design life 101

It's Been a Long Time...

2009-05-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

Hi All! So I've moved and changed, etc since last year - I'm finally blending all my skills together: Multimedia, Writing, Design and Creativity - into one blog. To be honest, I can completely understand where Neri Oxman of the MIT Media Lab is coming from - I'm a bit of a hybrid careerist myself and the level of technology has changed DRASTICALLY in the last year or so.

To keep up with this, I've spread myself to two new locations:

Design/Multimedia/Creativity - Honestly, 'nuff said. I cover so many things here, including some writing exercises. Lately, I've been trying to teach myself web design and doing a bit of a foray into multimedia storytelling using video, audio and stills. I'm still FASCINATED with interactive/multimedia spaces and using my audiovisual career background (and design training) to update/create learning & sharing spaces for all people. While I do all that, I'm still working as a Multimedia Specialist and staying on top of work projects.

Which leads me to Twitter! lately, I've been so busy with all of this that I haven't been able to update as frequently as I'd like on the blog! So, I tweet. And it is good. Follow me?

I'm excited at what the future holds - I see so much potential in using multiple skills in the local community since the meaning of community is so important now! Let work together to keep informed, connected and successful in the future...

Pop-up Nightclub!

2008-10-10T05:29:00.000-07:00

(photo from Aqua Website)

Oh, this would be a great idea for promoters and "Party Planners" in the US! Take one empty lot, one Aqua by Grandstand and plenty of cool people and you have one exclusive business idea! ;)

Check it out

http://www.aquabygrandstand.com/

10 Creative Advertising Ideas from Students

2008-09-29T12:12:00.000-07:00

i love it! check out the rest of the ideas here:

http://www.advertnews.com/10-creative-advertising-ideas-from-students/

Academy of Art University Joins the Club!

2008-08-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome the newest CIDA (formerly FIDER) accredited onsite AND online Interior Design BFA program!!

Congrats AAU!

http://www.academyart.edu

I KNEW it!

2008-06-09T23:28:00.000-07:00

I just KNEW that wooden tv consoles would make a comeback! I think it's kinda cute!

Check out more over at Unplggd...

Love Your Home?

2008-06-09T23:01:00.000-07:00

Curbly is an online DIY Design Community where you can share your own design, home improvement and craft creations with the world through blogging, video and an online forum!

Check it out:

http://www.curbly.com/

Innovative Seating

2008-05-22T06:45:00.001-07:00

(photo from NY Times)

What can I say about the seating structure in this photo? While it looks good in public places, I can def. see this in a small club (for you wallflowers) or a lounge. Or in the occasional school or government facility.

Check out the rest of the seating structures featured in this NY Times article by Penelope Green.

Interior Design + Project Runway = Product Runway

2008-04-29T12:50:00.001-07:00

What do you get when you mix a fashion show based with interior-use materials?

Product Runway! (article by Nicole Tsong)

A little more googling revealed the Official Product Runway site,

and even the oh-so-mandatory Myspace page (they have some sweet pics and a nice presentation).

Too bad this is all the way out on the West coast :(

Get Your Portfolio On!

2008-02-18T17:17:00.000-08:00

I recently had a run-in with an alumna from my program and talking to her opened my eyes about a few things - I don't know anyone in my program that has an online portfolio outside of a few adjunct faculty and faculty with businesses!

Get your portfolios online people! You never know - your designs might be the innovation someone is looking for!

Two places I know of:

Don't be scared to use technology in your favor!

Free Teleseminar - Making the Most of Your Interior Design Internship

2008-01-23T05:07:00.000-08:00

This is a great idea! Gail Doby is an interior designer offering students the chance to enhance their internship experience.

Interior Design Internship Teleseminar

Free advice is always good!

Home Offices Blend Digital and Functional Design

2008-01-03T10:47:00.000-08:00

This is a cool article on Home Office Design trends - it focuses on the stigma, digitization and gender trends over the past decade.

The Office, Housebroken by Julie Scelfo

So does this mean there will be a Home Office/Gameroom Design niche on the horizon?

Opensource CAD/Maya mix?

2007-12-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

This program is called Blender...has anyone used it?

Thoughts and reviews are welcome!

What color is your idea?

2007-12-04T05:16:00.000-08:00

Pantone asked this question of well-known creative minds and shares the answers with you at myColor myIdea.

Check it out and get inspired - you can share your color idea, too!

Google Sketchup: The Book!

2007-11-01T11:07:00.001-07:00

Sweet! The Google Sketchup Blog sent out this announcement not too long ago - the Amazon reviews on the book seem promising!

Also, if you haven't already, check out the SketchUp Blog for more goodies!

Core77's Hack-2-School Guide

2007-09-11T06:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Core77,

I love you. Will you marry me?

Read Core77's Hack-2-School Guide

Design thinking for...Librarians?

2007-09-10T11:28:00.001-07:00

This link came to my inbox via the IDSA - even Librarians (some of my most favorite people!) are using design process as a problem-solving tool. Sign up for the "Can You Use A Design Approach? Design Thinking for Blended Librarians" webcast here.

Pecha Kucha? You Betcha!

2007-08-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

So, I was browsing through next months issue of Wired magazine and came across this great blurb about Pecha Kucha - I got so excited! Being in grad school, the presentation is always the most stressful part of the project - so, many of us that are still young in the program are a little wary of using technology to enhance our presentations. Here's a little background on Pecha Kucha.

Mark Dytham and Astrid Klein, architects and owners of SuperDeluxe - a multimedia event space in Tokyo, began boosting their business by having social nights for designers based around - you guessed it - Powerpoint presentations. Dubbed Pecha Kucha (Japanese for the sound of conversation), designers can present their work in a gallery-like setting. The catch? Presentations are limited to 20 slides and each slide appearing for only 20 seconds.

Check out Pecha Kucha here: http://www.pecha-kucha.org/

Isn't that cool? I would love to see my school take this on...maybe invite student designers in the area to participate? No judgement, no grades - just discussion about design and a creative lesson in powerpoint (for those of you that don't have MS Office, www.Opensource.org has a similar suite of products available for FREE download.)

