Perspective Fall/09

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J O U R N A L O F T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L I N T E R I O R D E S I G N A S S O C I AT I O N

www.iida.org

FALL 2009


CONTENTS

FALL

20 09

F E AT U R E S 10

BUSTING THE GREAT CONSTRUCTION MYTH BY MICHELLE BOWLES

18

REDESIGNING THE FUTURE INTERVIEWS BY RENE RYAN

10

28

SERENE IN THE CITY BY ASHLEY D E VECHT

STANDARD

36

FRAMES OF MIND BY MEREDITH LANDRY

OF PERFORMANCE

18

D E PA RT M E N T S 40

MATTERS OF DESIGN BY JEANNE HELLER FISHER

42

FORUM FOCUS FACILITY PLANNING AND DESIGN

44

RESOURCES BY ASHLEY DEVECHT

28

3ONATA #OLLECTION !RCHITECTURAL 2ESPONSE +OLLECTION )NC

46

INDUSTRY MEMBERS

47

AD INDEX

48

WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF DESIGN?

36

(ALLADAY 3TREET 3ANTA !NA #ALIFORNIA WWW ARK INC COM

!N ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY COMPANY

½NE CASEGOODS fa l l 2 0 0 9

1


N a t i o n a l Te r r a z z o & M o s a i c A s s o c i a t i o n The Miami International Airport South Terminal Expansion

presents the

Designer/Artist Sato Services, LLC Seattle, Washington Communications Arts Inc. Boulder, Colorado

2 0 0 9 H o n o r Aw a r d s The 2009 Honor Awards are presented by the National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association (NTMA). In its 86th year, the Awards honor superior craftsmanship in terrazzo installations and recognize excellence in design and function.

Miami, Florida

The NTMA establishes national standards for all terrazzo floor and wall systems and provides complete specifications, color plates and general information to architects and designers at no cost.

Architect Borelli & Associates Rodriquez & Quiroga Miami, Florida

National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association 2009 Honor Awards

JOB OF THE YEAR

Indianapolis International Airport Weir Cook Terminal Indianapolis, Indiana The Great Circle Route University of Wisconsin - Madison Grainger Hall Addition

Madison, Wisconsin

Designer/Artist The Zimmerman Design Group Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Designer/Artist Lynn Basa Design Chicago, Illinois

Architect The Zimmerman Design Group Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Career and Technology Center

Frisco, Texas

Architect SHW Group, Inc.

Phoenix Convention Center Phase II

Phoenix, Arizona

Designer/Artist Gensler; Beth Harmon-Vaughan Moody Arts, Troy Moody Phoenix, Arizona

World Market Center

Designer/Artist Jerde Partners Venice, California

Architect HOK Kansas City-Sport Kansas City, Missouri

The National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association, Inc.

(800) 323-9736

www.ntma.com

info@ntma.com

Architect JMA Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada


Houston, Texas

Photo Credit: Mark Dean, Dean Photography

Walnut Bend Elementary School

Designer/Artist VLK Architects, Inc. Houston, Texas Architect VLK Architects, Inc. Houston, Texas

Winona State University Maxwell Hall

A Condominium for Bart Kavanaugh and Betty Saks

Miami Beach, Florida

Designer/Artist Christopher Coleman Interior Design Brooklyn, New York

Children’s Medical Center Legacy Campus

Winona, Minnesota

Plano, Texas

Designer/Artist Teresa Cox St. Paul, Minnesota Architect Page Southerland Page LLP Dallas, Texas

Architect Holabird and Root Rochester, Minnesota

Photo Credit: Michael McBride & Jeremiah Adametz

Fontainebleau Hotel & Resorts

Designer/Artist Bill Glass & Demos Glass Locust Grove, Oklahoma Architect Cesar Pelli & Matrix Architects Inc. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Cambridge War Memorial

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Miami Beach, Florida

Photo Credit: Brennan Rimer Photographix

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Photo Credit: George Bouret

Photo Credit: Leslie Carrio

The Bank of Oklahoma Center

Designer/Artist BC Architects Coral Gables, Florida Architect BC Architects Coral Gables, Florida

The Vue at Lake Eola

Designer/Artist Forum Studio, Inc. St. Louis, Missouri Architect HMFH Architects, Inc. Cambridge, Massachusetts

Architect Forum Studio, Inc. St. Louis, Missouri

Orlando, Florida


PRICE $4.95

FROM IIDA

IIDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2008–2009 President DERRELL PARKER, FIIDA President-Elect VIVECA BISSONNETTE, IIDA, CID, LEED ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL

For designers, and most creative professionals, inspiration is sparked from many sources:

Vice President of Communications STEVE McCOLLOM, IIDA, AIA

images, places, words, photos, music, people, dreams, impressions, drawings or diversions. The common thread is that inspiration leads us to a story; sometimes amazing, sometimes

Vice President of Government & Regulatory Affairs LAURA TRIBBLE, IIDA, ASID

confounding — always essential.

Vice President of Members LARAYNE LUNDELL, IIDA

For five years, Perspective has followed a brilliant formula developed by a team of bright, enthusiastic creatives who took the best of what Perspective could be, broke it into iconic components and wrapped it back together with cohesive graphics and enlightened content to present a thought leadership tome that Members and design enthusiasts would anticipate and devour every quarter. Now we’re taking a crack at raising the

winning studio Legendre+Rutter. You can

bar. When others follow the same path, we

learn more about Legendre’s concept cre-

are flattered by the imitation but recognize it’s

ation on page 8.

time to advance our own publication mission.

Also premiering in this issue, we introduce

This issue premieres a new focus for the

a new feature, “Myth Busting.” In the current

cover, which features the work of creative

economy, the industry is changing quickly. We

thought leaders who relish every facet of

make a strong case to destroy some of the

design and celebrate the process. Love it,

preconceptions blocking creative unity in our

like it, question it, but take some time to think

world. We take a big swing at the Construction

about it. We hope this new initiative helps to

vs. Designer conflict, and find that there are

create new ways to connect, communicate

some very successful relationships out there.

and charge ahead. Take advantage of this

We’re telling stories, in more ways than

change to discover a new perspective on

just words and articles. Enjoy our first instal-

the design process, as presented by award-

lation. And let us know what you think.

Vice President of Professional Development FELICE SILVERMAN, IIDA Vice President of Industry Relations ALLEN PARKER, INDUSTRY IIDA Executive Vice President/CEO CHERYL S. DURST, HON. FIIDA, LEED ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVE TEAM Publisher CHERYL S. DURST, HON. FIIDA, LEED ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL cdurst@iida.org Editorial Director JEANNE HELLER FISHER jfisher@iida.org

14 highly sustainable products.

Perspective Editorial Advisory Board SUZANNE BECKMAN, IIDA VIVECA BISSONNETTE, IIDA, CID DAVID HANSON, IIDA, FIDIBC, IDC, RID STEVE McCOLLOM, IIDA, AIA LANCE RUTTER FELICE SILVERMAN, IIDA BILL WITTLAND Advertising Representation STEVEN M. FISHER, FISHER MEDIA stevenmfisher@gmail.com Printing and Distribution eDoc Communications IMAGINATION PUBLISHING 312.887.1000 www.imaginepub.com EVP, Associations REBECCA ROLFES rrolfes@imaginepub.com SVP, GM Associations JOE STELLA jstella@imaginepub.com Associate Director, Client Strategy RENE RYAN rryan@imaginepub.com

DERRELL PARKER, FIIDA 2009–2010 IIDA PRESIDENT

Senior Art Director TIFFANY MEHNERT tmehnert@imaginepub.com Senior Editor MEREDITH LANDRY mlandry@imaginepub.com Director of Production and Operations HEATHER SLATTERY hslattery@imaginepub.com

CHERYL S. DURST, HON. FIIDA, LEED AP IIDA EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT/CEO

6

fall 2009

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Production Manager ERIKA MEINERS emeiners@imaginepub.com

800.899.8916 johnsonite.com


THE SEDUCTION OF DESIGN

IIDA HEADQUARTERS STAFF 888.799.IIDA Monica DeAngelis, Manager of Member Services and Chapter Relations, mdeangelis@iida.org Sara Downs, Receptionist, sdowns@iida.org Cheryl S. Durst, Executive Vice President/CEO, cdurst@iida.org

In an effort to stay fresh, maintain design initiative and stretch professionals’ imaginations, IIDA reached out to Yann Legendre, graphics guru, to create a cover for this issue of Perspective. Love it? Can’t figure it out? Read on for the designer’s own insight about the work…

Elizabeth Fidoruk, CPA, Director of Finance, efidoruk@iida.org Jeanne Heller Fisher, Senior Director, Communications and Marketing, jfisher@iida.org Jennifer Hunter, Executive Assistant, jhunter@iida.org

The cover illustration has as much to do with the act of making as it does with the resulting artifact. In order to make a great poster, you must be able to sense the policeman or soldier lurking around the corner as you apply your message of provocation to the wall. You must feel the edge of the precipice, and step over it. Great design, universally, is about the creation of that which evokes and provokes. The seduction of great design can be a soft whisper in your ear or the smoke-crackled voice of a blues singer — raw, coarse and unapologetic in its call to your emotions. This cover is about that kind of seduction of design. The kind that leaves us saying, "I don't need to know exactly how or why this space or object was made, I only know that I love it. And I won't settle for anything else."

internationally recognized graphic designer and illustrator. Legendre utilizes a multiform visual approach to graphic design that he coined “Design Life” — an approach that requires imagery to provoke emotional thoughtfulness. Legendre’s book designs have been recognized with awards from AIGA’s “50 Books / 50 Covers” and “Les Plus Beaux Livres Français.” His illustration for The New York Times’ “Arts & Culture” section in 2008 won multiple awards. Legendre’s posters have been exhibited in France, Switzerland, Germany, Poland, Finland, Japan, China, Iran, Bolivia, Mexico and the United States. Learn more at www.LegendreRutter.com.

