Mile Long Trace

OverviewIn this episode of Mile Long Trace we dive into the importance and value of internships in the design profession. We speak from a practitioner and student perspective to highlight how to pay it forward. Guest SummaryKatja Marquart is a professor at the University of Wisconsin in the Interior Architecture program within the School of Design and Communication. Katja works with students in her program to aid in internship placement and speaks with us on the role and value of internships.  In this episode we discuss: 1. The value of interior design internships from a student and practitioner perspective 2. What students and practitioners are looking to get out of the experience3. The reality of how internships weave into the business of design 4. What skillsets practitioners are looking for5. Meaningful ways practitioners can engage with interns6. The difference between mentorship and sponsorship 

In this episode we discuss: Strategies for taking the WELL Building ExamThe importance of designing for building healthHow to apply the strategies of WELL to the design of a project“The role buildings can play in human health and well-being has never been more evident or more important. Thanks to an evolving evidence base, we understand more about the relationship between the physical environment and human health than ever before. We know how to create spaces that enhance – rather than hinder – health and well-being. We can measure – and then improve – the quality of our air, water and light. We can design environments that fuel our bodies, move us, keep us connected, inspire our best work and facilitate a good night's sleep.” - WELLGuest SummaryBecca Dobosh has over 16 years of experience in the interior design industry, with a focus on and passion for sustainability.  For the past thirteen years she has been an integral part of SERA's Hospitality Studio, which focuses on custom packages for branded hotels in complex, urban environments. Her approach to incorporating sustainability into projects is deeply immersed in biophilic design with an emphasis on creating healthy interior spaces that are grounded in occupant engagement through compelling storytelling. By creating spaces that strengthen the symbiotic relationship between humans and our environment, Becca designs for long-term resiliency and wellbeing.  She is a LEED & WELL AP, and Associate Interior Designer at SERA Architects. To listen to the show and read the show notes on tips for taking the Well Building exam. Follow us on instragram to stay in the loop on future episodes.Interested in being a guest or have a topic covered, contact Mile Long Trace. We love hearing from our guests. Till next time keep designing yawl. 

Mile Long Trace speaks with Becca Dobosh about how she has woven the principles of biophilia into hospitality design.Guest SummaryBecca Dobosh has over 16 years of experience in the interior design industry, with a focus on and passion for sustainability.  For the past thirteen years she has been an integral part of SERA's Hospitality Studio, which focuses on custom packages for branded hotels in complex, urban environments. Her approach to incorporating sustainability into projects is deeply immersed in biophilic design with an emphasis on creating healthy interior spaces that are grounded in occupant engagement through compelling storytelling. By creating spaces that strengthen the symbiotic relationship between humans and our environment, Becca designs for long-term resiliency and wellbeing.  She is a LEED & WELL AP, and Associate Interior Designer at SERA Architects. In this episode we discuss: What biophilic design is and how to apply it to a project What lead Becca to learning more about biophilic designHow she has applied the principles of biophilic design to a urban hospitality project“Refuge is the idea that if people or animals or living beings are protected at the back and slightly overhead, they will feel more protected. It is the reason why animals have their deans in caves. The next principle is prospect which is access to views. Back in the day, humans were drawn to prospect because they could see predators coming. It provides a sense of safety. If you combine refuge (protection around and above you) and prospect (with views) you get a space that is very comforting to people". -Becca DoboshTo listen to the show and read the show notes on tips for how to integrate biophilia into hospitality design. Follow us on instragram to stay in the loop on future episodes.Interested in being a guest or have a topic covered, contact Mile Long Trace. We love hearing from our guests. Till next time keep designing yawl. 

Mile Long Trace speaks with Rachel Codd to explore the concept of designing for public spaces and place based design. We discuss a diversity of project sectors to talk about the importance of post occupancy evaluation, and how we can inform the design of public spaces using place based strategies. Guest SummaryRachel Codd is working on her MA in Interior Architecture and Design at Heriot Watt University.  She brings with her a background in illustration design and spent a decade working as a research librarian. While working in the library, it occurred to her she has a passion for how the built environment could be better through post occupancy evaluation and place based design strategies.  She brings with her a background in illustration design and spent a decade working as a research librarian. While working in the library, it occurred to her she has a passion for how the built environment could be better through post occupancy evaluation and place based design strategies. In this episode we discuss: Why Rachel decided to get a MA in Interior ArchitectureWhat her experience is like studying in Scotland How her background in illustration design has shaped her approach to the built environmentHow ones mindset has to shift when working in different project sectors Why it is important to close the loop and perform post occupancy evaluationsHow a place based design mindset can elevate ones design practiceRead the full show notes for key quotes and details about this episode.Don't forget to engage on instagram to stay in the loop as episodes become available. Feel free to reach out if your itching for a topic to be covered elizabeth@milelongtrace.com. Till next time keep designing yawl. 

