Every day, Aubrey Giedlin and I have the privilege of supporting the dedicated members of our region’s architecture and design community. We are continually inspired by their creativity, passion, and commitment to creating spaces that enhance how people live, learn, and work. As former A&D designers, we both understand that it’s challenging yet rewarding work, which is why Creative and Steelcase have pledged to provide unsurpassed support for our talented A&D community. Here are just a few of our recent initiatives:
- Designer Enrichment Series: Creative and Steelcase recently completed a six-month professional development program called the Designer Enrichment Series. Last year in Central Virginia, we collaborated with firm leaders to identify ways to enhance their professional development efforts. We focused on key themes such as communication skills, networking, business development, health and well-being, negotiation skills, and client facilitation. Together with firm leaders, we selected emerging design leaders to participate in monthly classes led by subject matter experts. The series concluded with a celebratory dinner where participants shared their learnings, resulting in overwhelmingly positive feedback. Due to its success, we plan to make this an annual program at Creative. If you’re interested in participating or know someone who would benefit, please get in touch.
- Working Parents Symposium: In our Coastal Virginia Marketplace, Creative and Steelcase hosted our inaugural Working Parents Symposium. Recognizing the unique challenges working parents face in the design community, we developed this one-day symposium to provide practical strategies and support. Topics included energy management, setting boundaries, and integrating personal and professional life. Feedback from participants was extremely positive, with many expressing gratitude for the tools and insights gained. We aim to continue supporting working parents in our industry and to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. If you’re interested in participating or have a team member who might benefit, please reach out.
- Designer Day at the Dealership: Over the past year, Creative has organized several Designer Day sessions for our design partners across Virginia. These half-day workshops are tailored for new members of the Architecture & Design Community, aiming to educate them on collaborating effectively with furniture dealerships like ours. Topics covered include understanding furniture procurement, demystifying pricing, and hands-on experience with installations. We’re committed to education and transparency within our industry and are happy to schedule workshops for your team anytime.
- Electrical Learning – Whips and Daisy Chains: Creative and Steelcase recently conducted an electrical training seminar for designers, focusing on essential electrical concepts and applications. Participants learned about electricity basics, advising clients on electrical decisions, different electrical schematics, and specifying appropriate solutions. The seminar catered to both newer designers looking to expand their knowledge and experienced designers wanting to stay updated. It fostered collaboration between dealership and A&D designers, emphasizing shared learning and best practices exchange.
These initiatives underscore our commitment to supporting and enhancing the capabilities of our architecture and design community. If any of these programs interest you or could benefit your team members, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to continuing to serve and collaborate with you in advancing the field of design.
