Hiya Taunk – Heriot Watt University

Hiya Taunk

Communication Design

Offline

Your Space to Pause

Design Statement : As a student, I often felt the need for a mental reset during breaks, which inspired me to conceptualize Offline. My design approach focuses on creating calm, immersive spaces that support pause, reflection, and mental restoration. I explore how spatial design and sensory storytelling can shape mood, comfort, and well-being. Through soft lighting, gentle movement, ambient sound, and carefully considered spatial elements, I aim to create environments that feel peaceful, grounding and restorative. My goal is to design spaces that offer moments of stillness, inviting users to slow down, breathe, and experience a sense of calm.

Project Overview: Offline is an immersive de-stress room designed for university students. It creates a calm and safe environment where they can step away from academic pressure and mental overload. The space uses soft lighting, slow movement, gentle sound, and simple spatial elements to build a peaceful atmosphere. Guided by the calming essence of blue, the space feels tranquil and grounding, encouraging users to slow down, breathe, and relax. Through sensory storytelling and atmosphere, Offline supports rest and emotional well-being in a stigma-free way. The experience offers a quiet pause within daily university life, allowing students to reset, regain clarity, and return feeling more balanced and centered.