Observational Analysis

After completing the interviews last week, I wanted to go back over the photos I took and begin to analyse them. In order to do this I broke down the stories and key facts about each object on top of the image. This would allow me to see the stories and ideas next to the objects and its general location.

Kiera

Analysis of the things in Kiera's home

After looking at Kiera's images, key themes that emerged were:

• Like to have magical items that remind her of her childhood

• Concept of feeling safe and warm in her room is important - This is achieved through lighting, colours of objects and the objects themselves

• Holds onto a lot of items that have been gifted from Grandparents

Jod

Analysis of the things in Jod's home

After looking at Jod's images, key themes that emerged were:

• Like to have all their objects on display where they can see them. - Out of sight out of mind

• A lot of their favourite items are ones that have been made and / or given to them from friends and family

• Likes to have their space busy with memories and full of colour - This notion that it it makes their space feel welcoming and like home

• Art is a massive part of how they communicate memories, values and their relationship

Susan

Analysis of things in Susans home

After looking at Susan's images, key themes that emerged were:

• Photos! Likes to have photos on display and easily assessable. Remind her of her happy memories and make her space feel like home

• Items have been collected over the years and are a reflection of all the places she has lived.

• Home needs to feel safe and like a reflection of her family. - Achieved through having items passed through generations, pictures and items made by her children

Milly

Analysis of things in Milly's home

After looking at Milly's images, key themes that emerged were:

• Likes to collect things from where she has lived - builds a history of her life through things

• Objects represent the memories of the day purchased or who she was with

• Likes her space to feel light and happy. If something no longer brings her joy she would get rid of it

Heat-maps

Additionally, after completing my observational analysis, I used the information gathered to create heat maps of the participants homes. I only noted down key rooms that I saw, which were the living room and bedroom. This helped to understand where people place their objects and how often they actually look at / use their objects with meaning.

Heat-map's of the home

Reflection

Overall breaking down the research in a visual way has been very helpful for drawing out themes and understanding the ways people use their objects. My focus now I think is to find out what I can do with this information in a design sense. What is it that I aim to achieve with my work and what do I want to convey? Next post: Midpoint Presentation