CHRIS HUITT
Case Study
dbstudios
Redesigning a local dance studio's website to simplify class discovery and enrollment while keeping the warmth that brings families in.
Timeline
Jan–Mar 2026 (10 weeks)
Role
Solo designer
Context
Graduate coursework — HCI Certificate
context
A full-service dance school with a brochure for a homepage.
dbstudios is a dance school with two locations. They offer classes, a competitive team, and a full recital season.
This business does three different things. The website did one.
This was a ten-week academic project at Northeastern. I had no access to staff or parents, so I built from competitive analysis and the studio's own public materials. That constraint shaped every call: if I couldn't test with real users, I had to design for testable hypotheses instead of hunches.
the problem
Parents trust dbstudios. The website made them work to find out why they should.
Before I designed anything, I audited the current db studios website end to end. Four structural failures kept surfacing, and each one was costing the business money or staff time.
01
The navigation split the same audience into two brains.
"Youth Dance," "Summer," and "Registration" sat beside each other as if they described different businesses. When people guess on a nav, they leave.
02
The thing that makes money was buried.
The contact form, the site's only real conversion surface, lived three clicks deep under "New Students." There was no "Contact" in the nav.
03
The hero did no work.
The homepage led with overlaid white text that was literally unreadable over the hero photo. It sold atmosphere to people who'd already decided and said nothing to the parent still evaluating.
04
"About" was the default destination, not enrollment.
The first real content section told you what the studio believes. Both parent types, evaluating and managing, had to scroll past a mission statement before finding anything actionable.
Thus I asked
How might we redesign dancingbuns.com to surface what dbstudios actually sells, make enrollment the default action, and retain the warmth that keeps families coming back?
The solution
20 pages collapsed into one cohesive set designed to move metrics
This was a structual redesign
Home
dancingbuns.com
Before
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
now enrolling for the 2026 season
A Window Into
Excellence.
Comprehensive dance education for ages 2.5+ in Burlington and Lexington. From ballet to hip hop, we build technical skills and creative confidence in a supportive community.
Browse Classes
New Students Info
Featured Classes
Trending classes and limited availability — register before spots fill up.
Early Childhood Dance
Ages 2.5-6
Pre-ballet and jazz courses alongside creative movement. Perfect introduction to dance fundamentals.
3 spots left
Learn More
Most Popular
Ballet I: Fundementals
Ages 6-8
Introduction to classical ballet technique and terminology. Focus on posture, flexibility, and musicality.
Register now
Learn More
Trending
Competitive Dance Team
Ages 8+
7 different teams competing in New England. Audition required for placement.
2 spots left
Learn More
FILLING Fast
View All Classes
Upcoming Events
Don't miss out on performances, open houses, and community events.
View All Events
February 2, 2026
Spring Showcase Rehearsal
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Burlington Studio
Final dress rehearsal for our Spring Showcase. All competitive team members required to attend. Parents are allowed to stay for this rehearsal.
View Details
February 8, 2026
Open House for New Families
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Both Locations
Tour our studios, meet instructors, and watch demo classes. Perfect for families considering enrollment.
View Details
What Parents Say
A studio where parents can trust and students can thrive
"db studios has been transformative for my daughter. She started at age 4 and is now on the competitive team. The instructors truly care about each child's growth."
Sarah M.
Age 8
“From the first class, we felt how organized and thoughtful everything is. The instructors are truly professional, and my child feels supported. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
Lisa R.
Age 5
“We tried three other studios before finding db, and the difference was immediate. What really stands out is how professional and supportive the staff is. We’ve seen real growth in technique, and it’s absolutely been worth every penny.”
Anthony F.
Ages 5 & 12
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
After
sketches to hi-fi
Every page had to answer a business goal
I translated the brand discovery into four concrete goals, each tied to a business outcome rather than a design deliverable. That way I could tell at the end whether the design brought impact.
Goal 01
Make registration the path of least resistance.
Surface classes, filters, and next-step CTAs on every surface a
parent lands on.
Goal 02
Centralize the 40% of front-desk questions.
Build a searchable hub for dress codes, forms, recital packets, and
calendars.
Goal 03
Make the store earn its keep.
Replace the current unordered product grid with a real e-commerce
surface — filters, bundles, pickup vs. ship, inline reviews.
Goal 04
Signal serious without losing warmth.
Reassure Manager Parents and legitimize Competitive Parents with
the same visual system.
information architecture
Two users, one task, and the changes I didn't expect to make
I ran a task-based usability study with two participants: book a round-trip flight from London to Lisbon for a same-day business meeting. To benchmark the redesign, participants completed the same task on my BA prototype and on the Virgin Atlantic app. I synthesised the findings using a KJ affinity analysis, grouping observations into four themes.
brand style guide
Two users, one task, and the changes I didn't expect to make
I ran a task-based usability study with two participants: book a round-trip flight from London to Lisbon for a same-day business meeting. To benchmark the redesign, participants completed the same task on my BA prototype and on the Virgin Atlantic app. I synthesised the findings using a KJ affinity analysis, grouping observations into four themes.
Color
#12545F
brand/primary
#607B54
brand/secondary
#833631
action/cta
#08262B
brand/dark
#C6A15B
accent/gold
#1B1B1B
text/default
#F6FBF9
surface/base
Typography
H1 · 48 Bold
H1 Heading Title
H2 · 40 Bold
H2 Heading Title
H3 · 32 Bold
H3 Heading Title
H4 · 24 Semibold
H4 Heading Title
H5 · 20 Medium
H5 Heading Title
Body · 16 Regular
Regular body text.
CapTION · 14 Regular
Small text / captions
Buttons
Primary
Primary Button
Hover State
Pressed State
secondary
Primary Button
Hover State
Pressed State
Tertiary
Tertiary Button
Tertiary Button
Tertiary Button
Badges
Filled Badge
Outline Badge
Key Design Decisions
Six surfaces, each solving a specific business problem
What follows atr the pages that do the most work. Each one is tied to a goal from “Busineess Goals”, and each one designed to be measured.
01
Site-wide CTAs for appointment booking
The homepage opens with a clear value proposition and splits traffic by intent from the first CTA: one path for parents still evaluating, one for newly enrolled parents. Below the fold, scarcity badges, age-matched testimonials, and an events banner each do a specific job to get parents to enroll or engage with dbstudios on a substantive level.
Competitive Dance Team
Ages 8+
7 different teams competing in New England. Audition required for placement.
2 spots left
Learn More
FILLING Fast
February 8, 2026
Open House for New Families
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Both Locations
Tour our studios, meet instructors, and watch demo classes. Perfect for families considering enrollment.
View Details
“From the first class, we felt how organized and thoughtful everything is. The instructors are truly professional, and my child feels supported. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
Lisa R.
Age 5
02
An integrated appointment request form
Filters by age, style, level, day, and location narrow twenty-plus classes to the ones that fit in seconds. The Quick View feature keeps scanners moving; "Not sure where to start?" catches parents who reach the bottom without converting and routes them to a human instead of a dead end.
Filters by age, style, level, day, and location do the narrowing. Quick View lets scanners preview without a full committment, and a "Not sure where to start?" block at the bottom catches undecided parents and routes them to a human instead of a dead end.
