As I enter the parking lot of The Freelon Group, the anticipation has already sunk in so deep that I can hardly wait. This will be my very first time going beyond the lobby of an architectural firm. Previous to my visit I believed that I did not desire to; nor would ever be qualified enough to gain employment with an architectural firm. Since then, I have changed my thoughts, my opinions and my heart based on the information that the firm’s interior designers and intern architect shared with the class. This trip revealed that interior designers practicing in an architectural firm undoubtedly play a vital role in all projects. One which is taken seriously and is integrated in all projects. I was ecstatic to hear the designers speak of how little I needed to be “artistic” [with drawing] when communicating ideas to clients. As we toured the office areas and pin up spaces, my observations of the presentation boards and such furthered my feelings of delight to know that it’s not all about “hand renderings or super imposed graphics”. The boards were clean and simple digital renderings with little process work. I LOVE IT! This firm is speaking my language. At some point in my education at UNCG I became very discouraged. I felt the program placed too much emphasis on hand methods as well as a strong focus on “artistic” values in communicating with clients. On the other hand it’s prepared me to skillfully and effectively sketch impromptu when the occasion arises. Therefore, the education I am receiving at UNCG is preparing me to compete for a number of positions within an architecture firm or an interior design firm, both residential and commercial. It’s also enhancing those skills of the students who are “artists” at heart. In some cases I believe that there is a place for those designers as well. For instance, tvsdesign’s seem to be a firm that would embrace someone who is an abstract thinker with an artistic flare. Their projects seem to be such that, one would have to visualize, then hand draw, then calculate, then formulate, and then digitally render. The Freelon Group’s projects seem to be structure, commercial, and code driven. Simple and sometimes mundane but is delivered and executed in the manner of tremendous admiration and appreciation. This happens to be the description that their very own designers verbalized regarding most of their projects; however, they did mention that the more exciting projects were the libraries. It’s apparent why they would think of it this way. The design process for the library was done with great thought many revisions, explained by Kevin Turner. He was assured that the design was functional and efficient when his wife and kids entered and for the first time and knew how to navigate with ease.
In comparison tvsdesign’s interior designer delivered a more personable presentation and made a great connection with our class through work samples that we could relate to. Both tvsdesign and The Freelon Group gave the class an insight on how the professional world of design operates on a day-to-day basis. They gave an account for the course load we are undertaking in our studio-based studies. Best of all they gave us the courage to go forward and pursue our niches we are currently setting forth because there are positions at every firm where your talents and skills can be an asset!
Thanks Tina..............
photos by: Katherine McCain
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