The Other Side
Preserving memory and connection across generations
2017
With Bora Kim, James Zhou, and Stephanie Lee
Role: Concept Development, Experience Prototyping, Storytelling & Narrative Design, Brand Identity
The Challenge
How might we reimagine the connection between the living and the deceased in modern cemeteries? Traditional graveyards restrict engagement to static visits, creating emotional distance from departed loved ones. We explored ways to transform these experiences into something more intimate and meaningful.
Understanding the context
Research examined traditional cemetery limitations and their effect on grieving. We focused on understanding how multisensory experiences could strengthen the sense of connection with the deceased, moving beyond the traditional model of standing at a gravestone.
Multi-sensory VR experience
We developed a virtual reality prototype using HTC Vive, combining 360-degree video with carefully designed physical elements. The experience integrated multiple sensory touchpoints: heat lamps for warmth, gentle breezes, a sand pit for tactile sensation, selected scents, and physical objects like rocks that visitors could hold.
Guided emotional experience design
The narrative journey received special attention, designed to help visitors gradually develop emotional connection through guided imagination and memory recall. Each element was carefully orchestrated to create a sense of presence and peace.
Where we landed
"The Other Side" emerged as an afterlife service transforming traditional cemetery visits into immersive, multisensory experiences. Rather than conventional tombstones, it creates an environment fostering genuine presence and peace, enabling visitors to maintain meaningful relationships with departed loved ones through virtual reality and physical sensation. The project explored how technology could support the grieving process and create new rituals for remembrance.
