UHCL STUDY PODS

Introduction

• Objective: Assist the University of Houston-Clear Lake in analyzing the optimal configuration of the Bayou Buildings’ 3rd Floor hallway space for the implementation of both 4-seating and individual study pods.

The Challenge

• Provide a proposal report that includes:

  • How many study pods of each design should be implemented.

  • The optimal placement of the study pods

  • Signage design

  • Optimal Placement of the signs

  • Assessment of context/environment.

  • UX support rationale

User Research

• Conducted a foot traffic analysis, with 64 people from 9 AM to 11 AM and 48 people from 3 PM to 5 PM, to understand peak study hours and traffic patterns.

• Incorporated user feedback, considering noise levels, spatial constraints, and building use based on principles discussed in the course.

Design Process

1. Pod Placement Design:
   
   

   • Developed two design options:
     
     

     • Nook Huddle Pod (Seats 4)

     • Nook Solo Booth-Enclosed Model (Sits 1)

   • Prioritized strategic placement near elevators for solo pods and along main atrium hallways for huddle pods.
     
     
     

2. Signage Design:
   
   

   • Created clear and informative signs to guide students to pod locations, considering various walking routes.

   • Ensured signs were strategically placed where pods were not directly visible to optimize communication.

Final Result

The analysis aimed to create a harmonious and accommodating study environment, meeting the diverse needs of students while maximizing space utilization for more study areas.

• Proposed a study pod placement strategy featuring 7 pods:

  • 3 solo pods near elevators

  • 4 huddle pods along main atrium hallways

• Included 12 strategically placed signs to enhance visibility and guide students efficiently.