Role: UX/UI Designer
Tools: Adobe XD, Illustrator, Photoshop
Timeline: 4 weeks (2 ideation, 2 build) | College Project (New Tech Course)
Tools: Adobe XD, Illustrator, Photoshop
Timeline: 4 weeks (2 ideation, 2 build) | College Project (New Tech Course)
Overview
Kələr is a smart desk concept designed to support artists with color vision deficiency. Instead of trying to correct or simulate color perception, the desk helps artists understand and interact with color as data — through naming, matching, and suggestion tools. The desk combines object recognition with a large, interactive surface interface that allows users to scan objects, explore color palettes, and save their favorite combinations.
This project was inspired by my younger brother, a colorblind artist, and represents my effort to build tools that are not just inclusive, but empowering.
Goals
- Create a tactile, color-intelligent workspace for colorblind creatives
- Design an intuitive interface for a non-traditional screen (a physical desk)
- Help users understand, match, and organize color data without relying on sight
- Support creative independence with minimal friction or guesswork
My Role
I led the project from ideation to final prototype:
- Conducted concept research based on interviews and personal insights
- Sketched out desk dimensions and spatial UX considerations
- Built user flows and wireframes for the desk interface
- Designed a branded landing page to market the desk
- Prototyped key features in Adobe XD + mockups for physical form
Desk Interface – Key Features
1️⃣ Object Color Recognition
Users place objects (e.g., colored pencils) on the desk surface. The interface recognizes each object, outlines it visually, and lets the user tap to reveal a draggable color info menu.
- Each object is labeled with its color name
- Menus can be moved around for workspace flexibility
- If I were to revise: I’d add a visible “X” to close menus intentionally
2️⃣ Suggested Color Palettes
Based on the objects on the desk, Kələr suggests matching or harmonious color palettes.
- Users tap a side menu to explore suggested palettes
- When a palette is selected, matching objects on the desk are highlighted with dotted outlines
- Color names are always listed for non-visual identification
3️⃣ Object Matching
The desk alerts users when new objects match existing ones, making color comparisons easier.
- For example: a lemon placed on the desk is recognized and matched to the user’s yellow colored pencil
- Matching objects are grouped visually and labeled clearly
4️⃣ Saved Palettes & Image Matching
Users can save custom palettes or upload images for future use.
- Selecting a saved palette highlights matching physical items on the desk
- If I had more time: I’d add error states when objects in a saved palette aren’t present
Desk Prototype Walkthrough
The prototype video includes:
- Object recognition and labeling
- Menu interactions and drag/drop
- Palette suggestion and object highlighting
- Matching color detection from new objects
- Main menu navigation to saved palettes + images
UX Process Highlights
- Sketched out spatial interface zones and user reach based on ergonomic principles
- Considered tap targets, menu placement, and object interaction areas
- Paid special attention to contrast, brightness, and distinguishability of colors
- Designed for intentionality, aiming to reduce accidental taps and clutter
Marketing Landing Page
To position Kələr as a viable product, I also designed a landing page to introduce its features and encourage users to subscribe for updates.
- Branded with a color-rich but balanced visual style
- Clear hierarchy of information + calls to action
What I’d Improve
If I had more time:
- Add intentional close buttons for floating menus
- Design clear error states when selected palettes don’t match objects present
- Improve system for showing/dismissing notifications
- Add microinteractions + refined animations
- Let users customize the desk background/interface theme
- Expand features like voice output for color names or object identification
What I Learned
- How to design for non-standard interface sizes and shapes
- Grew my skills in physical UX + spatial interaction design
- Balanced a highly colorful interface with usability and accessibility
- Pushed my prototyping skills and learned how to simulate real-world flows
- Developed deeper empathy for accessibility-first design thinking
Personal Note
Designing for someone I love gave this project so much more meaning. It reminded me that accessibility isn’t just about compliance — it’s about unlocking creativity, dignity, and independence for people of all abilities.