All space is designed, from city sidewalks to beautifully curated homes. This interdisciplinary Senior Honors Thesis project redesigns the University of Arizona's Center for English as a Second Language building to be more interculturally competent. The purpose of this project is to analyze and explore the influence that cultures have on designing human-centered spaces to make them accessible and comfortable for all users all while adhering to limitations such as budget and historical preservation constraints. By taking existing research and identifying theoretical frameworks to apply to the design of the existing space, the digital design proposal includes interior design changes, floor plans, FF&E additions, and a complex digital rendering of an outdoor community area in the software program SketchUp. While the lens of interculturalism and its intersectionality with spatial design is relatively new, much of the existing research centers around higher educational systems due to how the pursuit of education brings people from diverse backgrounds together. Future generations of designers, including myself, are being encouraged to consider social, cultural, economic, historical, and ecological contexts to create well-thought-out spaces for unique audiences and users.
Savanah Smith
Applied Humanities (Spatial Organization and Design Thinking)
I just completed my Honors studies in Applied Humanities with a Spatial Organization and Design Emphasis and a minor in Studio Art. I am fascinated by how designed spaces have the capability of creating emotion, presenting creative expression, and positively impacting the human experience. I am motivated to shift current design priorities to more localized, human-centered designs and sustainable practices. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, I am continually amazed and inspired by the beautiful resilience of the desert. I am passionate about consuming and creating art across mediums and plan to incorporate this sense of creativity into my future career while continuing my learning across interdisciplinary fields in art and design.