Class Style
Ballet
Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary
Hip Hop
Acro Arts
Pointe
Toddler Creative Movement
Dance For Theatre
Summer Camp
Competitive Dance Team
Age Group
Toddler
Child
Teen
Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
All Levels
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
Day of Week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
All Levels
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
Day of Week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Ballet
Ballet I: Fundamentals
2 spots remaining
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique covering barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. Students build proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
class schedule: Both
View Full Calendar
Mon & Wed · 5:00–6:00 PM
Burlington
2 spots remaining
Tue & Thu · 4:00–5:00 PM
Lexington
waitlist full
information
This course is for ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience. Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
Enroll now
View Details
03
A dedicated New Clients hub
Tapping 'Manage My Booking' used to open Safari, breaking context and trust. The redesign replaces that with a native Trip Detail page: flight status, check-in countdown, passenger details, and actions for seats, bags, and changes, all with clear hierarchy and nothing leaving the app.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
Ages 7-10 • Beginner / Intermediate
Ballet I: Fundamentals
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique. Students will learn the foundations of barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. This class emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Enroll Now
Have a Question?
What They'll Learn
In this class, we move beyond creative movement and begin the formal study of ballet. Students are introduced to the structure of a ballet class, learning the discipline and focus required while maintaining a fun and encouraging atmosphere.
Class Highlights
Develop core strength and flexibility
Master basic ballet positions and terminology
Improve posture and grace
Build self-discipline and focus
Who It’s For
Ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience.
Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
This Class Is Perfect If Your Child...
Has completed at least one year of dance training
Loves classical music and graceful movement
Enjoys structure and focused practice
Is ready to progress toward more advanced techniques
Class Schedule
Fall 2026 Session
Monday & Wednesday
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Burlington
Ms. Sarah
2 Spots Left
Select Class
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Lexington
Ms. Emily
Waitlist Full
Tuition and Policies
Tuition
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
What's Included:
•
Two weekly classes (120 minutes total)
•
Technique-focused curriculum
•
Small class environment with individual corrections
•
Dedicated warm-up + flexibility and strength fundamentals
•
Access to annual recital performance
•
Progress reports and parent observation week
•
Optional make-up class options (based on availability)
•
Studio practice space availability (by appointment)
Important Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for progression. Make-up classes are available for excused absences with 24-hour notice.
Dress Code
Black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet slippers, hair in a bun. Dress code list provided upon enrollment.
Withdrawal
30-day written notice required for withdrawal. No refunds for partial months.
Parent Observation
The last week of each month is parent observation week where families can watch class.
View Full Policies
A one-time registration fee of $35 applies to new students.
“Ballet I has been the perfect foundation for my daughter. She walked in excited but unsure of herself, and within a few weeks we could see a real change—better posture, more focus, and so much more confidence. The class builds the basics in a thoughtful way, from positions and alignment to musicality, without ever feeling intimidating. What stands out most is how the instructors teach: patient, encouraging, and genuinely attentive to each dancer. My child feels seen, supported, and proud of her progress every week.”
Sarah M.
Age 8
Ready to Enroll in Ballet I: Fundamentals?
Spots fill quickly. Secure your dancer's place in this popular class or join the waitlist to be notified when space becomes available.
Enroll now
You Might Also Like
View Full Catalog
Ballet
Pre-Ballet & Jazz
Sep 7 - Dec 14, 2026
Every Monday
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Burlington
Ages 2.5-4
1 spot remaining
jlc
Intro to Contemporary
Sep 9 - Dec 16, 2026
Thursday
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Lexington
Ages 10+
Acro arts
Acro Arts I
Sep 8 - Dec 16, 2026
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Both
Ages 6-9
most popular
More to Explore
View resource center
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Policies
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Dress Code Policy
Policies
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, and acro
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
Ages 7-10 • Beginner / Intermediate
Ballet I: Fundamentals
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique. Students will learn the foundations of barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. This class emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Enroll Now
Have a Question?
What They'll Learn
In this class, we move beyond creative movement and begin the formal study of ballet. Students are introduced to the structure of a ballet class, learning the discipline and focus required while maintaining a fun and encouraging atmosphere.
Class Highlights
Develop core strength and flexibility
Master basic ballet positions and terminology
Improve posture and grace
Build self-discipline and focus
Who It’s For
Ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience.
Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
This Class Is Perfect If Your Child...
Has completed at least one year of dance training
Loves classical music and graceful movement
Enjoys structure and focused practice
Is ready to progress toward more advanced techniques
Class Schedule
Fall 2026 Session
Monday & Wednesday
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Burlington
Ms. Sarah
2 Spots Left
Select Class
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Lexington
Ms. Emily
Waitlist Full
Tuition and Policies
Tuition
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
What's Included:
•
Two weekly classes (120 minutes total)
•
Technique-focused curriculum
•
Small class environment with individual corrections
•
Dedicated warm-up + flexibility and strength fundamentals
•
Access to annual recital performance
•
Progress reports and parent observation week
•
Optional make-up class options (based on availability)
•
Studio practice space availability (by appointment)
Important Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for progression. Make-up classes are available for excused absences with 24-hour notice.
Dress Code
Black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet slippers, hair in a bun. Dress code list provided upon enrollment.
Withdrawal
30-day written notice required for withdrawal. No refunds for partial months.
Parent Observation
The last week of each month is parent observation week where families can watch class.
View Full Policies
A one-time registration fee of $35 applies to new students.
“Ballet I has been the perfect foundation for my daughter. She walked in excited but unsure of herself, and within a few weeks we could see a real change—better posture, more focus, and so much more confidence. The class builds the basics in a thoughtful way, from positions and alignment to musicality, without ever feeling intimidating. What stands out most is how the instructors teach: patient, encouraging, and genuinely attentive to each dancer. My child feels seen, supported, and proud of her progress every week.”
Sarah M.
Age 8
Ready to Enroll in Ballet I: Fundamentals?
Spots fill quickly. Secure your dancer's place in this popular class or join the waitlist to be notified when space becomes available.
Enroll now
You Might Also Like
View Full Catalog
Ballet
Pre-Ballet & Jazz
Sep 7 - Dec 14, 2026
Every Monday
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Burlington
Ages 2.5-4
1 spot remaining
jlc
Intro to Contemporary
Sep 9 - Dec 16, 2026
Thursday
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Lexington
Ages 10+
Acro arts
Acro Arts I
Sep 8 - Dec 16, 2026
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Both
Ages 6-9
most popular
More to Explore
View resource center
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Policies
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Dress Code Policy
Policies
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, and acro
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
04
Storefront organized by dance style with product pages built to eliminate fit and pickup uncertainty before checkout
Dance parents abandon carts when they can't confirm fit or pickup. The storefront organizes by dance style and surfaces stock and fulfillment on every card. The product page closes the sale with split sizing, a linked fit guide, and pickup hours at both locations. A bundle option catches new families before they overbuy piece by piece.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
Shop dbstudios
Equip Your Dancer.
Remember the Moments.
Find everything you need for class, from the perfect pointe shoes to dbstudios spirit wear.
Category
All
Attire
Equipment
Merch
Tickets
Recital Downloads
CLASS
Ballet
Jazz
Hip Hop
Acro
Age Group
Toddler (2.5-4)
Child (5-11)
Teen (12+)
Price Range
$
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Price
Hide Filters
9 Results
Sort by: Featured
Ballet
Classic Ballet Leotard
$35.00
Best Seller
Quick Add
Ballet
Pink Ballet Tights
$18.00
Quick Add
Ballet
Canvas Split-Sole Ballet Shoes
$30.00
New
Quick Add
Jazz
Jazz Pants
$45.00
Quick Add
General
dbstudios Hoodie
$55.00
Popular
Quick Add
Showcase
2026 Spring Showcase Ticket
$25.00
Limited
Quick Add
Showcase
Winter 2026 Showcase Video Download
$10.00
Quick Add
Quick Add
Showcase
Winter 2026 Showcase T-Shirt
$30.00
$10.00
Clearance
Quick Add
Ballet
Ballet Leotard Starter Kit
$65.00
Quick Add
Best Seller
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
Ballet Leotard Starter Kit
Best Seller
20 Reviews
$65.00
The essential starter pack for every aspiring ballerina. This kit includes our premium cotton-blend leotard, convertible tights, and a pink skirt. Designed for comfort, durability, and elegance in the studio.