THE ASSOCIATION FOR DESIGN PROFESSIONALS PERSPECTIVE IS THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL INTERIOR DESIGN ASSOCIATION, © 2009

8

fall 2009

PHONE FAX E-MAIL WEB

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Dennis Krause, Senior Vice President, dennis_krause@comcast.net Jane Larkin, Research Librarian, jlarkin@iida.org Jessica Leung, IT Coordinator, jleung@iida.org Allison Levy, JD, Managing Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs, alevy@iida.org Carmen O’Donnell, Communications Manager, codonnell@iida.org Ely Padilla, Manager of Education Services, epadilla@iida.org Jenny Palmer, Manager of Industry Relations and Special Events, jpalmer@iida.org Imelda Santos, Accounting Manager, isantos@iida.org

Yann Legendre, a French designer who left his Paris studio in 2005 to work in Chicago, is an

INTERNATIONAL INTERIOR DESIGN ASSOCIATION (IIDA), 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 567 Chicago, IL 60654-1103 USA

Michelle Kraker, Manager, Student Marketing and Social Media, mkraker@iida.org

888.799.IIDA 312.467.0779 PERSPECTIVE@IIDA.ORG WWW.IIDA.ORG

Lisa Toth, Director of Membership, ltoth@iida.org Martha Victor, Managing Director, Education and Professional Development, mvictor@iida.org Sharon Williams, Managing Director, Operations and Administrative Services, swilliams@iida.org Sarah Winchester, Staff Accountant II, swinchester@iida.org perspective@iida.org www.iida.org IIDA VISION AND MISSION IIDA, with respect for past accomplishments of interior design leaders, strives to create a strong niche for the most talented and visionary interior design professionals, to elevate the profession to the level it warrants, and to lead the way for the next generation of interior design innovators. The Association provides a forum to demonstrate design professionals’ impact on the health, safety, well-being and virtual soul of the public, balancing passion for good design and strategy for best business practices. IIDA stands at the intersection of passion and strategy where designers create extraordinary interiors and experiences.


As an interior designer, you’ve likely heard of or experienced firsthand construction projects turned turf battles. On occasion, relationships between interior designers and general contractors can become plagued with costly change orders and destructive communication breakdowns. Those general contractors and construction professionals just don’t get it, right?

Not so, say those in the construction field. It’s a misunderstanding on both sides. In fact, many have worked to educate designers and enhance the overall experience for them. It’s more than possible for interior designers and general contractors to work together seamlessly, effectively and efficiently. It’s simply a matter of solid communication, viewing the project from a holistic perspective, and respecting one another’s differences and unique skill sets.

By Michelle Bowles Illustration By Yann Legendre

BUSTING the great

construction MYTH


THE interior designer PERSPECTIVE

GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDING OPTIONS •

LUMP SUM PROPOSAL (CLOSED BOOK). The bidding contractor provides a bottom-line price inclusive of all documented scope. Line-item trade breakdowns are included for reference only and are subject to change at the contractor’s discretion as long as the bottom line doesn’t increase. Subcontractor proposals are collected by the general contractor and are not for review by the owner or designer. Subcontractor cost savings revert to the contractor, and cost overruns are the contractor’s burden. This option is best when drawings are in the bid document phase or the construction document phase.

Effective working relationships between interior designers and general contractors are vital to successful — and economical — projects. Yet, at times, interior designers say construction professionals fail to understand the designer’s role and point of view.

in the process, only to find the general contractor would fail to

NEGOTIATED, GENERAL CONDITIONS AND FEE (OPEN BOOK). The bidding contractor provides a proposal that includes only

order the materials in a timely fashion. When a material wasn’t

the cost for his or her services to complete the project, not the subcontractor costs. The “general conditions” portion consists of

available in the timeframe it was needed, Mitsch would have to

the contractor’s out-of-pocket expenses to properly man the project, including job site labor, project management, dumpsters and

re-specify. “The general contractor of this project made sure the

tools. The “fee” is typically represented by a percentage of the overall construction costs. The project team selects subcontractors

materials I specified were ordered early, and he warehoused

(all quotes are shared and reviewed openly). Subcontractor cost reductions are a direct savings to the tenant. This option is best

them,” she says. “That was a first. I wasn’t called in at the last minute to re-specify.” In the end, it was the client who benefited from fewer change

when drawings are still in the space-planning phase. •

GUARANTEED MAXIMUM PRICE (OPEN BOOK). The bidding contractor provides a proposal that includes subcontractor quotes based on design drawings. It includes allowances and necessary items to complete the project. The GMP is based on a

orders thanks to the well-connected team. In fact, for its next project,

combination of hard quotes and budgets, as documents aren’t entirely complete. The contractor guarantees that the total project

the client didn’t even bid out; the entire team was hired once

cost will not exceed the proposed amount based on the scope available. Cost savings are typically shared between the owner and

again. “It was a win-win for everyone,” Mitsch says.

the contractor. This option is best when drawings are in the design development phase.

Clearly, examples like this prove general contractors can work with interior designers seamlessly and effectively. So why are so many

Source: Jon Runquist, Sonoma Construction

designer/contractor relationships strained? COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN

designer and the contractor. Had the contractor just been on top

not only reduces the risk of having to re-specify materials, but also

“WE [DESIGNERS] DO MAKE MISTAKES. POINT IT OUT TO US. WE HAVE TO COVER A LOT OF DETAIL IN A SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME.”

the different perspectives helped to make the

of it, there wouldn’t have been a problem. They got themselves

helps the designer come up with more accurate cost estimates.

— Jeryl Mitsch, owner and President of

project go so smoothly,” says Mitsch, owner and

in a jam and had to make a substitution.”

During the beginning stages of a recent project

A lack of communication is one of the biggest hindrances to

“General contractors either aren’t given enough time or they are

in which interior designer Jeryl Mitsch was

positive designer/contractor relationships, says Jennifer Barnes,

not proactive in ordering materials earlier,” she says.

involved, the project’s general contractor did

IIDA, LEED AP, Vice President of RTKL Associates in Baltimore.

something Mitsch had never before encountered.

On rare occasions, she’s experienced contractors who substituted

He gathered the entire team  everyone from

the interior design team and the architect to the

products or materials without approval from the interior designer.

stone ordered from the Middle East. “The general contractor

“It’s very frustrating when the contractor doesn’t provide proper

dropped the ball and didn’t order in time. But by some miracle, I

 and asked a simple but direct question: What’s

documentation on the substitute product. By the time we knew

stepped in and found 20,000 square feet of stone at the last minute

about it, the product was already installed,” says Barnes, IIDA’s

in the United States. But that’s not my job,” she says, adding that

the worst thing that has happened to you when

Facility Planning & Design Forum Advisor. “Not only is this a

having to do so negatively affected her billing hours and fees.

working with a general contractor?

breach of contract, but it diminishes the rapport between the

Involving the contractor early on during the design phase, she says,

landscape architect and the electrical engineer

“Everyone had a different story to tell, but all

President of Indianapolis-based Mitsch Design,

Shannon O’Kelley Berler, Principal at Studio 5 Design and

Another issue arises, Mitsch says, when contractors do not fully

Inc. “It was a wonderful experience. The general

Architecture in Coconut Grove, Fla., echoes the complaint that

to questions that are clearly defined in the drawings. “The prob-

contractors find themselves in a bind when they fail to order

lem with that from an interior designer’s standpoint is we make

materials on time. But she says that can be a result of the client

our money hourly,” she says. “If we have to be on site [answering

not bringing the contractor onto the project early enough.

unnecessary questions], it gets expensive.”

