With a Master's degree in Architecture, I have a passion for interior architecture, space planning, programming, branding, way-finding and graphic design.

My design interests focus on the role of our physical environments in our everyday lives and how they affect early childhood development and education.

Excerpt from 2009 Graduate Thesis - University of Minnesota

DesigNurturing
grow + play + learn

The physical design of the world around us directly affects our lives. The value and success of design can be defined by how well the users' needs and tasks are met. Design must also engage the user; built environments must enrich and reinvigorate practices of everyday life. Most built environments are designed with only the adult in mind. Often needs and tasks of special populations, such as children, are overlooked and ignored.

In order to properly meet the needs and expectations of children, their physical environments and three-dimensional motion must be considered, while also supporting all areas of development. Three dimensional movement accelerates learning and development. Our environments must allow for free movement and must adapt to the specific needs of the users.

Learning environments of the 21st Century have a growing need to connect to their communities. Children are slowly becoming more and more isolated from their communities. The concern for security has increased and many parents may over protect their children. DesigNurturing discovers methods to support child development; while uncovering opportunities to include child as integral players in the futures of their communities.

It takes a village to raise a child... It takes a child to cultivate community!