The pandemic has forced us to rethink the way we work and given us a lesson in what is really important. It has been an interesting experiment that we could never have imagined before: could we, in this age of untethered technology, work remotely all the time? The answer is a resounding “yes we can,” but it is not quite the same and it is not good for us in the long term. It is interesting that video conferencing has replaced not only in-person meetings but telephone calls as well. I find myself doing video calls for everything these days ...
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Silver Lining.
People are talking about the “new normal” and the great reset. But if there’s one small silver lining from all of this, it might be that work from home works. For the most part. Working from home has suddenly become a viable alternative to going to the office five-plus days per week. The Bay Area’s shelter in place order happened so fast there wasn’t time for an orderly transition. Any plans for a gradual shift of equipment, programs, and staff was out the window. We had no choice but to make it work. There was a learning curve for everyone; ...
Read MoreThe Curated Life—a Post-Covid Opportunity
Twenty years ago, Richard and I were both on the IIDA Board when we hit an unexpected financial snag. It was serious enough that we had to curtail all programming and events while we sorted out the mess and rebuilt IIDA’s brand and purpose. While the circumstances were dire at the time, in retrospect, they provided an opportunity for IIDA to re- invent itself. All associations need to periodically refresh their mandate but proposing to make changes or cuts to established programming is usually a tough sell. No one wants to give up anything, which is why change takes a ...
Read MoreNeoConversations Podcast Episode 7: Designing Branded Spaces
Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayIn this episode of NeoConversations, we explore what it takes to effectively design brand character into a space. How can brand values and purpose be communicated through materiality, visual language, ambiance and experience? What’s in the tool kit needed to implement a design program company-wide? In this episode, Amy Devers talks to Renee Hytry Derrington, International Design Lead for Formica Group, and Abbott Miller, a partner at world-renowned design studio Pentagram to explore all the nuances of translating a brand into a physical experience. Have a listen:Renee Hytry Derrington, International Design Lead for Formica ...
Read MoreNeoConversations Episode 6: The Evolution of Tile Surfacing
Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayIn this episode of NeoConversations, trusty and timeless tile is making its way into exciting new territory with large format panels, countertop slabs and high resolution digital printing. The design opportunities are almost limitless. Listen as host Amy Devers talks to Laura Muller, CEO of Four Point Build Inc., Frank Douglas, VP of Business Development for Crossville, and Noah Chitty, Directory of Technical Services for Crossville, to learn all about the technology and possibilities of this new frontier in tile surfacing. From left to right: Frank Douglas, Noah Chitty, and Laura ...
Read MoreChicago Designers Share Where to Eat and Drink during NeoCon Week
Forward Fruit is a Chicago-based branded environments and experiential design studio. In applying a strategic, user-driven methodology to hyper creative projects, they create soulful, on-brand solutions that are exciting, beautiful, and inspire brand-user connections. See their work at the new NeoCon Plaza. Forward Fruit leaders Elise Metzger (right), Principal, and Marissa Smith (left), Principal, present a guest blog with their recommendations for the latest and best spaces to eat, drink, and celebrate while attending NeoCon 2019 in Chicago. As designers, the environment of our spaces is almost as important as the food. That said we still love those spots where ...
Read MoreNeoConversations Episode 5: Powering Flexible Workplaces
Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayIn this episode of NeoConversations, we are taking on the challenge of designing flexible workplaces - specifically, designing in power and data distribution solutions that can keep up with the speed of evolving technology, business transitions, budget demands and the ever-changing need for adaptable power configurations. Frequently, this happens in pre-existing buildings, which creates its own set of unique challenges… so what are the creative solutions? Amy Devers talks to Steve Batchelder of Connectrac, Kevin Saindon of Brigholme, and David Meckley of Huntsman Architectural Group. Have a listen:Steven Batchelder and David MeckleyThe Connectrac System ...
Read MoreNeoConversations Episode 4: Design and the Circular Economy
Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayIn this episode of NeoConversations, we are asking: What is the circular economy and what role do architects and designers play in it? How can we design truly sustainable spaces and specify materials in which the entire lifecycle has been considered, including eventual reuse?What are the implications, misconceptions and benefits associated with materials made from regenerated waste? Joining us today are two experts who taking the lead in the circular economy...Listen as host Amy Devers talks to Giulio Bonazzi, CEO + Chairman, Aquafil and David Oakey, founder of David Oakey Designs: ...
Read MoreNeoConversations Episode 3: Details Make the Difference
Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayThe craft and details of a space can impact us on more than an aesthetic level—they can add an extra element of reinforcement, structure or aesthetics, while also being on trend.In this episode of NeoConversations, Amy Devers talks to Dana Madden, Architectural Product Manager for XtremeInterior™ by Tamlyn, and Wayne Braun, Principal at PDR in Texas about architectural trim and how it can be used to enhance interior spaces by adding sophistication, depth, color and drama to walls. Beyond aesthetics, it offers protection from dings and dents in high traffic commercial and multi-family residential ...
Read MoreA Locals’ Guide to Chicago Gems
Chicago is absolutely no Second City when it comes to world class art, architecture and design-- and to inspiring places to visit. We asked 8 Chicago based design leaders (and partners for this year’s NeoCon) to share their favorite spaces and places to visit in the city. Add these designer-curated stops to your NeoCon 2019 Chicago ‘To-Do’ List! John CzarneckiDeputy Director and Senior Vice President | IIDA "The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool in Lincoln Park is an oasis of quiet beauty in the city. Just north of downtown—and walking distance to Lake Michigan—this landscape is a wonderful escape. Designed by Caldwell in ...
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