Ever wonder how you can level up your design career? In this episode, Mile Long Trace speaks with Nita Posada about how to elevate oneself professionally between 5pm and 9am.Guest SummaryNita Posada is a Principal at Skylab Architecture in Portland, Oregon.  IIDA Chapter President and Strategic Advisory Committee MemberShe holds a NCIDQ Certificate and is a LEED AP BD+CShe has a Bachelor of Interior Architecture from University of OregonShe has worked on projects that span across healthcare, higher education, hospitality and residential market sectors. She enjoys participating in AIA softball leagues and industry golf tournaments. “This is an industry where you have to advocate for yourself, and not be afraid to speak up. Carve out your own path to find your passion. If you want to try something new advocate for it.” - Nita PosadaWhat are things you can do between 5pm and 9am as a design practitioner to elevate your career? Read the show notes to find out.Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app.Engage with us on social to stay in the loop.Till next time keep designing yawl. 

The architecture and design field is a service-based industry. A designer must somehow bring in a profit and how we do that is through the design services we provide. In this episode we explore: What a service-based industry means? Why have good customer service?How to apply a client centric approach to your projects?“As one becomes more experienced in their practice they can begin to see warning signs with clients. You can head off challenging clients by practicing a service-based mindset.” - Elizabeth To listen to the show and read the show notes on 10 tips to providing good customer service.Follow us on instragram to stay in the loop on future episodes. Interested in being a guest or have a topic covered, contact Mile Long Trace. We love hearing from our guests. Till next time keep designing yawl. 

In this episode we will look at the transition of starting a new design position:Discuss how you know it is time to transitionInterview tipsHow to approach your new position physically and emotionallyFor 5 tips on how to approach your new job position read the full show notes. Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop as new episodes release.Curious about a topic you would like for us to cover contact us. Till next time keep designing y'all. 

We take a dive into the practice of design from a parenting practitioner’s perspective. This episode is for you if you have kids or are thinking about having kids or your curious about the term work life balance. We will look at how parenting impacts the design process. Guest SummaryMegan Plante is a A&D Marketing Manager with OFS. She is a mother of two and has started a social media account called Mothers of Design, also known as MOD Squad. MOD Squad's vision is to create a voice and recognize that mothers in design exist. She strives to normalizing parenting by creating events around parenting and design. In this episode, Megan and I are going to take a dive into parenting, being a practitioner, and honing our voice of what feels right as a practitioner with a work life balance.Whether or not you have a family that you're currently living with, or you're thinking about starting a family. We will look at what it means to have a work life balance within the context of a modern day design practice. In this episode we asked Megan:What led you to starting MOD Squad?What have you been hearing and feeling in the design industry from working parents?How do you think the profession has shifted since parents are working from home?There are parents in the workplace, then there are mothers in the workplace, how are mother's brains wired and how does that impact the workplace? Do you think the 9-5 is realistic for parents?What advice do you have for the younger you when thinking about having kids in the design profession? “We as practitioners have to remember that working is a relationship. We have a relationship with our job. A relationship means there is a give and take. It is not a constant take. That is not a relationship.” - Elizabeth“You're going to come across other ways of thinking, other relationships, other people, other upbringings. You are also going to come across people that have a very narrow mindsets, and I think no matter what, honor what is in you. Listen to your inner voice and what it is telling you to do. Be true to yourself.” - MeganIf you are a parent and practitioner that is seeking a work life balance we would love to hear what has worked for you. Please share elizabeth@milelongtrace.com. We want to hear from you and help build this profession together. Make sure to follow us https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/ and tag a fellow designer that comes to mind when you listen to this episode. Till next time keep designing yawl.

As we zoom into 2021 we take a look at the digital presentation process to set you up for success.In this episode we will talk about:How to prep for a design meetingHow to structure a meeting with a clear agendaEffective verbal and visual presentation stylesLook at zoom etiquetteHow to maximize client engagement and form a relationship digitally Now lets elevate your practice by crafting successful design meetings.To get professional tips on how to design, run and shape a digital design presentation check out the show notes. Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop as new episodes release.Curious about a topic you would like for us to cover contact us. Till next time keep designing y'all.

