Mason, Ellie

I define my own success; I am determined to meet the goals of others, but more importantly myself, and exceed them. I am very responsible and can hold myself accountable for my actions. Honesty is a something I hold of high value to me; being able to be honest with people makes me a trustworthy person. When having conversations with people, or even working on a project, I try and take specific factors into consideration so there is the best possible outcome. I consider myself to be a leader; I like to take charge and make sure things are running smoothly.

Do you have any plans after this semester?

After this semester I plan to go home to Little Rock for the break. I plan to work, update my portfolio, look and apply for internships, and spend time with family and friends.

What type of designer would you like to be?

I am most interested in going into sports design. After coming to the U of A, I discovered my love for sports and design as two separate hobbies and eventually want to bring the two of them together for my career.

Can you tell me about any problems you ran into in the studio or outside?

This semester was a challenge of finding the balance between getting my studio work done, keeping up with other classes, while also trying to maintain relationships with people outside of this program.

What kind of place would you like to design next?

I would like to design a residential space because of how personal the space can be made through getting to know the client.

What do you think makes a good workplace?

A good workplace is fueled by good workplace design and people who love their work. I believe that both of these factors play into the overall success of the company, along with ample access to natural light and designated areas for relaxation.

Can you tell me what evidence-based design means to you?

To me, evidence-based design means that the designer is truly getting to know the client and their brand and putting intention behind the design. By conducting research and personally getting to know the client and brand, you are designing specifically for them, ultimately creating a more successful outcome.

Compared to previous semesters, the semester may be challenging in many ways, but you may be able to see your accomplishments. Reviewing your accomplishments, what did you learn from this studio?

After working on this project for the entire semester, it was helpful to see how much a project can change from its schematic phase to the final outcome, as this is how it will be when we enter the work field. Also, because concept was placed at such a high priority this semester, it was rewarding to see how that was pulled through from start to finish during this project.

Would you like to share anything with future students of this studio?

Concept is everything! Have everything in your project relate back to your concept, keep up with your work before it piles up, and listen to the advice instructors give you! Hard work and effort pays off in the end!

Community Through Collaboration

Community through collaboration is an initiative that prioritizes the use of open, casual space for the employees of NEXT to feel welcomed and embraced into their design community. By using minimal enclosed spaces and embracing open space, the goal is for a strong-knit community to be built in this space by encouraging collaboration at any given time throughout the day. Collaboration in the workplace intertwines diverse skills, promotes innovation, and enhances collective problem-solving, creating a successful community that thrives on shared goals and mutual support. Ultimately, by encouraging collaboration and workplace support, a more successful work environment will be created for all, whether it be through their work or their emotional wellbeing.

Design Thinking

By creating a workplace where employees are welcomed to collaborate with one another, express their creativity through design, and create a community within and the office and amongst their clientele, there will be a growth in overall morale and productivity within the workplace. These values will ultimately guide NEXT to a higher level of success and prosperity. For this level of growth to happen. There must be a successful design implemented, first. This will happen by creating regular opportunities for employees to interact with each other, beyond work tasks, creating a space where employees are heavily encouraged to work together, and allowing for designated areas for work, play, and relaxation. All these different qualities in workplace life will be driven through design for NEXT and its employees to reach optimal success.

DESIGN LIBRARY

WORKSTATIONS

RECEPTION

STAIRCASE

PRIVATE OFFICE - TYPE 2