welcome ~~
i'm summer chaves,
i design for complex human contexts where clarity, care and choice matter.
former research neuroscientist
blending what we know with what we feel - with special interest in work shaped by health, sustainability and public trust.
featured work . . . !
research-led design work for complex systems, designed with care for how people think, feel, and decide. organized by theme.
designing for care, dignity & wellbeing
designing experiences where trust, identity, and emotional safety matter.
healing patient & planet (hp&p)
#master's-thesis
a systems-level redesign of hospital food infrastructure, balancing patient dignity, staff workflows, sustainability, and policy constraints.
joystick
#UX-design
designing a psychologically safe, inclusive discovery experience for marginalized players navigating toxic digital spaces.
designing for behavior change
how systems shape everyday decisions — and how design can support healthier, more sustainable choices.
designing for civic & public systems
designing within power structures — information access, policy, visibility, and trust.
designing for AI visability (Tech for Campaigns)
#design-strategy
exploring how algorithmic systems shape democratic participation, access to information, and public trust.
