Dezeen School Shows: a creative space for local freelance photographers to showcase their work is included in Dezeen’s latest school show by Corcoran School of the Arts and Design.

Also featured is a women-focused co-working space designed to support working mothers and a “plant hotel” that looks after house plants while owners are on holiday.

Corcoran School of the Arts and Design at The George Washington University

School: Corcoran School of the Arts and Design, The George Washington University
Course: Interior Architecture Bachelor of Fine Arts, Studio 5
Tutors: Christina Filipescu and Alex Donahue

School statement:

“The Interior Architecture Master of Fine Arts (MFA) at the George Washington University’s Corcoran School of the Arts and Design in Washington DC is the only council for interior design accreditation-accredited programme in the United States’ capital.

“It is designed for students who pursued a bachelor’s degree in a field other than interior design, interior architecture or architecture and are looking to follow a studio-based curriculum that will teach various aspects of interior design, theories and technicalities.

“We believe in fostering a community that encourages creativity and pushes the boundaries of design with an emphasis on conceptual thinking and the design process.”

The Hub by Mary Armintrout

“Inspired by the transformation of Washington DC’s B&O railroad tracks to the bustling Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT) pathway for pedestrians and cyclists, this project reactivates the now vacant Schlitz bottling factory into The Hub – operating as a coffee shop, brewery and bike co-op for the community.

“With careful restoration of original details and introduction of the bicycle’s dynamic form, The Hub embraces its new user group by reorienting the facade toward the MBT and supports the growth of DC’s cyclist community through programming and integrated bicycle spaces.

“Vibrant colours invoke movement and honour the industrial space.”

Student: Mary Armintrout
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Contact: armintroutmary[at]gmail.com

A Room of One’s Own Youth Shelter by Steven Mion

“Recovering from homelessness doesn’t simply mean having a bed to sleep in. It means feeling safe, respected and free as you transition to permanent housing, especially for youth.

“When principles of trauma-informed care are built into the shelter environment, unhoused youth are less likely to become unhoused adults.

“This demands a shelter that lets youths choose the degree to which they engage in a public space or retreat to a private one.

“With large open atriums, comfortable personal sleeping pods and a whole range of spaces in between, this shelter is not the destination – it is one step in a successful journey.”

Student: Steven Mion
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Contact: stevenmion[at]gmail.com

Elemental Health Outpatient Chemotherapy Center by Anna Helsel

“In healthcare, creating an environment that feels safe and protected while promoting comfort and calmness can be beneficial for patients and healthcare providers.

“This is especially true for cancer patients experiencing chemotherapy treatment regimens that are physically demanding and mentally and emotionally harrowing.

“The main objective of Elemental Health Outpatient Chemotherapy Center is to use design to improve and aid patient outcomes by emphasising human health and wellbeing, creating a comfortable and calming environment for all users of the space.”

Student: Anna Helsel
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Contact: annahelsel[at]gmail.com

Coterie by Cece Witherspoon

“Corterie is a women-focused co-working space aiming to support and enrich the lives of women and working mothers in the DMV area.

“Inspired by surrealist artists and the strong geometries of the building’s facade, the design combines classical architecture with perspectival games. Shapes are reduced to simple planes, representing unexpected spaces.

“The concept of order and choas, inspired by the realities of working mothers, is expressed through curvilinear and rectangular shapes.

“Through its co-working spaces, daycare centre and wellness facilities, Corterie caters to working mothers by providing them beautiful spaces to work, collaborate and build a community.”

Student: Cece Witherspoon
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Contact: cecewitherspoon0623[at]gmail.com

Art to Heart by Becca Friedman

“Art to Heart is an art therapy clinic and inclusive art centre that offers a wide range of individual and group therapies to elementary-school-aged children with cognitive, developmental and emotional needs.

“Leveraging universal and evidence-based design principles, Art to Heart meets the needs of any child regardless of ability and fosters freedom for creative expression.

“Driven by organic architectural gestures and structured activities that encourage freedom of choice, Art to Heart’s programming includes individual therapy rooms, group art classes, open-concept mixed-medium studios, outdoor spaces, and a café hosting resources for parents and staff.”

Student: Becca Friedman
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Contact: rebeccafriedman01[at]gmail.com

The Green Collective: A Plant Hotel by Alison Kambourian

“Pets are the new children and plants are the new pets.

“Inspired by the new plant parent generation, the Green Collective aims to be the first-ever house plant hotel.

“Users can have their plants picked up before they embark on work trips or vacations and rest assured their plants receive the staycation they deserve, from hand-watered misting to deep root drenching in the sunlit, climate and pest-controlled greenhouse space.

“Inspired by users’ love and dedication to their plants, the hotel also aims to be a space for the plant’s wellbeing and for the community to collect and celebrate plant life’s beauty.

“The Green Collective highlights areas of engagement, appreciation and learning by implementing exotic plants on display, a vegetative cafe, a workshop space, and a plant store for all the user’s plant purchasing needs.”

