Modica.
Adaptive Utensils Reimagined
Mar 2025 - June 2025
Type of Design Practice: Packaging, Human-Centered Design, Culturally-Driven Design, Design Strategy
Role: Group Project — Researcher, Design Head
Main Software(s): Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Procreate
Overview
Most individuals with Parkinson’s or arthritis carry their adaptive utensils in its original cardboard packaging. Modica reimagines this experience with easily-accessible, travel-friendly cutlery housed in a sliding, reusable case. Keeping sustainability in mind, the box is completely made of bamboo, one of the world’s fastest-growing natural materials. Our product line includes three SKUs: Modica Adult, offering ergonomic cutlery for everyday use; Modica Toddler, built for young children developing fine motor skills; and Modica Chopsticks, tailored to Eastern Asian users experiencing grip-strength challenges. The case is painted with a water-resistant polyurethane coating and built with a secure interior layout to keep utensils in place. By combining inclusive design with environmental care, Modica challenges the overlooked norms of adaptive utensils, offering products that restore independence and ease to mealtimes for people of all ages and abilities.
Research → Ideation → Prototyping → Solution
The design process for Modica began with research into the daily challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson’s and arthritis when carrying adaptive utensils. Most relied on plain cardboard packaging, which lacked both durability and dignity. From there, our team applied a human-centered design approach; mapping user needs around accessibility, portability, and comfort. We sketched and prototyped multiple packaging structures and a whole new brand identity (previously called 'SureHold'), refining them through feedback and usability testing. After multiple rounds of prototyping, we finalized the design which combines functionality with modern design.
First Prototype (SureHold):
First Sleeve Dielines (SureHold)
Final Sku's
Modica offers three distinct SKUs designed to meet the needs of different users while maintaining a consistent focus on accessibility, functionality, and sustainability. The Adaptive Utensil Set for Parkinson’s and Arthritis users features ergonomically designed utensils packaged in a durable, travel-friendly wooden sliding box for easy access and independence. The Toddler Developmental Utensil Set was created to support children in building fine motor skills with safe, easy-to-grip utensils that encourage self-feeding. Finally, the Adaptive Chopsticks, designed to make chopstick use more accessible for Eastern-Asian individuals with limited mobility or motor challenges, while also appealing to users looking for an inclusive and beginner-friendly option.
Adaptive Utensils Set
Created with Parkinson's & Arthritis Individuals in mind.
Toddler Developmental Utensil Set
Created to support children in building fine motor skills.
Adaptive Chopstick Set
Created with Eastern-Asian Individuals in mind.
Rationale
With Modica, we wanted to create something that makes mealtime easier and more enjoyable for people who often struggle with traditional utensils. Our research showed that individuals with Parkinson’s, arthritis, and toddlers developing motor skills face real challenges with grip, control, and accessing utensils; challenges that extend to packaging itself. By designing a travel-friendly, reusable wooden box, we’ve made sure the utensils are easy to reach, carry, and use anywhere. Modica is about giving people independence, confidence, and a little more ease in their everyday lives, all while keeping sustainability in mind.