Suited For Classes
Ballet I
Ballet II
Ballet III
Pointe
Color: Pink
Size
Size Guide
Toddler (2-4)
Child S (4-6)
Child M (7-9)
Child L (10-12)
Teen/Adult XS
Teen/Adult S
Teen/Adult M
Teen/Adult L
Quantity
1
Add to Cart - $65.00
Shipping & Return Policy
Fabric & Care
Customer Reviews
5.0
/ 5
Based on 20 reviews
Write a Review
Sarah M.
Parent of Ballet I Student
• 2 weeks ago
Perfect starter kit!
This kit made getting ready for my daughter's first ballet class so easy. The leotard fits perfectly and the material is soft yet durable. Highly recommend!
Jessica T.
Parent of Ballet II Student
• 1 month ago
Great quality and value
I was surprised by the quality given the bundle price. The tights are thick enough and the shoes fit true to size. Will buy again next season.
View All 20 Reviews
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
03
A searchable DRC filtered by category, audience, and document type to replace repeat front-desk inquiries
Dance studios answer the same questions dozens of times a week. The DRC centralizes every document the studio produces in a searchable hub with filters. A dance team family and a new ballet family each see only what's relevant to them. This is the page that changes what the front desk does with its day.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
Document Resource Center
Find What You Need
Access registration forms, studio policies, class schedules, and more
all in one place. Everything you need to stay informed and organized.
Search documents by name or keyword...
Hide Filters
20 Results
Category
All
Registration
Policies
Schedules
Recital & Showcase
Financial
Health & Safety
Audience
All
Parents
Teachers
Everyone
Document Type
All
Form
Guide
Spreadsheet
New Student Registration Form
Complete this form to register your dancer for classes at dbstudios. Includes emergency contact info and medical notes.
Registration
Parents
📝 Form
Feb 15, 2026
Download
View
2026 Season Enrollment Packet
Everything you need to enroll for the 2026 season including class options, tuition rates, and important dates.
Registration
Parents
Jan 15, 2026
Download
View
Class Change Request Form
Use this form to request a class transfer, schedule change, or level adjustment for your dancer.
Registration
Parents
📝 Form
Sept 15, 2025
98 KB
Download
View
Parent & Student Handbook
Comprehensive guide covering studio policies, expectations, attendance, dress code, and communication guidelines.
Policies
Parents
📖 Guide
Aug 20, 2025
3.4 MB
Download
View
Dress Code Policy
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, acro, and pointe. Includes approved vendors list.
Policies
Everyone
Aug 20, 2025
Download
View
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Policies
Parents
Aug 20, 2025
Download
View
Photo & Video Release Form
Authorization for dbstudios to use photos and videos of your dancer for marketing, social media, and studio displays.
Policies
Parents
📝 Form
May 5, 2025
Download
View
Spring 2026 Class Schedule
Complete schedule for all spring classes at both Burlington and Lexington locations. Includes times, levels, and instructors.
Schedules
Everyone
Nov 15, 2025
Download
View
Summer Camp 2026 Schedule
Weekly breakdown of summer dance camp sessions, themes, and age groups for both studio locations.
Schedules
Parents
Oct 5, 2025
Download
View
Instructor Handbook
Policies, procedures, and expectations for all dbstudios instructors. Includes lesson planning templates.
Policies
Teachers
📖 Guide
Jan 5, 2025
Download
View
Student Progress Report Template
Template for teachers to complete mid-year and end-of-year progress reports for each student.
Registration
Teachers
📊 Spreadsheet
Nov 23, 2024
Download
View
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
The Redesigned Experience
A complete redesign built for dancers and the parents behind them
Best viewed on desktop. Explore the interactive redesigns below:
Explore all pages → dbstudios redesign
See Quick View Modals → Quick View
What I'd carry foward
What I learned
Designing a business means designing its operations
With more time, I would have conducted usability testing with actual clinic clients,
both new and returning, to validate whether the branching appointment form and
the New Clients hub actually reduce the front-desk bottleneck. The design is
research-informed, but it's not yet research-validated. That's the gap I'd close next.
Dead ends are data, not failure
I explored many directions for the IA and homepage layout most were dead ends.
But realising why they failed clarified what the design actually needed: a single,
clear conversion path that mirrors how clients think, not how the clinic is organized.
The dead ends weren't waste; they were how I found the through-line.
Benchmarking agaisnt a competitor changed how I designed
If I had the chance, I'd run parent interviews before the IA, not after. I built the sitemap from competitive analysis and brand materials, and while I'm confident in most of it, the audience filters of New Families vs. Team Families vs. Camp Families are the kind of categorization that should come from parents describing their own reality, not a designer guessing at it. That's the gap I'd close first next time.
© 2026 Chris Huitt
CHRIS HUITT
Case Study
dbstudios
Redesigning a local dance studio's website to simplify class discovery and enrollment while keeping the warmth that brings families in.
Timeline
Jan–Mar 2026 (10 weeks)
Role
Solo designer
Context
Graduate coursework — HCI Certificate
context
A full-service dance school with a brochure for a homepage.
dbstudios is a dance school with two locations. They offer classes, a competitive team, and a full recital season.
This business does three different things. The website did one.
This was a ten-week academic project at Northeastern. I had no access to staff or parents, so I built from competitive analysis and the studio's own public materials. That constraint shaped every call: if I couldn't test with real users, I had to design for testable hypotheses instead of hunches.
the problem
Parents trust dbstudios. The website made them work to find out why they should.
Before I designed anything, I audited the current db studios website end to end. Four structural failures kept surfacing, and each one was costing the business money or staff time.
01
The navigation split the same audience into two brains.
"Youth Dance," "Summer," and "Registration" sat beside each other as if they described different businesses. When people guess on a nav, they leave.
02
The thing that makes money was buried.
The contact form, the site's only real conversion surface, lived three clicks deep under "New Students." There was no "Contact" in the nav.
03
The hero did no work.
The homepage led with overlaid white text that was literally unreadable over the hero photo. It sold atmosphere to people who'd already decided and said nothing to the parent still evaluating.
04
"About" was the default destination, not enrollment.
The first real content section told you what the studio believes. Both parent types, evaluating and managing, had to scroll past a mission statement before finding anything actionable.
Thus I asked
How might we redesign dancingbuns.com to surface what dbstudios actually sells, make enrollment the default action, and retain the warmth that keeps families coming back?
The solution
20 pages collapsed into one cohesive set designed to move metrics
This was a structual redesign
Home
dancingbuns.com
Before
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
now enrolling for the 2026 season
A Window Into
Excellence.
Comprehensive dance education for ages 2.5+ in Burlington and Lexington. From ballet to hip hop, we build technical skills and creative confidence in a supportive community.
Browse Classes
New Students Info
Featured Classes
Trending classes and limited availability — register before spots fill up.
Early Childhood Dance
Ages 2.5-6
Pre-ballet and jazz courses alongside creative movement. Perfect introduction to dance fundamentals.
3 spots left
Learn More
Most Popular
Ballet I: Fundementals
Ages 6-8
Introduction to classical ballet technique and terminology. Focus on posture, flexibility, and musicality.
Register now
Learn More
Trending
Competitive Dance Team
Ages 8+
7 different teams competing in New England. Audition required for placement.
2 spots left
Learn More
FILLING Fast
View All Classes
Upcoming Events
Don't miss out on performances, open houses, and community events.