Mitsch told the general contractor that, often,

fall 2009

w w w. i i da . o r g

Indianapolis-based Mitsch Design, Inc.

review drawings. Some will call the interior designer for answers

contractor really pulled the entire team together.” she would specify materials for a project early

12

That was a major issue on a recent large-scale hotel renovation project for which O’Kelley Berler needed 20,000 square feet of

fa l l 2 0 0 9

13


That said, when a contractor does find a dis-

that must be hooked up to the electrical system, but the two may

best to point it out, Mitsch says. “If there is

not be compatible, Mitsch says. “That requires going to the client

something questionable in the drawing 

to tell them what’s happened and that it’s going to cost more,”

maybe an electrical outlet in two different

she says.

shouldn’t make an assumption,” she says. “We

LET’S GET TOGETHER

do make mistakes. Point it out to us. We have to

The key to happy designer/contractor relationships, Wood says, is

cover a lot of detail in a short amount of time.”

finding a process that works, and communicating that process to all

places on two different drawings  contractors

In those instances, Barnes says, it’s important

players. “That includes a well-defined scope of the project, a clear

for the contractor to be proactive in contributing

understanding of each player’s responsibility for the project, an

to the solution, not just looking for errors. It’s

established order for reporting information and making decisions,

also important to follow communication proto-

a team approach to resolving issues throughout the project, and

col while doing so. “Usually you want a writ-

open and clear communications within the team and with the

ten request for information submitted to the

client,” she says.

designer and a phone call or e-mail as a heads-

Barnes says it is possible to create an effective designer/

up, giving the designer adequate time to react,”

contractor relationship through teamwork and respect for each

she says. “Some contractors are good at com-

other. “It’s a matter of respecting one another’s areas of expertise,”

munication, but maybe not at managing that

she says. “We [designers] know the design intent; contractors

information flow. It may be a tedious process,

know means and methods. You want a contractor who brings

but it’s a mechanism to ensure designer intent

that value.”

is met and to safeguard everyone from incurring additional cost.” Lastly, oftentimes interior designers are not

Working as a team, Mitsch adds, sometimes involves standing

LOOKING THROUGH THE construction LENS General contractors and construction professionals clear up a few common misconceptions that interior designers may have regarding how they work and why they do what they do.

Operations Director for the Dallas Division of MAPP Construction LLC, contractors have valuable experience in determining how particular design details may impact the schedule, for instance. “Generally speaking, general contractors have a reputation for being just builders who are unable to provide design assistance,” he says. “Given the opportunity, general contractors have much to offer regarding details and field best practices. At MAPP, our pre-construction department routinely works with architects and designers to help prepare budgets and review details for the end-users.”

No. 2

Not all general contractors are created equal. Just as individual interior designers have

At the root of it, construction professionals rec-

unique skill sets and expertise, every general contractor has a

ognize that a lack of communication is to blame

specific level of experience and background to best suit a particular

up for one another. If an unresolved problem comes up while the

for rocky designer/contractor relationships 

client is on site, the worst possible reaction would be for the con-

just as interior designers do. Ironic, isn’t it? Yet while both parties agree on the importance

project. Unfortunately, Runquist says, cost is often the deciding factor when choosing a general contractor. “You need to feel good about the guys you hire. In this economy, it’s hard to sell that,” he

brought onto the project early enough, says

tractor to place blame on the interior designer, or vice versa. “That

Joanna Wood, President of Club Design Group,

breaks down trust in the team,” she says. “Instead, pull your team

of solid and constant communication, oftentimes,

says. “If one contractor quotes $900,000 and another quotes $1

Inc., in Port Charlotte, Fla. “Unfortunately, too

together, work it out and then go to the client with the solution. I

that open dialog just doesn’t exist. “You have

million, you may go with the $900,000 guy and hope it’s OK. But

often the interior designer isn’t brought on

tell my team that if the contractor has done a messy job of hanging

designers on one side, architects on one side and

you get what you pay for at some point.”

board until they’re ready to ‘pick colors,’” she

wall coverings, wait until the client is gone before you talk with

the general contractor on another side,” says Jon

Instead, interior designers should look for contractors who have

says. “It is important that the client understands

the contractor.”

Runquist, President of Chicago-based Sonoma

worked on like projects. “When you get a lineup of contractors who

that each professional brings a different and important set of skills to the project. The interior

Construction, LLC. “We have to all throw our

have done similar projects, you are going to get similar numbers.

interior designer and the general contractor benefit the client’s

cards on the table. Everyone needs to have an

When they haven’t done similar projects, you get big variations in

In the end, solid teamwork and communication between the

designer approaches the project from a func-

bottom line by more cost-effective construction. “The client will

open discussion about what their role on the

numbers,” he says. Likewise, designers should choose contractors

tional and aesthetic perspective: How will the

end up with a better project and fewer change orders,” Barnes

project is.”

who fit with their personalities. “Hiring someone who is cheap

client use the building now and in the future?

says. Plus, adds Wood, “there is less stress for everyone involved

Where and what kind of storage is needed?”

and higher levels of trust by all parties.”

Joining the project late in the process, Mitsch says, leads to even more communication

14

brought onto the project late might specify system furniture

crepancy in the interior designer’s drawings, it’s

And as Mitsch has experienced first-hand, these effective working relationships don’t just lead to additional work in

breakdowns. The client may communicate to

the future. “I’ve worked with clients and contractors who have

the designer his or her intent for the project,

finished the project and become friends. I have clients who

but that may not align with the contractor or

come to my home for dinner parties,” she says. “It’s a way to

architect’s vision. For instance, a designer

develop larger networks.”

fall 2009

w w w. i i da . o r g

So what is it exactly that construction professionals want interior designers to know about

but doesn’t do things the way you like is going to make for a long project,” Runquist says.

how they operate and how to work with them most effectively?

No. 3

Interior designers should become familiar with general contractors’ bidding structure.

General contractors are more

No. 1

Runquist says it’s important for interior designers to understand

than just builders.

the three types of bid options and determine which is right for

In reality, says Damion Pourciau, Construction

them. “It’s getting a bit muddied,” he says. “Interior designers are

fa l l 2 0 0 9

15


asking for a combination of all three put together. It’s hard to

a designer may specify lighting fixtures to

on, you can understand everything that’s going

compete in that market.” Read “General Contractor Bidding

be installed in certain places on the ceiling

on in the space.”

Options” (pg. 13) to learn more about the three bid options.

without knowing what’s above the ceiling that

No. 4

Keep the communication

Interior designers aren’t the only ones who

you go to install the lights, you might realize

No. 5

should be included in project discussions

there’s an A/C duct or some other obstruction

project. In addition to the upfront team meetings,

could have an impact. “So in the end, when

lines open throughout the

early on. By not involving the construction professionals in

that will prevent you from installing it in the

Pourciau recommends team meetings throughout

the early planning stages, the team may experience costly

desired location,” he says. “If you can get the

the course of the project, ideally once a week. “It’s

mistakes on the project’s back end. For example, Pourciau says,

team together and look at the big picture early

really hard to do, especially in a down economy where everyone is looking at the bottom line,” he

IN HIS SHOES: From the Client’s Point of View Mark Hutchinson, President of Dunhill Partners West, a commercial real estate investment firm in San Francisco, weighs in on his experience working with interior designers and general contractors.

says. “But in the end, it saves you money.”

IN HER SHOES: From the Client’s Point of View Mona Grandinetti, Senior Project Manager for Pace Management, LLC, in Atlanta, shares her experience working with the construction and interior design teams on the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter ballroom renovation.

Q: AS A PROPERTY

No. 6

Reinforce the design intent

MANAGER FOR NEW

as much and in as many

AND EXISTING CON-

ways as possible. Some designers, Pourciau

STRUCTION PROJECTS,

says, fail to fully communicate the design intent

WHO DO YOU TYPICALLY

to construction professionals. It can be difficult

BRING ON BOARD

Q: WHAT MADE THE SAN ANTONIO MARRIOTT RIVERCENTER BALLROOM RENOVATION PROJECT

to communicate the intent on paper and through

FIRST: THE GENERAL

A SUCCESS?

drawings alone. Whenever possible, 3-D render-

CONTRACTOR, THE

A: The project is a prime example where the entire project team – client, brand, property, AE/ID,

ings are useful for construction professionals.

ARCHITECT OR THE

miscellaneous consultants, purchasing agent, onsite project manager, general contractor, subcontractors

“Providing information upfront rather than just

INTERIOR DESIGNER?

and vendors – truly became a cohesive unit. It was a fast-track, 91,000-square-foot interior

assuming everyone knows what’s in the designer’s

A: It depends on the

renovation project designed by [A&D firm] RTKL Associates, with [construction management firm]

head is an ongoing issue,” he says.

size of the project. For smaller projects, I would

Constructors & Associates putting more than $11 million of interior construction finishes and FFE in

Contractors are not trying

consult a general con-

to be critical of designers.

tractor first. For larger

schedule would have resulted in severe penalties, as a major convention was booked immediately

No. 7

following planned completion.