Design 21 & an update

2007-08-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of Design 21, I suggest you Register yourself. Design 21 is a Social Design Network that brings together all design disciplines for the greater good. I'm registered as aishaj - be sure to let me know your screenname when you register.
So far I've read a blog post on the lack of knowledge of design process and creative proposals (the author reflects that this might be the cause of confusion among non-designers about what defines design, since there's so much *bad* design out there). The feedback was amazing and insightful - one poster commented that bad design was necessary (which i believe) and others even delved into the idea that designers should have a general list of backgrounds/skills.

I'm stretching my wings and started a part-time business! I'm keeping it small b/c of school and work, but it should help me get a foot up on my general design skills (not just interior design) and will actually compel me to study and research the design process on my own, rather than waiting for someone to tell me about it in class. Also, I'll be posting about my projects, what I learned and what I can change here on DesignLife 101!

Check out Aishaj Creative!

It's about time!

2007-07-26T05:27:00.000-07:00

Google has launched a SketchUp blog!: http://sketchupdate.blogspot.com/

Shipping containers find new life as homes!

2007-06-07T09:03:00.000-07:00

Shipping containers find new life as homes
Inexpensive and abundant, they’re turning into affordable housing

By Roger O’Neil
Correspondent
NBC News
Updated: 8:52 a.m. ET May 4, 2007

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - This takes a little inside- and a whole lot of outside-the-box thinking. What looks like and lives like a house is actually a shipping container.

"I call it my bunker," says Rosalynn Kearney of her container home.

(continue reading here!)

Hellooooo AutoCAD!/Dremel vs. Cute Shoes/Crestron

2007-05-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

Finally! I get to take AutoCAD this summer! I'm completely excited - another skill to add to the list!
~*~
What does it mean when a girl wants a dremel more than a pair of cute shoes (or rather, OVER a pair of cute shoes...cuz I still want those cute shoes, but they'd look great with that patio bench that i need to clean up and upholster.) Ahh, my boyfriend is great to put up with me! :)
~*~

As an "A/V kid", it's important to keep up my mad techno skills - I learned how to program a Crestron touchpanel system! (What's a Crestron Touchpanel system?) Above is a pic of one I did!

Completely Awesome AKA the "School of Visual Arts Launches Design Podcast"

2007-04-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

From Interior Design Magazine: School of Visual Arts Launches Design Podcast

How Cool is That!! I so wish my school would do this...maybe even record some for a video blog that is accessible on our Blackboard site or the Interior Design Department site? That would have been awesome when we had a reknown Portfolio specialist come in to speak a few months ago. Actually, I'd love to see some portfolio examples on the Department website.

Either way, this is a GREAT idea!! I'm d/l some to itunes TONIGHT!

Are Designers The Enemy Of Design?

2007-04-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

Bruce Nussbaum's article, Are Designers The Enemy Of Design? has been blogged to death, but I wanted to bring it up b/c the IDSA has uncovered a response to his opinion by the NextD Journal: NextD response PDF.

And what's up with hating going on in design these days?

George Wills' article in the Washington Post garnered a LOT of attention. Stop the licensing of interior design? Not if IIDA or ASID have anything to say about it.

Maybe Nussbaum and Will just had a bad month? What were they thinking?

MFA is the new MBA

2007-03-07T05:07:00.000-08:00

Contract Magazine has a really interesting article on corporate America seeking creative thinkers rather than your run-of-the-mill MBA grads. In fact, some MBA programs are offering creative electives to boost creativity.

Check it out!

Click Here to flip through the magazine

Global Warming Education Event - TODAY!

2007-02-20T07:42:00.000-08:00

A free webcast produced by Architecture 2030 and AmericaSpeaks is availabe today from Noon to 3:30.

What is it? "The 2010 Imperative Global Emergency Teach-In addressing global warming and climate change is an interactive web-cast broadcast live from New York, reaching more than 500,000 students, faculty, deans and practicing professionals in the architecture, planning and design communities in both North and South America."

For more information check out http://www.2010imperative.org/

Black Creativity 2007—Designs for Life

2007-02-19T13:50:00.000-08:00

http://www.msichicago.org/temp_exhibit/bc2007/index.html

Black Designers from far and wide are being featured at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. The Black Creativity program has gathered an awesome amount of Black Industrial Designers (hence - Designs for life) and will showcase their numerous contributions through Feb 28th.

Check it out!

(Thanks to Neville Lee)

International Furniture Show 2007!!

2007-02-14T19:08:00.000-08:00

HGTV has a special presentation of the International Furniture Show on Feb 25 at 9pm.

I'm excited to see some new stuff!

Check your local cable channels!
HGTV presents International Furniture Show 2007!!

Cool SketchUp Vid!

2007-02-08T13:34:00.000-08:00

(thanks to Neville!)

SketchUp Pics!

2007-02-06T12:28:00.000-08:00

This is from my first assignment this semester. Our Prof was basically trying to get a feel for where we were in our skill levels of concept-to-presentation (although i'd love to find out how it goes from concept to execution!). Also, he's trying to spark a fire under us, so I thought that was really cool.

It was fun!

CIDA to Update Standards

2007-02-06T12:14:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are thinking of pursuing (or currently pursuing) an interior design education, CIDA (formerly FIDER) is the council that accredits Interior Design education programs.

Some may ask why being in a CIDA-accredited program is so important. Well, that answer varies and mostly depends on personal preference. However, if you plan to become a licensed Interior Designer, you'll have to take the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Exam (aka NCIDQ). And things are changing...in the near future, taking the NCIDQ exam will require you to have graduated from an accredited ID program.

An article in Interior Design magazine shows that CIDA is now updating the standards to their accrediation process:

Council for Interior Design Accreditation to Update Standards
Sponsors include the ASID and the IIDA.
by Mairi Beautyman
Interior Design · February 6, 2007

The Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) has embarked on a three-year program to revamp standards used to measure interior design academic programs.

Read the rest of the article here...

Learning the Design Process

2007-01-21T13:17:00.000-08:00

My first assignment in this semesters course is to design a "contemplative" space that is 24x32 ft.

I was SO excited when I got the assignment!!

But where should I start?

In this case, I started with my interpretation of contemplative...I asked myself what activities I did that helped me to relax and contemplate. I identified: reading, writing/drawing/crafts, eating (yes, i love to celebrate relaxation with good food), and spirituality.

