Jen Weld & Red River College

The Jen Weld and Red River College field trip showed two different scales of sustainable design. The Jen Weld collection was beautiful. I really appreciate how they welcomed us while they were still under construction, and the fact that they kept the beautiful and historical building in tact. I was surprised to learn that doors and windows are one of the most expensive parts of the home. This gives me a better appreciation for the craft and value put into all of the models shown. These doors and windows took on a style or their own, and I could imagine the way they would look in different settings. The way the store was modeled brought a coherent and simplistic way of showing information. The metal rods which held information about windows and doors were works of art in themselves, and how some of these were situated behind doors brought a sense of curiosity. Making my way to the Red River College, which i had yet to see, brought a spectacular, calm setting. The Atrium combined new with old, in a sophisticated, modern way. The way that the daylight made a spotlight within the area also created a warm and inviting environment. Exploring other areas of the Red River College, and speaking with people, it was evident that they were proud of their school and the design of it. Keeping the old volts as apart of the building brought a heritage and culture to the building’s past uses, and brought an interesting artwork all found throughout the school. The sounds around the building were very minimal and created a feeling of solitude within the school. One thing I was very excited and some what jealous of seeing was the studio for graphic art. A neat, well kept room with order and personal space is what we need in our studio- which has no personal space, is not well kept and is sporadic. By just merely the design of Red Rive College, I would go to school there. This is how strong the design is.  

Michelle