A cozy environment to reduce stress from overwhelm

Engineering: Tom Kail
Learning Experience: Laura Hix
3D Modeling: Alex Prokhorov
Data Analysis: Sherry Owens

Studio Cafe is a mobile experience I designed at BetterUp. It is an immersive and tranquil space aimed at helping players feel less stressed and more connected through guided, interactive activities. The activities are unlocked as you explore the cozy cafe, while also discovering transformations others have made in the space before you (and a bunch of other easter eggs). The goal was to provide a platform for connection, self-improvement, and emotional support.

Mood shifts after 25 mins of play

During user testing, we measured significant improvements in mood after play sessions — with major increases in optimism and relaxation, along with substantial decreases in anxiety and frustration.

We allowed players to “leave behind” their positively transformed thoughts, which could be discovered in other players’ playthroughs; enabling the space to be social, increasing connection and decreasing loneliness. But also private enough to feel comfortable sharing personal challenges and thoughts.

Activities overview

Reflection — Transforming stressful thoughts into positive ones. Players start by identifying a reoccurring stressful thought, switch to giving advice to a loved one, then apply that same kindness to themselves, encouraging self-compassion.

Breathing Exercise — Using the 4-4-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds. This activity aims to calm and center players.

Gratitude journaling — Reflect on positive aspects of the day — paired with randomized prompts to keep the experience fresh.