For the past few days, I've been drawing up a floor plan using zoning, circulation and a dash of inspiration. I'm drawing from Airstream's International CCD designer Christopher Deams inspiration of modernizing mobile trailers, my Italy experience and small space layouts from different books. Mind you, I'm not cheating and just taking entire design concepts...I use the designer's "lesson" - why they arranged the space in the way they did - to use toward my space. I think I finally have a workable plan and will put it together over the next couple of days.

The book Interior Design Course by Tomris Tangaz really helped me in this initial attempt since this is only my second studio course. (My first one was in Italy and it was fantastic! But I needed a little prompt to get me going on this project...).

Tomris' book is helping me organize my thoughts into a logical process and has even given me ideas about developing a sketch model and section drafts. I highly suggest it for those who are just starting out in studio courses and want to spend more time actually working on the project than asking multiple questions. (Because time management is really important!!)

Anyway, when this is done, I'll have a better idea for the process and I'll be ready for my portfolio review in the next few months!

Yay!

FIDER, no longer

2007-01-18T14:09:00.000-08:00

Duh! Biggest news ever - FIDER is now CIDA.

Check it out: CIDA

Interior Designer? Indeed!

2007-01-18T14:01:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

The Interior Designer Job forum over at Indeed needs help. There are some questions being asked that I'm sure you all may know more about or can expand on...

A professor of mine once said in class that education is the beginning of understanding.

Spreading the word about Interior Design as a profession will answer a lot of questions and people will begin to see what Interior Designers *really* do!

The link is here: Indeed.com Interior Designer Job Forum

If you can't see it, email me at aishaj at gmail dot com and I'll get it to you...

Yay + SketchUp

2007-01-17T09:29:00.000-08:00

Spring semester has started again and I am pretty excited to get into the mix.

Last night, my professor encouraged the use of SketchUp! Nice!

I used Sketchup last summer to help my parents get a feel for what a new kitchen would look like. It's pretty rudimentary, but I was working quickly - check it out:

Design*Sponge Scholarship!

2007-01-12T11:16:00.000-08:00

Exciting! The design world needs more people like her! :)

All about the Design*Sponge Scholarship

Sign up ends on March 15th so hurry!

(source: Design*Sponge)

How Cute is This?

2007-01-12T07:51:00.000-08:00

I had to post these bike baskets for the sheer cuteness...

Source: CORE77

What is an Interior Designer?

2007-01-12T04:59:00.000-08:00

www.iida.org
I was excited to get an email from IIDA's Government Relations office featuring an article by Cindy Coleman, a partner at Frankel + Coleman and educator at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
She wrote a very informative article on the Interior Design profession and the steps being taken to have the profession licensed in all states.

Read the article

(source: IIDA GRAction e-newsletter)

iPhone - Sleek Design & New User Interface

2007-01-10T14:00:00.000-08:00

(photo from apple.com site)
What type of blogger/tech lover/design lover would i be if i didn't post about the iPhone?

Check it out: The iPhone is here!

Textile Industry looks hopeful for grads

2007-01-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

This is an interesting article from the Charlotte Observer.

Textile graduates find it's key to stretch
3 of 4 followed by the Observer find fit amid industry in flux
TONY MECIA
tmecia@charlotteobserver.com

Five years ago, they were ambitious college students hopeful that jobs awaited them in the shrinking U.S. textile industry.

Today, they're alums of N.C. State University's College of Textiles, and all have jobs. But none works in a factory. One was laid off from a plant a year out of college, prompting a career change.

In 2001, with the U.S. textile industry closing plant after plant, the Observer profiled four students from the College of Textiles. They described skepticism from friends and relatives about their career plans, and said they repeatedly explained that they were preparing for jobs that bear little resemblance to the "Norma Rae" image of factory drudgery.

Read the rest of the article...

Design for a Good Cause!

2006-12-12T08:08:00.000-08:00

I found this out from the owner of Funkyutopia (who also happens to be an LJ friend of mine):

Special Spaces, based in Tennessee, "is an incredible non-profit that redesigns bedrooms for special needs children. More specifiically, they redesign a child's bedroom to fulfill their imaginations! Their most recent redesign was for a child with bone marrow disease who would be spending a great deal of time in their bedroom recovering from their surgery and hopefully, their disease! The way the organization sees it, a child's bedroom becomes their sanctuary and their recovery room so they aim to give these children a space where they can dream, play and heal. Their website does a much better job of explaining their mission than I am right now. Plus, there are videos and photos of their work!"

Thanks to Funkyutopia for letting me quote her and check out Special Spaces!

Annex Residents and Staff, Students Weigh-In on 'Annex Hermit' Stereotype - Campus

2006-10-31T06:28:00.000-08:00

Annex Residents and Staff, Students Weigh-In on 'Annex Hermit' Stereotype - Campus

This is my alma mater and I have to admit - it's true. Annex girls were typically treated as "unsocial"...I think this is a good example of designing ourselves into a box instead of designing ourselves into the world (if that makes any sense).

KATRINA Cottage wins People's Choice Award

2006-10-24T07:36:00.000-07:00

(picture from inhabitat.com)

This is fresh from the Inhabitat.com site. Any comments? I like that it's a clear example of design not only helping people but listening to them...and the fact that the cottages can be renovated and expanded as the damaged areas are rebuilt...

Can Anyone be a Designer?

2006-10-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

This debate between Joe Duffy (Founder, Duffy & Partners, branding and design consultancy) and Andrew Keen (Entrepreneur; chief intelligence officer, AfterTV) at Fast Company Magazine brought to you c/o the IDSA Email Newsletter.

Sides anyone?

Mid-term Check In

2006-10-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

As this semester has gone on (and on) and I'm getting back into the swing of things (time management anyone?) I realize every now and then I have to "check back in" and get back to the root of why I'm doing all of this...to become educated on design and get a passport to my future. I'm interested in so many aspects of the design world - product design, space planning, furniture design...and I love how design and technology work together. I don't want to completely give up the a/v kid and the business maven (is that the right word?) in me...those parts still matter in design because my experience is *always* worth something.
What I've learned so far is that pure design is filled with a certain amount of fear...at times it can test your self-confidence because your work is based on talent. When you feel your self-confidence dropping, it's your education you should fall back on to pick you up...to help you remember where you started, how far along you've come and the wise musings of those who led you along the way. Once you've rekindled that core of you, it feels...re-energizing. Nothing can stand in your way and the path is once again clear.
(That being said, I'm going to put off the portfolio notes I'd promised until winter break so I can give it the time and attention it fully deserves.)