View All Events
February 2, 2026
Spring Showcase Rehearsal
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Burlington Studio
Final dress rehearsal for our Spring Showcase. All competitive team members required to attend. Parents are allowed to stay for this rehearsal.
View Details
February 8, 2026
Open House for New Families
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Both Locations
Tour our studios, meet instructors, and watch demo classes. Perfect for families considering enrollment.
View Details
What Parents Say
A studio where parents can trust and students can thrive
"db studios has been transformative for my daughter. She started at age 4 and is now on the competitive team. The instructors truly care about each child's growth."
Sarah M.
Age 8
“From the first class, we felt how organized and thoughtful everything is. The instructors are truly professional, and my child feels supported. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
Lisa R.
Age 5
“We tried three other studios before finding db, and the difference was immediate. What really stands out is how professional and supportive the staff is. We’ve seen real growth in technique, and it’s absolutely been worth every penny.”
Anthony F.
Ages 5 & 12
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
After
sketches to hi-fi
Every page had to answer a business goal
I translated the brand discovery into four concrete goals, each tied to a business outcome rather than a design deliverable. That way I could tell at the end whether the design brought impact.
Goal 01
Make registration the path of least resistance.
Surface classes, filters, and next-step CTAs on every surface a
parent lands on.
Goal 02
Centralize the 40% of front-desk questions.
Build a searchable hub for dress codes, forms, recital packets, and
calendars.
Goal 03
Make the store earn its keep.
Replace the current unordered product grid with a real e-commerce
surface — filters, bundles, pickup vs. ship, inline reviews.
Goal 04
Signal serious without losing warmth.
Reassure Manager Parents and legitimize Competitive Parents with
the same visual system.
information architecture
Two users, one task, and the changes I didn't expect to make
I ran a task-based usability study with two participants: book a round-trip flight from London to Lisbon for a same-day business meeting. To benchmark the redesign, participants completed the same task on my BA prototype and on the Virgin Atlantic app. I synthesised the findings using a KJ affinity analysis, grouping observations into four themes.
brand style guide
Two users, one task, and the changes I didn't expect to make
I ran a task-based usability study with two participants: book a round-trip flight from London to Lisbon for a same-day business meeting. To benchmark the redesign, participants completed the same task on my BA prototype and on the Virgin Atlantic app. I synthesised the findings using a KJ affinity analysis, grouping observations into four themes.
Color
#12545F
brand/primary
#607B54
brand/secondary
#833631
action/cta
#08262B
brand/dark
#C6A15B
accent/gold
#1B1B1B
text/default
#F6FBF9
surface/base
Typography
H1 · 48 Bold
H1 Heading Title
H2 · 40 Bold
H2 Heading Title
H3 · 32 Bold
H3 Heading Title
H4 · 24 Semibold
H4 Heading Title
H5 · 20 Medium
H5 Heading Title
Body · 16 Regular
Regular body text.
CapTION · 14 Regular
Small text / captions
Buttons
Primary
Primary Button
Hover State
Pressed State
secondary
Primary Button
Hover State
Pressed State
Tertiary
Tertiary Button
Tertiary Button
Tertiary Button
Badges
Filled Badge
Outline Badge
Key Design Decisions
Six surfaces, each solving a specific business problem
What follows atr the pages that do the most work. Each one is tied to a goal from “Busineess Goals”, and each one designed to be measured.
01
Site-wide CTAs for appointment booking
The homepage opens with a clear value proposition and splits traffic by intent from the first CTA: one path for parents still evaluating, one for newly enrolled parents. Below the fold, scarcity badges, age-matched testimonials, and an events banner each do a specific job to get parents to enroll or engage with dbstudios on a substantive level.
Competitive Dance Team
Ages 8+
7 different teams competing in New England. Audition required for placement.
2 spots left
Learn More
FILLING Fast
February 8, 2026
Open House for New Families
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Both Locations
Tour our studios, meet instructors, and watch demo classes. Perfect for families considering enrollment.
View Details
“From the first class, we felt how organized and thoughtful everything is. The instructors are truly professional, and my child feels supported. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
Lisa R.
Age 5
02
An integrated appointment request form
Filters by age, style, level, day, and location narrow twenty-plus classes to the ones that fit in seconds. The Quick View feature keeps scanners moving; "Not sure where to start?" catches parents who reach the bottom without converting and routes them to a human instead of a dead end.
Filters by age, style, level, day, and location do the narrowing. Quick View lets scanners preview without a full committment, and a "Not sure where to start?" block at the bottom catches undecided parents and routes them to a human instead of a dead end.
Class Style
Ballet
Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary
Hip Hop
Acro Arts
Pointe
Toddler Creative Movement
Dance For Theatre
Summer Camp
Competitive Dance Team
Age Group
Toddler
Child
Teen
Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
All Levels
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
Day of Week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
All Levels
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
Day of Week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Ballet
Ballet I: Fundamentals
2 spots remaining
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique covering barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. Students build proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
class schedule: Both
View Full Calendar
Mon & Wed · 5:00–6:00 PM
Burlington
2 spots remaining
Tue & Thu · 4:00–5:00 PM
Lexington
waitlist full
information
This course is for ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience. Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
Enroll now
View Details
03
A dedicated New Clients hub
Tapping 'Manage My Booking' used to open Safari, breaking context and trust. The redesign replaces that with a native Trip Detail page: flight status, check-in countdown, passenger details, and actions for seats, bags, and changes, all with clear hierarchy and nothing leaving the app.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
Ages 7-10 • Beginner / Intermediate
Ballet I: Fundamentals
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique. Students will learn the foundations of barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. This class emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Enroll Now
Have a Question?
What They'll Learn
In this class, we move beyond creative movement and begin the formal study of ballet. Students are introduced to the structure of a ballet class, learning the discipline and focus required while maintaining a fun and encouraging atmosphere.
Class Highlights
Develop core strength and flexibility
Master basic ballet positions and terminology
Improve posture and grace
Build self-discipline and focus
Who It’s For
Ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience.
Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
This Class Is Perfect If Your Child...
Has completed at least one year of dance training
Loves classical music and graceful movement
Enjoys structure and focused practice
Is ready to progress toward more advanced techniques
Class Schedule
Fall 2026 Session
Monday & Wednesday
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Burlington
Ms. Sarah
2 Spots Left
Select Class
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Lexington
Ms. Emily
Waitlist Full
Tuition and Policies
Tuition
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
What's Included:
•
Two weekly classes (120 minutes total)
•
Technique-focused curriculum
•
Small class environment with individual corrections
•
Dedicated warm-up + flexibility and strength fundamentals
•
Access to annual recital performance
•
Progress reports and parent observation week
•
Optional make-up class options (based on availability)
•
Studio practice space availability (by appointment)
Important Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for progression. Make-up classes are available for excused absences with 24-hour notice.
Dress Code
Black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet slippers, hair in a bun. Dress code list provided upon enrollment.
Withdrawal
30-day written notice required for withdrawal. No refunds for partial months.
Parent Observation
The last week of each month is parent observation week where families can watch class.
View Full Policies
A one-time registration fee of $35 applies to new students.
“Ballet I has been the perfect foundation for my daughter. She walked in excited but unsure of herself, and within a few weeks we could see a real change—better posture, more focus, and so much more confidence. The class builds the basics in a thoughtful way, from positions and alignment to musicality, without ever feeling intimidating. What stands out most is how the instructors teach: patient, encouraging, and genuinely attentive to each dancer. My child feels seen, supported, and proud of her progress every week.”
Sarah M.
Age 8
Ready to Enroll in Ballet I: Fundamentals?
Spots fill quickly. Secure your dancer's place in this popular class or join the waitlist to be notified when space becomes available.