In this episode we talk about the relationship of architecture and interiors as a practice, we size up the ARE and the NCIDQ, we discuss pursuing a masters in architecture and provide insightful tips to help you elevate your practice.Guest SummaryMichael Riscica is founder, creator, brainchild and show host of Young Architect. Graduated from the New York School of Technology with a Bachelor of ArchitectureRegistered Architect with his NCARB Certificate Volunteered for Architects in schools with Architecture Foundation of Oregon2014 he founded Young Architect - Helping Young Architects navigate the early years of their careers and being more successful in school, work and the Architecture Registration ExamWritten publications on how to pass the Architectural Registration ExamCreated an ARE bootcamp to help architectural designers pass the ARE exams“There are a lot of hats an interior designer can wear. In some way they are the same as an architect and some ways they are different. I think understanding what hats you're great at wearing and how you fit in is important.” - Michael“If you don't have good bones, if the proportions of the space aren't right, you're just putting lipstick on a pig.” – ElizabethCheck out the show notes to capture a summary of our discussion. Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop as new episodes release.Curious about a topic you would like for us to cover contact us. Till next time keep designing y'all.

Interior designers have the capacity to produce thought provoking work that is regionally empathetic and culturally diverse. When we travel, we open up to observing and learning about other cultures. During the process of observation we break down internal cultural biases. We become empathetic to other ways of living, working and socializing. We learn how to create culturally appropriate responses to global design problems. We increase tolerance among other cultures, religions and race. When we lean into a worldly viewpoint we are one step closer to promoting social justice. In this episode we will explore the importance of travel in the design practice and how to adopt this thinking while we can not travel. Guest SummaryCasey Martin is an interior designer and educator. She has practiced nationally and internationally on LEED projects in Hawaii and South Korea. Since 2009 Casey has practiced at Mitsunaga & Associates out of Hawaii, supporting the architectural department with planning and interior design services. Casey leads a design practice with Reverie Design Studio. She taught an exploratory course called Multi-global Design working with students creating empathy and culture awareness. Casey has traveled extensively and documents her experience through a travel blog called Land of Marvels.Read the show notes to gain 6 tips on how to apply travel to your design practice. Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop as new episodes release.Curious about a topic you would like for us to cover contact us. Keep observing, traveling with your minds and designing!

As designers strive to become more innovative, working in groups is at the root of harvesting a larger breadth of creativity. Collaboration is a tool for reaching greater innovation and creativity in the design field. In this episode we will offer 10 tips to creating a collaborative culture. “When we collaborate creativity unfolds across people; the sparks fly faster and the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Collaboration drives creativity because innovation always emerges from a series of sparks – never a single flash of insight.” - Sawyer Read the full shownotes on 10 tips to creating collaboration. Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop as new episodes release. Curious about a topic you would like for us to cover contact us. Till next time keep designing y'all.

How does one foster creativity? In this episode we will talk about the moment in the design process when one needs to summon the creative voices inside. We will unpack how to be creative and offer 10 tips to foster creativity in the design process.“I believe that inspiration will always try its best to work with you – but if you are not ready or available, it may indeed choose to leave you and to search for a different human collaborator.” - Elizabeth Gilbert, Author of Big Magic“The shear act of freeing your mind to be creative in another medium can un-lock your brain enough to be able to think more freely, clearly and creativity about your own design.” - Elizabeth Read the full shownotes to see 10 tips for fostering creativity. Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop on new episode releases.Curious about a topic you would like for Mile Long Trace to cover contact us. Till next time keep designing y'all.

When we hear the terms equity and inclusive design these days our ears perk up, but if you are like me you are left wondering, what does equity really look like in the built environment and how does a busy designer apply the concept of spatial justice to their practice? In this week’s episode we will look at:An overview of what spatial justice meansDiscuss the range of inclusion that should be consideredLook closely at mobility and access to sharpen your design practiceDiscuss how to adopt a more spatially just practiceLet’s go from awareness to action in your design practice.“Spatial justice is drilling it down to the individual experience within the design of space. In my mind, spatial justice is about how space is shared among people and how we have biased design. When we design for the “average” human, we really design for no one. It excludes so many experiences. Spatial justice is about bringing the benefits of good design to everybody, especially those who have been historically left out.” – Hannah SilverGuest SummaryHannah Silver is founder and inclusive design educator with Informal Function, LLC. I/F’s mission is to empower activist designers of the built environment through spatial justice education and project consultation.Formerly she was an inclusive design consultant with AllGo.She is an adjunct instructor at PSU in the School of Urban Studies and ArchitecturePreviously a sustainability manager at an architectural firm. She is a LEED AP for Homes, EcoDistricts AP, WELL AP, and Fitwel Ambassador.Hannah fuses her degrees in architecture from University of Virginia with a focus in Global Sustainability to her Masters in Urban and Regional Planning at Portland State with a focus in land use to her current venture with Informal/Function.“Design won't save the world, but it can do a lot to shift whether people feel welcome or not in a space. There is a lot that comes from our business culture or social culture, and what we're doing to be inclusive in environments. The more that we have queer and trans people, folks with disabilities and representing neurodiversity, people of size, people of color, and other folks designing in the profession, the more that we will see design that is more inclusive.” – Hannah SilverCheck out the show notes and additional resource on equity in design. Don't forget to leave a rave review in your favorite podcast app and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop on new episode releases.Curious about a topic you would like for Mile Long Trace to cover contact us. Till next time keep designing y'all.

