about
This project focuses on improving the work-from-home environment through a human-centered design approach. By researching users’ daily routines, frustrations, and goals, I developed design insights aimed at creating a more comfortable, focused, and emotionally supportive workspace.
goal
To design a product that improves the work-from-home experience by addressing user-identified challenges related to comfort, focus, and daily workflow.
outcome
Tidal is an adjustable, collapsible laptop stand designed to bring flexibility and comfort to the modern workspace. Inspired by the smooth motion of the Surface Arc Mouse, it uses a bend-and-snap structure that folds flat for easy storage and expands into a stable, ergonomic position for use.
TIDAL
Adjustable Laptop Stand for Working From Home
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Adjustable Laptop Stand for Working From Home
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6 Week Project
Fall 2025
Fall 2025
Virginia Tech School of Design
Independent
research.
ideation.
peer feedback
I explored a variety of concepts for improving the work from home experience, including desk organizers, extension cord ideas, and comfort-focused accessories. Hearing what my classmates thought helped me see which directions felt most useful and exciting. Their feedback pointed me toward refining the laptop stand idea, which stood out as both practical and adaptable for different setups. From there, I began iterating on different forms and mechanisms for the laptop stand.
prototyping
After exploring different directions for the laptop stand, I decided to pivot back to my original concept and build a full-scale cardboard prototype. This version didn’t include any mechanism yet, so it stayed in a fixed position, but it helped me test the overall proportions and stability. This prototype was able to support my laptop, giving me a better sense of how the stand would feel in use.
final design.
How might I improve my client’s existing setup, at home and at studio, to be more comfortable and encourage longer work sessions?
