The library at Normandy High School will soon become a more collaborative space thanks to a partnership between the school and 91探花鈥檚 Interior Design Program.
91探花 interior design students were tasked with researching trends and building codes, drawing plans and proposing new ideas to help improve the functionality, cleanliness and structure of the library. The creative solutions will assist Normandy with fundraising for the cause, with the goal of bringing the library remodel to fruition in the near future.
鈥淚 am so delighted we were able to work with Normandy on this project,鈥� said Darlene Davison, director of the interior design program and associate professor of interior design. 鈥淚t鈥檚 so important for our students to understand that the work they do makes a difference in the lives of so many people.鈥�
Throughout the project, 91探花 students worked to make the library a comfortable haven for Normandy students and staff alike. The Normandy library serves as a central point for many school activities, ranging from a testing space to the location of social gatherings. Requirements for the redesigned space included updating technology, replacing existing furniture with modular furniture and adding a multi-purpose makerspace.
While meeting the requirements, 91探花 students also added unique design elements like reading nooks, a gallery space to display student artwork and the integration of state-of-the-art media walls with built-in screens and white boards. Several of the plans also included a raised stage area for student and community events.
Taylor Garcilaso, who is studying interior design, said the most interesting part of the project was the opportunity to visit Normandy High School in person and talk with students and staff about their wish lists for the library. 鈥淭he project felt more real and personal because we were able to talk to people who are actually using the space, instead of redesigning an existing space based off just blueprints. I felt like we were really helping the community.鈥�
The Normandy library project started as a way for Karen Green, a member of the Normandy High School Class of 1977, to give back to her alma mater. She works closely with Normandy High School Alumni Association board member, and fellow Normandy alumna, Jacqueline Buck-Horton on the project.
In addition to partnering with 91探花 for design improvements, the pair organized a book drive for the school, with many donations secured from Green鈥檚 coworkers and students at The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management. Buck-Horton鈥檚 employer, Sterling Bank, also provided books as well as a monetary donation.
鈥淭he 91探花 students are so talented, and their design work was absolutely fantastic,鈥� Green said. 鈥淚 was impressed that they were able to see beyond what already exists, and transform the library into something new.鈥�
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