Developing the Emotional Design Idea Deck

How can designers create work that people don’t just use or experience, but genuinely connect with?

This question sits at the heart of my PhD research into emotional design and has inspired the development of the Emotional Design Idea Deck, a practical tool designed to help creative practitioners explore emotional design strategies and generate new ideas.

Originally developed for furniture design, I’m now exploring how the deck can support a wider range of creative disciplines, including graphics, fashion, film, architecture, transport design, art and music.

The next stage involves refining and testing the cards, gathering feedback from designers and creative practitioners to understand how the tool can best support different ways of working. Building on initial student workshops, I’m looking forward to exploring its potential across a broader range of creative contexts.

Interested in getting involved? I’d love to hear from designers, artists, educators and other creative practitioners who would be interested in helping shape the next stage of development. Please get in touch through my website to find out more.