In order to minimize the viral spread in the built environment, designers across the world are exploring a vast array of strategies from space planning, to finishes to lighting. In today’s episode we are going to unpack UV lighting to understand the pros and cons of introducing it into mainstream built environments. UV has traditionally been used in health care applications such as surgical exam rooms to remove virus from surfaces. As designers explore how this technology translates to other market sectors we will unpack:Effectiveness of UV lighting as a viral treatmentSafety concerns with using UV in public spacesSafe ways UV lighting can be introduced into interior environmentsClients interest in UV lighting and predictions for technology advancement“At this the time there is not enough research and education to the public on the difference and effectiveness of UVA, UVB or UVC. The key is to really understand which nanometer range of UV the source is emitting.” - Jesse Smith“I think UV lighting strategies is a really important conversation to have with clients in light of everything that's going on in the world right now. However, I think the science needs to be stronger in terms of application. My concern is the ads for UV light that kill COVID. We are trying to stay away from eradicating surfaces because of the potential to expose humans.” - Kaylene Campbell Read the full shownotes to review the differences between UVA, UVB and UVC. Jesse Smith is a Lighting Studio Team Lead and Senior Lighting Designer at Glumac EngineeringJesse’s background started in Communication, that lead him to Parson’s School of Design where he received an MFA in Architectural Lighting DesignHe is Lighting Certified with National Council on Qualifications for the Lighting Professions (NCQLP) and a Board Member of Illuminating Society of Engineers (IES)Active member in local IES and IALD chapters helping promote better lighting through educationProjects he has worked on span the globe in a spectrum of project types from medical facilities to higher educational institutions to hospitality projectsJesse has extensive experience in exploring new lighting, control and daylighting technologyKaylene Campbell is a Lighting Designer at Glumac EngineeringShe has an BFA in Interior Designer which allows her to communicate lighting design intent and technical expertise fluently with architectural teamsShe has a deep background as a client manger which enable her to understand clients’ needs and team coordinationShe is currently a member of IIDA and Board Treasure of IESProjects she has worked on span the United States in a spectrum of project types from winery tasting rooms, mixed use development, biotechnology facility to multifamily housing projects Kaylene’s background in sustainability has enabled her to work on projects that utilize Resilient Design and LEED strategiesDon't forget to leave us a rave review on apple podcast to help Mile Long Trace grow. Follow us on instragram to stay in the loop on future episodes.Itching for some content to be covered email us at elizabeth@milelongtrace.com. We love to collaborate. Till next time keep designing y'all.

We bring into focus the microbiome of the built environment to understand what is happening on a micro level to interior spaces. In this episode we address what is on designers’ minds right now, COVID-19 in the built environment.“Designers have a big role to play in the mitigation of virus transfer. Designers also have a role to play in the climate crisis. Buildings consume a lot of energy. While we're talking about biology right now, we really should be talking about energy because they go hand in hand. As we take measures to mitigate COVID-19 many of them have energy implications. They have land implications. They have urban design implications. We can't disregard the energy impact on the climate. We as designers need to think broadly. We have a substantial role to play.” In this episode we will unpack:What the built environment microbiome isDifferentiate good and bad microbesExplore how good microbiome support human healthDiscuss antimicrobial building productsStrategies designers can apply to reduce the transmission of viruses in the built environmentHow to introduce good microbes into the environment Guest SummaryMark Fretz is an Associate Director of Outreach and Knowledge Exchange at the Institute for Health in the Built Environment, and Research Assistant Professor at University of Oregon. Mark's role entails researching how to design the unseen in the built environment for microbes, molecules to precipitation, carbon and energy in use, in order to promote healthy individuals, healthy communities and a healthy planet. IHBE is at the intersection between biology, medicine, chemistry and engineering to look at how to promote a healthy built environment. Currently Mark and the team he works with IHBE are studying the microbiome of the built environment. Recently, they published considerations to reduce COVID-19 transmission, which is titled “2019 novel coronavirus, pandemic built environment considerations to reduce transmission.” We are going to discuss studies they are currently working on to make the built environment healthier for occupants. Check out the show notes for actionable items to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases in the built environment. Don't forget to leave a rave review and follow us on instagram to stay in the loop on new episode releases. Curious about a topic you would like for Mile Long Trace to cover contact us. Till next time keep designing y'all.

