Joel Bijumon – Heriot Watt University

Joel Bijumon

Communication Design

Recrafter

Turning Everyday Waste Into Purposeful Creation

Design Statement: As a designer, I believe true innovation lies not in adding features, but in reducing friction. In an increasingly complex digital landscape, my design ideology centers on clarity. I see design as a vital tool to dismantle psychological barriers by transforming overwhelming choices into guided, intuitive experiences. My design practice is rooted in problem solving, ensuring that visual aesthetics serve a functional purpose rather than existing merely as surface-level decoration. I am passionate about creating meaningful systems that bridge the gap between human intention and action. By filtering noise and prioritizing accessibility, I strive to design products that genuinely empower users and elevate everyday interactions.

Project Overview: ReCrafter is an AI-driven upcycling application that transforms reusable materials into personalized DIY projects. When users decide to start upcycling, they often browse online platforms, only to find tutorials requiring materials they might lack or find uninspired projects. This mismatch frequently leads to frustration and, ultimately, disposal rather than reuse. ReCrafter addresses this challenge by providing simple, step-by-step visual and textual guides tailored precisely to the materials users currently possess. It features customizable skill thresholds ranging from Rookie (easy to make) and Experienced (complex, but better results) ensuring a comfortable user experience. By removing entry barriers, ReCrafter empowers individuals to upcycle with intention, transforming clutter into purposeful creations