Experience Cultural and Lifestyle Innovations at UID25 | Design Talks & Degree Show

We are thrilled to invite you to the UID25 | Design Talks & Degree Show, where Umeå Institute of Design (UID) will showcase groundbreaking projects from our graduating students on June 3. For nine consecutive years, UID has secured the top spot on the global Red Dot Design Ranking, underscoring our leading position in design education on the international stage.

This year's projects include innovative designs that enhance everyday life, cultural experiences, and lifestyle products.

Explore the project teasers already today in the UID25 | Project Gallery.

Tune in to the UID25 | Live Stream on June 3 (times below) to witness these cutting-edge projects. We offer embargoed information on any project you are interested in ahead of the event and will facilitate interviews with students and collaborating companies. Below, you will find a selection of projects about to be unveiled at UID25, and you will find all of them here: https://www.umu.se/en/umea-ins...

June 3 – Student Project Presentations

🕐 13:00–17:00 (CET) in Umeå, Sweden

• 04:00–08:00 (PDT – Los Angeles)
• 07:00–11:00 (EDT – New York)
• 12:00–16:00 (BST – London)
• 13:00–17:00 (CEST – Stockholm, Berlin, Paris)
• 16:30–20:30 (IST – New Delhi)
• 19:00–23:00 (CST – Beijing)
• 20:00–00:00 (JST – Tokyo)
• 21:00–01:00 (AEST – Sydney)

Seize the opportunity to explore the future of culture and lifestyle design.

You can also watch the show afterwards using the same link: https://www.umu.se/en/umea-ins...

Or visit the UID25 | Project Gallery for a preview already today: https://www.umu.se/en/umea-ins...

Best regards, Jens Persson Communications Officer, Umeå Institute of Design, Email: jens.persson@umu.se

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Sneak Peek: Visionary Lifestyle Projects from UID Graduates

Future mocap tools
Democratising motion capture for indie creators through plug and play solutions - Joel Sjödin (MFA Advanced Product Design)

This project aims to democratize motion capture (mocap) technology for digital 3D creators by designing an accessible and user-friendly system. The final concept includes a smart sensor and a strap-based wearable system, making it easier for creatives to capture and animate real-life movements. The system uses ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for better range and mobility, and includes a controller unit and hub for a plug-and-play experience. This approach lowers technical barriers, enabling more people to explore digital animation and enhancing the overall creative process.

Transitions
Reimagining how DJs learn to perform live with confidence and joy - Viktor Strömberg (BFA Industrial Design)

This project addresses the challenges DJs face when moving from home practice to live performances, focusing on performance anxiety and technical skills. It resulted in a hybrid solution: a DJ controller that mimics club equipment and a virtual learning tool. This setup helps DJs practice both technically and emotionally, building confidence for live shows. The project also offers insights into stress factors during DJ sets and suggests features for effective home practice equipment, aiming to improve music education tools and support future DJs in gaining stage confidence.

The orgasm parity
Balancing the orgasm gap between straight couples to foster connection and satisfaction - Gerardo Soler Arzola (MFA Advanced Product Design)

This project addresses the orgasm gap in heterosexual relationships by creating a product that enhances sexual satisfaction and emotional connection for couples in long-term relationships. The final concept, Gema, is a multi-sensory experience with three elements: the Anchor (a wearable device that captures emotional signals), Gema (a digital guide interpreting these signals), and the Nest (a digital platform offering tools and exercises). Gema focuses on emotional awareness, sexual discovery, and communication, helping couples nurture their relationship through presence, curiosity, and vulnerability. Unlike other products, it emphasizes deeper intimacy rather than just improving sexual performance.

Nomadic furniture
Exploring sustainable furniture solutions for individuals living a flexible, unsettled lifestyle - Alma Bülow Bengtsson (BFA Industrial Design)

The result of this project is Nomadic Nest, a modular sofa designed for students who move frequently. It is easy to transport, adapt, and maintain, offering a sustainable alternative to disposable furniture. Nomadic Nest supports a sense of home in temporary living situations and aligns with the EU's goals for a circular future. The design process involved research, user studies, and iterative refinement with input from design and sustainability experts. By promoting long-term use and reducing waste, Nomadic Nest contributes to more sustainable consumption patterns and helps address the environmental impact of furniture.

Aveo
Beyond Limits: Unlocking the full potential of wellbeing by bridging modern science with ancient wisdom - Corinna Diestel (MFA Advanced Product Design)

This design concept addresses the rise in chronic illnesses and mental health disorders by exploring a holistic approach to wellbeing that combines modern science with ancient wisdom. It investigates mindfulness practices, frequency therapies, and biofeedback to make healing principles tangible and measurable. The final design concept includes tools that use biofeedback and health tracking to show the positive effects of meditation, breathwork, and journaling. It integrates elements from medicine, psychology, spirituality, and advanced technology to help individuals manage their health proactively and foster self-awareness. This approach aims to offer lasting relief from chronic conditions and improve overall wellbeing.

Kids on the move
Fun is a serious business! - Anna Lucca Hviid (BFA Industrial Design)

This thesis addresses the issue of excessive screen use among children by designing a vehicle called FREO, inspired by the classic soapbox car. The project, conducted in collaboration with THULE, aims to promote outdoor physical activity by translating digital engagement techniques into real-world experiences. Through research, user interviews, and iterative testing, FREO was developed to encourage independence, motivation, and fun. The design focuses on sustainability, customization, and retro influences, offering a healthier lifestyle for children by making digital elements physical and engaging.

Event Details
What: UID25 | Design Talks & Degree Show
When: June 3–4
Where: Umeå Institute of Design, Arts Campus, Umeå University
Website: https://www.umu.se/en/umea-institute-of-design/uid25/

Media Contact:
Jens Persson, Communications Officer, Umeå Institute of Design
Email: jens.persson@umu.se
Phone: +46 736 26 35 51 (at working hours in Sweden)

Photos of the Umeå Institute of Design at Umeå University by the river Umeälven is free to use, please add "Photo: Umeå University"