Bridging Worlds: Reimagining Kinokuniya's Online Experience
Creating a seamless digital journey that captures the essence of Kinokuniya's in-store magic.
Overview:
This project aimed to revitalize the Kinokuniya website to reflect the brand's in-store enchantment online. By incorporating Japanese aesthetics, a clear visual hierarchy, and engaging user interactions, the redesign sought to bridge the gap between the physical and digital experiences, enhancing user engagement and satisfaction.
Project Type
Academic/Student Project - CCA MDES Form Class
Kinokuniya, Website Redesign
Project Date
4 weeks (November - December 2023)
My Role
UX/UI Designer
An Affection for the Brand
Books Kinokuniya is a Japanese bookstore chain operated by Kinokuniya Company Ltd. founded in 1927, with its first store located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. The company has its headquarters in Meguro, Tokyo.
(From Wikipedia)
Kinokuniya, a sanctuary for book lovers, holds a special place in my heart. Its charm, warmth, and cultural tapestry are unparalleled.
A Love for the In-Store Magic:
In the heart of Kinokuniya's in-store embrace, I discovered a world where diversity, cultural richness, and quality came together.
My love for Japanese art and animation ignited my admiration for the brand, where these passions converged.
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Recognizing the Gap
But as I reveled in Kinokuniya's in-store magic, I recognized a gap – the online presence didn't quite match the brand's essence.
Addressing the Gap
The conflict was clear: An outdated, misaligned website that was at odds with Kinokuniya's identity.
Some key issues:
Outdated interface
No typography hierarchy
Not focused on call to action (CTA)
Too many spaces are wasted
Images are small in size and not arranged properly
The Decision to Redesign:
Users need a clear and legible typography hierarchy to navigate the website easily. The current usage of Montserrat throughout the landing page may make it challenging for users to differentiate between headings, subheadings, and body text.
01 Improved Readability
A more diverse color scheme and an improved layout can make the website more engaging and visually pleasing, which can enhance the overall user experience.
02 Enhanced Visual Appeal
The layout should make it easy for users to find the information they need, browse products, and complete purchases without unnecessary friction.
03 Efficient Navigation
Moodboards:
Mood boards became my canvas for inspiration, reflecting the cultural richness and warmth I loved.
Prompts for Image Search:
Japanese Aesthetics; Craftsmanship; Warm and Inviting; Quality Books; Nature and Harmony
Design System Research:
Diving into research, I explored color schemes, typography, and composition to ensure alignment with Kinokuniya's values.
Bridging the Gap:
And with research in hand, I embarked on a journey to bridge the gap and bring Kinokuniya's magic to life online.
Let me give you a sneak peek first – a tantalizing glimpse of the design that transformed the online experience.
Next Step:
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User Testing and Feedback
To ensure the redesigned website meets user expectations, I'll conduct thorough user testing. I'll gather feedback to identify any potential improvements.
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Optimizing for Mobile Devices
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, mobile optimization is crucial. My next step is to refine the user experience on mobile devices.
Lessons Learned:
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The importance of aligning digital designs with brand identity to create cohesive user experiences.
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The value of incorporating cultural elements to enhance brand storytelling and engagement.
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Continuous iteration based on user feedback is crucial for sustained success.
See my other projects...
Bringing the Magic Online:
The happy ending was in sight: A revitalized website that captured the essence of Kinokuniya's in-store experience.
