This project aims to alleviate stress and anxiety for London Underground commuters by introducing a calming, nature-inspired environment seamlessly integrated into the station's efficiency. Utilising elements like waterfalls and bird sounds, known for their calming effects, commuters are gradually immersed in a tranquil rainforest setting upon entering. This immersive experience, supported by research on colour, sound, nature, and stress, not only enhances the journey but also fosters efficiency and a more pleasant commute.
Please note that these designs serve to showcase the concept, and if the project were to be executed, the graphics would be much more realistic, bringing the concept to life in a tangible way.
The commuter is welcomed by an interactive screen. These ribbon screens are heat and motion censored, and will pick up when there is a figure standing by it, it will then react by displaying a leaf on the screen directly opposite the commuter. The more figures there are, the more leaves displayed.
Leading off the green escalator, a large green tree trunk sticker runs along the floor, leading up to the wall, where a projection of the rest of the tree, lush vegetation, and an animated bird can be seen. The bird is animated to repeatedly fly in the direction the commuter will go, guiding them to the next scene. As they walk, subtle and soothing sounds of birds chirping are introduced.
As commuters ascend, they're enveloped in a nature display: leaves and flowers project around them. Nature sounds amplify, creating a soothing backdrop for the journey, fostering tranquility.
The commuter makes their way down a passage just before they reach the platform, the walls and floor come alive with projections of leaves and flowers, the ambient sound continues. The projections are designed to seamlessly interact with the commuter, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the experience without it becoming hazardous.
As the commuter reaches the platform, they are greeted by an enchanting display of a rainforest scene. The projections are animated (and timed accordingly to the train arrivals), showcasing the lush trees swaying in the wind and the melodic songs of birds filling the air. As the train approaches, the swaying becomes more intense, creating the illusion of the scene being right before them. As the train arrives, the birds fly away, adding to the realism of the immersive experience. The overall effect is a calming and rejuvenating escape from the intensity that the underground brings.