Enroll now
You Might Also Like
View Full Catalog
Ballet
Pre-Ballet & Jazz
Sep 7 - Dec 14, 2026
Every Monday
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Burlington
Ages 2.5-4
1 spot remaining
jlc
Intro to Contemporary
Sep 9 - Dec 16, 2026
Thursday
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Lexington
Ages 10+
Acro arts
Acro Arts I
Sep 8 - Dec 16, 2026
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Both
Ages 6-9
most popular
More to Explore
View resource center
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Policies
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Dress Code Policy
Policies
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, and acro
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
Ages 7-10 • Beginner / Intermediate
Ballet I: Fundamentals
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique. Students will learn the foundations of barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. This class emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Enroll Now
Have a Question?
What They'll Learn
In this class, we move beyond creative movement and begin the formal study of ballet. Students are introduced to the structure of a ballet class, learning the discipline and focus required while maintaining a fun and encouraging atmosphere.
Class Highlights
Develop core strength and flexibility
Master basic ballet positions and terminology
Improve posture and grace
Build self-discipline and focus
Who It’s For
Ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience.
Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
This Class Is Perfect If Your Child...
Has completed at least one year of dance training
Loves classical music and graceful movement
Enjoys structure and focused practice
Is ready to progress toward more advanced techniques
Class Schedule
Fall 2026 Session
Monday & Wednesday
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Burlington
Ms. Sarah
2 Spots Left
Select Class
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Lexington
Ms. Emily
Waitlist Full
Tuition and Policies
Tuition
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
What's Included:
•
Two weekly classes (120 minutes total)
•
Technique-focused curriculum
•
Small class environment with individual corrections
•
Dedicated warm-up + flexibility and strength fundamentals
•
Access to annual recital performance
•
Progress reports and parent observation week
•
Optional make-up class options (based on availability)
•
Studio practice space availability (by appointment)
Important Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for progression. Make-up classes are available for excused absences with 24-hour notice.
Dress Code
Black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet slippers, hair in a bun. Dress code list provided upon enrollment.
Withdrawal
30-day written notice required for withdrawal. No refunds for partial months.
Parent Observation
The last week of each month is parent observation week where families can watch class.
View Full Policies
A one-time registration fee of $35 applies to new students.
“Ballet I has been the perfect foundation for my daughter. She walked in excited but unsure of herself, and within a few weeks we could see a real change—better posture, more focus, and so much more confidence. The class builds the basics in a thoughtful way, from positions and alignment to musicality, without ever feeling intimidating. What stands out most is how the instructors teach: patient, encouraging, and genuinely attentive to each dancer. My child feels seen, supported, and proud of her progress every week.”
Sarah M.
Age 8
Ready to Enroll in Ballet I: Fundamentals?
Spots fill quickly. Secure your dancer's place in this popular class or join the waitlist to be notified when space becomes available.
Enroll now
You Might Also Like
View Full Catalog
Ballet
Pre-Ballet & Jazz
Sep 7 - Dec 14, 2026
Every Monday
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Burlington
Ages 2.5-4
1 spot remaining
jlc
Intro to Contemporary
Sep 9 - Dec 16, 2026
Thursday
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Lexington
Ages 10+
Acro arts
Acro Arts I
Sep 8 - Dec 16, 2026
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Both
Ages 6-9
most popular
More to Explore
View resource center
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Policies
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Dress Code Policy
Policies
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, and acro
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
04
Storefront organized by dance style with product pages built to eliminate fit and pickup uncertainty before checkout
Dance parents abandon carts when they can't confirm fit or pickup. The storefront organizes by dance style and surfaces stock and fulfillment on every card. The product page closes the sale with split sizing, a linked fit guide, and pickup hours at both locations. A bundle option catches new families before they overbuy piece by piece.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
Shop dbstudios
Equip Your Dancer.
Remember the Moments.
Find everything you need for class, from the perfect pointe shoes to dbstudios spirit wear.
Category
All
Attire
Equipment
Merch
Tickets
Recital Downloads
CLASS
Ballet
Jazz
Hip Hop
Acro
Age Group
Toddler (2.5-4)
Child (5-11)
Teen (12+)
Price Range
$
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Price
Hide Filters
9 Results
Sort by: Featured
Ballet
Classic Ballet Leotard
$35.00
Best Seller
Quick Add
Ballet
Pink Ballet Tights
$18.00
Quick Add
Ballet
Canvas Split-Sole Ballet Shoes
$30.00
New
Quick Add
Jazz
Jazz Pants
$45.00
Quick Add
General
dbstudios Hoodie
$55.00
Popular
Quick Add
Showcase
2026 Spring Showcase Ticket
$25.00
Limited
Quick Add
Showcase
Winter 2026 Showcase Video Download
$10.00
Quick Add
Quick Add
Showcase
Winter 2026 Showcase T-Shirt
$30.00
$10.00
Clearance
Quick Add
Ballet
Ballet Leotard Starter Kit
$65.00
Quick Add
Best Seller
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
Ballet Leotard Starter Kit
Best Seller
20 Reviews
$65.00
The essential starter pack for every aspiring ballerina. This kit includes our premium cotton-blend leotard, convertible tights, and a pink skirt. Designed for comfort, durability, and elegance in the studio.
Suited For Classes
Ballet I
Ballet II
Ballet III
Pointe
Color: Pink
Size
Size Guide
Toddler (2-4)
Child S (4-6)
Child M (7-9)
Child L (10-12)
Teen/Adult XS
Teen/Adult S
Teen/Adult M
Teen/Adult L
Quantity
1
Add to Cart - $65.00
Shipping & Return Policy
Fabric & Care
Customer Reviews
5.0
/ 5
Based on 20 reviews
Write a Review
Sarah M.
Parent of Ballet I Student
• 2 weeks ago
Perfect starter kit!
This kit made getting ready for my daughter's first ballet class so easy. The leotard fits perfectly and the material is soft yet durable. Highly recommend!
Jessica T.
Parent of Ballet II Student
• 1 month ago
Great quality and value
I was surprised by the quality given the bundle price. The tights are thick enough and the shoes fit true to size. Will buy again next season.
View All 20 Reviews
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
03
A searchable DRC filtered by category, audience, and document type to replace repeat front-desk inquiries
Dance studios answer the same questions dozens of times a week. The DRC centralizes every document the studio produces in a searchable hub with filters. A dance team family and a new ballet family each see only what's relevant to them. This is the page that changes what the front desk does with its day.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
Document Resource Center
Find What You Need
Access registration forms, studio policies, class schedules, and more
all in one place. Everything you need to stay informed and organized.
Search documents by name or keyword...
Hide Filters
20 Results
Category
All
Registration
Policies
Schedules
Recital & Showcase
Financial
Health & Safety
Audience
All
Parents
Teachers
Everyone
Document Type
All
Form
Guide
Spreadsheet
New Student Registration Form
Complete this form to register your dancer for classes at dbstudios. Includes emergency contact info and medical notes.
Registration
Parents
📝 Form
Feb 15, 2026
Download
View
2026 Season Enrollment Packet
Everything you need to enroll for the 2026 season including class options, tuition rates, and important dates.
Registration
Parents
Jan 15, 2026
Download
View
Class Change Request Form
Use this form to request a class transfer, schedule change, or level adjustment for your dancer.
Registration
Parents
📝 Form
Sept 15, 2025
98 KB
Download
View
Parent & Student Handbook
Comprehensive guide covering studio policies, expectations, attendance, dress code, and communication guidelines.
Policies
Parents
📖 Guide
Aug 20, 2025
3.4 MB
Download
View
Dress Code Policy
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, acro, and pointe. Includes approved vendors list.
