With the popularity of Pinterest and home renovation blogs, do-it-yourself projects have never been more popular. Despite the abundant sources of inspiration, people preparing to do DIY projects often feel like they are wasting time, money and effort in the process of purchasing the tools and supplies they need.  

The Brass Tack, my final design, is a brick-and-mortar store that would offer an innovative way to shop for home DIY projects. The store offers curated salvaged home decor, modern supplies and expert tools, making the Brass Tack a truly one-stop shop for DIYers of all levels. The space is anchored by finished inspiration projects, and offers rentable "maker space" for personal projects, workshops and events. 

skills applied

• Design research

• Building tools: journey maps, service blueprints

• Creative ideation

• Service prototyping

• Persona development

The Dabbler

As she begins her first home DIY project, she feels overwhelmed because she doesn't know where to start. She’s worried about wasting money and time, and would love for someone to tell her exactly what she needs.

The Visionary

As a seasoned DIYer, she often wishes there was a better place where she could find higher quality or more on-trend materials. She depends on Home Depot for expert advice about techniques and tools. 

The Social Butterfly

She loves hosting her friends and family at her home. She doesn’t want to waste time or effort doing DIY projects, so spending a little more money on finished pieces for her home doesn’t bother her. 

At the Brass Tack, she can:

• purchase all materials easily 

• gather confidence for project 

At the Brass Tack, she can:

• purchase better materials 

• utilize workshop space 

At the Brass Tack, she can:

• host group workshops for unique events     with friends