When an interior designer specifies a product that

or new projects, I would

doesn’t meet budget requirements, Runquist says,

first consult an architect.

place within 67 calendar days over three major holidays. Not meeting the aggressive construction

We had the right team at the right time. By executing a proactive approach, having multiple pre-con and coordination meetings, sometimes with 40-plus attendees, having a highly organized and

contractors may come back with an alternative that

experienced team committed to excellence, and effective and open communication lines, we finished

they believe retains the design intent but is within

with a quality project days ahead of schedule and within budget.

Q: HAVE YOU EVER EXPERIENCED A NEGATIVE DESIGNER/CONTRACTOR RELATIONSHIP?

A: Yes. Having issues on a project is not uncommon, so how the opportunity is tackled and resolved ultimately defines the success

budget. Designers shouldn’t feel threatened by this,

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM FOR A PROJECT?

he says. “We’re not trying to redesign because we

A: I look at past projects and determine if their design strengths and work

think something doesn’t look good. We’re just

experience fits with the project.

trying to stay within budget,” he says.

of the team. Negative relationships cost all parties time, money, manpower and other valuable resources that could have been targeted

Q: WHAT GENERAL OBSERVATIONS HAVE YOU MADE ABOUT THE

Ultimately, interior designers and construc-

more effectively elsewhere.

Q: WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING AN

WORKING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DESIGNERS AND CONSTRUC-

tion professionals agree that what matters the

TION PROFESSIONALS? AND HOW CAN IT BE IMPROVED?

Q: WHAT “DO’S” AND “DON’TS” WOULD YOU OFFER TO INTERIOR DESIGNERS AND GENERAL CONTRACTORS?

most is that their working relationship leads to

A: Contractors may try to find simple solutions to complex design elements

A: Open communication and unfettered dialogue is a must. Have a partner mentality — we succeed or fail as a team. Follow-through

a satisfied client. “The worst possible thing is an

and cut corners in the process. Better communication between contractor,

is key. Always give 100-percent effort. Be flexible and receptive to new ideas. Playing the blame game is not effective. Address

unhappy client,” Pourciau says. “There are

designer and client may help the parties understand the necessity behind

concerns early to avoid prolonged and costly fixes. Own up to mistakes; we all make them.

always challenges on a project. It’s just a matter

certain designs and the need to stick to the plan.

of coming together to resolve them.”

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Four experienced residential designers discuss the evolution of the profession, from the recession to the popularization of interior design to the oversaturation of the marketplace — and ponder what lies ahead.

Redesigning the Future

Redesigning the

FUTURE

Interviews by Rene Ryan

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Perspective: The economy has impacted everyone at every wealth level. How have your clients’ requests and interests changed? What are you doing differently to meet the needs of those clients? Jane Gates-Raile: We used to do everything from

to be far more reticent to undertake further work.

costs of those items — and they do cost more in most

Whether it was a period of paralysis in the marketplace

cases. For instance, low-VOC or VOC-free paint

or perhaps a financially-induced case of [seasonal affect

costs more than regular paint and can significantly

disorder], the telephone barely rang. I found that I was

impact a budget.

doing a lot more follow-ups either by telephone (preferred) or email (too easy to ignore) to motivate clients. Also, there were some surprising suggestions from

brand new construction and model homes to kitchen

clients that we should be cutting our prices in step

Bonnell: They’ve definitely been more aware of the effect of rising prices for energy, and this can be relatively significant in the long term. But that is also rel-

and bath and full residential interiors. But today, the

with the economic downturn. But our philosophy was

ative to one’s wealth to some extent. Some countries,

builders aren’t building, and the clients aren’t buying as

that this would set a dangerous precedent that would

like England, for example, have more stringent

much furniture because they think it’s frivolous. But

be difficult to recover from when the market returned.

they will invest in kitchen and bath remodeling because

Instead … we reviewed every client file to confirm

guidelines pertaining to environmental laws, which have informed us and changed how we approach all

that’s perceived to be an investment rather than an

that we had tied up all loose ends for the completion

of our clients and the recommendations we make.

expense. And they’re a little more cautious about how

of each project. If there were items still to be accom-

We have embraced LED technology in a fairly

they’re spending, so we work with them on price man-

plished, we added them to our work list.

significant way — more so than compact fluorescents,

agement, shopping and budget considerations. Before

We made certain to communicate clearly to our

[the recession], people might have been a little bit easier

clients that if a budget needed to be reduced, we would

improved the technology significantly over the past

with their money. Now, they’re very savvy shoppers.

gladly offer substitutions that would reduce costs

year and … they are relatively discrete and long-lasting.

without compromising the outcome of the design.

Our firm is seriously interested in lighting technology

Laura Barnett Sawchyn: I find that everyone is much more mindful about what they are spending. Many are only interested in doing what absolutely has to be done and phasing certain purchases. Clients who have large projects are still going forward, since it is that or an empty house. Many have started looking into retail or

for its aesthetic value; the green factor is only icing

Perspective: As the public becomes more aware of green and sustainable issues in the business and product worlds, what is the impact on residential projects?

Internet options for items, looking to save money on

Stankiewicz: Certainly the public is more aware of

certain things, so they can splurge on others. Others

green design, and with that education, they want to

have actually expected sources and us to give bigger

do what they can to utilize the available products or

discounts, expecting high-end furnishings at lower prices.

repurpose items they already have. Every client I

Because we bill at an hourly fee plus percentage, we

which I continue to loathe — because they have

have requests [green options] or talks about them.

have always worked on both large and small projects,

Whether they choose to do it or not is another thing

so we know how to do it. Fortunately, I was ahead of

because sometimes they’re just not aware of the

the curve and downsized a few years ago when I could

on the cake. Low-VOC paints and finishes have become easier to apply and are more durable. And low-flow faucets, showers and low-volume toilets have also improved in design and performance so they’re easy to recommend.

Perspective: How has your business changed now that more resources are available to the public at retail both in brick-and-mortar stores and online? Are they better educated about the design process or more disillusioned?

still place employees elsewhere, moved to a smaller

Barnett Sawchyn: There is a certain amount of pre-

office space, and drastically reduced overhead.

or post-shopping that occurs. In general, I find it nice that I can send a client to a Web site for further infor-

William M. Stankiewicz: Obviously, people have become a little more budget-oriented. While in the past they may not have asked what something costs, they now do before we order. Clients are also looking at doing projects in stages after we come up with a completed plan. Fenwick Bonnell: Through the worst period of this downturn, from January to late May, I observed clients

mation or just to peruse the line. I find that most of

Fenwick Bonnell, IIDA, ASID, is the co-owner, along with David Powell, of Powell & Bonnell, a Torontobased residential design firm that launched in 1990.

my clients are not willing to purchase online because there is nobody that can take care of things that may go wrong. As far as retail, many items in stores are discounted to the same price I can buy for, which is disheartening. My contract includes two options of working ... so if clients decide to buy for themselves, my hourly rates increase.

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S PA C E

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A R T I C U L AT O R S

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Juxtaform, LLC / 888 589-8236 / www.juxtaform.com


Gates-Raile: Clients have become more familiar with

I do believe [the public] is more informed and

the process, but they don’t know how to put it together.

open to new ideas. But most clients understand that

jobs you have completed successfully, so we do our

They are educated, but don’t know how to manage

the designer has specific training and the ability to

utmost to provide superior service to our clientele.

it. Also, they rarely have the resources, experience or

produce results way beyond their expectations. That

creativity. That’s what I try to explain to them.

is why they hire us.

Stankiewicz: Clients are much more informed and educated than ever before, but my clients are not disillusioned about it at all. They know what to expect. The media is doing a great job in getting information out, not only to the design community, but also to the retail customer. For example,

Perspective: Historically, designers win business by reputation and word-of-mouth, but the world is changing even in this arena. Where do your strongest leads for new projects come from?

Ultimately, one’s reputation will be dictated by the

Perspective: The shape and makeup of residences has changed over the past 15 years. Larger, open spaces are part of the McMansion trend, while clean, open, contemporary spaces present opportunities at the opposite end of the home spectrum. Where do your clients fall in the continuum of home types, and how do you work with them to create inviting, warm homes?

Laura Barnett Sawchyn, IIDA, is a Chicago-based interior designer and owner of Laura Barnett Designs.

PitchRate.com has a partnership with IIDA. It is a

Gates-Raile: I advertise in the Tom Martino Trouble

free publicity tool that connects journalists with

Exclusive Referral Network, Google, the Better

experts like those in interior design. Because the

Business Bureau and Troubleshooter.com. Then I do

media can connect to these experts readily for free,

media advertisements. My leads come from all of

Barnett Sawchyn: Most of my clients are in urban

and materials — plus interesting shapes and warm

they can know the trends at a moment’s notice and

those resources plus referrals. Recently, a client

areas and even the suburban clients do not fall into the

colors help cozy it up, but first and foremost is layout

McMansion category. Even the very large residences

and furniture placement. The most beautiful item in

are more sophisticated. Large, open, multi-purpose

the world won’t work if it’s the wrong scale in the

rooms are in just about all new construction. The

wrong place.

