Meharg, Lydia

My love of creativity has led me to chose this field of study where I have become passionate about Interior Architecture and Design. I hope that throughout my college experience here I can find my purpose in life through IARD by working diligently in my courses. This major has forced me to have courage in explaining my ideas and bravery as I confront my fear of public speaking. I try to come each day with a positive attitude, showing kindness to those surrounding me because I know my professors and classmates care about my future career. My mom has taught me to be selfless and I believe this is one characteristic that has allowed me to earn respect from my peers.

Do you have any plans after this semester?

I’m going home for break to relax and work some. I plan to continue updating my portfolio and resume and start applying for internships.

What type of designer would you like to be?

I want to work in the commercial design sector - maybe in workplace design - who knows

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

It was a bit difficult to balance several other Fay Jones classes on top of an extensive studio semester. Because they tend to have more workload than typical university classes.

What kind of place would you like to design next?

A restaurant

What do you think makes a good workplace?

Considering the client’s needs first, the user experience, and providing amenities to create a comfortable environment for employees

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

Evidence-based design gives your ideas the thoughtfulness that is needed to produce a good design. Without prior research and considering the client’s requests, you are really just designing for yourself, rather than for the people.

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?

I feel like I actually learned how to properly use a concept to base all your ideas off for your design. Considering the site location, the clients, the user experience, and your concept is all very important and should help define your choices.

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

You shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help and get clarification if you don’t understand something. Don’t stress, it’s not that bad.

Interconnective Design

square feet and requires a mezzanine of approximately 1,000-4,000 square feet. The key focuses for this design are inclusive design, collaboration, diversity, + the wellbeing of their employees. The space provides both private + collaborative workspaces + spaces that can adapt to several workstyles. The office provides an elevated experience for those who work in person + remotely with room for the

INTERCONNECTIVITY - through opportunities of growth

In any space, interconnecttion is important in creating a comfortable and productive environment. Employees need to be heard, feel like they belong, and feel respected. Spaces that promote collaboration allow for people to connect with each other and their supervisors which benefits the overall mood in the office. Collaborative areas for meetings encourange growth + private areas for employees to relax or work at represent consideration. Design libraries throughout the office provide space for employees to collaborate. Carrying a similar material + color palette throughout the workspace evokes consistency and comfort for the employee. The space is designed to have as minimal walls as possible to sllow for NEXT to have the opportunity for growth. When employees understand that their employers care about them and are intentional with producing solutions to personal preferences, then the workforce is able to connect with each other, and work produced will be improved and representative of the designers’ passion.