Dark Modality
Thesis | In Progress
Through my thesis, I want to examine how dark modality is a necessary philosophy for graphic designers. It can be a strictly practical application, such as with dark mode in UX/UI, or with ergonomic furniture design. but to reach full potential, it must be applied to our space as well. Designers always consider their audience, but this centers the designer, and optimizes systems and spaces for designers to be creative.
In my research, one of the things that stood out to me the most was user's choice. The choice to utilize dark mode on an iPhone, or to actually stand at a standing desk. For the first phase in my experimentation process, I wanted to give design students the choice of an optimized workspace, in the hope that it would lead to increased creative output.
To test this, I created a "Dark Modality Workspace" in ArtCenter's graduate graphic design studio. The studio is currently equipped with tables, chairs, and overhead fluorescent lighting. In one corner, I added sheer curtains, adjustable lighting, and softer surfaces.
To collect data, I created a survey that students can fill out when they leave the space. I also included a guest book that students can write, draw, or doodle in while they work.