News: Founders of Kartell US and Dialogica lost in plane crash

2006-10-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

"The design world has lost not one but two leaders: Ivan Luini, 46-year-old founder and president of Kartell US Inc., and his friend Sergio Savarese, 48, founder and designer of the Dialogica furniture company.
The two men died Sept. 15 when the single-engine SR-20 plane they owned crashed in Moffat County, Colo., as they were flying back from San Francisco to New York. They frequently made such business trips to their stores around the country, returning to New York where they lived and worked."

Read more from this article

Design Students networking at AutoDesk!

2006-09-27T06:52:00.000-07:00

"A free networking site for students in the fields of architecture, design, civil, and mechanical engineering. Members are able to:

- download *free* student editions of Autodesk software
- find jobs
- discuss projects & share work
- learn from community experts
- find out about industry and educational trends in your field
- take self-paced tutorials on all downloadable products
- ask & answer questions
- make new friends!"

All you need is a school email address to sign up. Make sure you join!

Interior Design Today @ Corcoran (DC)

2006-09-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Interested in finding out more about Interior Design as a profession? The Corcoran College of Art + Design in DC is offering a seminar on Oct 14th from 9am-1pm. It's an opportunity to learn more about current trends in the profession and network with those already in the field.
Click for details...
(image from corcoran website)

Coming Soon: Portfolio Notes

2006-09-06T05:44:00.000-07:00

Last month, I had a great opportunity to meet with some Interior Designers to see their portfolios. I know I'm a writer and for some reason, I'm supposed to write great flowery prose-like paragraphs about these kinds of things, but I'm going to keep it real: IT WAS AWESOME.
And I want to share my notes, but I have to put them in some workable order so that it's easily understandable. So, just an announcement, be on the lookout for Portfolio Notes! You will not want to miss this!

NeoCon East 2006 - Baltimore Convention Center

2006-08-31T07:25:00.000-07:00

NeoCon East will be here soon!

DL101 Textbooks!

2006-08-30T06:06:00.000-07:00

Yay! I'm so glad the semester has started again...the lazy days of summer were starting to wear on me. I didn't get to do a lot of the things on my "To Do" list, but I'm not rushing it (and really, summer's not over yet).

However it is that textbook time of year again and prices are INSANE in college and university bookstores around the nation. Personally, I'm going to be purchasing my books from Amazon at a lower price and if you'd like, you can too! Check out the DL101 Textbook Store, search for your textbooks and reap the savings at checkout!

With the money you save, you could:
- download some new tunes to your iPod
- put some money toward your student version AutoCAD purchase
- take a carpentry class
- take a sewing class
- treat your classmates to some homemade treats
- purchase more studio materials
- basically, do a LOT more with your money!

So, check out DL101's Textbook Store anytime, day or night...it's open!

Making Public Places

2006-08-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

A good friend/classmate of mine sent me a link to Urbanite Magazine's interview with Fred Kent, the founder of Project for Public Spaces. The goal of the organization is "to create and sustain public places that build communities".

It ties back into my previous post about "Streets For People". However, PPS seeks the key component of the design (the community members) to take responsibility of the design, rather than design being dictated to them by government. I went to the PPS page to check out some examples and found Campus Martius in Detroit. The formerly underused land was recreated into an outdoor community center of sorts and the result is a changed economic and social status to the area. Businesses and people flock now flock to the area to enjoy outdoor events and activities year round. Check out the PPS site for more examples of making community spaces. (And Thanks, B!)

Interesting Things

2006-08-10T14:36:00.000-07:00

I found a couple of Internships/Fellowships that can probably be used by Interior Design graduate students. Since I've been back from Italy, I've contemplated going abroad again to study architecture/design and how it helps people. I was inspired by a Streets For People tour that we took in Tuscania with longtime set and theatre designers Kurt and Eva. They gave us a tour of the city and showed us parts we hadn't seen before...including beautiful porticos and walkways made exclusively for pedestrians. They showed us how the 1970's earthquakes in the city had created a culture of Old City vs. New City and how the new city had started falling to pieces and was basically being abandoned. The book "Streets for People: An American Primer" was written by Bernard Rudofsky, a pretty formidable character in regards to design. He meant the book to be a putdown to American architecture, but it still has relevancy to design today.

Anyway, that leads me to the intent of this post, which was to share internship/fellowship opportunities:

Sir John Soanes Museum Foundation Fellowship:
"The purpose of the Traveling Fellowship is to enable students in graduate degree programs in the history of art, architecture and the decorative arts to travel to England to pursue research projects related to any aspect of the work of Sir John Soane or Sir John Soane's Museum and its collections."

The WorldStudio AIGA Scholarship:
"The WorldStudio AIGA Scholarship is available to full-time undergraduate and graduate students who are studying the design/arts disciplines at a college or university in the United States. You must be a minority or economically disadvantaged student and demonstrate outstanding ability and financial need as well as a commitment to giving back to the larger community. Your selection is based on your portfolio, statement of purpose, demonstrated need, academics, and recommendations."

Fulbright Grant:
"The Fulbright Grant Program is open to U.S. citizens who are interested in international study. Students in all fields of study are eligible to apply for this award. Preference is given to students whose higher education was received primarily in the United States and who have not lived in the country in which they wish to study for more than six months. You must have or will have earned a B.A. or its equivalent before the beginning date of the grant. You may have a J.D., but may not have obtained a Ph.D. at the time of application. Applicants in medicine must have an M.D. or its equivalent. You must also have sufficient proficiency in the written and spoken language of the proposed host country."

That's all for now. I tried to find opportunities that may not have been as obvious as looking on the ASID website. For more info, check out Fastweb.com.

Eames Film Festival @ DWR Bethesda

2006-08-06T06:07:00.000-07:00

For all my local design fans/students/pros, there is an Eames Film Festival going on at the Design Within Reach store in Bethesda, MD on Sept 12...if you can, check it out! For more info click here.

