WI 2

When I first drew the word “kiss” from the cup my mind went straight to literal. The color red, x’s and o’s, and the “Mae West Lips” chair. It is funny how our mind will associate one thing with another so quickly. To erase all of these typical ideas out of my head, I started to compose a list of words or ideas that come with a kiss. A kiss to me means a seal, or almost touching. There is also a strong cultural aspect associated with a kiss. Intimacy, building relationships, and touch were thoughts that kept racing through my head. Rather than automatically coming up with a floor plan and figuring out where the sink would go, I had to remind my self to think of form. These forms would relate to the emotions one feels with a kiss. My first emotion I wanted to portray was the spark or the anticipation one feels before a kiss. I decided to have a hallway guide one down the space which would build anticipation for what would be around the corner. This hallway barely touches the remaining walls, varying in height. As you come around the corner, the living is on one side while the kitchen remains on the other side. A loft helps to separate the bathroom from living space and also allows the intimate space to be saved for last.

Another idea which was proposed was “sun-kissed.” At first I did not care for this idea. I just could not seem to think of any form or interesting moment which would take place in the space. I decided to write my first narrative about this space, hoping it may formulate any ideas. Surprisingly, this narrative allowed me to visualize the space and design a space that felt exotic and relaxing. Much like sun rays that pour in and play off of surfaces, I thought of the beach and how the warmth of the sun seems to wrap around you. I thought to have the ceiling gradually rise in a curve shape as you walk further into the room. The light will play off the surface of the ceiling differently at every point and guide you to the bed at the end to create a sense of serenity and relaxation.

The third space explores the kiss within friendships and families. A strong sense of relationships and bonding supports the emotion behind this type of kiss. This helped to formulate my idea for the solids within the space. As one walks into the space, two solids divide the room into the kitchen, living, and sleeping areas. These solids are continuous stacking a rectilinear shapes that bond together to create areas of sitting, a bed, cabinetry, and eating. The rectilinear shape speaks to the bond which occurs in families and friendships because it is a strong shape. It appears it will hold the weight of something else without collapsing. This idea is important in a kiss seen in friendships and families. The kiss signifies that trust and sincere love occurs. These two solids do not touch the remaining walls but sit more towards the middle of the space. The center reveals importance and unity. A kiss can unify two people and show the bond that two people have for each other. A kiss is not only significant in intimate relationships but also in families and friendships.

Diagram

Through diagramming, I found it to help with clarity. Color-coding the space helped me to see how the elements link together. The circulation also helped me to figure out where to place certain objects for easy flow. These diagrams made me make more sense out of my own space I was designing. Sometimes I get confused in my own thoughts, but the diagrams led to clarity for me.

Designer bio revisit

After reading over the first designer bio, I realize that I do need to have more fun deigning. Sometimes, I become completely overwhelmed by all the many projects and assignments, but I need to remind myself more that this is all learning experience. This is what I love doing and I need to remind myself more of this and let the enthusiasm show through my work. I am not always going to have the right answer, even thought this is what I strive for. I need to strive more on having fun. This is much like my personality to be somewhat of a perfectionist and making other people happy. My goal throughout this program is strive on what is important to me as a designer, taking other people’s critiques, and applying this to my work. In the end, the most memorable projects are the ones we feel most enthusiasm towards.

Narrative

As you walk in, you immediately fell a sense of relief....this is the moment. The anticipation has built up and finally it's gone....nothing but happiness. As you wait, you can not think of anything else...your mind is completely blank. As you wander around you come to find out that every place is full of serenity. Nothing seems to get in the way. All you want to do is soak up rays and enjoy a good book. Along the way you might find peaceful quiet spots...a place to get away from the world. In this place, another relaxing activity is enjoying the view and the its serenity. Your mind is clear and finally at peace.

WI1: Designer bio + goals

I first entered the program during the second semester of first year. Before this major, I tested out many other possible ones. At first I was a theatre education major. I have always enjoyed being on stage and playing a different role. After that, I went to being an art major. I have always enjoyed art but doing just art was not for me. Then I went to elementary education. This major was NOT for me! I was so anxious being around 6 year olds all day. I always enjoyed design so that is when I decided to apply for this major. I have really enjoyed being in Iarc and I think that it allows me to put all of those interests I had into one major. Coming from Robert’s studio, I feel I have acquired a better knowledge about space and how one might interact with that. This semester, I hope I can apply that to other people’s design questions. I want to be able to relate to other people and see their design needs. I also want to be able to communicate my ideas better. Most importantly, I want to have fun designing! After reflecting on goals about design, we listed our strengths as a designer. I think I am a good listener and am willing to listen to other people’s ideas. I try to see inspiration in the everyday. I also feel as though I can use my own personal experiences to help in my design process. Getting into groups with two other individuals who know you well, we were asked to mention their strengths. My group mentioned that I am organized and manage my time well. I work well in a team and help motivate others. I am a good communicator and can visually represent my ideas. This was surprising to me because I tend to think I do not present my ideas clearly and it becomes jumbled or confusing. My group also mentioned I am an active learner and adaptable. Some of these comments were somewhat surprising but after taking the personality quiz I realized that my answers were matching with some of the group;s comments. After completing the quiz, I ended up being a “true pragmatist.” This is a person who is flexible, a mediator, and balancer. They can see both sides and want harmony in a group atmosphere. This is most definitely the type of person I am. It is interesting to see that this type of personality is not all that terrible. Sometimes it is difficult to make a quick decision, but overall the “true pragmatist” is ideal in a group setting for a leader. This was surprising because I would think that the more outspoken person would appear as the leader and naturally lead the group. I guess this leads to my next goal which is to be more confident in my design and know that I will only become a better communicator. With this drawing, I wanted to show that I am an observer of my everyday surroundings. I also look to see how I can continually better my design.