As an interior designer, Amy draws inspiration from nature to create library, educational, and healthcare spaces that not only relate to a building’s exteriors but also, conceptually, bring the outside in – a reminder of our essential connection to the world around us. But biophilic design is only one aspect of her work. Another is her focus on engaging people in their wonderful diversity through spaces that are inclusive, accessible, and universally welcoming. With a disciplined approach to design that recognizes that just because something can be done does not mean it actually should be done, she collaborates with clients to design spaces that transcend beauty and function to tell meaningful stories about the people who inhabit them. Her ability to empathize with users, combined with strong space planning skills, consistently produces interiors that are enduring, sustainable, and proudly owned by clients and their user groups.
To celebrate the firm's 40th anniversary, staff were challenged to share their imagination and design thinking by creating a row house concept. Here is Amy's.
Statement:
I have a lifelong love for Sea Ranch on the Sonoma County coast. My rowhouse reflects the love for the environment, the materials, and the decades long dedication to living lightly on the land. Forms take on that of simple farm buildings and the third bay tradition, and they harmonize with the site, the wind patterns, the views, and the terrain. Materials are rough and simple and must weather the intense elements on the coast. Vertical siding greys over time and the homes disappear into the environment even more. I hope to own a home there someday, but in the meantime I can dream.