“Ultimately, one’s reputation will be dictated by the jobs you have completed successfully.� deliver those to the public. The public can then be

found us in the Parade of Homes and that ended up being a $1 million project in just sales.

of the room is critical. Using great, textural fabrics

!2#()4%-03 ).#

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Fenwick Bonnell, IIDA, ASID

better informed with their own interior designers.

scale of the furniture and how it relates to the scale

What is important about the virtual world is information flows more rapidly. You have to be in

Stankiewicz: Reputation by word-of-mouth is still the

that beat as an interior designer.

way to win business. My strongest leads come from business contacts I’ve developed over the past 32 years.

Bonnell: Our clientele is barely affected by the prolif-

I find that in order to stimulate word-of-mouth you

eration of online shopping and home dĂŠcor specialty

not only have to do it with people you know, but also

stores. Our firm specializes in high-end custom

online with social networking sites like Facebook.

design, that is how we grew our business during the previous recession and that was the catalyst to building

Bonnell: Word-of-mouth is still the strongest tool to

our own collection of furnishings and lighting.

winning new business, but we have had to employ

A large percentage of our design process is still based on a market that is not generally available to the public without the assistance of a designer. We are

22

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magazine editorials. It is true that a picture is worth a thousand words, so many of our jobs are photographed and then

process works within our firm. That includes a clear

promoted by our public relations staff to get the images

scope of work and a timeline as to how the process

out to a wider audience through both domestic and

unfolds and when to expect certain things to occur.

international editorial markets.

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other methods including Web site promotion and

very clear at the initiation of a project how the design

fall 2009

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Bonnell: Our clientele is very broad in range and type from historical renovations to adaptive reuse and new construction. Our jobs range in square footage size because we like to be challenged by the variety of circumstances one faces from both types of jobs. Though I do have to admit to turning down a local job that we felt was too large for the client’s needs and risked being more of a “theme park� than a home.

Perspective: What do you see as emerging trends right now in residential design? Gates-Raile: Denver has been slow in picking up

“Let’s face it, the economy has really caused people to redefine what true wealth is for them and you will see it reflected in design preferences.� William M. Stankiewicz, FIIDA

are much more important than anything that can

true wealth is for them and you will see it reflected

happen over the computer. Design is internal. It’s

in design preferences.

the contemporary feel, but the emergence of these

personal — not a computer throwing out pre-fab

beautiful sleek styles are fabulous. A lot cleaner and

designs. Sure you can find products, but it’s the

Bonnell: It would appear that our clientele is becom-

less cluttered looks are becoming popular. And people

joy of creating something special that makes this

ing younger and more affluent, often with children

are looking for long-lasting products. Years ago,

business unique. That’s something you have to

and a career. This means that they are shedding the

when we would sell carpet, people would say, “I’m

communicate to your clients. You have to explain

style and tastes of their parents; the antiques are

going to buy the cheapest option and replace it in five

why you’re necessary.

being edited out to only the best, most unique pieces.

years.� But I try to help my clients understand that it’s wise to buy the best you can afford now and not

The living room is not just a place to entertain guests Barnett Sawchyn: Personalization is key — the

anymore and the kitchen isn’t a place to conceal a

replace it in five years. Design decisions are still the

“have it your way� method of selection. Custom

mess while your friends are impressed in the dining

same. The semi-retired and retired are following that,

is king. Of course, there is a trend toward clean,

room. The kitchen is becoming the hub of living and

but younger people aren’t.

entertaining. I see this trend continuing, refining itself in the years to come.

Bonnell: I think we’re going to see a lot of the follow-

In addition, land and energy costs could also

ing: Energy efficient appliances, LED technology,

affect the size of homes for the greater population

multi-use electronics, cleaner more modern dĂŠcor,

and we could see smaller, more efficient homes of

adaptive reuse of furnishings, hard surface flooring

higher quality that are planned for ease of living.

throughout, engineered pre-finished hardwood floors, and the use of a one-color scheme throughout.

Perspective: If you had a crystal ball, where would you predict the residential design world to be in 10 years?

Jane Gates-Raile, IIDA, is the owner of Interior Settings, a residential design firm in Denver. She has more than 40 years’ experience in Interior Design.

Urban centers will continue to become more densely populated so high-rise living will become more desirable, and not just the poor cousin to suburban living. Hopefully, developers will continue to present new ways for owners to live in these smaller spaces and abandon the 600-square-foot “two bedroom plus den� myth.

Gates-Raile: It will be very different than it is now.

Online Master of Science in Architecture Interior Design Specialization http://onlinegrad.unl.edu/IIDA

Being in business for 40 years, I’ve seen it make

contemporary lines, but ultimately people want

tremendous leaps and changes. The young designers

what they want. Very few ask what is the trend;

are going to have to learn a whole new way of

they choose what they like, colors and/or styles.

Perspective: What is your advice to interior designers starting out in the residential field? Barnett Sawchyn: Newbie designers should find

marketing and working with clients with fewer face-to-face interactions. And I don’t think this is for

Stankiewicz: In a word: Simple. Let’s face it, the

a very good firm with a superior who is willing to

the better. I think interactions on a personal level

economy has really caused people to redefine what

teach them the ropes — letting them contribute to

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design decisions by making suggestions. Of course, you have to filter their ideas before presenting

William M. Stankiewicz, FIIDA, has more than 30 years’ experience in Interior Design and is the owner and president of WMS Interiors, Ltd., a fullservice residential firm with offices in Hilton Head, S.C., and Atlanta.

them to the client, but how can they learn without the permission to try? Do not work for a bully or someone that doesn’t show you respect. Find a firm whose fundamental values match yours. Work really hard, be responsible, be willing and have a good attitude. Gates-Raile: It’s going to be a struggle. I’m down to two on my staff. It’s not going to go as quickly as it might have gone 10 to 15 years ago. Designers will need patience and persistence in order to stay involved in the business. Here in Denver, the design field is oversaturated. [Young people today]

“Urban centers will continue to become more densely populated, so high-rise living will become more desirable, and not just the poor cousin to suburban living.” Laura Barnett Sawchyn, IIDA

Three floors that move.

see television shows and it makes design seem so simple, but my advice is to get a good look at what is going on in the real world because that’s the only way to learn. Also, face-to-face interactions are going to be extremely necessary. We can communicate via email for the more mundane, but when it really comes to the design phase, I want that personal connection and contact. I also think the future of design is in the design fee. You can make a much better living with reasonable design fees that meet clients’ budgets than you can promoting product. I advocate for charging a flat fee by the project, not by the hour, but it varies from client to client. It’s a disgrace when you give yourself away. Stankiewicz: I would recommend [young designers] attend an accredited design school, complete their education there and become LEED certified. That is going to be important. And to be aware of state licensing efforts and know what that requires. Lastly, I would say they should get an apprenticeship at a well-respected design firm. Bonnell: Ask lots of questions. Write everything down. Be straightforward and honest, support your trades and learn from their experience. Do what is right, not what is easy, and always have your work professionally photographed.

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800.899.8916 johnsonite.com


SERENE IN THE CITY KOKO Architecture + Design, winner of the 17th Annual Will Ching Design Competition, crafted a winter wonderland in the heart of Manhattan.

By Ashley DeVecht

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Step into the More North gallery in New York and the hustle and bustle of city life will likely feel worlds away. White concrete floors, which give off the feeling of freshly fallen snow, guide visitors through this unique gallery, retail space and children’s playroom. Florescent light peeks through the thin metal walls, piercing the eyes the same way the winter sun might. And sleek birch trees, which shoot up through the space, make it seem as though you This wintry, Scandinavian ambiance is appropriate for a gallery of this kind; More North presents the work of Nordic painters and sculptors and also sells Scandinavian furniture, glass, ceramics and textiles. The space is intended to be a calm environment that reflects the timeless beauty and simplicity of Nordic design. The concept for the project was born in 2007, when the three principal partners and gallery owners — Monika A. Heimbold, Lena Biorck Kaplan and Linda Nordberg — decided to create a new Scandinavian art space in New York. To make their vision a reality, they turned to KOKO Architecture + Design, a small New York-based firm owned by husband and wife Adam Weintraub, AIA, and Mishi Hosono, AIA.

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Photography by Mikiko Kikuyama, www.mikikokikuyama.com

should snowshoe home, instead of hopping on the subway.


Highlights of the Design: White Concrete Floors “The white floor was a way to pull light in however we could,” Weintraub says about the gallery’s dyed white concrete floors, which are topped by a poured resin. “It definitely gives you the feeling of walking on freshly fallen snow.”

Birch Trees “Trees became an integral part of the design concept; a way of referencing not only the landscape of Scandinavia, but also the tradition of wood in modern Scandinavian architecture and design,” Hosono says. “By combining shorter lengths we were able to keep the diameter of the birch thick and control the curve of the wood. Through traditional wood joinery, we were able to splice the various pieces together into very convincing birch trees.”