If you're not local, but there is a DWR in your city, the event may be coming your way - click here.

Sewing 101

2006-08-03T12:16:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I'm a little intimidated by sewing machines. I had one that I bought off a craigslist for $15, but being the tinkerer that I am, I kept trying to fix it and work with it myself.

Not good.

So, that machine has gone to goodwill and I'm hoping to purchase a new one this weekend. My first project is pretty practical: I need drapes (haha - the interior designer in training need drapes!). Ikea has a nice fabric selection although I may find myself at Joanne's and Hancocks, too. We'll see. Cross your fingers for me!

Janet Jackson Wants You...

2006-07-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

To design her new album cover! Think you have the skills to do it?

Go for it!

Where Craft and Italy Meet...

2006-07-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

How great is it that Readymade Magazine has a blogroll? And that today I find some sweet Italian recipes from one of it's contributers...

check it out:

Readymade and Italian Food

Changes

2006-07-18T13:32:00.000-07:00

Coroflot has changed their site - it looks pretty cool if you ask me...check it out!

The new Coroflot

Final Thoughts + Summer Planning

2006-06-23T13:23:00.000-07:00

I think I've finally come down a little from my Italy trip. We had our final presentations and sketch projects due yesterday. I have to say it was quite a learning experience...especially since it was my first design studio and my first time officially learning how to sketch. It was quite intense and sometimes exhausting, but I'm so glad I did it!

I had previously planned to purchase a laptop and a student version of AutoCAD to practice on since I don't have anymore classes this summer, but the laptop will have to wait. I think I will purchase the AutoCAD, though and start "somewhat" teaching myself how to use it.

My updated summer list:
- Learn to sew on a machine
- Design and "make" a table (inspired by some friends)
- Have a yard sale
- Roadtrip!!

Of course, this in addition to hanging out with my friends and family!!

I'm Back!

2006-06-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

After having been in Italy for almost a month, I was really ready to come back home to my own world. The trip was great! Italy is a very ancient country compared to America. Imagine living in a city that used to be a medieval fort and the streets are paved with cobblestones. You dine in a restaurant that uses a small piazza as a patio. While the sun is going down, it passes the remains of abbeys and turrets. Basically, it was just beautiful. I would love to visit Toscania again!

Over the course of the three weeks, we went to Naples (Pompeii and Herculaneum), Rome, Siena, Florence and Venice. Although it wasn't quite whirlwind, there was a great deal of history to digest in such a short time...and of course, that is just the tip of the iceberg. We spent an evening with archeologists and set designers, dining while learning the history of an Abbey in Toscania and discovering the design of common areas for people. It was absolutely fabulous!

I'm struggling to decide which city I enjoyed the most - Florence was great for shopping and Venice was ideal, but I think I felt a connection with Siena the most. It's a really unique city and even older than the city of Rome! I love the Duomo most.

First full day in Toscania, Italy

2006-05-22T04:24:00.000-07:00

Yay! Iìm finally here - the weather is beautiful and hot. the landscape and the towns are just fantastic looking! I've had time to think more about the history and architecture/design: the design of these towns tell a story to us today about the time in which these people lived. i guess my challenge re: design is asking myself what story i would like someone to know about the time in which i lived or my culture lived. when i build/design/create whatever it is i do, i have to keep in mind that there is a story to be told. also, iàm learning that craftmanship is key to good architecture and design. without the crafter, you have a shell that can fall apart easily. there is something there to be said about a good education, be it an apprenticeship, a school, or just life itself.

ciao - i hope this doesnàt all show up in italian!

Cool Down but Don't Stop

2006-05-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, finals have been finalized...that was tough! Even with two classes, the projects alone were enough to drive me a little batty. This program, even part-time, is rough without proper time management. I got a little glimpse of what this semester was going to be like during my fall semester, so over the winter break, I read "The 10 Natural Laws of Successful Time and Life Management" by Hyrum Smith. It was GREAT and it helped me understand the value of my time. If you're looking to improve how you use your time, I completely recommend this as a summer read.

Aside from school, I'm putting together a little list of fun things I'd like to do over the summer to expose and familiarize myself with the design industry. Although it's kind of broad, I'd really like to do more concept furniture design and even get into making models. IDSA and CORE77 have some great resources for that. Also, I'd like to learn to sew...never know when you're going to need it, you know?

If you get a chance and would like something cool to do, check out Inventables Student Competition. Submission deadline is June 15 so get cracking!

New Things!

2006-04-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

Last time, I promised I'd share new information that I'd learned (for those of you already in the Interior Design industry, it may not be new).

Did you know that you could work for the Federal Government as an Interior Designer?

It's right! One of my classmates (who works for a federal agency) told me that Interior Designers can work for the Navy (although, you'd have to be located in OH, I believe) and also for the GSA! I think that's awesome!

Also, another area you may consider with your ID Degree: Strategic Planning. It's definitely a good area if you are interested in numbers, real estate and business because that's a good deal of what these folks are about. I thought that was really cool, too.
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Cool Software that I was informed about today: SketchUp (http://www.sketchup.com/) Check it out! They have a free Google SketchUp download that you can use personally AND if you're a student, the Education License is only $50!! You can't get any better than that.

Whew!

2006-04-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

The end of this semester came pretty quickly! I've been busy finishing up final projects and it seems like they are never-ending! Sadly, I've been so busy I haven't really updated some really good things I found out about recently that I wanted to share. I promise I will get them out here soon, though. Look for a proper update in about a week...

Networking 101

2006-04-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

I've discovered two things about the Interior Design industry. 1) They pretty much ALWAYS love their jobs and 2) they don't mind talking to you about it! (especially if you're a student). I love it!
But, for a newbie, it's often hard to learn the in's and out's of networking so I figured I'd give my spin on it from start to finish.

1. Being prepared: This includes having business cards, directions to the event, money and a mission. What's a mission? A mission is a short statement that introduces who you are and where you're going. For instance, you may say "I'm an interior design student and my interest is marrying technology and design."
Another part of being prepared is knowing the companies that will be represented. But, if you haven't done that the best thing to do is ask them to tell you more about the company and what they do. (FYI: Dress at networking events is usually business casual...)