Policies
Everyone
Aug 20, 2025
Download
View
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Policies
Parents
Aug 20, 2025
Download
View
Photo & Video Release Form
Authorization for dbstudios to use photos and videos of your dancer for marketing, social media, and studio displays.
Policies
Parents
📝 Form
May 5, 2025
Download
View
Spring 2026 Class Schedule
Complete schedule for all spring classes at both Burlington and Lexington locations. Includes times, levels, and instructors.
Schedules
Everyone
Nov 15, 2025
Download
View
Summer Camp 2026 Schedule
Weekly breakdown of summer dance camp sessions, themes, and age groups for both studio locations.
Schedules
Parents
Oct 5, 2025
Download
View
Instructor Handbook
Policies, procedures, and expectations for all dbstudios instructors. Includes lesson planning templates.
Policies
Teachers
📖 Guide
Jan 5, 2025
Download
View
Student Progress Report Template
Template for teachers to complete mid-year and end-of-year progress reports for each student.
Registration
Teachers
📊 Spreadsheet
Nov 23, 2024
Download
View
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
The Redesigned Experience
A complete redesign built for dancers and the parents behind them
Select a page to explore the redesigned site.
What I'd carry foward
What I learned
Designing a business means designing its operations
With more time, I would have conducted usability testing with actual clinic clients,
both new and returning, to validate whether the branching appointment form and
the New Clients hub actually reduce the front-desk bottleneck. The design is
research-informed, but it's not yet research-validated. That's the gap I'd close next.
Dead ends are data, not failure
I explored many directions for the IA and homepage layout most were dead ends.
But realising why they failed clarified what the design actually needed: a single,
clear conversion path that mirrors how clients think, not how the clinic is organized.
The dead ends weren't waste; they were how I found the through-line.
Benchmarking agaisnt a competitor changed how I designed
If I had the chance, I'd run parent interviews before the IA, not after. I built the sitemap from competitive analysis and brand materials, and while I'm confident in most of it, the audience filters of New Families vs. Team Families vs. Camp Families are the kind of categorization that should come from parents describing their own reality, not a designer guessing at it. That's the gap I'd close first next time.
© 2026 Chris Huitt
CHRIS HUITT
Case Study
dbstudios
Redesigning a local dance studio's website to simplify class discovery and enrollment while keeping the warmth that brings families in.
Timeline
Jan–Mar 2026 (10 weeks)
Role
Solo designer
Context
Graduate coursework — HCI Certificate
context
A full-service dance school with a brochure for a homepage.
dbstudios is a dance school with two locations. They offer classes, a competitive team, and a full recital season.
This business does three different things. The website did one.
This was a ten-week academic project at Northeastern. I had no access to staff or parents, so I built from competitive analysis and the studio's own public materials. That constraint shaped every call: if I couldn't test with real users, I had to design for testable hypotheses instead of hunches.
the problem
Parents trust dbstudios. The website made them work to find out why they should.
Before I designed anything, I audited the current db studios website end to end. Four structural failures kept surfacing, and each one was costing the business money or staff time.
01
The navigation split the same audience into two brains.
"Youth Dance," "Summer," and "Registration" sat beside each other as if they described different businesses. When people guess on a nav, they leave.
02
The thing that makes money was buried.
The contact form, the site's only real conversion surface, lived three clicks deep under "New Students." There was no "Contact" in the nav.
03
The hero did no work.
The homepage led with overlaid white text that was literally unreadable over the hero photo. It sold atmosphere to people who'd already decided and said nothing to the parent still evaluating.
04
"About" was the default destination, not enrollment.
The first real content section told you what the studio believes. Both parent types, evaluating and managing, had to scroll past a mission statement before finding anything actionable.
Thus I asked
How might we redesign dancingbuns.com to surface what dbstudios actually sells, make enrollment the default action, and retain the warmth that keeps families coming back?
The solution
20 pages collapsed into one cohesive set designed to move metrics
This was a structural overhaul. I collapsed a fragmented 20-page site into eight pages built on a single design system, then designed the six surfaces that directly drive enrollment, retail revenue, and parent confidence.
Home
dancingbuns.com
Before
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
now enrolling for the 2026 season
A Window Into
Excellence.
Comprehensive dance education for ages 2.5+ in Burlington and Lexington. From ballet to hip hop, we build technical skills and creative confidence in a supportive community.
Browse Classes
New Students Info
Featured Classes
Trending classes and limited availability — register before spots fill up.
Early Childhood Dance
Ages 2.5-6
Pre-ballet and jazz courses alongside creative movement. Perfect introduction to dance fundamentals.
3 spots left
Learn More
Most Popular
Ballet I: Fundementals
Ages 6-8
Introduction to classical ballet technique and terminology. Focus on posture, flexibility, and musicality.
Register now
Learn More
Trending
Competitive Dance Team
Ages 8+
7 different teams competing in New England. Audition required for placement.
2 spots left
Learn More
FILLING Fast
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Upcoming Events
Don't miss out on performances, open houses, and community events.
View All Events
February 2, 2026
Spring Showcase Rehearsal
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Burlington Studio
Final dress rehearsal for our Spring Showcase. All competitive team members required to attend. Parents are allowed to stay for this rehearsal.
View Details
February 8, 2026
Open House for New Families
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Both Locations
Tour our studios, meet instructors, and watch demo classes. Perfect for families considering enrollment.
View Details
What Parents Say
A studio where parents can trust and students can thrive
"db studios has been transformative for my daughter. She started at age 4 and is now on the competitive team. The instructors truly care about each child's growth."
Sarah M.
Age 8
“From the first class, we felt how organized and thoughtful everything is. The instructors are truly professional, and my child feels supported. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
Lisa R.
Age 5
“We tried three other studios before finding db, and the difference was immediate. What really stands out is how professional and supportive the staff is. We’ve seen real growth in technique, and it’s absolutely been worth every penny.”
Anthony F.
Ages 5 & 12
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
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Browse Classes
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Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
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After
business goals
Every page had to answer a business goal
I translated the brand discovery into four concrete goals, each tied to a business outcome rather than a design deliverable. That way I could tell at the end whether the design brought impact.
Goal 01
Make registration the path of least resistance.
Surface classes, filters, and next-step CTAs on every surface a
parent lands on.
Goal 02
Centralize the 40% of front-desk questions.
Build a searchable hub for dress codes, forms, recital packets, and
calendars.
Goal 03
Make the store earn its keep.
Replace the current unordered product grid with a real e-commerce
surface — filters, bundles, pickup vs. ship, inline reviews.
Goal 04
Signal serious without losing warmth.
Reassure Manager Parents and legitimize Competitive Parents with
the same visual system.
information architecture
Enrollment had to be findable before it could be designed
The old nav treated classes, summer programs, and registration as three separate destinations because structurally, they were. The redesign collapsed them into a single parent-centric hierarchy: Classes, New Students, About, Store, Contact. One entry point per job. No guessing which label is the right one.
Enrollment became the spine. Every top-level page either leads a parent toward a class or answers the question keeping them from enrolling.
brand style guide
The visual language had one job: earn trust at first glance
A five-color palette anchored in a deep teal (#12545F) that reads as competent and grown-up, a deliberate counter to the washed-out pastels most dance studio sites default to. A single typeface (Inter) across five weights. Three button tiers with defined hover and pressed states. One badge system for age, level, and availability. Nothing in the final screens was made up on the spot.
Color
#12545F
brand/primary
#607B54
brand/secondary
#833631
action/cta
#08262B
brand/dark
#C6A15B
accent/gold
#1B1B1B
text/default
#F6FBF9
surface/base
Typography
H1 · 48 Bold
H1 Heading Title
H2 · 40 Bold
H2 Heading Title
H3 · 32 Bold
H3 Heading Title
H4 · 24 Semibold
H4 Heading Title
H5 · 20 Medium
H5 Heading Title
Body · 16 Regular
Regular body text.
