With an approach grounded in empathetic and sensory synchronisation that explores the discovery of new forms of communication, In Synchro is the result of several sensitive encounters.

ALADI, an association in Lavra that provides a home for people with intellectual disabilities, has opened its doors to this collaboration: in a place of care and affection, residents share their lives with their carers through occupational and recreational-therapeutic activities.

In this context, the co-design workshop Empathy Devices for Sensory Exploration took place in May 2025. Over a period of five days, a team of ten Product Design students from ESAD Matosinhos and IED Milan, led by designer Ken Billes and Paralympic athlete Tyrone Pillay (Lexus Europe), alongside designers Alissa van Asseldonk and Nienke Bongers (A+N Studio), worked on concepts for sensory devices designed to promote shared physical and emotional connection.

Drawing on the workshop and on conversations with ALADI’s therapists and residents, three comfort devices are now being prototyped, aimed at promoting sensory stimulation and improving daily life at the care centre: Suzi, a breathing cushion; Tide Memories, an adapted loom; and Porto-L, a real-time audiovisual installation.