As a designer, whether residential, commercial or graphic, one of the most important things you have to do is understand who your client is, what they believe in, and how they are viewed in their industry. Without that basic understanding, even the most well thought out design can fall short of your goals.
For Christine Burdick, owner and principal designer with Christine Burdick Design in Burlington, VT, this was never truer than when she was working with Housing Vermont, a nonprofit that creates permanently affordable rental housing and through investments in community development. The clientele of the organization range from Vermonters who are in need of housing to high-level bankers and investors to local contractors and business owners. Which meant the design of the office needed to work for all of the different stakeholders.
DESIGN CONCEPT
Housing Vermont’s new office space is inspired by the comforts of home. Whether it be a hot cup of coffee, the natural aspects of healthy plants or a long farmhouse table, these comforts remind us of what it means to feel at home. Elements of home can be found throughout the office in unexpected ways- natural wood and metal hooks in the mudroom, comfortable rocking chairs, a bright and warm kitchen and unexpected graphic patterns on fabrics illustrating a unique and very personal design.
WORKSTATIONS
Individual workstations will provide file storage, height adjustable desk, personal storage and bookshelves. Each workstation will come with a cushion top surface for guests or personal items. Added glass will provide borrowed light and overhead storage will assist with visual privacy.
ENTRY
From the moment you step off the elevator, you will have the sense of something really special. Shiplap walls, exterior wall sconces, a brightly painted front door with a prominently displayed sign will set the tone. Upon entry into the Housing Vermont suite, guests will feel right at home with an appropriately placed reception desk and comfortable lounge seating. The centrally located window will allow individuals views of the city.
KITCHEN
With lake views and ample space, the employees of Housing Vermont will have a welcoming space for all hands meetings, employee lunches and informal meetings. Wood cabinets, wood flooring and bright pops of color will energize this space. A large kitchen island in the center of the room will provide room for trash, recycling and cans as well as counter height seating. The coffee area located directly inside the door serves as a hospitality station for the adjacent conference rooms.