Student: Alison Kambourian
Course: Studio 5
Tutor: Alex Donahue, AIA
Contact: alisonkambourian[at]gmail.com

The Atelier by Danielle Lee

“Most photographers are sole proprietors working on an as-needed basis. There is an increasing need for photographers and their workspaces, especially in an age where the prevalence of social media puts photography in high demand.

“The Atelier aims to provide a space for local freelance photographers to brainstorm, produce, and showcase their work while building a community.

“Meanwhile, the public can enjoy the space while savouring coffee in the cafe, strolling through the curated gallery or purchasing artwork from the shop.”

Student: Danielle Lee
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Alex Donahue, AIA

Fantasma by Isabel du Clos

“Fantasma provides a unique experience by allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the history and traditions of the tequila-making process and explore new tastes and flavours.

“Visitors can participate in events and activities such as distillery tours, tastings and craft cocktail classes.”

Student: Isabel du Clos
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Alex Donahue, AIA
Contact: iduclos7[at]gmail.com

The Beauty Bazaar by Maggie Williams

“The beauty bazaar is a transformative experience that will instil confidence in people through educational cosmetic consultations.

“Specialists will provide clients with the tools they need to feel like their best selves daily, and clients will leave feeling confident and capable of replicating what they have learned.

“The design helps guide people through the experience, culminating in a ‘big reveal’ where one can reflect on their consultation.”

Student: Maggie Williams
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Alex Donahue, AIA
Contact: maggie.williams614[at]gmail.com

Like Home Hospice Care by Roozana Petrosian

“Like Home revolutionises hospice care design by fostering a sense of community, comfort and familiarity.

“It reimagines the end-of-life experience with inviting common areas, private suites adorned with personal mementos, and soothing colours and textures.

“Natural light fills the space while gardens and outdoor areas provide solace and connection to nature. Every detail is thoughtfully crafted to encourage social interaction and emotional support.

“Like Home creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that celebrates life’s final chapters, embracing dignity and compassion.

“It transforms the hospice environment into a place where patients and their families feel at home, surrounded by a supportive community.”

Student: Roozana Petrosian
Course: Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Alex Donahue, AIA
Contact: rozanakh[at]gmail.com

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Corcoran School of the Arts and Design. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post Corcoran School of the Arts and Design presents 10 student interior design projects appeared first on Dezeen.

As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the realms of graphic design and augmented reality (AR) have begun to intersect in fascinating ways. Augmented reality, a technology that overlays digital information onto the physical world, is changing the very fabric of graphic design. From interactive branding experiences to enhanced learning and collaboration, AR is opening new avenues for innovation in graphic design. This article delves into the various ways augmented reality is transforming the graphic design landscape and the potential implications for professionals in the media industry.

A New Dimension to Design

• Beyond Two-Dimensional Space Traditional graphic design has mostly been confined to two-dimensional spaces. AR, however, introduces a third dimension to design. This added depth allows designers to create immersive experiences that engage users on multiple levels. For instance, with AR, a poster can come to life with moving graphics or a 3D model that users can interact with.
• Spatial Awareness Augmented reality is inherently spatial – it understands and responds to the environment’s geometry. This means that graphic elements in AR are not just static images; they can react to the world around them. For example, an AR-infused logo could react to the viewer’s proximity or orientation, creating a dynamic and personalized branding experience.

Revolutionizing Branding and Advertising

• Interactive Campaigns Brands are using AR to create marketing campaigns that are interactive and engaging. By overlaying digital content onto the physical world, companies can provide consumers with an immersive experience that transcends traditional advertising methods. For instance, a customer might scan a product’s packaging with their smartphone to unlock an AR experience, such as a 3D model of the product or an interactive game.
• Personalized Experiences AR enables brands to offer personalized experiences based on user data and preferences. For instance, an AR application might use a user’s location data to offer location-specific content or use facial recognition to tailor content to the user’s emotions.

Enhancing Education and Training

• Interactive Learning Materials Educational institutions and companies can use AR to create interactive learning materials. For instance, a textbook could come to life through AR, allowing students to interact with 3D models and animations that reinforce learning.
• Skill Development for Designers For professionals in the graphic design industry, AR offers a new set of tools and skills to learn. Understanding AR technologies, 3D modeling, and programming can make a designer more versatile and valuable in the job market.

Streamlining Collaboration

• Virtual Design Spaces AR enables remote teams to collaborate in virtual spaces that mimic physical environments. For example, designers could use AR glasses to interact with a shared 3D model, annotate it, and see each other’s changes in real time.
• Client Presentations Presenting designs to clients through AR can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the concepts. Clients can interact with the designs, providing immediate feedback and fostering a more collaborative relationship.

Challenges and Considerations

• Technological Limitations Although AR holds immense potential, it’s also subject to technological limitations such as device compatibility, processing power, and battery life. These constraints can sometimes hinder the full realization of an AR graphic design project.
• Ethical Considerations As with any technology that collects user data, there are ethical considerations surrounding privacy and data security. Designers must consider these concerns and employ best practices to ensure user trust.

