KUBIK – Discover architecture

KUBIK is a mobile app that lets users explore a city’s architecture by simply pointing their phone at a building. It unlocks historical stories, “then vs. now” images, and a narrated audio guide – turning any walk into an interactive, location-based experience.

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_{Research & Problem Definition}

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Most city guide apps overwhelm users with text, lists, and layers of navigation. Through competitive analysis and observation, we saw that existing apps lacked contextual storytelling and quick access to information in real-world environments.

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Key insight:Tourists and architecture lovers want to explore without spending time learning a complex app.

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^{Concept & UX Strategy}

^{We flipped the traditional app flow:}

• ^{Instead of: Menu → Search → Map → Details}
• ^{We used: World-first interaction → Camera scan → Story}

Core idea:

Let the user point the phone at a building → unlock visual stories, audio guides, and historical photos.

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^{Information Architecture & User Flows}

We defined the main journeys:

• Discover as Visitor: Camera-based exploration
• Create Custom Tour: Save favorites, build personal tours
• Location Journey: Learn about specific places with facts, visuals, and narration

Flow highlights:

• Confirm location
• Scan building
• Listen to audio story
• Save to favorites

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^Wireframes

We designed low-fidelity wireframes to test different interaction models:

• Simple onboarding
• One-tap camera access
• Minimal UI to reduce cognitive load outdoors
• Prioritizing visual storytelling

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^{UI Design & Visual System}

We built a clean, contrast-heavy UI suitable for use in daylight and motion.

• Large tappable targets
• Warm, human color palette
• Clear iconography
• High legibility for walking users

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^{Prototype & Microcopy}

We created an interactive prototype to simulate:

• Location confirmation
• Camera scan
• Audio playback
• Text story navigation
• Micro-interactions

Microcopy examples:

• “Point the camera at a building to begin”
• “Swipe to compare past and present”
• “Add to your tour”

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^{Testing & Learnings}

We simulated use cases with testers via Figma prototype.

Key learnings:

• Clear instructions and progressive disclosure help users focus
• Outdoor use demands high contrast and simplicity
• Minimal animations work best — keep focus on content

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^Outcome

We developed a fully designed concept app that blends physical exploration with digital storytelling. The final prototype allows users to explore architecture like never before — visually, intuitively, and without friction.

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