Assignment 4.0 - Networking

As I near the end of my design education, I see the importance of being able to network successfully in the design world and maintain those connections. This year I went to several events for networking opportunities. One memorable event was an IIDA chapter meeting at the Momentum Textiles Facilities in Highpoint, NC. It was wonderful to meet some local IIDA members that are active in the design field and gain connections with professionals. The location of the meeting itself was inspiring as well. The Momentum Group is a company that designs and manufactures beautiful, durable, sustainable fabrics. Below are a couple examples of their work.

Raleigh Flea Market

This past weekend, I ventured to the Flea Market at the NC State Fair Grounds just before closing time. My sister tells me this is the best time to go because the vendors were beginning to pack up their merchandise and would sell for much lower a price to get it off their hands. As we walked around the grounds looking for some wooden chairs, I snapped these shots. I particularly loved the vendor with the glass door knobs. She also had old keys, hinges, and cabinet pulls that all reminded me of my Great Aunt's house. The second photo is of some metal figurines a man was selling in the back of his trailer. The color combination of the assorted metal pieces was unique and could possibly make a great inspiration photo for a new design project.

Helix Design: Group Marketing Project

This semester I worked on a big group project to aid our 3rd year students in marketing for a skyscraper competition taking place in Chicago this May. My portion of the project was more geared towards the business side of the operation. By working on the business plan, I had the opportunity to research the finances including the start up costs of the mock business, Helix Design Inc., projected income of the firm over the next year, as well as how to present ourselves in an appealing way to "potential clients". The experience was refreshing and very eye opening to the process and certainly makes me think twice about starting my own business. I definitely would hire an accountant.

Phase 6: 3rd Floor Apartment

Aging In Place: Designing for the Graying of America

Last week I wrote a research paper on a new design trend in senior living called Aging In Place. The idea is to essentially make simple design improvements to suit a senior's needs so that they can remain in their current home instead of moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home. Home improvements such as installing handle bars and shower seats in the bathroom, reworking cabinetry to reduce any strain with lifting pots and pans, and replacing hard flooring with wood or wall to wall carpet to ease joint pain. This plan allows seniors to retain their independence and will thus improve their life satisfaction.