Augmented reality is undeniably reshaping the landscape of graphic design by adding depth, interactivity, and personalization. While there are challenges and considerations to be considered, the opportunities for innovation are immense. For professionals in the media industry, staying abreast of AR technologies and honing relevant skills is vital for career advancement and contributing to the evolution of graphic design.

As the lines between the physical and digital worlds continue to blur, the role of the graphic designer is expanding. Those who embrace augmented reality as a tool for creativity and communication will find themselves at the forefront of a transformative wave in design. Incorporating AR into graphic design not only enhances the way we engage with content but also has the potential to redefine the very nature of visual communication.

Graphic designers and media professionals should consider investing time in understanding the technical aspects of AR, collaborating with experts in the field, and experimenting with new design approaches. Through innovation and adaptation, augmented reality can be a powerful medium for telling stories, creating immersive experiences, and connecting with audiences in novel and meaningful ways.

In the years to come, as AR technology becomes more advanced and accessible, it is expected to become an integral part of the graphic design process. From branding and advertising to education and collaboration, AR promises to enrich the graphic design landscape with endless possibilities.

By staying informed, adaptable, and open to innovation, graphic designers and media professionals can harness the potential of augmented reality to create a more dynamic, engaging, and transformative visual landscape for all.

The human body is simply not designed to sit for long stretches. But because our work demands it, we do, and a $10 billion ergonomic chair market has sprung up to meet demand. We desperately want to believe a cleverly designed chair can counter the negative effects of spending hours a day on our ass. As evidence of how robust and hungry this market is, this rather gimmicky-looking NEWTRAL MagicH, an “ultra adaptive support home office chair” by a company you’ve never heard of, has landed freaking $426,685 on Kickstarter at press time with 48 days left to pledge.

The chair boasts an “auto-following” feature for both the headrest and the back. The mechanism seems to amount to a spring. There’s also a flip-out footrest and a removable laptop/gaming table. Overall, the amount of adjustability built into the chair is staggering:

The pitch video:

I’m pretty skeptical that all of those mechanisms on the chair, which is going for $229 in the campaign and will reportedly retail for $429, could possibly be robust at those price points. But I am, no pun intended, arm-chairing it; I’ve never seen this chair in person. And pledgers aren’t skeptical, those numbers don’t lie.

Dezeen Showroom: Stockholm-based designer Daniel Lavonius Jarefeldt has collaborated with Asplund Collection to create a line of “simple, clean and functional” coffee tables.

Named Iris, the coffee table is round in shape as a result of its circular table top that sits on top of a wooden base.

The base of the table consists of four legs with soft rounded edges. At the top of the base, its horizontal profile is slightly sunken in order to allow the table top to fit snugly into the wooden support.

“Iris is a round coffee table with clean and functional shapes with well-worked details that explains the name of the table – Iris – the centre of the eye,” said Asplund. “The aesthetics are inviting and generous with a high sense of materiality where the structure of the wood is highlighted.”

The base of the table is made from solid wood and is available to purchase in different tabletop finishes such as lacquered metal or stone.

Product: Iris Coffee Table
Designer: Daniel Lavonius Jarefeldt
Brand: Asplund Collection
Contact: order@asplund.org

Dezeen Showroom

Dezeen Showroom offers an affordable space for brands to launch new products and showcase their designers and projects to Dezeen’s huge global audience. For more details email showroom@dezeen.com.

Dezeen Showroom is an example of partnership content on Dezeen. Find out more about partnership content here.

The post Iris coffee table by Asplund appeared first on Dezeen.

Dezeen Showroom: designer Sebastian Herkner has created the Ginger chair collection for Spanish brand Ondaretta, combining soft seating with a selection of characterful bases.

The Ginger chairs feature rounded, upholstered seating, which contrasts with bases made from metal or wood that give the sense of trying to contain the cushions as they spill over the top.

Among the base options there are two that make use of bended metal tubes — one in a four-leg design and the other in a sled style — and one plywood collar base that wraps around the seating.

“Last one is a bit like a boat or nut shell, something which hugs and protects you,” said Herkner. “It is maybe the most iconic version of the three.”

The Ginger collection includes chairs and lounge chairs, along with coffee or side tables.

The chairs suit a range of uses and can be used in settings ranging from hotel lobbies to bedrooms and from restaurant tables to lounge rooms.

Product: Ginger
Designer: Sebastian Herkner
Brand: Ondaretta
Contact: marketing@ondarreta.com

Dezeen Showroom

Dezeen Showroom offers an affordable space for brands to launch new products and showcase their designers and projects to Dezeen’s huge global audience. For more details email showroom@dezeen.com.

Dezeen Showroom is an example of partnership content on Dezeen. Find out more about partnership content here.

The post Ginger chairs by Sebastian Herkner for Ondaretta appeared first on Dezeen.