2. The Lone Ranger: So, you arrive alone...or first. Don't worry! Introduce yourself to the organizers of the event and let them know you're a student. Most of the time, they will introduce themselves and give you a quick rundown of the event. If you're early, volunteer to help! It makes it so much easier to get around and meet a lot of people. Whatever you do, don't sit in the corner by yourself unless it's because you've talked your head off to at least two people and you're just resting. ;)

3. The Gathering Group: I love the group. It's easy to just arrive and settle in and just gossip and chat for a few hours and get comfortable. But, if you stay in the group you came with, are you really networking or just catching up? Try to convince some of your group to walk around with you and meet people. Or, if you've already met people, introduce members of your group to them.

4. Eat, Drink and Be Merry: If they have food, eat it! If they have drinks, drink it! in moderation! and don't forget to be merry...

It's Really Happening!

2006-03-30T08:40:00.000-08:00

I came home last night and waiting for me in the mailbox was my Italy Itinerary! I took a deep breath as I looked at it...it's really happening! It's also for 3 weeks! Wow...I know this is what I'm meant to do. The whole thing just feels right!

Here is where I'll be studying Art History and Rendering:

Lorenzo de' Medici - Tuscania, Italy

School Update

2006-03-27T13:52:00.000-08:00

1. I found out my Textiles notebook isn't due until April, which is good. A few of us are going to get together in groups so we can finish quicker.

2. I haven't gotten a chance to follow up on the whole OBD sitch.

3. Drafting is going great! Now I'm looking for opportunities to learn/put to practice AutoCAD and drafting over the Summer...

RFP from IDSA!!

2006-03-24T13:40:00.000-08:00

I got this in my email not too long ago...I pray there will be a TON of submittals, b/c this sounds like an awesome course. I'm def. intrigued by Industrial Design as well as Interior...
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Request for Proposals: Basic Design Drawing Seminar / Drawing for Making
March 24, 2006
The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), committed to advancing the profession of industrial design through education, information, community and advocacy, is soliciting proposals for the development of curriculum for a Basic Design Drawing course. This course will be aimed at recent industrial design graduates; however, it will be open to anyone. The emphasis of the course will be on “visually communicating ideas,” rather than simply improving drawing techniques. It will cover advanced drawing techniques, but be taught in such a way that it is adaptable to the individual levels of each student. The course will consist of a two-day, 16-hour course, followed by a 4-week weblog. The course will be a live, in-person seminar with a limited number of students (maximum 30).
Included with the projects presented during the seminar itself will be two follow-up projects, based on the lesson plan. These assignments will be due the following week and one week after that, respectively. They will be sent and received via e-mail. Students will be entitled to two revisions by instruction staff per drawing with final drawings developed and presented in four weeks. Students will be limited to presenting two concepts and two drawings each, for a total of four presented drawings, due to time considerations. Feedback will be directed through an IDSA-hosted weblog format.
The curriculum must include:
An outline of topics to be covered;
Detailed examples of drawing/rendering
Required readings/course materials;
Hand-outs, as appropriate;
References for further reading/study;
Specific assignments;
Plan for how the weblog will accompany the
Specified format for adequate electronic
Criteria for passing of students (course is
A step-by-step teaching manual for national deployment.
Proposals for developing this curriculum should include a brief description of:
Cost and timing;
Special equipment/facility needs;
Proposed approach to such a curriculum;
Credentials for developing such a curriculum.
Proposals must be submitted by April 14, 2006 to Leslie Cron (LeslieC@idsa.org).
For more information on IDSA, visit www.idsa.org.

Industrial Designers Society of America
---------------------------------------

D.I.Y Design It Yourself - Ellen Lupton

2006-03-23T14:11:00.000-08:00

Get. This. Book. I know, I know, it doesn't have a whole lot to do with Interior Design, but I promise you it will open your mind about the concepts of design and at the very least challenge/inspire your creativity. It's a collaborative from MICA MFA Students and Ellen Lupton.

I LOVE this book!!

For more fun, check out the website: www.papress.com/designityourself

Perspective

2006-03-20T11:17:00.000-08:00

http://www.designobserver.com/archives/011848.html

I thought this was a really well-written and observant response to a recent issue...but what caught my eye was how he realized he had screwed up on his catalog because he didn't know his subject...he had designed in order to impress other designers.

personal lesson: Know your subject - then Design.

Internship Preparation

2006-03-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

Last week, I seriously started looking at internship opportunities. And from what I've gleaned from conversations with Designers and students alike is that you have to Network, Network, Network. But I also think that research plays a big part in finding the internship you want as well. Well, I've googled to my heart's content and compiled a list of possible interior design internships in the DC AREA:

SmithGroup, Inc. - http://www.smithgroup.com/AboutUs/Internships.asp
Little Diversified Architectural Consulting - http://www.littleonline.com/ (contact for info)
National Building Museum - http://www.nbm.org/Support/intern.html
Gensler - http://www.gensler.com/careers/internship.html
Rockland Studios - http://www.hsinet.com/about_company/rockland.html (contact HSI for further info)
HOK - http://www.hok.com/Careers/Campus/Experience/index.htm (possible ID internships?)
Leo A Daly - http://www.leoadaly.com/cgi-bin/careers.cgi (contact for further info)
Hillier - http://www.hillier.com/careers/ (contact for more info)
Hickok Cole - http://www.hickokcole.com/great_place_to_work/careers/ (contact for further info)
Ellerbe Becket - http://www.ellerbebecket.com/careers.html (def. contact the dc office for more info)

This is all I've got for the moment. You may notice most of these firms are architectural in nature, but some of them also house interior designers and great training programs. Again, do your research, since this list is not a guarantee that you'll get an internship from any of these places (or that they even have any)!! Get out there and network while time is on your side...and don't be afraid to work for free! Design your opportunity!

HA!

2006-03-14T13:33:00.000-08:00

Cool portfolio that was announced in rap form!! http://okaydave.com/ Find "Kanye West" and enjoy...

