Hattie Barnes
Cuppa & A Natter, 2022
Cuppa & A Natter: A Conversation toolkit and pilot event designed with the intention of bridging the gap between students and the long term older residents of Headingley, Leeds. This was my final year university project and encompassed illustration, graphic design, videography and user research.
In recent years Hyde Park and Headingley have been 'studentified’, referring to the domination of residential neighbourhoods by student households, and the associated social, cultural, and environmental changes. The elderly population, many of whom have lived in Hyde Park for most of their lives, are arguably the generation most affected by the studentification of their local area. With this local problem, as well as an ever-growing national generational divide, the chances of the two demographics integrating without intentional intervention are slim.
I set out to design a solution that builds bridges between students and older people on a local scale.
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‘Cuppa & A Natter' is a Conversation Toolkit that includes everything needed to facilitate interaction and thus integration within the wider community. The conversation starter 'Natter Cards' are designed to draw out commonalities between the users, inciting empathy and a deeper understanding of each other.
In addition to the creation of the box, I put on an event at a local older people's charity, 'OWLS, Headingley'. Students and older residents of Leeds enjoyed the opportunity to meet and chat, using the contents of the Conversation Toolkit. My video showcases the success of the 'Cuppa & A Natter' pilot event.