Overview In a matter of weeks, we have seen our entire health system retract, our economic system crash and our political system divide. Ironic! Guess again. We are in the middle of reorganizing some of the largest systems we value; our health, our economy and our political structure. In today’s episode, we are going to take a deep dive into the concept of design resiliency to unpack and inspire you as a designer to embrace change and sustain your design practice. Design Resiliency is the practice of adapting to change. Being nimble, flexible, reflective, adaptive, and even embracing chaos. - Elizabeth Lockwood“Resilient thinking is about how and why the system as a whole is changing, we are better placed to build a capacity to work with change as opposed to being a victim of it. A resilient system that has the capacity to rebound from disturbances does this by increasing its diversity and redundancy, by forgoing growth and speed in favor of sustainability, and by engaging in a wide range of small local actions that connect to one another.” - Margaret WheatleyHealth, economic and political systems collide. Shortly after the world went into the stay at home order due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the conversation shift from human health to economic health and then it quickly became political. We began to divide as a nation and question even our good friends’ political views. It is more apparent then ever how interconnected our human health, economic health and political systems are. When we talk about one these days, we tend to lead into another. So now what? How do we unpack this all to advise our clients to make the best informed decisions when we are in the middle of a massive reorganization of our health, economic and political system. This is where the theory of Design Resiliency can be applied. It is a theory, model and tool to us during different phase of design or during business restructuring. Moving forward through this episode I will speak on two different levels. One being the notion of having a healthy design practice during a recession and the second notion designing in response to pandemics. The full shownotes include: adaptive cycle diagrams, key quotes and related architectural references. Check them out!Don't forget to leave a five star review and share this show with a friend. Spread the love! Follow Mile Long Trace on Instagram to watch for future episode releases.Have any questions, comments or feedback we would love to muse with you! Till Next Time Keep Designing Y'all.

Design Justice is the intersection of race, culture and architecture. With protesters across the nation calling upon communities saying, “it isn’t enough to be silent anymore.” The design community should do more, a lot more, but how? Even though the systems at play are so massively broken, doing something is a start. In this episode Elizabeth explores how architects and interior designers can start to address social change and equity in the design process.“We need to adopt a new role as a facilitator, not the all high and mighty practitioner that knows best. We need to be humble. We need to be vulnerable. We need to be willing to step down and recognize that the skill sets lie in leading teams through the design process. We need to elevate the voice of others. Now that is Design Justice. ” It is highly recommend you reference the show notes for this episode. The quotes brought forward and resources from the show are worth a second read. Don't forget to spread the love and share this show with a friend. Follow Mile Long Trace on Instagram to watch for future episode releases. Till Next Time Keep Designing Y'all.

We are in week 10 of a worldwide pandemic. Many Architecture and Interior Design firms around the world have normalized the working from home culture. Yet we are left wondering where our collaborative design process is heading? We find in times of change, we as a human race are turned upside down, brought out of our comfort zone and forced to recon with thoughts that were always there but were masked by the bustling of the daily race. In this episode industry leader Bill Bouchey joins Elizabeth Lockwood to muse on:Resetting the design process during social distancing Debunking the working from home cultureExplore what it means to "reoccupy"Establishing new behavioral norms and developing guiding principles that enhance the built environmentHow design thinking is impacted by social distancingGuest SummaryBill Bouchey, FIIDA, ASID30 years of design experienceDirector of Design, Interiors for HOK and leads projects out of Los Angeles and New YorkRecently admitted into the IIDA College of FellowsBill has experience as a thought leader in workplace, showroom and retail environments, with an emphasis on innovation and brand presenceHis design sense is driven by the belief that interior design empowers people and transforms organizations He serves on Contract magazine’s editorial advisory board and is a frequent contributor and guest speaker on design IFMA Design Innovation Award for Touch Mudder Brooklyn Headquarters (nominated) and Design & Construction Awards (The Law Firm of Fitzpatrick, Cella, Scinto & Harper: Large Office Category)Interior Design BOY Best of Year 2012 & 2013SARA Society of American Registered ArchitectsHot off the press, NYCxDESIGN has honored Bouchey and his team at HOK the 2020 Best Creative Office for Shiseido Cosmetics. Look for the project feature in the May issue of Interior Design Magazine.“What are the guiding principles that might come out of this that a portion of the world will adopt, even if this pandemic is cured and goes away? Because there will be someone thinking what about the next one? How will we approach the design of the built environment to be more immediately responsive to the next one? Those are the lessons learned that continue to unpack themselves every day in the pandemic that we’re in. They are adding up to guiding principles. That is the next place that I would like myself and my peers thinking to go because I think that is where leadership around the built environment is going next.” - Bill BoucheyTo read key highlights from the show check out Mile Long Trace.Don't forget to head on over to our Instagram feed to engage and stay informed! Can’t wait to hear from you. https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/ Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice, we need to grow this platform. Keep Designing Ya'll!

