Madalyn Harkus
BA Product Design
My main goal as a designer is to ensure inclusivity in the products I create. I accomplish this by using a human-centric design strategy, which seeks to understand consumers better. I have used the abilities I developed throughout my degree to create practical solutions.
journey
Currently, 1 in 3 adults are unable to swim 25 metres in the UK. Since there isn't any other equipment on the market, I am forced to use children's equipment in my work as a swimming instructor outside of university, which is mainly teaching adults. This insight gave me the idea for a brand that encourages adults to take up swimming.
Regardless of swimming ability, Journey symbolises all swimmers. It is here to motivate the country to take up swimming in a manner that is open to all. The floats encourage correct body positioning in the water and completely support an adult's body, redefining swimming accessories. The floats themselves are inclusive to all bodies and support the goal of continuous development thanks to a rigorous testing procedure.
Where will your swimming journey start?
Circa Sleep Light
Blue light, produced by screens, reduces melatonin levels, which stops you falling asleep at night. The 'Circa Sleep Light' works as a visual reminder to help you switch off at night, and aims to help the user achieve a full night of sleep. Inspired by the traditional craft of weaving, the lamp combines the natural textures of rattan and bamboo. The app, designed alongside the lamp, syncs with the user's schedule to dim when it is time to go to sleep and brighten up in the morning. This aligns the user's circadian cycle with the rising and setting of the sun.