Developed as a solution to the dominance of the modern fast furniture industry, the app connects high intent buyers, home decorators, and restorers.
App Case Study
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Overview
Authors: Marija Badelj, Marta Dobreoević, Antonija Glasnović & Karla Jelić
The Vault is a curated digital marketplace application designed for buying and selling second-hand vintage designer furniture and restored pieces. Developed as a solution to the dominance of the modern fast furniture industry, the app connects high intent buyers, home decorators, and expert restorers. It focuses on promoting environmental sustainability, preserving craftsmanship, and offering unique, durable pieces with historical value. The app simplifies the purchasing and selling process through extensive filtering, 3D/AR spatial visualization, authenticity verification, and inspiration features for interior design and restoration.
Challenges
Online buyers and sellers of high value vintage furniture are frequently hesitant to trade due to the fear of online scams and counterfeit items. Additionally, the lack of transparent, reliable transportation for large home items creates significant logistical hesitation, causing many users to abandon their purchases altogether. Beyond logistics, shoppers face a major visualization barrier, as it is difficult to predict how an unique antique piece will actually fit or look inside their personal living environment. Finally, finding specific inventory in secondary markets is often inefficient without robust filtering, while independent restorers and upcyclists struggle to gain meaningful visibility for their craft.
Solution
To eliminate financial risk and build trust, the application introduces mandatory authenticity verification alongside a payment escrow system that holds funds until both parties confirm a successful transaction. Transport concerns are resolved by directly collaborating with trusted logistics partners to ensure safe, professional handling of delicate furniture. To solve visualization issues, the app incorporates AI-powered 3D and AR preview tools that let users project furniture into their own physical spaces, supported by an inspiration panel for interior styling. Lastly, discovery is streamlined through extensive filtering parameters covering condition, price, and design style, while a weekly Creator Spotlight gives featured restorers a dedicated platform to showcase their work.
Tools used
Figma, Google Stitch