In this episode you will hear first hand how to navigate the profession of interior design. Guest Peter Harrison and Elizabeth discuss:How to be resilient during different economic climatesHow to transition from school to practiceHow to approach the intimidating topic of networkingHow to make yourself indispensable at a firm“You are the driver of your professional destiny. No one is going to hand it to you. Know that whatever happens during a recession you can make things happen for yourself. It might not happen today. It might not happen tomorrow but it will happen. Do not lose sight of your goals, dreams and aspirations. I think if you are resilient and you focus on the end goal things will work out. They always do. So be tenacious and be excited, positive and ready to enter a profession that is incredibly enriching and touches so many aspects of our lives. It is very worthwhile to stick through this kind of period of uncertainty and just keep going, keep producing and being excited about interior design.” - Peter HarrisonGuest Summary: Peter Harrison is a Interior Designer at Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Partnership. He is a captivating emerging designer. Early on in his career he has identified how to set goals and through networking align himself with his career aspirations. Some highlights from his career include:Director of Student Affairs with IIDA OregonBachelor in Interior Design with a Minor in Landscape Architecture from Utah State UniversityPortland Materials Transparency Collaborative Leadership GroupUSGBC Special Programs Working Group for Green BuildRecently completed the Parson Healthy Materials Lab ProgramLEED AP ID + C and Living Future AccreditationHe has a passion for sustainability, networking and paying it forward to the next generations of designers. To read 11 Pro Tips and to reference additional professional resources visit the show notes. To contact us with questions please reach out. Don't forget to leave a rave review on your favorite podcast player. Till next time keep designing y'all.

We are all musing on how the built environment will transform in response to pandemics. Though we can not predict the future we, as designers, can start to toss ideas out there to see what will stick. Very much like the iterative process of design, the idea has to come from somewhere. Lets toss it out there, lets collaborate as an industry and start to see what will stick.Curious about what other design professionals have published in response to pandemics. Read the full show notes to find out. Mile Long TraceDo you have trends you are hearing and seeing in your networks. Please leave a comment in the show notes. Engage with us on social at https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/.

Overview In this episode Primo Orpilla with Studio O+A discusses:Design resiliencyDesigning for user experience Change management strategies How interior design touches livesEmpowering designers to be design activists“I want designers to feel empowered to make the request to push and create great environments because humanity is at stake.” - Primo OrpillaGuest Summary Primo Orpilla is co-founder with Verda Alexander at Studio O+A. Studio O + A is a interior design studio in San Francisco, best known for designing stylish offices for tech clients such as Cisco, Uber, Alibaba, Yelp, Capital One Labs, Nike, Levis, Adidas and McDonald's.Some highlights from Primo’s career include: Growing a firm along with his partner to 40 plus employees by becoming an icon in corporate office design.Studio O+A was awarded Interior top 50 honors as a firm that is doing eye catching, game changing work. Fast Company named O+A in the top 10 firm as part of the “most innovative companies.” Cooper Hewitt National Design Award Winner, inducted into Interior Design Magazine Hall of Fame, is Contract Magazine Designer of the Year and ASID Designer of Distinction Award winner. Published Twelve True Tales of Workplace Design. Founded a product design line working for Kimball Office, IdeaPaint OFS, and Martin Brattrud to create a furniture line called the Canopy. He is a FIIDA and has served on the national IIDA board promoting design education. He is currently teaching in the Master Program at IE University in Madrid and has taught Senior Advance studios at University of Texas. He is dedicated to advancing commercial interior design through not only design excellence but giving back to universities and professional organizations. To read the full show notes and see work from Studio O+A. Head on over to our Instagram feed to engage! Can’t wait to hear from you.https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/To receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/contact Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice, we need to grow this platform. Keep Designing Ya'll!

In this episode Sarah is: Forthcoming with her ability to be resilient and strategic to grow her practice. Offers professional practice tips that helped advance her career.Provides tools she uses to be innovative during the schematic design phase.Describes how she creates a sense of engagement with her clients by weaving compelling stories throughout her design process. “It sounds like you weave compelling stories as a tool to get the client rooted into the process of a project." - Elizabeth"Exactly. It's about them, and we want the space to be reflective of them and for them to feel fully engaged and proud of their space. From the initial planning down to the pillows, we have found it is a way to make decisions through a project. It is something the clients can participate in and give meaningful feedback on throughout the project.”-Sarah WeberGuest Summary:Sarah is the Senior Interior Design and youngest to be appointed to Associate Principal at BORA Architects in Portland, Oregon. Inspired strategic thinker that excels in ideation, execution and leadership.She enjoys telling compelling stories through the spaces she designs.She focuses on intuitive and human focused solutions to complex programs.As a design leader she strives to support an inquisitive design culture that empowers and encourages teams to bring the design story to life.She has received IIDA awards for Best in Category & Juror’s Choice for the Meier & Frank Redevelopment, IIDA Oregon Legacy Award Winner for her accomplishments and contributions to the commercial interior design profession, IIDA Best in Category, Archtizer A+Awards Jury Winner, and Cannes Lions Awards of Silver Lion for branded environment for Airbnb Customer Experience Hub.She has worked on projects that span across the world enriching the worksplace, hospitality, educational, performing arts and government agencies. To read the full shownotes with images of Sarah's work www.milelongtrace.com/episodes/08-weaving-compelling-stories-with-sarah-weberHead on over to our Instagram feed to engage! Can’t wait to hear from you.https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/To receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/contact Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this platform. Keep Designing Ya'll!

