The "Distillery Time Traveler" project is an innovative augmented reality (AR) experience that immerses users in the rich history of Toronto's Distillery District. By overlaying historical photographs onto present-day scenes, users can witness the transformation of this iconic area over time. This project aims to educate and engage users by providing a tangible connection between the past and present.
Problem Statement:
Despite the Distillery District's designation as a National Historic Site, many visitors remain unaware of its storied past. The challenge was to create an engaging method to convey the district's history without disrupting its modern ambiance.
Objectives:
Develop an interactive AR experience that superimposes historical images onto current views of the district.
Ensure the application is user-friendly and accessible to a broad audience.
Preserve the authenticity and accuracy of historical content.
"Research"
To ensure historical accuracy and enrich the user experience, extensive research was conducted:
Historical Research: I delved into archives, including the Distillery District Heritage Website, to gather authentic photographs and narratives.
User Research: Surveys and interviews were conducted with potential users to understand their interest in AR experiences and historical content
"Design Process"
Ideation:
Brainstormed concepts to integrate AR technology with historical storytelling.
Sketched initial ideas focusing on user engagement and educational value.
Wire-framing:
Created low-fidelity wireframes outlining the application's layout and user flow.
Ensured intuitive navigation and clear instructions for users.
Prototyping:
Developed high-fidelity prototypes using Spark AR Studio, focusing on seamless integration of historical images with real-world views.
Incorporated interactive elements, such as touchpoints providing additional historical information.
"Testing"
Usability Testing:
Conducted sessions with a diverse group of users to assess the application's intuitiveness and functionality.
Collected feedback on user engagement and any technical issues encountered.
AR Experience: Users can view historical photographs overlaid on their current surroundings, providing a visual comparison between past and present.
Interactive Touchpoints: Tapping on specific areas reveals detailed historical information and anecdotes.
User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, ensuring accessibility for individuals of all tech-savviness levels.
Outcome and Reflections
Positive feedback from users, highlighting increased awareness and appreciation of the district's history.
Enhanced visitor engagement within the Distillery District.
Lessons Learned:
The importance of balancing technological innovation with user accessibility.
The value of thorough research in creating authentic and engaging content.
Future Improvements:
Expand the application to include audio narratives and more interactive elements.
Explore partnerships with local historians and cultural organizations for enriched content.
Showcase
The "Distillery Time Traveler" project was proudly showcased at George Brown College's YES! (Year-End Show) in the fall semester of 2024. This annual event celebrates the creativity and talent of students across 12 academic programs within the School of Design. Participating in the YES! show provided an invaluable opportunity to present my work to industry professionals, peers, and the public, receiving constructive feedback and engaging in meaningful discussions about the project's impact and potential future developments.
For more information about the YES! showcase, please visit the official website: yes.schoolofdesign.ca.