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A concept app for discovering local spots beyond the tourist trail
Overview
Overview
This project was completed during my exchange semester in Brisbane, Australia, as a short design sprint with a team of international students. Coming from different backgrounds and cultures made the project especially enjoyable; we each brought our own perspective on what “hidden gems” meant in a new city. As someone newly arrived in Brisbane, I was the target user, which gave us a unique opportunity to design something directly relevant and personal.
Process
Process
Phase 1: Research & Problem Framing
Phase 1: Research & Problem Framing
We started by exploring what makes a place feel like a “hidden gem” and what challenges newcomers face when trying to discover the real culture of a city. We interviewed fellow exchange students and a few locals to understand common frustrations with tourist-heavy recommendations.
Activities:
Activities:
Conducted quick interviews with international students
Identified gaps in existing apps like TripAdvisor and Google Maps
Defined our primary user: someone new to the city, craving authentic experiences
Phase 2: Ideation & Concept Sketching
Phase 2: Ideation & Concept Sketching
Based on our insights, we brainstormed core features: map-based discovery, user-curated lists, and a review system focused on local authenticity. We sketched rough wireframes and mapped out the app’s structure.
Activities:
Activities:
Used affinity mapping to sort feature ideas
Created simple paper wireframes to map out the user flow
Prioritized features that could be prototyped quickly
Phase 3: Prototyping
Phase 3: Prototyping
We developed a high-fidelity prototype in Figma that showcased the key functionality: browsing nearby hidden spots, saving favorites, and reading reviews by other locals or newcomers. The design aimed to be clean, friendly, and easy to use on the go.
Activities:
Activities:
Designed high-fidelity screens in Figma
Used realistic content and example listings for testing
Ran informal usability tests with peers
Reflections
Reflections
Even small design projects can be powerful if they solve a real user need
Working with international teammates helped sharpen my communication and alignment skills
Simplicity in design is key when users are exploring unfamiliar environments
User interviews don’t have to be complicated—just talking to people in the target group gave us great insights
Rapid prototyping is a great way to bring an idea to life, even within tight time constraints
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