly from them. We were designing the bathroom of the future.
As a problem solver, my response to this brief saw my focus shift to our underserved communities. My research identified an opportunity to improve the shower experience for older adults who experience mobility decline due to natural aging.
I conducted initial research on our specific communities and their experiences in bathrooms. What stuck out to me was older adults and their needs. From here I looked at current solutions for this group and how it made them feel. I did this alongside examining my own bathroom, identifying potential pain points in this.
Through my research and speaking with relatives, I found that older adults need more grip in the shower, while needing something that makes them feel emotionally safer. Something a bit more fun that a typical support bar.
I landed on an idea of using rock-climbing holds as a core inspiration source. This creates a design language that promotes a sense of joy and fun while remaining usable. I experimented with different ergonomic shapes and grip opportunities. Eventually landing on a set of ergonomic, elegent and complimentary shapes.
The final result came from weeks of extensive testing and development. The end goal of this project was to develop an idea that can bring joy back into the showering experience for older adults. I did this by using design non-distruptive design techniques and an easy-to-understand design language.
There were a lot of considerations, such as materials, grip, and texture. I chose recycled timber and natural rubber as core materials due to their sustainable nature and weight. I wanted the grip to be non-abrasive yet worthwhile, and to feel secure while not weighing too much.