Introducing Project: S O L A C E: In the fast-paced cities of South Korea, where the demands of business are relentless, stress has become a common burden for many. With a significant portion of individuals aged 20 to 40 experiencing high stress levels, the need for effective relaxation methods has never been more critical. Responding to this growing issue, a groundbreaking project has emerged from Coventry University’s Automotive & Transportation Design program: S O L A C E.
A New Approach to Stress Relief for South Korean Professionals: SOLACE is more than just a student project—it’s an innovative solution aimed at addressing the stress and promoting well-being for professionals in South Korea. In a culture where time is a scarce commodity, and vacations seem out of reach, S O L A C E offers a novel approach to relaxation, bringing it directly to those in need.
This concept merges nature and technology in a mobile sanctuary accessible via a user-friendly app. Users can immerse themselves in calming environments—whether it’s a tropical island or a peaceful forest—through the power of augmented reality and holographic technology, both inside and outside the mobile cabin.
SOLACE also transforms the traditional café experience by making it portable. Inspired by the cozy atmosphere of Korean cafes, the cabin interior radiates warmth, with wooden panels and architecture influenced by the renowned Kengo Kuma architecture. Users can relax in this serene space while enjoying beverages from an onboard drink dispenser, conveniently controlled via an armrest panel.
The Experience: Nature at Your Fingertips: Inside SOLACE, users are transported to personalised worlds of relaxation through an in-cabin augmented reality projector. Whether they prefer the sound of rustling leaves or crashing ocean waves, the vehicle provides a fully immersive audio-visual experience tailored to their preferences. Built-in diffusers release refreshing scents, while ambient sounds further enhance the calming environment, creating a multisensory escape.
The exterior design of SOLACE draws inspiration from nature’s beauty, featuring smooth, flowing lines that mimic pebbles and water ripples. The vehicle’s wheels, inspired by crystals, and the soft halo lights that top the cabin add a natural yet futuristic aesthetic. Every detail, from the geometric forms to the lighting, is designed to evoke a sense of peace and invite overworked professionals to find solace within.
A Mobile Oasis for a Fast-Paced World
In a society where time is precious and stress is constant, SOLACE offers a sanctuary on wheels, providing a limitless experience of relaxation. As South Korea grapples with the mental toll of high-stress work environments, SOLACE stands as a testament to the potential of design and innovation to enhance well-being and transform lives. To those seeking a moment of calm amid the chaos, SOLACE offers an invitation: step inside, unwind, and rediscover the beauty of tranquility.
About the Designer
Introducing Jae Hyuk Shin, better known as Jason, a third-year student at Coventry University. Born in 2000, Jason’s upbringing was characterised by constant movement due to his father’s job, exposing him to diverse cultures and landscapes across the globe. Among the countries where Jason spent significant time, Germany stands out, igniting his passion for automobiles amidst the rich tapestry of German automotive history.
As Jason matured, his interests expanded beyond the admiration of cars to encompass the artistry behind their design. This evolution led him to pursue a course in Automotive and Transportation Design, where he blends his appreciation for cars with his creative flair. With a unique perspective shaped by his global experiences and a keen eye for design, Jason is poised to make his mark in the automotive industry.