CapTION · 14 Regular
Small text / captions
Buttons
Primary
Primary Button
Hover State
Pressed State
secondary
Primary Button
Hover State
Pressed State
Tertiary
Tertiary Button
Tertiary Button
Tertiary Button
Badges
Filled Badge
Outline Badge
Key Design Decisions
Six surfaces, each solving a specific business problem
What follows are the pages that do the most work. Each one is tied to a goal from “Business Goals” and each one is designed to be measured.
01
A hero split by parent intent with scarcity and social proof sequenced below the fold
The homepage opens with a clear value proposition and splits traffic by intent from the first CTA: one path for parents still evaluating, one for newly enrolled parents. Below the fold, scarcity badges, age-matched testimonials, and an events banner each do a specific job to get parents to enroll or engage with dbstudios on a substantive level.
Competitive Dance Team
Ages 8+
7 different teams competing in New England. Audition required for placement.
2 spots left
Learn More
FILLING Fast
February 8, 2026
Open House for New Families
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Both Locations
Tour our studios, meet instructors, and watch demo classes. Perfect for families considering enrollment.
View Details
“From the first class, we felt how organized and thoughtful everything is. The instructors are truly professional, and my child feels supported. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
Lisa R.
Age 5
Class Style
Ballet
Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary
Hip Hop
Acro Arts
Pointe
Toddler Creative Movement
Dance For Theatre
Summer Camp
Competitive Dance Team
Age Group
Toddler
Child
Teen
Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
All Levels
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
Day of Week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
All Levels
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
Day of Week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Ballet
Ballet I: Fundamentals
2 spots remaining
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique covering barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. Students build proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Location
Burlington
Lexington
Both
class schedule: Both
View Full Calendar
Mon & Wed · 5:00–6:00 PM
Burlington
2 spots remaining
Tue & Thu · 4:00–5:00 PM
Lexington
waitlist full
information
This course is for ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience. Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
Enroll now
View Details
02
Multi-axis filters and inline Quick View modal designed around how parents search for and compare classes
Filters by age, style, level, day, and location do the narrowing. Quick View lets scanners preview without a full commitment, and a "Not sure where to start?" block at the bottom catches undecided parents and routes them to a human instead of a dead end.
03
Class detail content is sequenced to mirror the four questions parents ask before enrolling
Parents ask the same four things in the same order: what is it, who's it for, when does it meet, what does it cost. This page’s structure is sequenced to answer each one before the next begins. Schedule, instructor, availability, tuition, and policies in one view. The information that generates the most follow-up calls are surfaced before the parent has to ask.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
Ages 7-10 • Beginner / Intermediate
Ballet I: Fundamentals
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique. Students will learn the foundations of barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. This class emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Enroll Now
Have a Question?
What They'll Learn
In this class, we move beyond creative movement and begin the formal study of ballet. Students are introduced to the structure of a ballet class, learning the discipline and focus required while maintaining a fun and encouraging atmosphere.
Class Highlights
Develop core strength and flexibility
Master basic ballet positions and terminology
Improve posture and grace
Build self-discipline and focus
Who It’s For
Ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience.
Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
This Class Is Perfect If Your Child...
Has completed at least one year of dance training
Loves classical music and graceful movement
Enjoys structure and focused practice
Is ready to progress toward more advanced techniques
Class Schedule
Fall 2026 Session
Monday & Wednesday
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Burlington
Ms. Sarah
2 Spots Left
Select Class
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Lexington
Ms. Emily
Waitlist Full
Tuition and Policies
Tuition
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
What's Included:
•
Two weekly classes (120 minutes total)
•
Technique-focused curriculum
•
Small class environment with individual corrections
•
Dedicated warm-up + flexibility and strength fundamentals
•
Access to annual recital performance
•
Progress reports and parent observation week
•
Optional make-up class options (based on availability)
•
Studio practice space availability (by appointment)
Important Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for progression. Make-up classes are available for excused absences with 24-hour notice.
Dress Code
Black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet slippers, hair in a bun. Dress code list provided upon enrollment.
Withdrawal
30-day written notice required for withdrawal. No refunds for partial months.
Parent Observation
The last week of each month is parent observation week where families can watch class.
View Full Policies
A one-time registration fee of $35 applies to new students.
“Ballet I has been the perfect foundation for my daughter. She walked in excited but unsure of herself, and within a few weeks we could see a real change—better posture, more focus, and so much more confidence. The class builds the basics in a thoughtful way, from positions and alignment to musicality, without ever feeling intimidating. What stands out most is how the instructors teach: patient, encouraging, and genuinely attentive to each dancer. My child feels seen, supported, and proud of her progress every week.”
Sarah M.
Age 8
Ready to Enroll in Ballet I: Fundamentals?
Spots fill quickly. Secure your dancer's place in this popular class or join the waitlist to be notified when space becomes available.
Enroll now
You Might Also Like
View Full Catalog
Ballet
Pre-Ballet & Jazz
Sep 7 - Dec 14, 2026
Every Monday
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Burlington
Ages 2.5-4
1 spot remaining
jlc
Intro to Contemporary
Sep 9 - Dec 16, 2026
Thursday
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Lexington
Ages 10+
Acro arts
Acro Arts I
Sep 8 - Dec 16, 2026
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Both
Ages 6-9
most popular
More to Explore
View resource center
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Policies
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Dress Code Policy
Policies
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, and acro
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
Ages 7-10 • Beginner / Intermediate
Ballet I: Fundamentals
A structured introduction to classical ballet technique. Students will learn the foundations of barre work, center floor combinations, and across-the-floor progressions. This class emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and discipline while nurturing a love for dance.
Enroll Now
Have a Question?
What They'll Learn
In this class, we move beyond creative movement and begin the formal study of ballet. Students are introduced to the structure of a ballet class, learning the discipline and focus required while maintaining a fun and encouraging atmosphere.
Class Highlights
Develop core strength and flexibility
Master basic ballet positions and terminology
Improve posture and grace
Build self-discipline and focus
Who It’s For
Ages 7-10 with beginner or intermediate dance experience.
Students should have completed Creative Movement or equivalent training. No prior ballet experience required.
This Class Is Perfect If Your Child...
Has completed at least one year of dance training
Loves classical music and graceful movement
Enjoys structure and focused practice
Is ready to progress toward more advanced techniques
Class Schedule
Fall 2026 Session
Monday & Wednesday
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Burlington
Ms. Sarah
2 Spots Left
Select Class
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Lexington
Ms. Emily
Waitlist Full
Tuition and Policies
Tuition
$595/month
Tuition includes two 60-minute classes per week for a 14-week fall session.
What's Included:
•
Two weekly classes (120 minutes total)
•
Technique-focused curriculum
•
Small class environment with individual corrections
•
Dedicated warm-up + flexibility and strength fundamentals
•
Access to annual recital performance
•
Progress reports and parent observation week
•
Optional make-up class options (based on availability)
•
Studio practice space availability (by appointment)
Important Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for progression. Make-up classes are available for excused absences with 24-hour notice.
Dress Code
Black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet slippers, hair in a bun. Dress code list provided upon enrollment.
Withdrawal
30-day written notice required for withdrawal. No refunds for partial months.
Parent Observation
The last week of each month is parent observation week where families can watch class.
View Full Policies
A one-time registration fee of $35 applies to new students.
“Ballet I has been the perfect foundation for my daughter. She walked in excited but unsure of herself, and within a few weeks we could see a real change—better posture, more focus, and so much more confidence. The class builds the basics in a thoughtful way, from positions and alignment to musicality, without ever feeling intimidating. What stands out most is how the instructors teach: patient, encouraging, and genuinely attentive to each dancer. My child feels seen, supported, and proud of her progress every week.”