Sketchbook

2006-03-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

I have a sketchbook assignment that I'm working on in my spare time and it's actually quite fun. Ching's "Drawing: A creative process" was recommended, but it's only available online. I wanted to get started fairly quickly and went to B&N to look for a book and found "Freehand Sketching: An Introduction" by Paul Laseau. As it turns out, that's the book I'll be using in Italy! I thought that was pretty cool. I'll still be ordering Ching's book, though.
I actually took a day trip to Richmond on Saturday and went the scenic route through Southern MD. Breathtaking! (And calm...I love starting roadtrips before the sun comes up. I get to watch the sunrise as I go.) Anyway, I happened to pass a pretty little church, Emmanuel Church, in Port Conway, VA just before 301 crosses 17. It was amazing! I kick myself now for not stopping and taking ten minutes to do a quick outline, because I ended up coming back home on 95. Although, I guess I could still sketch from a picture. This one I found online from a local pinhole camera photographer.

Things to Do List

2006-02-27T14:40:00.000-08:00

Good Lord, this blog sounds so stiff! Anyway, let me get a real update going. This semester is pretty heavy compared to last semester. I'm taking Advanced Architectural Graphics and a Textiles class. I panicked a little when I heard the woes of the AAG students from last semester, but through talking to them I learned that it's not so bad if you manage your time well and ask questions (no matter how stupid you think they are). Textiles is a whole other story. We have a notebook that is due in about, oh, 30 days. I've been working on gathering the materials since the start of class, but the next phase should be preparing the actual notebook and in two weeks, I should be putting it together. I still don't have all of my materials, though. So I'll have to simultaneously work on the notebook and gathering the materials over the next week.

In other big news, I will (cross-fingers) be going across the pond to Italy in May for a three-week study trip - Art History and Rendering. I cannot wait!! The last time I was in Europe was when I was 15 - it was so much fun being in a new environment! I'm glad now that I'll be there for 3 weeks so I can really soak up the history and the culture. My to do list includes sending in my passport application tomorrow and planning the financial side of the trip (including having bills paid for one month).

Overall, I'm really excited about this whole journey. It's making me think more about what type of company I'd like to work for in the future. Although I do have an audiovisual background, I think I'll take the advice of a recent graduate of my program and stick to the Interior Design slant.

Upcoming ID Events:

ASID
Celebrating the Big Easy
Thursday, March 16, 2006
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Habitat for Humanity ReStore
7770G Richmond Highway Alexandria, VA 22306
Washington-based photographer, Gene Byron, has photographed New Orleans extensively. His collection of New Orleans black and white and color photos capture the soul of the “Big Easy” as well as its unique architecture and way of life. Framed and unframed photos will be on display and available for sale. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity of Northern Virginia’s Rebuilding Biloxi Partnership.
There is no charge for admission. Refreshments will be served.
RSVP by March 10 to Habitat for Humanity: 703 521-9890 Ext. 105.

IIDA
No Local Events, but the DC Chapter recieved the 2005 Potomac Award from ASID. See DesignMatters for details. (Oh, I'm in this months welcome section - yay!)

IDSA
Cityscapes Revealed: Highlights from the Collection
December 3, 2005 / Long term
This first-ever retrospective exhibition of the National Building Museum’s unique collection explores quintessentially American, 20th-century buildings from center-city mansions to main street storefronts and sleek downtown skyscrapers. Anchored by a series of large architectural elements, this walking tour of the cityscape is complemented by exquisitely detailed drawings; rare, early-20th-century photographs; and smaller-scale fragments from National Historic Landmarks—including the former U.S. Pension Building, the Museum’s extraordinary home.

http://www.nbm.org/Exhibits/current/cityscapes.html

Interesting News

2006-02-17T07:08:00.000-08:00

Recently, the Organization of Black Designers was featured in Black Enterprise Magazine. So, as a follow-up, I went to the OBD/DC website and found the following announcement:
"Effective January 31, 2006, OBD/DC, OBD/Chicago and OBD/SFBA, as remaining chapters, are no longer affiliated with the national Organization of Black Designers." More info at the following link: http://www.focusondesign.org/OBDDC1-2006.htm
I'm going to try and contact the DC Office to see what's going on and how I can get involved...

Audiovisual Integration and Interior Design

2006-02-16T10:10:00.000-08:00

Audiovisual Integration and Interior Design - a topic that most concerns me since I'd like to design for a company that utilizes my Audio/Video background. The final project in my "Current Issues in Interior Design" course was a presentation on a topic regarding, of course, Interior Design. The following is my paper:

They are used everyday – our TV’s, our radios, our iPods and our computers…all a part of our exposure to the audiovisual world. So, now that multimedia is part of our everyday life, how are Audiovisual Integrators and Interior Designers working to match our digital lifestyle with our environment? I will identify the major similarities and differences between audiovisual integration and interior design and discuss the different ways the two can, and are, bridging the gaps.

We live in an information age, an age that is based on quick communication. Says Lisa Bottom, a principal of Bottom Duvivier, “We are raising an entire generation of fast movers and slow readers who have to be able to work quickly and visually.” How we communicate has changed drastically with improved technological trends. Think about it – what audio or video communication have you had this week?

Terminal Information Displays at the airport
Department Store paging and music systems
Movie Theater sights and sounds

All of these are examples of services that the audiovisual industry designs and installs. InfoComm International defines the audiovisual industry as audio, video, display and environment technology. This definition covers a range of specializations in the residential and commercial markets.

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs contends that following food, water and air, the next basic human need is security – a need to seek shelter to protect from harm. The Interior Design industry reinforces this need by enhancing the function, safety and quality of interior spaces. Think about the room you woke up in today or the classroom or office you went to last week. Did you feel safe? Could you easily navigate the building and not feel lost? Chances are a professional Interior Designer played a role in planning that space.

Electronic infrastructure, as defined by Jeff Goldstein of Sony, is “the art of integrating electronic systems into a homeowner’s lifestyle and environment”. The definition holds true for audiovisual integration and includes work and educational environments. Home theaters, Conference Rooms and Lecture Halls are all examples of typical audiovisual integration.
When designing a space, Interior Designers formulate a solution based on “client needs, goals and life & safety requirements” while incorporating creative design. Homes, Hotels and Office buildings are only a few examples where Interior Design solutions are used.