Tree Storage Wall The focal point of the lower level is the “forest” built into the wall. Originally, half of the closets in the unit were intended for storage, now they are used as a group of play stations — including a dress-up closet, a computer station and an interactive play wall. “In our designs for children’s spaces, we always try to create elements that are open to children’s interpretations and imagination. By turning the trees into the negative space, the forest enters the imaginary world,” Weintraub says.

Florescent Light “We felt the lighting would enable us to create our

“More North was very clear about the overall concept

North design, especially after the KOKO team was

for the gallery: ‘A new showcase to feature all aspects of

three other architects and boasts a unique array of

allowed a sneak peek of the gallery’s art. “There is an

Scandinavian art and design for downtown New York,’”

international experience.

unusually strong connection between Scandinavian and

Weintraub says. “[We] began at the end of a hot summer,

Weintraub attended Cranbrook School in Bloomfield

and we were convinced that we wanted to create a

Hills, Mich., for prep school where he was surrounded

Nordic landscape in the middle of Tribeca.”

by the designs of Eames, Saarinen and Bertoia. After

Japanese design,” Hosono adds. “Both share an approach to nature and abstraction.”

northern landscape through light rather than form. We hoped to capture the feeling of light reflecting off of snow,” Hosono says. The florescent tube lights behind the cash wrap light the gaps between the wood, mimicking the intensity of winter light.

And since the gallery had a limited budget for the

Paper Thin Metal Walls

receiving his undergraduate degree from Harvard

project and a short time span for completion — six

INTERNATIONAL EYE

University, he was awarded a traveling fellowship that

months — the agile KOKO team seemed like the perfect fit.

KOKO won the 2009 Interior Design Magazine and IIDA

allowed him to study architecture for children in parts of

Will Ching Award, which recognizes and rewards talented

Europe, including Finland, Sweden and Denmark.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS

designers working in firms of five or fewer employees,

Following her attendance at the Seisen International

That attention to detail is exactly what caught the eyes of

“Instead of trying to make everything clean and pris-

for their More North design. The award encourages new

School in Tokyo, Hosono received an undergraduate and

the Will Ching competition judges, including Erla Dögg

tine, we treated it almost like a box within a box,” Weintraub says. “We

ideas and techniques in the design and furnishing of

graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

commercial spaces.

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Along with Weintraub and Hosono, KOKO employs

fall 2009

Their diverse experience came in handy for the More

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The loft-style layout of the gallery could have been a challenge in this project, but KOKO used painted, recycled

Ingjaldsdóttir, Associate IIDA, AIA and Principal at Minarc; Suzanne Tick, President of Suzanne Tick, Inc.;

steel walls to distinguish the gallery from the retail space.

created a floating wall with lighting underneath it so it really is a paper thin envelope that appears to be a floating paper shell.”

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and D.B. Kim, Principal Designer at D.B. Kim Inc. The panel was unanimously impressed with the elements of

either the design of the gallery or the retail space. Downstairs, the space transitions into a playroom

the More North design, including the creative lighting

where children can amuse themselves with toys, such as

choices, the use of unique materials and the simplistic

blocks and trains, all made by Scandinavian designers,

color palette (see sidebar on page 33).

while their parents peruse the artwork upstairs. By

“The gallery’s interiors follow a very consistent color

erecting a cluster of 25-foot birch trees from the play

scheme, which is enhanced by a series of texture contrasts,”

level up through the gallery level, KOKO was able to

Ingjaldsdóttir says. “And an unexpected use of materials

weave the two areas together.

gives the project a special appeal.” Tick says that she, too, was moved by the sense of cohesion throughout the space. “I was taken by the

The team aimed to create a mature, simplistic playroom that allowed young visitors to use their imaginations. “Every architect jumps at the opportunity to design an

overall consistency and detailing throughout the space.

art gallery, but I think the lower level children’s space is

[More North was] a clean, sophisticated backdrop to

what makes More North truly magical,” Hosono says.

Nordic Art,” she says.

Weintraub and Hosono say they have the gallery owners to thank for their success. “We were able to

WEAVING WORLDS TOGETHER

experiment with new materials and unusual features not

The biggest challenge for the design team was how to

often incorporated into typical gallery design,” Hosono

effectively incorporate the three distinct purposes of the

says. “I think being a small studio enabled us to gain the

space — gallery, retail and playroom — into one fluid pro-

trust of the client much more intimately.”

gression of rooms. The gallery space is used as both a display for Nordic artists and a retail space for other Nordic

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And Kaplan agrees. “We had total confidence in [KOKO’s] creativity and their detailed way of carrying out

designs such as furniture and ceramics. Artists needed to

the design,” she says. “The vision was simple, and KOKO

know that their work would not be overshadowed by

immediately got it.”

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FRAMES

Psychology may play a greater role in the business of Interior Design than most might think. When it comes to business, we’ve all heard the phrase,

editor of Psychology Today — in his book, Emotional

“Leave emotion out of it.” But according to a growing

Intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ, a New

number of industrial-organizational psychologists and

York Times bestseller.

researchers, the more we acknowledge, understand and appropriately use our emotions to guide our actions, the

“Emotional intelligence helps [designers] cross the bridge between the unspoken inner-world of hopes

more likely we are to get ahead in the workplace. And

within a client and the screaming reality of construction,”

in a highly creative and personal field like Interior

says Kathryn Cherne, a principal with Chicago-based

Design, understanding your emotions and those of your

firm Design Inside and a former practicing psychologist

clients can help make your designs more holistic and on

with the University of Michigan. “The interior designer

target. It also can help improve your relationships with

is in a unique position from the other members of a

co-workers and team members.

construction team. As a bridge between tradesperson

“It’s impossible to leave emotion out of anything,”

and client, the designer must embrace balance, aware-

says Susan Kornacki, Co-Founder of EI Skills Group, an

ness, responsibility and empathy in order to successfully

emotional intelligence assessment and skills training

communicate with all parties and keep the project

consultancy in New Haven, Conn. “Our emotions are

on track.”

formed from our senses, they’re what make us human.

The ability to feel, use, communicate, remember,

And interior design is an incredibly sensory profession,

describe, identify, learn from, manage and understand

so it’s vital to be tuned into that.”

emotions is necessary for the smooth progression of any

But getting ahead isn’t about simply feeling your emotions, Kornacki says, it’s about using the wisdom of the emotion.

design project, Cherne says. And that’s incredibly important to interior designers since, according to Jodie Leppa, IIDA, CID, LEED AP, President-Elect of the IIDA Northland Chapter, and

THE BASICS

Office Director of the Minneapolis-based commercial

Emotional intelligence (EI) is defined as the ability to

design firm SmithGroup, design is an emotional profession.

identify, assess and manage the emotions of one’s self,

OF MIND BY MEREDITH LANDRY 36

fall 2009

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“Creativity is driven by emotion,” says Leppa, who’s

of others, and of groups. The term was first introduced

participated in several SmithGroup-sponsored EI training

by psychologists Peter Salovey and John D. Mayer in

sessions. “If it was not, our environments would

1990, but was popularized five years later by Daniel

be, sadly, purely utilitarian and lacking in spirit or

Goleman — a Ph.D. from Harvard University and former

substance.”

We explore the relationship between emotion, perception and the profession.

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Based on the business acumen EI can provide, it’s no surprise that by the mid-1990s corporate America got wind of the concept and researchers began studying

Perceiving emotions; using emotions; understanding

helped her deal with co-workers and everyday job stressors,

emotions; and managing emotions.

but also in her dealings with clients.

the link between higher emotional intelligence skills

ing on competencies including self-awareness, self-man-

other’s emotions,” she says. “Then I’m able to use that

and success in the workplace. Among that early

agement, social awareness and relationship management.

knowledge to facilitate effective discussions and, ulti-

research was a 1997 study of 130 executives, which found that how well people handled their own emotions

mately, manage them to meet the client’s goals for a

Regardless of the precise definition or the assessment

space that reflects their brand and culture.”

means, the theory is the same: The more we understand

determined how much people around them preferred

emotion, the more we can use it to our advantage. The

to deal with them, according to the Rutgers University-

first step to developing solid EI skills, Kornacki says, is

up on subtle cues in a person’s body language, facial

based Consortium for Research on Emotional

to acknowledge the desire to do so. Simply being aware

expression and tone of voice. “I am able to tell if a client

Intelligence in Organizations.

of your intentions can help to heighten your sensitivity

likes something before they even open their mouth, or

Since then, academic and corporate proponents of EI continue to claim that having a higher EI can lead

any skill, awareness, practice, more awareness and more practice is what’s going to help people identify emotions

Design, effective communication and strong relationships

and then manage their own emotions most effectively.”

