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This is my studio
in Chicago.
it's very...
cozy, I know.
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Once a week, I do
my laundry,
I have to use the
communal laundry.
I'm working with
375 sqft,
so every inch of
space is precious.
I want in-unit laundry
soooo freaking bad.
...but I don't have room
in my apartment :(
I wish I could
fit all of this:
Washer
Dryer
Fabric Care
Basket
Into this.
When asked
about priorities...
86%
86 percent of micro-unit renters ranked "Lower Cost" as the one of their main reasons for renting their places.
When asked
about interest...
Nearly 25 percent of conventional renters said they were interested or very interested in renting a micro-unit.
When asked
about amenities...
Over 85 percent of conventional renters ranked "In-Unit Washer & Dryer"
as a top priority when considering rental options
Andrea isn't alone.
An increasing number of people are finding themselves in her situation...
Like Andrea, many young renters are living in or moving to micro-units (under 400 sqft) because they are 20-30% cheaper than conventional units.
The Urban Land Institute conducted a study on thousands of prospective tenants alongside current micro-unit renters, and found that:
Washer/Dryer Combo
✓ Combines washing and
drying into one device
✕ Most are a big investment
and take up lots of space
✕ User still needs external
storage for accessories
Portable Washing Machine
✓ The small size allows it
to be placed anywhere
✕ Top-down design limits
laundry load capacity
✕ Still requires separate
solution for dry/storage
Collapsible Laundry Basket
✓ Collapsibility allows it
to be stored easily
✕ Only fixes the storage
problem for baskets
✕ Still requires separate
solution for wash/dry
What's on the market?
When it comes to minimizing how much space laundry products occupy, there are a few solutions on the market, but they mainly focus on solving portions of the problem
as opposed to a comprehensive solution.
Consumers like Andrea deserve an all-encompassing
solution.
Buzz Buzz Buzz...
Beehives function as closed systems, balancing storage, workflow, and efficiency within a limited space.
These natural wonders served as my primary inspiration when developing an all-in-one laundry solution.
Let's get sketching!
From thumbnails to concept renderings, I sketched out both the finalized solution and associated branding.
The CAD timeline:
The CAD process was filled with constant iterative changes that would ultimately lead to the final model.
Created initial door design
Updated button
configuration
Added contrast door handle
Decided on logo placement
Updated screen
and interface
Updated door
to be softer
Added button functionality
Updated laundry basket & holder
Added laundry basket & holder
Added drawer
for storage
Designing the UI
An all-in-one solution needs a seamless user experience to truly shine. So, after sketching out a framework, I used Adobe XD to develop a simple black and white UI to emphasize ease-of-use.
The all-in-one, smart, washing, drying, and storage machine.
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Detergent Tray
Laundry Basket
Control Dial
Storage Drawer
Screen Interface
Multi-Functional
Wash/Dry Drum
The Machine.
The HIVE Laundry System is the compact all-in-one
washing machine designed for space-conscious living.
By integrating washing, drying, and storage into a single appliance, HIVE simplifies laundry in small spaces.
The Size.
Unlike most standard washers/dryers, HIVE
is small enough to fit under most kitchen counters. It can also be easily retrofitted
over dishwasher infrastructure.
The Basket.
HIVE comes equipped with a built-in, collapsible laundry basket for convenience. This gives users with limited space a bit more breathing room.
The Drawer.
HIVE also comes equipped with a drawer for easy storage for standard laundry accessories and a little extra room for miscellaneous needs.
The Dial.
Every function of HIVE is controlled with a single rotary dial. Rotation and click-based inputs offer precision without the complexity, creating a smooth and confident user experience.
The Screen.
HIVE's interface is designed to feel immediately understandable. It's clean and minimal, yet fun and animated with personality, keeping users engaged.
Stick around to the end for the wash cycle animation!
The Colors.
BROOD
POLLEN
WAX
X
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