The project stems from an in-depth investigation into contemporary relational dynamics and the quality of couple intimacy. The research analyzes how social pressure, hectic lifestyles, and constant exposure to distorted media models have generated a profound communicative gap between partners. The objective of the research does not focus on performance, but rather explores the concept of „Relational Wellness,“ investigating how design can intervene to mitigate anxiety, break down the wall of post-interaction silence, and restore authentic communication based on conscious consent. From this theoretical premise, the central concept is developed: the creation of a relational mediation system, a neutral „third element“ acting as a catalyst for emotional openness.
1. User Journey Map
The definition of the service was structured starting from a strategic analysis of the user's emotional path, mapped through a User Journey Map. The map traces the evolution of the experience starting from an initial state of panic and isolation during the Discovery phase, up to the achievement of a condition of full trust and empowerment in the Evolution phase. For each phase, specific touchpoints were mapped ranging from digital channels to protected interfaces, up to physical kits and the main pain points (such as the fear of judgment or the anxiety of underperforming) were identified. This tool allowed for pinpointing strategic opportunities to transform emotional barriers into safe, guided moments of growth.
2. Interviews & Research
To validate the initial hypotheses, a qualitative investigation was conducted based on targeted interviews across a diverse user demographic, spanning a wide generational spectrum (ages 22 to 60). This listening phase provided an understanding of how body insecurity concretely acts as an inhibitory factor of spontaneity. The analysis highlighted how the „performance trap“ created by media generates unrealistic expectations that damage emotional connection, pushing individuals toward a communicative solitude where shame prevents them from seeking professional support. Particularly significant is the emerging recourse to digital tools or artificial intelligence as anonymous refuges, confirming the urgency of designing solutions that protect privacy while facilitating the recovery of authentic human dialogue.
3. Cultural Probe Kit
To delve deeper into the subjective experiences of participants and gather intimate qualitative data, a Cultural Probe Kit was designed and administered. This tool provided participants with the means to express their perceptions in a protected manner through three key components:
Body Map: Used to visually map comfort zones and areas of body insecurity, highlighting parts that require greater attention and delicacy.
Unspoken Card: A writing tool designed to give voice to unspoken thoughts, fears, or refusals, overcoming the barrier of mutual judgment.
Media Expectations Slider: A quantitative and qualitative indicator to assess the impact of media and digital content on one's perception of intimacy, making the distance between ideal models and the reality of the couple evident.
4. Workshop Phase
The synthesis and ideation phase was conducted through co-design workshops based on rapid prototyping and visual ideation methodologies, including techniques such as Crazy 8 and concept structuring via Fill the Napkin. This operational session allowed for translating insights emerging from the research into concrete design directions. Critical comparison and idea selection led to a fundamental breakthrough: the realization that the complexity of relational dynamics could not be solved by a single generalist object. This highlighted the need to design an integrated and modular ecosystem.
5. Prototypes: Design Ecosystem
The journey concludes with the technical definition of a system composed of three distinct prototypes, designed to support the couple at every moment of the experience:
Pace-Maker Dice: A playful and minimalist device based on the principle of decoupling „Rhythm“ from Action, devised to disarm behavioral automatisms and reduce performance anxiety.
Sync Link Modulator: A tactile reciprocal stimulation device integrating an active consent circuit; the system (based on micro-vibrations or thermal pulses) activates exclusively in the presence of simultaneous physical contact and instantly halts if either partner withdraws contact, physically translating the concept of consent.
Reflection Tool & Voucher Service: A long-term support system combining guided journals for individual and shared processing (My Thoughts and Our Maps) with a physical card for facilitated access to professional support pathways, normalizing therapy and removing associated stigma.