But given that the concept of

colors,” she says. At EI Skills Group, after the initial workshop, Kornacki and Caruso coordinate follow-up coaching sessions with interested clients where practice involves

And practice comes in various forms. There are single-session training semi-

EI is relatively new and the

get a sense of their color preferences based on certain dialogue. For example, extroverts tend to prefer warm

“EI is absolutely trainable,” she says. “But, as with

to improved communication and relationships. And

DEFINING THE DIFFERENCES

Cherne says that her training has enabled her to pick

to external and internal emotional stimuli.

in almost every business, but particularly in Interior are vital to one’s success.

nars, weekend retreats and weeklong workshops, for example, offered for individuals,

field is rapidly growing, it

groups, or entire organiza-

still has varying definitions

tions. But not all training

RESOURCES For more information on emotional intelligence in the workplace, check out:

and means of measure-

begins with an emotional

ment. Most, however, fall

intelligence assessment

WORKING WITH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

into three main model

test, which Kornacki says

by Daniel Goleman

types — an ability-based

is the best way to deter-

model, a mixed model or a trait-based model.

mine what areas need the most practice.

Kornacki and her partner at EI Skills Group, David Caruso, Ph.D., rely on an abilitiesbased model to define EI and to assess their clients. According to Caruso —

“If you score really low on identifying emotions, for example, it might be hard for you to make a decision about someone’s emotional state based on the visual information on their

co-creator of the Mayer, Salovey, Caruso Emotional

face,” she says. “But you may score high in other areas,

Intelligence Test (like an IQ test that measures emotion-

so we wouldn’t want to focus on those as much.”

al skills) — emotional intelligence combines feelings

38

“The tools I’ve learned help me to be sensitive to

Other models measure one’s emotional skills by focus-

No matter how interior designers decide to learn and

THE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE CONSORTIUM www.eiconsortium.org

THE EMOTIONALLY INTELLIGENT MANAGER by David R. Caruso and Peter Salovey

EI SKILLS GROUP www.eiskills.com

showing them a series of slides and asking them to identify the emotion in the image. Afterwards, they’ll go back through each slide and dissect the person’s eyes, the intensity in their face, the energy, their body language and expression. Participants also learn through auditory training by listening to movie clips, and eventually they’re asked to actually emote certain words in a group setting. Aside from being able to pick up on subtle emotional cues from clients, and knowing how to communicate expectations and manage conflict more effectively, Cherne says, a designer with high EI is not easily threatened by criticism. “I don’t feel the need to defend myself if a client doesn’t like a particular pattern or attack a contractor for not understanding a drawing,” she says. “Instead, I prefer to take these inevitable bumps as an opportunity to listen and learn from other people.” As for how long it takes to truly become emotionally intelligent, Kornacki says it doesn’t happen overnight.

with thinking, and thinking with feeling. It can be

hone their EI skills, the outcome can be advantageous to

“The awareness part can happen overnight, but the skill

described as four related, but different, abilities:

their practice. Leppa says her EI training has not only

building takes time.”

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42 FORUM FOCUS

44 PERSPECTIVE RESOURCES

Facility Planning & Design

Perspective editors review a new documentary film and the

46 INDUSTRY MEMBERS

48 WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF DESIGN?

latest Web sites on design-related topics

MATTERS OF DESIGN

WELCOME 2009 – 2010 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

By Jeanne Fisher OPPORTUNITY GREEN NOVEMBER 6 – 8, 2009: A CONVERGENCE OF THE MOST INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND BUSINESS MINDS DRIVING TODAY’S GREEN ECONOMY. Sustainability is producing new rules, new methods and new strategies for the way designers work. Opportunity Green is an experience unlike any other; a two-day full immersion of the most relevant opportunities, paradigms and practices that will permanently shift your outlook on what’s possible for your company, and your career. Gain an insider’s view of the hottest green business topics, including Johnson & Johnson’s cutting edge methods of sustainable product design, Gensler’s Next Generation Workplace and Art Center College of Design’s exploration of lifecycle analysis, to name a few. More importantly, engage with 500 of the brightest, results-producing, innovative business influencers of like mind (and color). The first 25 IIDA Members to register receive a 25% discount, reducing the conference cost to $695. Find details on the IIDA Web site, www.iida.org. Learn more about the conference at www.opportunitygreen.com. INTYPES: INTERIOR DESIGN NOW HAS ITS OWN LANGUAGE In the ’90s, Professor Jan Jennings struggled to talk with her Interior Design students about design practices that had been used throughout history and across cultures.There were no names, for example, for a dramatic staircase in the lobby of a luxury hotel or for two similar chairs situated side-by-side in a large space. For decades, common practices had no common nomenclature. Now, Jennings, a professor of design and environmental analysis, and a cast of Cornell colleagues have produced the first searchable, online database for contemporary design with imagery from real buildings. The work is a collaboration of four faculty members from the colleges of Human Ecology, Arts and Sciences, and Agriculture and Life Sciences and more than a dozen master’s students.

Inducted June 14 at the Annual Meeting 2009 during NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, congratulations to the 2009 – 2010 Board of Directors • Laura Tribble, IIDA, ASID of Tribble Design Associates – VP Government & Regulatory Affairs, 2009 – 2011 • Felice Silverman, IIDA of Silverman Trykowski Associates, Inc. – VP Professional Development 2009 – 2011 • Derrell Parker, FIIDA of Parker Scaggiari President 2009-2010 • Viveca Bissonnette, IIDA, CID, LEED AP of Carrier Johnson + Culture - President Elect, 2009 – 2010 • LaRayne Lundell, IIDA of L2 Design Studio – VP Members 2009 – 2010 • Steve McCollom, AIA, IIDA - VP Communications 2009 – 2010 • Cheryl Durst, Hon. FIIDA, LEED AP – IIDA CEO

KUDOS Congratulations to the IIDA Chapter Award Winners! • Small Chapter of the Year Award: Northland Chapter • Large Chapter of the Year: Southern California Chapter • Excellence in Newsletter Publishing Winner: Southwest Chapter Honorable Mention: Oregon Chapter • Excellence in Community Service Winner: Texas-Oklahoma Chapter Honorable Mention: Northern California Chapter • Excellence in Graphics/Overall Winner: Alabama Chapter Honorable Mention: New York Chapter • Excellence in Graphics/Special Event Winner: New England Chapter Honorable Mention: Mid-America Chapter • Excellence in Programs/Chapter Winner: Northern California Honorable Mention: New England Chapter • Excellence in Programs/City Center Winner: Northern Pacific Chapter Honorable Mention: Carolinas Chapter • Excellence in Programs/Campus Center Winner: Northern Pacific Chapter Honorable Mention: Carolinas Chapter • Excellence in Membership Marketing Award Winner: Northern Pacific Chapter Honorable Mention: Southern California Chapter • Excellence in Web Site Development Winner: Texas-Oklahoma Chapter Honorable Mention: Northern California Chapter • Excellence in Forum Education Activities Winner: Northland Chapter Honorable Mention: Southern California Chapter • Excellence in GRA Activities Winner: Carolinas Chapter Honorable Mention: Texas-Oklahoma Chapter

“We had to invent a naming practice and a vocabulary for students to use in talking about design,” Jennings says. “Interior design had borrowed language from architecture and visual arts, but when it came down to it, we didn’t have

GO GET ‘EM: MEMBER STIMULUS CAMPAIGN

a typology for contemporary design practices that have been occurring across history, style and culture.”

IIDA Headquarters offers a program to help you gain more members in your Chapter.

The project, titled Intypes for the Interior Archetypes Research and Teaching Project, officially launched this summer at NeoCon World’s Trade Fair with its two founding partners, IIDA and Interior Design magazine. “The project brings the field of Interior Design to a whole new level,” says Cheryl Durst, Hon. FIIDA, LEED AP, IIDA executive vice president and CEO. “The Intypes approach gives credence and relevance to the history and legacy of interior design as a profession, as a discipline and as a viable and vital contribution to society as a whole.”

Industry levels of Membership), will enable new Members to be reimbursed for their application fees, gain visibility and notoriety on www.iida.org, and become part of specialty practice forums, online communities and busy, active Chapters. Referring Members who recruit five prospective Members will be entered in a raffle for two tickets to their

The project, 13 years in the making, so far has named nearly 70 interior archetypes.

Chapter’s signature event. Any Member who doesn’t reach five recruits but attains the most recruits in their Chapter

The Intypes workgroup is hoping their project inspires designers to think about these issues, and opens the

will also be eligible. Winner recruiters will also be featured on www.iida.org.

door to more formal research in interior design. Learn more at www.intypes.cornell.edu.

40

Active Members referring Professional and Associate Members (sorry, this offer is not available for Students or

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For application forms, more details and the fine print, check out www.iida.org/membership.

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FORUM FOCUS: Facility Planning and Design IIDA’s Facility Planning and Design Forum provides a network for those responsible for managing the complexities of corporate, institutional and production facilities. Perspective spoke with Forum Advisor Jennifer Barnes, IIDA, LEED AP, to learn about the current issues facing this group of design professionals.

