On the Boards –
These past months we have been designing an Agent Training Center for one of our corporate clients. Not only are we updating the look of the space, we are providing upgraded technology and new tools for their learning center.
Construction started mid- month and we are excited to watch the space transform! Make sure to follow along as we highlight the transformation on our Instagram account – sassyks_sas
Rep Round Up –
This month we met with a range of reps from several different manufacturers. From wallcovering, fabric to flooring, even signage and furniture. Lots of talk about new releases for NeoCon, which is crazy to think is less than 3 months away.
Enjoy our blue scheme of favorites!
Click on the images for links to the manufacturer’s website.
Happenings
February 28th, yes this was last month… but we had to highlight this fun event! LightArt threw a Paper Pendant Design Challenge at the DIRTT Showroom. Similar to a charette, we were given a half hour to create a pendant from materials supplied from LightArt. We were among 20 other designers from various firms, pressure was on!! Everyone’s pendants were so different and it was interesting to see what others developed within the timeframe.
If you haven’t had the chance to stop by the DIRRT showroom, definitely put it on your list – best bathroom in Chicago, check out that view!
March 27th, We were invited to attend a panel discussion, Community Strategy Designing for Place, Purpose, and Profitability at the IIDA Headquarters. This was a great event, that covered topics we discuss within our office. When working with clients many topics are brought up during initial meetings when designing their space; brand, culture, community, and the future.
This discussion highlighted Walgreens, Gensler, and Cannon Design and their process of implementing these topics. It was interesting to hear an end users perspective, Walgreen’s, versus the designer. Many points brought up vary depending on the client and designer. But there definitely was a trend among the panel that spaces are changing to recruit a younger demographic and to create spaces that lend themselves to a diverse community.
In some case studies, the client’s were not able to convey their own culture. The designers worked with the client to create a culture by reflecting elements based off of the client’s mantra and products. They also strive to create experiences within the space to change the normal interaction to get people out of their comfort zone.
A comment that stuck in our minds, was the importance of companies effectively communicating their community strategy so that their employees enjoy coming into work and have a sense of belonging. Spaces should tell a story showcasing their brand and create experiences unique to them!
This felt like a long month, but a productive one! We’re ready for spring and excited for what April will bring us!!
Don’t miss us on instagram! Follow us along at: sassyks_sas | sas_architects
Till then, see you next month!
Katie & Karina, AKA Sassy Ks