In this episode Julianne and I go into detail about NCIDQ exam eligibility, resources available, practice exams and study tips to set you on track. But before you listen to this episode make sure you listen to Part 1 where you will get a background on what Creative Confidante is, an overview of the NCIDQ exam and hear Julianne’s experience in preparing for taking the exam. Do you have any questions that have come up while listening to the episodes, feel free to reach out at elizabeth@milelongtrace.com. I will make sure and connect you with Julianne to help you get your questions answered. At the end of the day, both of us want you to feel supported in your career and hope to encourage you to take the NCIDQ exam. Happy studying! Guest Summary Julianne is a licensed Interior Designer with experience in high-end hospitality, retail, residential and workplace clients. With a science & fine arts background, she has a unique love for the intersection of the arts, culture and design and is passionate about creating environments that enrich the guest experience. Julianne earned her Bachelors of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture from the Cleveland Institute of Art and moved to Southern California upon graduation to start her design career. Her work has been featured globally in Business of Home, Dezeen, Elle Decor, Vogue China, Architectural Digest Spain, Wired and more.She achieved both her NCIDQ certification and LEED AP ID+C accreditation and is extremely passionate about advocating for the advancement of interior design professionals through certification. In 2016, she founded Creative Confidante, an online resource that provides NCIDQ study tips & tricks, to support and encourage designers to pass their NCIDQ exams. To read the full show notes visit https://www.milelongtrace.com/episodes/07-ncidq-lowdown-part-2.Head on over to our Instagram feed to engage! Can’t wait to hear from you.https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/To receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/contact Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this platform. Keep Designing Ya'll!

In this two-part series we hear from Julianne Rodriguez with Creative Confidante. Julianne has a career in commercial interior design and is welcomed to the show for her work towards enhancing and encouraging interior designers to take the NCIDQ exam. In this episode we will discuss her background that lead to creating Creative Confidante. Why should you take the exam? We have a million reasons but here are just a few….Reason 1: You know this stuff! You have spent timeless hours perfecting your craft during school and in your post-graduation practice. Now its time to show off what you know. Reason 2: You might get a raise and who doesn’t like a little more cash.Reason 3: It supports commercial interior design advocacy.Reason 4: It will help you stand out among other job candidates.Reason 5 : You get to put a bunch of cool letters behind your name. Seriously though it helps define interior design professionals. Guest Summary Julianne is a licensed Interior Designer with experience in high-end hospitality, retail, residential and workplace clients. With a science & fine arts background, she has a unique love for the intersection of the arts, culture and design and is passionate about creating environments that enrich the guest experience. Julianne earned her Bachelors of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture from the Cleveland Institute of Art and moved to Southern California upon graduation to start her design career. Her work has been featured globally in Business of Home, Dezeen, Elle Decor, Vogue China, Architectural Digest Spain, Wired and more.She achieved both her NCIDQ certification and LEED AP ID+C Accreditation and is extremely passionate about advocating for the advancement of interior design professionals through certification. In 2016, she founded Creative Confidante, an online resource that provides NCIDQ study tips & tricks, to support and encourage designers to pass their NCIDQ exams. To read the full shownotes visit https://www.milelongtrace.com/episodesHead on over to our Instagram feed to engage! Can’t wait to hear from you.https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/ To receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/contact Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this platform. Keep Designing Ya'll!

Industry Acronyms! In this light hearted episode we unpack the use of acronyms by exploring the: Relevance and use of acronyms within the architectural communityHistory and difference between acronyms and bacronymsArch-i-slang acronyms challengeOur role as interior designers and how it relates to the use of acronyms To read the full show notes and see definitions from the Arch-i-slang challenge. https://www.milelongtrace.com/episodes/05-arch-i-slangSummary I challenging you too:Be conscious about how and when you use acronyms. Make sure to define the acronym if your using it in front of your clients or consultants. Double check you are not using an acronym that might have another meaning. Especially if its one that is unprofessional and inappropriate. Avoid falling into the pitfall of arch-i-slang when possible. Just cause others are doing it doesn’t mean you should. Right? For this week’s challenge please go to Mile Long Trace Instagram feed, respond to this podcast post and add a design acronym or two to the feed so we can build our professional interior design acronym list. https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/If you have any great war stories about using acronyms please email me at elizabeth@milelongtrace.com. Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this platform.And above all don’t let acronyms pull you down, keep on designing ya'll.

