Project Context
This project focuses on the control layer of an AI workspace. The conversation stays at the center, while the surrounding system needs to stay clear, expandable, and easy to navigate.
CASE STUDY
Chat Interface
A sidebar redesign for an AI workspace, expanding for orientation and collapsing when the conversation needs focus.
Challenge
- Keep the chat area clean and focused
- Support expanded and compact navigation states
- Make tools accessible without overwhelming users
- Preserve orientation inside a dense AI workspace
- Create a structure that can scale with future features
My Role
I shaped the interaction structure and visual logic for this sidebar improvement, defining how the workspace should respond as users move between focus and exploration.
Sidebar Interaction States
The sidebar works as the control layer of the chat interface. It expands when users need orientation and collapses when they need a focused conversation space.
Expanded Sidebar
- Shows search, title, and grouped navigation
- Helps users understand available tools
- Helps users stay oriented during long tasks
Collapsed Sidebar
- Reduces visual noise around the chat area
- Keeps core tools accessible through icons
- Supports focused conversation and task flow
Process
I designed the sidebar as a switch between two clear modes: explore and focus. That gave users control without crowding the conversation area.
Key Interface Decisions
The sidebar adapts through layout behavior instead of adding more screens. It becomes a flexible control surface, while the conversation remains the primary workspace.
The two sidebar states support two different needs: expanded for explore — more navigation and context — and collapsed for focus — less interface around the conversation. Controls stay available in both, without another screen or a different workspace layout.
Expandable Navigation
- Expanded mode helps users discover tools and content groups
- Search and grouped sections improve orientation
- The layout supports onboarding and exploration
Focused Workspace
- Collapsed mode gives more space to the conversation
- Icon navigation preserves access without clutter
- The chat experience stays calm and readable
System That Can Grow
- The sidebar can support future tools and sections
- The structure works for different AI capabilities
- Navigation behavior stays consistent as features expand
Final Solution
A sidebar that shifts between orientation and focus
The workspace has two sidebar states: expand when people need orientation, collapse when the conversation needs more room.
Controls stay available in both modes, so switching focus does not mean learning a different layout.
Outcome
A control layer built for orientation and focus
Expanded, the sidebar supports orientation; collapsed, it reduces surrounding interface so the conversation stays primary — with room to add more workspace controls later without changing that pattern.
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