Audiovisual and Interior Design share three major similarities. Both have parallel processes, environmental considerations and can be customized to the clients liking. The process of audiovisual integration begins with a consultation with the potential client. The Audiovisual Consultant listens to the client and in some cases will conduct a preliminary survey of the site. After listening to the clients’ needs and wants, the Audiovisual Consultant will carefully plan and present the design of the audiovisual system(s). The Audiovisual Consultant will then draw up a formal quote for the cost of the equipment, wiring, programming and installation of the system and if the client approves, they will then begin the build-out of the system.

The Interior Designer’s process is spread out over six stages. As summarized from the International Interior Design Association, they are as follows:

Programming is the stage where the clients’ needs and goals are identified and evaluated against existing conditions and documentation. The project resources and code requirements are gathered and planning of budgets and work plans are developed.

Conceptual Design is the stage where the preliminary design is presented to the client for discussion purposes.

The Design Development stage is when the final design is presented along with detailed interior specifics, such as furnishings, fixtures and finishes. Also, the budgets are finalized and the entire project is submitted for client approval.

In Contract Administration, the permits have been acquired and the build out has begun. Additionally, there is a constant monitoring of contractors and supplier timeliness.

During and after the build, the Evaluation stage is used to review progress as a representative of the client.

As referenced in the beginning of this text, Audiovisual Integration also includes environmental technology, i.e. – lighting control and security systems. In the residential market, this environmental technology is also known as home automation. Typically, Audiovisual Integrators can build in remote control systems for business use as well – controlling lighting for Videoconferencing is a major issue; poorly lit rooms can distort images and distract participants from the meeting content. Interior Design’s environmental considerations encompass physical safety and psychological influences in the space. An Interior Designer must adhere to building and safety codes when designing a space. In the case of both disciplines, they each provide solutions for control over an interior environment.

Customization is the center of both Interior Design and Audiovisual Integration. Every individual, business or organization has a different need. Customization in Audiovisual Integration provides different solutions to these varied needs. Steve Segall, owner of Audio Video Concepts and Design, customizes audiovisual systems for yacht owners. The same holds true for Interior Designers, who design spaces around their client’s lifestyle. Companies who target the Interior Design market are supplying the means to make personalization possible. Take Carnegie Fabric’s new Tattoo line. Based on a target 18-25 year old market, the fabric can be customized with six different designs for furniture upholstery jobs.

For two industries that work in the same markets, there are glaring differences that exist between the two. While Interior Design is a more established industry, Audiovisual Integration still exists as an afterthought. Audiovisual consultants are trained and developed to engineer audio and video systems, large and small, yet they are often called in at the middle of a build because the initial knowledge to design a space for an audiovisual system was misunderstood or undervalued. Jennifer Barnes, director of RTKL Associates says “Audio-visual design should be like a good waiter - you should barely notice the technology until you need it. In the past a lack of understanding and communication between interior designers and AV consultants could lead to the awkward placement of AV equipment, poor performance, and generally inelegant solutions”. In some cases, the client is clear about wanting audiovisual systems in their designs, but designers shy away from it. Chuck Wilson, executive director of the National Systems Contractors Association, states, “When we were talking about how cool our [audiovisual] systems are, what they [designers] were hearing was how many things could go wrong. They feared having a risk exposure that wasn’t worth it in view of the amount of money involved. Quite often they would do whatever they could to design around any sort of technology”. Basically, designers would turn audiovisual systems into a “furnished by owner” item, neglecting the fact that many audiovisual systems require specific ventilation for their heat-generating hardware. Roseanne Bell, an interior designer with expertise in designing for technology, insists that “The main thing designers need to know – and if they’d learn this it would solve an awful lot of problems – is to get the A/V Consultant or systems integrator onboard at the very beginning of a project”.

So how are the two bridging these gaps? Through education, business development and cross networking both industries are seeking common links. Infocomm International and the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association offer several courses for Interior Designers and Architects. The Interior Design Continuing Education Council recently approved Kayye Consulting, an audiovisual marketing and consulting firm, to provide continuing education services to interior designers – they have also received the same approval from the American Institute of Architects. The seminars will enable interior designers and architects to plan for integration of audiovisual systems into their commercial projects.

Some Interior Design firms are also starting to add Audiovisual-specific departments to their business operation. RTKL Associates, an architecture and design firm located in Baltimore, Maryland, recently added an audiovisual design department to their setup. Tony Warner, the lead Audiovisual Consultant with the firm, says, “Bringing AV design services inside an architectural firm represents a milestone for AV consulting. For years, architectural firms have incorporated engineering divisions, but AV design was generally an orphaned cousin to the rest of the design team.”

Additionally, audiovisual and interior design associations are increasingly providing more opportunities for professionals to “cross-network”. CEDIA’s 2006 Electronic Lifestyles® Forum is aimed at solidifying the relationships between audiovisual integrators, interior designers and architects. The Forum will include discussion panels as well as outreach education sessions.

Overall, audiovisual integrators and interior designers, being similar in process and familiar with customization, are beginning to work together to address our technology needs. Through education, business development and cross networking, the audiovisual industry is reaching out to the design industry in order to unite our way of living with our environment.

Been a long time...

2006-02-16T09:55:00.000-08:00

I started this blog with the intent of chronicling my interior design education, but I wasn't quite sure what to say in it...I mean, I'm not the "expert" on interior design. But after my first semester, I had time to really sit and think about this journey I'm on...the journey to design. It's not just a job or a career - it's a way of thinking and a way of being. And I may not know everything about interior design, but I need to write about it anyway...after all, it is a way...a path. So, my mission in this blog is to indeed share what I'm learning and what I observe with those I meet in the design industry. So...welcome!

yours,

Aisha

Career Change

2005-10-22T09:59:00.000-07:00

Last year I decided that it was time for me to go back to school. My mom was after me to get an MBA and although I knew the advantage of having business skills in the workplace, I wasn't completely sold on doing anything that didn't involve any kind of creativity. But, I got a GMAT tutor anyway and from Sept 04 to Jan 05 I studied for the GMAT. Around Feb 05, I picked up a book called "Making a Living Without a Job"...reading this book inspired me to do something I've always wanted to do - design. So, I applied to a local graduate program, took the GRE, prayed and here I am. I'm not exactly sure where this will take me, but I have a plan and that works for me!
This blog will generally be about my trip through interior design...it's not what you think it is!!