Ellen Cusick is joining us today. She is the principle of EMC Interior Design LLCDesigns and project manages hospitality, retail & residential interior projects from programming through construction observation. She is most notably known for being the kick ass woman that can effectively navigate the permit and building code department. She has her NCIDQ certificate, she has served on the ASID board, written exam questions for CIDQ, and advocated for interior design legislation. Ellen has been practicing interior design for 20 years. In this episode we will look at:The attraction to becoming an interior designerThe ups and downs from graduation through 20 years of practice One's dream market sectorLessons learned from years of practiceWhat activities you can do to shape your careerYou will come away with insight into one designers path she took. Along the way you will hear about the jankety and scrappy side of her interior design practice. If you were to describe your design process as a cocktail, which one would it be and why?“It's an old fashioned. It's kind of an architectural cocktail because you've got to have just the right amount of whiskey, just the right amount of sugar and just the right amount of bitters. Take these really simple, strong flavors and then mix them together to create this really complex flavor. Umm, it's a flavor bomb. A good interior is like a bomb of experience.” - Ellen CusickTo read the full show notes and see some of Ellen's work https://www.milelongtrace.com/episodes/04-qa-emerged-ellen-cusickHead on over to our Instagram feed to engage! Can’t wait to hear from you. https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/To receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/contactLastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this platform.Keep Designing Ya'll!

In this episode we will look at:o How feedback loops play a role in office culture o Importance of warming up with a new teamo Forming a relationship with your team to balance task and process during deadlineso How emotional intelligence plays a role in group dynamics You will come away with thought provoking questions to prompt you to consider office dynamics and how you show up within design teams. At the end we will share simple yet effective exercises you can implement to support you as you work with teams. “To be a design professional requires us to rise up out of our self. To diplomatically work within a collaborative environment. To ethically advocate for the best project and make recommendations that sometimes do not want to be heard but you do it in a way that is receivable because you are emotionally aware of how your tone and body language can come off.” - ElizabethTo read the full show notes and reference the exercises check out http://www.milelongtrace.com/episodes/03-navigating-office-cultureWrap up: o Take a personality quizo Get to know how you show up in groupso Go slow to go fast by balancing task and process especially during deadlineso Form working relationships with your coworkers to understand how they like to operate and how your personality can complement themo Go on the balcony to listen more than speak. o Consider the other side of the fence because it takes two to tango Head on over to our Instagram feed to engage! Can’t wait to hear from you. https://www.milelongtrace.com/contactTo receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this platform.Keep Designing Ya'll!

We quickly take a deep dive into the world of writing a design concept statement. The goal is to help you translate what you might have focused on in school and are now leaving to the wayside while you focus on design development, billable hours and project budgets. We will relish in the schematic design phase to emphasize the importance of having a design concept. Along the way we will share tips and tricks to help you strengthen your concept writing skills though the what, why and how process. Ever wonder how to develop a concept statement with a team? Check out the show! To read the full show notes with an explanation of the exercise and resources visit https://www.milelongtrace.com/episodes/02-dna-of-a-projectIn closing: · Write concept statements and write them well· Write them in collaboration · Advocate for rooting the concept statement into the design processThe references from this week’s episode can be found in the show notes. If you have any thoughts, insights, what has worked and not worked as part of your conceptual design process. We would love to hear from you by visiting https://www.milelongtrace.com/contact. We look forwarding to hearing from you and helping to elevate your commercial interior design practice. To receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/Follow us on social at https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this platform. Keep on designing y’all.

We kick off this podcast with an overview of why the podcast was named Mile Long Trace. Hint hint there is a metaphor in the name plus we unpack the term design practice and share a design process tip you won’t want to miss. Lastly, we begin to get to know each other. By exposing the show hosts background in commercial interior design. The raw side of it. The side no one tells you about in school. To read more check out http://www.milelongtrace.com/episodes/01-mile-long-trace-trailerSo what surprised you about the field? What was one thing you wish they had told you in school? Head on over to our website and leave a comment. Can’t wait to hear from you! https://www.milelongtrace.com/contactTo receive the latest episodes and stay informed join our email list (we promise to be respectful of your time and personal information). https://www.milelongtrace.com/Follow us on social at https://www.instagram.com/milelongtrace_podcast/Lastly don't forget to hit subscribe in your favorite podcast feed and leave a review. In order for Mile Long Trace to deliver you credible content that meets your practice we need to grow this community.