Architectural Drawing in Rome, Summer 2012

IIDA’s top 10 reasons interior designers matter.

10 Reasons Interior Designers Matter

1 07 2010

Yesterday a friend forwarded me a blog post titled “107 Reasons Why You, Architect, Matter.” To me the list seemed pretty obvious.

For instance, Reason #7 was, “We do more with less.” I think this could easily have been the motto for any industry in 2009. But once I started to think about it, I realized that architects, project managers and interior designers are all in a unique position to do more with less–in terms of budget, project teams and aesthetics.

Unfortunately the list quickly devolved into such self-serving statements as, “Architects are sexy” and “Architects are for the most part fascinating people.” Really? This is why you, as an architect matter?

Still, the list was a gentle reminder for me that everyone needs a cheerleader. We wouldn’t think twice about thanking our teachers, doctors and nurses for their service to the community. But what about interior designers who provide a much-needed service and constantly battle the public perception of their value?

So, if you’ve been feeling under-appreciated or under-valued, this list is for you.

1. You are a combination of engineer and artist. Not only do you take into account safety and economy when designing a space, but you also create an aesthetic that can comfort and inspire.

2. Your work improves the lives of others. You design for the homebody and the workerbee, in addition to the aged, handicapped, and infirm. Whether you add light to a dark interior or design a beautiful and healthy working space, you make a difference in the lives of others.

3. You are continually learning and seeking answers. You take CEUs, discuss problems with your peers and research materials. You know that the profession is evolving, and you’re evolving with it.

4. You don’t settle for the tried and true. You push boundaries and discover new and better ways of doing things.

5. You provide a service. You work with clients who typically have little to no experience in design, and you find a way to turn their ideas into a tangible reality.

6. You pay attention to details. Whether you’re picking which carpet to use in a hotel hallway or what color to paint a hospital wall, you make each seemingly small decision count for the client’s health and happiness.

7. You explore what sustainable design can mean in the home and workplace. You’re debunking myths and testing new products, and you’re saving clients money along the way.

8. You’re a problem solver. Each project you work on is a new puzzle with a new set of challenges. As the designer, you’re in charge of making it work.

9. You’re collaborators. You’ve learned the value and benefits of teamwork, and how to process and connect disparate ideas into a working whole. Even if you work alone, you’re never really working alone. You have a network of peers that you turn to for advice and support along the way.

10. You work to change the public perception of Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator. You refrain from sighing when your colleague’s friend learns you are an Interior Designer and asks you to suggest paint colors for her son’s room, and instead patiently explain qualifications, certifications and scope of experience. You are more than just a reality TV design star.

Now it’s your turn. Why do you, the designer, matter?

This post was taken from the following website.

http://iidahq.wordpress.com/2010/07/01/10-reasons-interior-designers-matter/

OU’s EcoHouse is looking for Residents for 2012 and 2013

Interested in the Ecohouse?

LIVE AT THE OHIO ECOHOUSE IN 2012-2013!

If you are an undergraduate or graduate student interested in a unique living experience for the 2012-2013 academic year, apply to be a resident of the OHIO Ecohouse, our demonstration home for affordable green technology and sustainable living. The OHIO Ecohouse is not just a place — it is a dynamic educational experience which promotes critical thinking and tangible actions toward sustainability.

Rent is just $400/month (all utilities included, plus high-speed internet) for a fully furnished bedroom in a beautiful setting on Dairy Lane , right across the Richland Avenue bridge. The Ecohouse offers a 2.4 KW solar array, solar thermal hot water, a biomass furnace, energy star appliances, composting, organic gardens and more! Put your ideals into action by minimizing your ecological footprint and helping the public and fellow students learn more about sustainable living in Southeast Ohio.

More information on the OHIO Ecohouse is available at www.ohio.edu/ecohouse

Applications will be accepted until 5pm on October 4th, 2011. All required forms are available at http://www.facilities.ohiou.edu/housing/ua/forms/index.php

Questions? Email the Office of Sustainability, sustainability@ohio.edu or call (740)593-0026.

Architectural Drawing in Rome is a GO!!!!!!!

This summer 9 students:  Alexandra Bird (3yr), Chelsea King (3yr.), Jesse Larkin (3yr), Michlle Merker (3yr.), Anna Clifford (2yr.), Ashley Fassbender (2yr), Isaiah Justice (2yr), Stephani Leyva (2yr) and Andrew Wunderlich (2yr.) will be traveling to Rome this summer with Professor Vincent Wojtas, and guest lecturer Christine Mekhitarian for an intensive architectural drawing and history course.   Students will be living for three weeks in the residential area of Trastevere, just a few neigbhorhoods south of Vatican City, where they will be immersed in Roman life, while exploring the richness of the cities architectural and design sites.  Check out the blog this summer, which will be full of student work as well as their reflections and experiences during this exciting education abroad opportunity:  ouiarome.wordpress.com