What trends are currently emerging for designers with a

progress and measure the benefits of “going green” for upper

facilities focus?

management. I could see facility designers becoming more

Corporations are really embracing sustainability. I think it has

involved in real estate decisions to ensure comprehensive

finally taken root, but many corporations are playing catch up,

sustainability objectives are met.

and this puts immediate pressure on the facilities professional to respond to upper manage-

Why are corporations finally seeing the need to operate

ment’s new agenda. As sus-

more sustainably?

tainable practices emerge,

I think growing public awareness, along with increased atten-

facility personnel will play an

tion on the lifecycle cost-benefit of sustainable design, has

integral role in their implemen-

changed the corporate philosophy. In the past, many companies

tation and oversight. As sus-

were interested only if there would be no increased upfront

tainable practices mature,

cost to projects. I am now seeing more of an interest with

they will become part of a

smaller projects, as well as higher-profile projects where the

facilities professional’s day-to-

public relations benefit of pursuing LEED, for example, may

day responsibility.

have been the motivating factor.

How sustainability becomes sustainable.

Knowledge of comprehensive sustainable design principles will become part of the core competency expected of facility planners as we go forward.

42

What will these trends mean for designers who have

How has the current state of the economy affected facil-

chosen a planning path or for students who may be con-

ities professionals?

sidering it?

Depending on the business sector, a down economy can

Knowledge of comprehensive sustainable design principles

often increase the workload for facility personnel. Many com-

will become part of the core competency expected of facility

panies will choose to reconfigure existing space in lieu of

planners as we go forward. LEED certification will become a

building out new. There are a lot more “paint and putty” pro-

required credential. I think companies will need to redefine

jects that can be handled in house rather than hiring outside

their design standards to achieve new corporate sustainabili-

design consultants. Of course, the hardest-hit sectors will not

ty goals. Designers will need to lead the implementation, track

be immune to layoffs.

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800.899.8916 johnsonite.com


PERSPECTIVE RESOURCES BY ASHLEY DEVECHT

Design is integral to nearly everything we use — whether it’s the pen we

design*sponge

write with, the water bottle we drink out of, or the wallet we carry our cash

www.designspongeonline.com

in. And when we use these products, we’re not only interacting with the

Design Sponge has established a large fan base — an estimated 40,000

design, but also with the designers responsible for giving life to what was

daily readers — due to its thorough coverage of all things design. The

once only an idea.

founder, Grace Bonney, manages to stay on top of new trends in interior

But it’s rare that we ever hear directly from these designers, let alone learn their motivation or inspiration for creating these necessary yet intuitive designs.

design and offers sneak peaks at furniture collections from up-and-coming designers.

Until now — thanks to Objectified, director Gary Hustwit’s latest documentary, which covers our complex relationship with manufactured

+MOOD

objects and, by extension, the people who design them. “If you could get

http://plusmood.com

all of these designers and design experts together at a dinner party, what

+MOOD covers architecture, design and interiors through approachable and

would they talk about?” blogged Hustwit. “This film will hopefully represent

informative content. Each article highlights an innovative design with a

that conversation.”

detailed description, colorful photographs and multiple floor plans. All this

Hustwit’s list of interviewees reads like a roster of the most powerful

information could be overwhelming in a typical blog format, but at +MOOD,

players in design including Paola Antonelli of the Museum of Modern Art in

the content is well categorized and accessible thanks to the site’s reader-

New York, Jane Fulton Suri of IDEO, Andrew Blauvelt of the Walker Art

friendly design.

Center in Minneapolis, Chris Bangle of the BMW Group in Munich, Objectified A documentary film by Gary Hustwit www.objectifiedfilm.com 76 minutes

Germany, and Rob Walker of The New York Times Magazine. Jonathan Ive,

Architonic

Senior Vice President of Industrial Design at Apple, Inc., even offers up his

www.architonic.com

beliefs on the role of design in the world and discusses the obsession that

Architonic aims to keep architects and designers up-to-date on the latest in

is product design.

products, materials, design and concepts related to interiors. The information

But the documentary is more than a tribute to all things product design. Later in the film, the tone shifts and Hustwit addresses the tension between design and the environment. Although sustainabil-

here is impartial and selective. You can find suppliers, online auction houses, and industry news and trends.

ity is not the focus of the film, the conversation creates the sense of conflict moviegoers often crave. Finally, as you would hope from a documentary about design, the aesthetics are entertaining and engaging. An added bonus

Contemporist

is the soundtrack, which includes the popular El Ten Eleven (also featured in Hustwit’s first film Helvetica). The verdict: Objectified

www.contemporist.com

is a must-see for designers. To order a copy or view a screening of the film, check out the Web site at www.objectifiedfilm.com.

A “contemporist” is someone who appreciates contemporary design. And this site is devoted to nothing but that. It covers contemporary lighting, interior design, architecture and furniture. And the format — similar to that of a blog — allows for user comments. Numerous large, colorful photos accompany each blog entry enabling users to truly experience the design.

WEB SITES Color Matters

MoCo Loco, the Modern and Contemporary Design Blog

http://colormatters.blogspot.com

http://mocoloco.com/

As a designer, you know that color can be crucial. But this blog takes color

MoCo Loco is an online design magazine committed to featuring modern and

to a whole new level. Written by color psychology expert Jill Morton, this blog

contemporary design and architecture. Residential architecture, interior

treats color fanatics to constant updates on color news and trends. Morton

design, furniture, accessories, lighting, floor coverings, wall coverings, books,

posts about color in politics, color as it relates to healthcare, and even color-

Web sites, audio-video and retail stores are among the topics that Harry

ful interiors. Morton also wrote a series of e-books titled “Color VooDoo.”

Wakefield, Editor and Publisher, covers. Filled with inventive ideas and designs, this blog is a treat for any fan of contemporary design.

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45


INDUSTRY MEMBERS*

IN THE NEXT ISSUE

With thanks to our industry members for their continuing support of IIDA. Fullmer Contract, LLC

One Workplace

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KI

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Surface Materials

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The Winter 2010 issue of Perspective will dissect some of the most influential global projects from the past year and focus on the design trends those projects represent. We also profile several multidisciplinary designers who are thriving in today’s economy by crossing boundaries both physically and in their practices.

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE

TRI-KES Tufenkian Artisan Carpets Unisource Solutions

21 Juxtaform, LLC 888.589.8236 www.juxtaform.com

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NLnovalink Limited

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Numark Office Interiors

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oBJEKTS, LLC

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Occupied Renovations, Inc.

WB Wood NY

Forbo Linoleum, Inc.

Arden & Associates

Executive Flooring Systems

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NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE

Fiber-Seal Systems LP

Office Environments of New England

West Coast Industries

INSTALL Floorcovering Professionals

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STEVEN M. FISHER, FISHER MEDIA

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*As of September 1, 2009 Bold type denotes Charter Industry Member.

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WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF DESIGN? Design students and recent graduates share their predictions, hopes and goals.

“[Interior design] will continue to grow away from the decorating image portrayed by HGTV and Trading Spaces and people will start to see us as interior architects. It seems that we are entering a new era of design, which includes that of an almost affordable modernism, where designers have to be ‘creatively creative.’ Meaning, the pressure is on us more than ever during these economic times to find creative, modern, green, but most importantly, cost-effective solutions to a design problem.” —Brett Woodring, IIDA, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, Class of 2009

“I believe that the future of design is the unity of the design industry through professional certification and accreditation, in order to promote the beauty, safety, sustainability and psychology of our environment.” —Jennifer Haycox, IIDA, LEED AP, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Ore., Class of 2009

“We are a generation of new ideas supported with technological advancements never known before, and like all the designers before us, the wheels of creativity and innovation are not going to stop despite economic conditions or generational presence in the workplace. People will always want to do something new, create something more beautiful and be the first one to figure out how to do it.” —Rebecca Lee, IIDA, LEED AP, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, Class of 2009

“The future of design is space that informs social responsibility. Technology will be a driving force in our industry, with interactive customizable environments for the consumer.” —Joseph Ferrugio, IIDA, Woodbury University, Burbank, Calif., Class of 2010

“Now, in addition to learning basic design standards, including sustainability, students and job-seeking graduates are exploring related fields to expand their knowledge and improve their resumés. I think the future of design is an interdisciplinary movement. Young designers with diverse skills will find it easier and be more successful working in an interdisciplinary environment.” —Adrienne Nelson, IIDA, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, Class of 2009

“The future of interior design looks positive. There are more people aware of what we do, although they may not grasp the full picture of our profession, we are gaining awareness and understanding. We need to keep proving our worth and importance and show not only the design world, but everyone, what we are truly capable of.” —Jami Bruns, IIDA, LEED AP, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, Class of 2010

“In the future, I believe we will see the need for designers to take on a greater responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of the public, and, as individuals within these created environments, we must demand a level of responsibility [as well as] respect for those who carry out these tasks.” —Katie Pohlman, LEED AP, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan., Class of 2010

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