Over the semester
I have gathered a wide range of information over a lot of materials. These
materials covered were fabric, walls, ceilings, floors, bathrooms, kitchens,
stones, paints, countertops, and color schemes. The field trips were my
favorite part of the class. I enjoyed them because we got a chance to actually
physically see and hear about the products. The tours given by the individuals
were very informative and interesting. I appreciated each speaker for taking
time out of their day to show us around and tell us a little about what they do
and why.
The Fiber and
Biopolymer Research Institute visits were a neat experience. Getting the
opportunity to walk through the warehouse and see the machine’s in action was
something not many students get to do. Seeing things hands on is much more
interesting than a PowerPoint of it. Interacting with the speakers was an
easier way to learn the material and actually remember it. I really enjoyed
when they turned the machines on for us to see how they work but the only
machines name I can remember is “the wyzenbeek”. I learned about the difference
between natural and synthetic fibers and their importance.
Visits to the
local businesses were even cooler. I loved seeing these businesses succeed and
run by people who enjoy what they do for a living. All About Looks reviewed
what we had already gone over in class but the fabrics were really pretty and
fun to look at. Leftwich Flooring and Collins Tile and Stone informed me of the
many different options I have when choosing a floor, a countertop, a kitchen or
even a bathroom. The huge slates of marble and granite were beautiful! Also,
who knew there were so many wood options; cork, leather, exotic, and bamboo.
When it comes to wood, carpet, tile, laminate, vinyl and luxury vinyl, Leftwich
can cover any needs. They offered a wide selection of display pieces and
samples to examine the product up close, which was fun for us designers.
Collins also offered a variety of beautiful samples; I felt like a kid in a
candy store. Parker, Smith, and Cooper was my favorite field trip. I liked
walking through the LEED certified building and seeing how each aspect helped.
The open seating arrangement was a good example for us student to see because
we are slowly incorporating that into our workspaces. The green roof was the
most interesting though. Although I saw my first one in Chicago, Illinois at
Haworth, it was still nice to see another one locally. I didn’t think he was
going to actually take us up to the roof when he asked but boy were we in for
an adventure. We had to climb a really weird latter and then stand on a tiny
platform with what was only supposed to be seven girls, turned into the whole
class! It was fun though and it opened my eyes more about going green!!!
