Social Impact DesignDecoded
Project roles: Concept Development, Social Impact Design, Environmental Graphic Design, Typography, System Design, Creative Direction
Project timeline: One month
An interactive social activism toolkit that exposes the hidden systems shaping male identity and pressure within gym culture.
Problem
Within gym culture, harmful language surrounding masculinity, body image, and self-worth is often normalized.
These messages—whether direct or implied—reinforce unrealistic standards and internal pressure, particularly for young men. Because they are embedded in everyday environments, they often go unrecognized and unchallenged.
Concept
Decoded reveals the underlying systems behind these messages, making invisible pressures visible. By exposing and reframing language, the project encourages awareness, reflection, and disruption through each touchpoint.
Approach
The project functions as an interactive system designed to intervene directly within gym environments.
Developed a toolkit including a booklet, poster, reflection sheets, and functional stickers
Designed stickers to be placed on mirrors and equipment, interrupting moments of self-perception and routine
Used typography to isolate and reframe language, visually “decoding” its underlying meaning
Created reflection-based materials that prompt users to engage beyond surface-level awareness
Structured the system to operate within real environments, not just as a standalone artifact
Outcome / Impact
Decoded transforms a familiar environment into a space for reflection and confrontation.
By embedding the work directly into the gym, it creates immediate, personal moments of awareness—encouraging users to question the language, expectations, and systems that shape their identity.
Reflection
Designing for a real environment required consideration of placement, timing, and user interaction—ensuring the work could exist naturally within the space while still disrupting it. It reinforced the role of design as a tool for awareness, engagement, and behavioral reflection.
