Pawse

Overview

Pawse is about taking a moment to pause in a world that's always hustling. As a therapy dog café lounge, guests can book a time to unwind with therapy dogs in a calm, welcoming environment. Meanwhile, therapy dogs in-training are given socialization exposure.

The design reflects the warmth and friendliness of dogs while staying minimal to match the calm atmosphere. The café operates in a small, structured space with low rise furniture where visitors enjoy a healing experience and dogs practice their therapy skills. It is a third space that connects the community.

Problem

There is a decreasing lack of third spaces (outside of work and home) and the increasing amount of hustle culture. I was inspired by moments of rest, of pause, that allow people to reconnect with themselves and the community. It also serves as a place for dog owners with therapy dogs to socialize and practice their therapeutic skills.

Challenge

Completing each deliverable within a one-week sprint while self-funding the physical exhibit

Process

I started with moodboards across three thesis concepts before landing on Pawse for its visual potential. The logo came together quickly once I noticed the "w" in "Pawse" naturally resembles a dog's mouth— so the icon was already in the name. From there, I built outward: after the logo, I added a secondary terrazzo pattern interwoven with paw shapes and my own illustrated, sketched out dog graphics to add warmth without breaking the minimalism.

I also mapped out the business operation's space capacity, dog rotations, and furniture layout— not because it all appeared in the final design, but because understanding the real-world constraints shaped every visual decision. The 7-foot exhibit space I was assigned ended up suiting the brand: where others at the exhibit leaned maximalist, Pawse spoke through careful negative space.

Deliverables include a poster, cake box, mug, and mobile website wireframe.