I had the privilege of growing up surrounded by southern hospitality. In the Lowcountry of South Carolina, insuring a comfortable environment and anticipating everyone’s needs is key to a welcoming atmosphere. I believe the same mindset should be used while designing. Interior design should not simply focus on the anonymous occupant, but rather focus on the real life person and their well-being in the space. This will help to establish a sense of personality and place. When I take on a residential project I invite my clients to have a cup of tea or coffee. The simple exchange helps the client to feel comfortable to express their wants and needs for their home. Successful designers all display southern hospitality when they understand and meet the clients’ needs; even if they do not specifically address them. A home can be a place where we dine with friends, where our children grow, or where we unwind after a long day at work. Therefore, balance in design is necessary to adhere to the variety of activities we do in our home. Look to create spaces that can serve dual purposes; such as the addition of back porch that can provide an escape to the surrounding landscape and host a dinner party. When the clients’ home is a reflection of their personality and gives them joy, you have successful design.
While the Lowcountry served as my first home, Morgantown, West Virginia served as my second home. At West Virginia University I had the privilege of being exposed to all different kinds of cultures and backgrounds. This exposure motivated my passion to design with regards to the Triple Bottom Line: People, Planet, Profit. It is time for Designers to exemplify responsibility in our building practices with regards to the built environment. Design asks the question: How can I make it better? When I take on a commercial project I am motivated to design a building that is better for the People, better for the Planet, and better for Life Cycle Costs.