Nearness

conceptual design

Design of a concept for an application based on the user's location

Mini data:
• Role: UX/UI Designer
• Time: 7-14 days
• Type: Concept / Fictional Client
• Tools: Figma, AI, Webflow (optional)

Modern social platforms like Facebook connect people globally — but not locally. Despite living close to others, many people don’t know their neighbours, don’t share interests offline, and miss opportunities to connect in real life.
This new location-based social app is designed to change that. It helps users discover people, groups, events and everyday opportunities nearby — all within walking distance. 
Whether someone wants to find a workout buddy, borrow a tool, join a coffee meetup or simply feel more connected to their neighbourhood, the app creates a space where local interactions finally become easy, natural and safe.

Problem

• People living close to each other rarely interact or build relationships
• Finding local help (e.g. borrowing items, activities) is inefficient
• Existing platforms are global-first, not designed for neighborhood-level interactions

Goal

• enable fast local connections
• simplify finding people and resources nearby
• create a structured and safe neighborhood interaction

Why is it important?

it gives the opportunity to creating a neighborhood community.

User persona

“Tom Lewis – The Neighborhood Watcher”Age:61 Location:Manchester, UK Profession:Retired Motivation:Stay safe, stay informed, feel connected.Primary NeedsCrime/safety updatesLost & foundLocal alertsSimple communication with neighbors

“Sarah Holt – The Community Connector”Age:34 Location:Suburban Portland, OR Profession:Elementary School Teacher Motivation:Stay informed, organize small events, connect with neighbors.Primary NeedsHyperlocal newsCommunity eventsNeighborhood recommendationsSafety updates

Research

We need an app that works locally, enabling neighbors to get to know each other and collaborate. Facebook doesn't take advantage of this. An app that connects people living nearby, because maybe someone nearby can accompany us in our passion or help us with our needs.A lot of app works great, but no one base on location, enables meet new people in the neighborhood.

- 6 icon in navbar is too much
- rolls in fb is unnecessary
- market is also unnecessary

Jobs to be done

When I need a babysitter

Situation

I want to quickly find help in the area

Motivation

so I can someone who is close and needs some extra money comes over and helps

Expected outcome

When I have things I don't need

Situation

I want togetting rid of them without throwing them in the trash

Motivation

so I can neighbor and picks up the things, he is happy and so am I

Expected outcome

When accident in the area

Situation

I want toinformation about events in the area

Motivation

so I canquickly find out what's happening in the area

Expected outcome

Key Design Decisions

1. Location-first experience
‍The app is centered around the user’s immediate area instead of global content.
‍This makes interactions relevant and actionable.

2. Simplified navigation
Reduced the number of main features to avoid overwhelming users.
‍Helps users quickly understand what they can do.

3. Focus on people & needs, not content feed
Instead of a typical social feed, the app prioritizes requests and connections.
Encourages real interaction instead of passive scrolling.

4. Trust-building elements
Profiles include basic identity and activity signals.
‍Reduces hesitation in interacting with strangers.