Cirql - Find your Circle

Inspiration

We were inspired by how hard it’s become for people to feel connected, even in their own neighborhoods. Public places like libraries and parks are meant to bring people together, but they’re often overlooked or underfunded. At the same time, many people feel isolated, or unsure how to meet others without pressure.

We wanted to create something that helps people find community again. Starting with where they are, how they feel, and what matters to them. Cirql is our response to a world that needs more safe, and affordable, and intentional ways to connect.

What it does

Cirql is a mobile prototype that helps people find nearby “third places” to relax or recharge, like cafés, libraries, and parks. Optionally, you can connect with others who are there, too. It includes a location-based group chat, and prewritten messages to make talking to new people feel more approachable and safe.

How we built it

We built Cirql as a no-code project using Figma. We started by defining the core user flows, and mapped out the interface. Our design centered around being non-performative and privacy-first

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Creating some fully thought out systems
Learning to use Figma for the first time
We were able to stay true to our original purpose all the way through
Implement what we always wanted for a meeting app

Challenges we ran into

Being intentional, while not overcomplicating the design
Communicating how the app would work in real world
Balancing ideas with the time we had
Coming up with designs that define what Cirql is about

What we learned

Ways to keep users feeling safe
Understand what we ourselves want from this kind of app
Design using Figma

What's next for Cirql - Find your Circle

Cirql has the potential to work alongside local or federal government programs that support mental health and community development. We believe this tool could help fill in the gaps where community funding or public initiatives have been cut in recent years. Especially programs that were meant to help public space engagement.