The Community Window
ENVIRONMENTAL
TEAM MEMBERS:
Sarah Barz, Kiran Majid, Moussa Sakouk, Reinna Florez, Sarah Steck, Ashley France, Eric Sanchez Medel
The MSU Denver Department of Modern Language wanted a way to liven up their patio space and make it more inviting for students to utilize, as well as to highlight the diversity of the campus. The project also served as a way to welcome back the first students to campus after all classes went remote during the COVID pandemic.
I worked with a group of other designers to help develop an overall theme to the installation and then we each worked on individual windows, with some group collaborations. I worked on the Korean display and assisted with the American Sign Language display.
Research and Analysis
To develop the individual window displays, research was conducted on culturally representative color palettes, patterns and symbols. The research was then reviewed by staff members who teach the languages and are familiar with the cultures being represented.
To begin deciding on what would work well for the space, we took note of other designs that warrant attention and how they transformed the environments they are in.
Conclusion
It is critical to work with people who are part of the culture being designed for. Working with stakeholders helps correct preconceived notions and helps lead to better solutions.