Between Spaces

A Renters Guide to Mental Wellbeing


INDUSTRYPublication

CLASSCapstone 01 & 02 | 2025
DELIVERABLESBrand Kit
Printed Pubication
Display Collateral
Printed Process Book

TOOLS
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Procreate

Between Spaces is a publication exploring the relationship and intersection between interior environments & mental wellbeing for young renters.

Developed as a Senior Capstone Project for DAAPWorks, the publication combines research, storytelling, and visual design to demonstrate how temporary spaces can be rethought & transformed into supportive, grounding environments. Through the use of intentional layout and accessible, budget-concious solutions, the book empowers young renters to create spaces that feel personal, restorative, and emotionally uplifting—no matter how temporary they may be.


A SYSTEM BUILT ON PRINCIPLES

Between Spaces is organized around five core design principles: Lighting, Color, Nature, Function, & Balance.

Structuring the content this way shifts the narrative from “room makeovers” to transferable strategies, allowing readers to apply ideas throughout the book to their rental space—regardless of layout, square footage, or lease restrictions. The framework is flexible by design.

MAKING BENEFITS VISIBLE

To reinforce the emotional impact of design decisions, each chapter references an icon system—representing outcomes based on each interior design principle such as Improved Sleep from lighting changes or Enhanced Creativity from color choices.

The system helps readers connect aesthetic changes to tangible benefits, shifting the book further from decorative inspiration to functional guidance. 


BALANCING WARMTH & STRUCTURE

While the subject matter touches mental wellbeing, the visual tone and language throughout intentionally avoid being too clinical or prescriptive.

Warm color blocking, generous white space, and simplified illustrations create an environment that feels supportive rather than instructional. The design invites reflection and inspiration instead of dictating solutions.

DAAPWORKS POSTER DESIGN

FROM PUBLICATION TO SPACE

For the final senior exhibition (DAAPworks), the publication extended into a physical display system that echoed the book’s visual language.

Each aspect of the book translated into spacial elements, creating a cohesive experience that reinforced the projects thesis in both print & environment. 


THE PROCESS

Between Spaces evolved through iterative research, structural refinement, and system building across two semesters. From early content framing to visual identity development and full production, each phase strengthened the clarity and cohesion of the final product.

For a deeper look at the research, pivots, weekly reflections, and a full development timeline, view the complete process book below.

View the Full Process Book (PDF)



Back to Work


JP Mathe
Cincinnati, OHjpmathedesign@gmail.comLinked In