research: salvaged architecture

the home of fred burns: constructed from drift wood

for a recent paper assignment, i chose to research examples of buildings across the country that were constructed on small budgets with locally salvaged materials in innovative ways.  this topic appealed to me  because it stands in direct opposition to the notion that homes are commodities to buy, use and discard.  my research explored buildings constructed by communities, developed over years and personalized through a built form of self-expression, which has become rare in the U.S.

networking

image credit: kansas.gov

i attended several networking events this semester, which opened my eyes to the valuable career connections and resources available locally.

first off, i went to the MOMENTUM GROUP textile design offices in archdale to attend an IIDA portfolio review event.  this allowed me to meet first hand with design professionals to get their opinions and advice on diverse topics relating to the design industry.

second up was dinner/portfolio review with architect john lindsey and carpenter robert barrett who gave me a sense of the triangle's architectural scene and potential opportunities.

next, i went to a staff interview event for retailer ANTHROPOLOGIE, to meet with some key figures in the visual merchandising field.  again, we reviewed my portfolio and then talked about my aspirations, understanding of the company and relevant skill sets.

finally, i met with argentinian architect alicia ravetto (my internship mentor) to talk about some potential contract work.

portfolio package

my portfolio package includes digital and hard copy portfolios, business cards, postcards (leave behinds) and a supplemental set of artwork images (not shown here).

portfolio:

business card and postcard:

a good example

below is the beautifully designed website of the bouroullec brothers, which can be found here: http://www.bouroullec.com/ 

the clear layout and simple stylings let visitors focus on the design work.  i also appreciate the write-ups and chronological project tabs-- just a few things to remember as i design my own web and print portfolios.

towards a new... portfolio

my professional practice course has got me feeling anxious.  i've never been one to boldly step into a new life phase, head held high, looking towards the horizon.  instead, i tend to shuffle forward, looking back all the while and wondering if i've made the right decision.  

thankfully, i know i'm not alone.  surrounding me in a seemingly endless sea of stylish glasses, are all of the other job seeking designers i will have to compete with.  just kidding, i was going for a positive angle... like hey, i've met some amazing designers, professors and students throughout my time in this program and we can help each other out!  so on that note, here is a first draft of my resume and mini portfolio: