Rawisara Thawatchiangkun

My project examined how sensory design can support stress relief and mindfulness during lunchtime eating at university. The brief encouraged me to incorporate functionality, sustainability, and emotional engagement into a common product. I focused on university students, especially international students who often face stress and irregular eating patterns due to their busy lifestyles.

I aimed to create a lunchbox that not only stores food but also provides emotional comfort through tactile interaction. Inspired by Zen gardens and the calming shapes of rocks, I designed Bårn, a tactile lunchbox that blends smooth curves, textures, and flexible materials to promote mindful touch.

The design includes a rock-like exterior that comfortably fits the hand, a silicone strap that can be stretched or pulled for sensory relief, and a removable ceramic bowl for warmth, hygiene, and familiarity. I employed 3D printing, mould casting, and paper clay ceramics to prototype and refine each part, exploring how hard and soft materials can work together.

Bårn is meaningful because it reimagines a daily object as a tool for emotional well-being. It encourages users to slow down, eat mindfully, and reconnect with the calming rhythm of touch in their daily routines.