Soul Box

Brief

Design and development of a tangible interactive device based on Arduino technology. The objective was to create a physical object capable of mediating between technology and psychological well-being, enclosed in a 25×25 cm cubic structure acting as a multi-sensory interface.

Concept

Soul Box is a mindfulness tool designed to help users disconnect from stress. The experience revolves around nine physical pillars representing core life values, Love, Family, Health, and six others identified through user research. Placing a pillar inside the cube triggers an immersive sequence of ambient lights and sounds, guiding the user into a meditative state. The physical act of depositing a value into the box symbolizes making space for what truly matters in daily life.

Research & Process

Research identified the 9 fundamental life values through user interviews and surveys. Prototyping focused on laser-engraved wooden pillars with unique tactile textures corresponding to their specific themes, each pillar is immediately distinguishable by touch alone, without needing to read labels. The interaction is intentionally slow and analog: powered by Arduino, the system resists the impatience of digital interfaces.

Interaction

The physical act of placing a pillar into the opening of the cube is the entire interaction. There are no buttons, no screens, no menus. The RFID chip embedded in each pillar identifies which value has been deposited, and the Arduino system responds with a unique combination of warm LED lighting and a curated ambient sound sequence. The ritual slowness of the interaction is the design.