Following the first proposal, feedback gathered during design development prompted a return to refined and structured research to reframe its assumptions and narrow its scope. What follows is a closer look at the evolving research that guided the next phase of inquiry and design. For the sake of translating the ideas in the project clearer, Nigeria and the United States were adopted for the case study.
thesis case study
America - host community
in cultural context…
tradition
The way a practice is passed down and evolves over time. Traditions can adapt without their losing authenticity
Often rigid as it prioritizes how it’s usually done
Resists change to protect heritage
Requires adherence to specific techniques
vs.
Nigeria - immigrant community
authenticity
The "true essence" of a something, its original meaning, intent, and emotional significance even if it adapts the form
Is adaptable even if it means breaking norms
Encourages evolution if it honors the core values
Allows personal interpretation
the goal here, is to preserve cultural authenticity even if tradition is altered
‘how might design create opportunities for reciprocal engagement by addressing inequalities in cultural exchange amongst host and immigrant communities’
design criteria
mutual reciprocity
give + take from both parties so they meet in the middle
teaching & learning
exchange of cultural information and values
tactile engagement & sensory participation
participation in cultural practices
design criteria - Nigeria
The design criteria to translate Nigerian essence through a dining experience
ifarasin ọwọ̀
'tactile & sensory engagement'
hands-on preparation and dining
iwa pele
'unity through communal dining'
communal dining and gathering
seating within close proximity to the next person and engaging them
ritualistic sharing
fọwọ́ gbá obe
'performative dining'
gestural eating & tactile tools
user archetypes
The three categories of user groups that interact with cultures or experiences outside of their own
new
first-timer / curious explorer
Little to no prior exposure
Hesitant but excited
Open to learning but cautious about "getting it wrong"
Might ask a lot of questions Takes extra time to decide
Sticks to "safe" options
Novice needs cultural translation to make the cuisine accessible without oversimplifying
familiar
sense of awareness / comfortable
Has some exposure
Recognizes key flavors/ingredients but isn’t deeply knowledgeable
Comfortable experimenting but still has limits
Might compare dishes to other experiences
Open to staff suggestions but doesn’t need guidance
Familiar customers crave depth and discovery to reward their curiosity
rooted
deeply connected / at-home
Strong personal/cultural ties
Judges authenticity but appreciates creative twists
Might feel a way if the food feels 'watered down'
Orders in mother tongue or uses proper terms
Notices details
Could bond with staff over shared heritage
Rooted customers seek authenticity and respect, they’re credibility anchors