Sarah M.
Age 8
Ready to Enroll in Ballet I: Fundamentals?
Spots fill quickly. Secure your dancer's place in this popular class or join the waitlist to be notified when space becomes available.
Enroll now
You Might Also Like
View Full Catalog
Ballet
Pre-Ballet & Jazz
Sep 7 - Dec 14, 2026
Every Monday
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Burlington
Ages 2.5-4
1 spot remaining
jlc
Intro to Contemporary
Sep 9 - Dec 16, 2026
Thursday
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Lexington
Ages 10+
Acro arts
Acro Arts I
Sep 8 - Dec 16, 2026
Tuesday & Thursday
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Both
Ages 6-9
most popular
More to Explore
View resource center
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Policies
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Dress Code Policy
Policies
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, and acro
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
Shop dbstudios
Equip Your Dancer.
Remember the Moments.
Find everything you need for class, from the perfect pointe shoes to dbstudios spirit wear.
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Ballet
Classic Ballet Leotard
$35.00
Best Seller
Quick Add
Ballet
Pink Ballet Tights
$18.00
Quick Add
Ballet
Canvas Split-Sole Ballet Shoes
$30.00
New
Quick Add
Jazz
Jazz Pants
$45.00
Quick Add
General
dbstudios Hoodie
$55.00
Popular
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Showcase
2026 Spring Showcase Ticket
$25.00
Limited
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Showcase
Winter 2026 Showcase Video Download
$10.00
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Showcase
Winter 2026 Showcase T-Shirt
$30.00
$10.00
Clearance
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Ballet
Ballet Leotard Starter Kit
$65.00
Quick Add
Best Seller
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
0
Ballet Leotard Starter Kit
Best Seller
20 Reviews
$65.00
The essential starter pack for every aspiring ballerina. This kit includes our premium cotton-blend leotard, convertible tights, and a pink skirt. Designed for comfort, durability, and elegance in the studio.
Suited For Classes
Ballet I
Ballet II
Ballet III
Pointe
Color: Pink
Size
Size Guide
Toddler (2-4)
Child S (4-6)
Child M (7-9)
Child L (10-12)
Teen/Adult XS
Teen/Adult S
Teen/Adult M
Teen/Adult L
Quantity
1
Add to Cart - $65.00
Shipping & Return Policy
Fabric & Care
Customer Reviews
5.0
/ 5
Based on 20 reviews
Write a Review
Sarah M.
Parent of Ballet I Student
• 2 weeks ago
Perfect starter kit!
This kit made getting ready for my daughter's first ballet class so easy. The leotard fits perfectly and the material is soft yet durable. Highly recommend!
Jessica T.
Parent of Ballet II Student
• 1 month ago
Great quality and value
I was surprised by the quality given the bundle price. The tights are thick enough and the shoes fit true to size. Will buy again next season.
View All 20 Reviews
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
04
Storefront organized by dance style with product pages built to eliminate fit and pickup uncertainty before checkout
Dance parents abandon carts when they can't confirm fit or pickup. The storefront organizes by dance style and surfaces stock and fulfillment on every card. The product page closes the sale with split sizing, a linked fit guide, and pickup hours at both locations. A bundle option catches new families before they overbuy piece by piece.
05
A searchable DRC filtered by category, audience, and document type to replace repeat front-desk inquiries
Dance studios answer the same questions dozens of times a week. The DRC centralizes every document the studio produces in a searchable hub with filters. A dance team family and a new ballet family each see only what's relevant to them. This is the page that changes what the front desk does with its day.
dancingbuns.com
(617) 286-6890
|
Burlington & Lexington, MA
db studios
Classes
New Students
About
Store
Contact
Sign In
Get Started
Document Resource Center
Find What You Need
Access registration forms, studio policies, class schedules, and more
all in one place. Everything you need to stay informed and organized.
Search documents by name or keyword...
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20 Results
Category
All
Registration
Policies
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Financial
Health & Safety
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Teachers
Everyone
Document Type
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Form
Guide
Spreadsheet
New Student Registration Form
Complete this form to register your dancer for classes at dbstudios. Includes emergency contact info and medical notes.
Registration
Parents
📝 Form
Feb 15, 2026
Download
View
2026 Season Enrollment Packet
Everything you need to enroll for the 2026 season including class options, tuition rates, and important dates.
Registration
Parents
Jan 15, 2026
Download
View
Class Change Request Form
Use this form to request a class transfer, schedule change, or level adjustment for your dancer.
Registration
Parents
📝 Form
Sept 15, 2025
98 KB
Download
View
Parent & Student Handbook
Comprehensive guide covering studio policies, expectations, attendance, dress code, and communication guidelines.
Policies
Parents
📖 Guide
Aug 20, 2025
3.4 MB
Download
View
Dress Code Policy
Required attire for each class style including ballet, jazz, hip hop, acro, and pointe. Includes approved vendors list.
Policies
Everyone
Aug 20, 2025
Download
View
Attendance & Makeup Class Policy
Guidelines for attendance expectations, how to report absences, and how to schedule makeup classes.
Policies
Parents
Aug 20, 2025
Download
View
Photo & Video Release Form
Authorization for dbstudios to use photos and videos of your dancer for marketing, social media, and studio displays.
Policies
Parents
📝 Form
May 5, 2025
Download
View
Spring 2026 Class Schedule
Complete schedule for all spring classes at both Burlington and Lexington locations. Includes times, levels, and instructors.
Schedules
Everyone
Nov 15, 2025
Download
View
Summer Camp 2026 Schedule
Weekly breakdown of summer dance camp sessions, themes, and age groups for both studio locations.
Schedules
Parents
Oct 5, 2025
Download
View
Instructor Handbook
Policies, procedures, and expectations for all dbstudios instructors. Includes lesson planning templates.
Policies
Teachers
📖 Guide
Jan 5, 2025
Download
View
Student Progress Report Template
Template for teachers to complete mid-year and end-of-year progress reports for each student.
Registration
Teachers
📊 Spreadsheet
Nov 23, 2024
Download
View
db studios
Comprehensive dance education building confidence and technical excellence since 2016.
Quick Links
Browse Classes
Events Calendar
New Students
About Us
Parent Portal
Burlington Studio
171 Bedford St
Burlington, MA 01803
(617) 286-6890
Lexington Studio
422 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA 02421
(617) 286-6890
The Redesigned Experience
A complete redesign built for dancers and the parents behind them
Select a page to explore the redesigned site.
What I'd carry foward
What I learned
Designing a business means designing its operations
The biggest thing this project taught me is that designing for a business means designing its operations, not just its pages. The moment I started designing the site, I realized I wasn't just saving parents a click, I was changing what the front-desk staff does with their Monday morning. That kind of second-order consequence is the part of product design I want to keep getting better at.
The homepage must serve all and be malleable
Designing for two parents with opposite needs pushed me past template thinking. Early on I kept sketching homepages that chose a parent. Both versions would turn off the other audience. The breakthrough was realizing the homepage didn't need to pick; it needed to sequence. Value prop first (welcoming), then scarcity and structure (serious), then community (both). The final hero reads to either parent without alienating the other.
Research the audience before you architect for them
If I had the chance, I'd run parent interviews before the IA, not after. I built the sitemap from competitive analysis and brand materials, and while I'm confident in most of it, the audience filters of New Families vs. Team Families vs. Camp Families are the kind of categorization that should come from parents describing their own reality, not a designer guessing at it. That's the gap I'd close first next time.
© 2026 Chris Huitt