Post

These projects focus on using design processes and products for social, economic, cultural, and environmental good. They are opportunities for designers (faculty and students) to work side-by-side in with our clients in their environments rather than isolated in our studios. Our projects are proposed by communities based on their needs and goals and our capabilities. In doing this, the projects have a higher likelihood of community buy-in, cooperation, application, and sustainability. It is in partnership with our clients that we establish project objectives, conduct field research, and develop responsible, intercultural and sustainable design solutions.

Through these collaborations that we learn to think about design in an international, multi-vocal environment, experience the lived realities of indigenous communities, learn how to innovate as we create and promote sustainable, responsible design. Our client collaborators benefit in many of the same ways, and contribute to solutions that will have long-term positive impacts in their communities of origin.