Aura: A Sensory Experience
A haven devoted to nurturing hearts and minds
through the power of sound, one note at a time.
Instructor: Soonduk Krebs
Elements: Branding, Packaging, UX/UIOverview
“Aura represents a transformative wellness sanctuary crafted to enhance self-awareness and provide respite from the burdens of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress, complemented by a bespoke selection of spa services, all tailored to usher individuals into a profound state of relaxation.”
Research
While delving into my research, I prioritized understanding the current landscape of mental health management. Among the familiar approaches such as therapy and medication, I discovered the therapeutic potential of sound. Music, in particular, emerged as a widely embraced remedy, capable of conveying healing messages or, conversely, exacerbating distress. As individuals increasingly seek holistic approaches to wellness, sound therapy has gained traction. Its premise is straightforward: leveraging music's diverse effects on the body and mind, therapists employ sound to aid patients with various conditions. Sound therapy, akin to massage therapy in its sensory approach to healing, offers a non-invasive, accessible solution that has been utilized across cultures for centuries and is now gaining momentum in the United States. Based on this research, I conceived the idea of establishing a sanctuary where individuals could explore sound bathing treatments and determine their suitability for addressing their mental health needs. My vision was to cultivate a welcoming environment for those lacking adequate resources to confront mental health challenges, or for those who prefer alternatives to traditional therapy or medication.
Logo
Final LogoWhen designing the logo, I aimed for a gentle yet evocative representation of sound, avoiding anything overly sharp or harsh. Opting for an
all-lowercase serif font, I integrated subtle “soundwaves" into the typography. Coupled with the soft chosen palette, this logomark effectively embodies the refined aesthetic of the brand. The name 'Aura' was selected for its direct association with a person's essence or life force. I sought to convey the essence of my brand's mission and core values in a manner easily graspable to viewers.
pATTERNS
menu
Menu Flat ViewOne of the key elements I aimed to incorporate into this project was a comprehensive menu, specifically designed to showcase the wide range of services offered by Aura. For me, self-care transcends mere spa visits; it encompasses holistic maintenance across all facets of life. I envisioned the menu as a reflection of a complete pampering experience, encompassing everything from sound bathing to traditional hair and nail treatments. The menu features the same soft color palette consistent with the brand's overall aesthetic, fostering a sense of tranquility and serenity that aligns with my vision for the brand as a whole.
other
deliverables
conclusion
Crafting a brand with a focus on wellness was an incredibly therapeutic experience. Extensive research was devoted to ensuring that the services provided were precise and aligned with my core mission. Throughout this journey, the most profound lesson I learned was the principle of reaping what you sow. I took immense joy in developing a brand with the capacity to foster healing and cultivate a serene environment, which was a fundamental aspect I aimed to imbue — the sense of a safe haven for everyone. Building a brand from the ground up not only brought immense satisfaction but also contributed to a personal sense of healing within me.