Bi-Extremities

Role: Research Lead

Bi-Extremities is a multisensory installation exploring how natural materials, experienced through the feet and amplified sound, shape presence, relaxation, and embodiment.

I led the research and user testing, grounding the installation in sensory design and biophilic principles.

Impact and Findings:

Research showed that the installation had a measurable effect on embodied experience:

• Participants felt more relaxed, more present, and more in their bodies after the experience

• Sand and soft natural fibres created the strongest positive responses and memory recall

• Sensory mismatch (e.g. unstable surfaces or inauthentic sound) reduced presence, revealing clear design constraints for immersive environments

Why It Matters

This work demonstrates how sensory-led design decisions can directly influence nervous system regulation and presence. The findings translated into concrete design insights for creating more grounding, emotionally resonant environments.