Wentworth Alumna Erin Graham is an interior designer from Perkins + Will, and she has been heavily involved in the library renovation project. As a graduate of the Interior Design program here at Wentworth, Erin has the advantage of having personal experience using the library.
We asked her a few questions about her experience working on this project, and on being a Wentworth student.
Q: What have you learned from your involvement on the Schumann Library Renovation?
A: Given the existing Brutalist architecture, the library posed quite a few challenges both architecturally and mechanically. These tight constraints have exposed me to a plethora of resolutions that can be employed when facing conditions like this in the future. The accelerated schedule has also introduced a different process of design that relies heavily on charrettes amongst all skills and trades. This has developed my collaborative, communicative, and management skills to ensure that all details are coordinated with the design intent and client desires.
Q: What memories do you have from your time in the library at Wentworth?
A: Because the interior design students have the studios, I often went to the library for a change of scenery. Here I could meet up with friends from other majors to socialize a little or grab a table with my fellow design students to complete our book work. I always imagined what I would remodel as I sat in the space, so it’s a rewarding opportunity to have a say in its redesign.
Q: Did you have a favorite spot to study in the library?
A: I typically preferred to sit in the double height space on L2, back by the rectangular tables of four with floor cores. Power supply was always a necessity, so these were most desirable. I also enjoyed having other tables occupied by friends and being able to have an area together. When I needed to focus more, I would often go to a soft seat on the mezzanine that overlooked the second floor.
Q: What do you think is the most exciting part of the renovation project for Wentworth students?
A: The new library will offer a variety of work spaces that allow for both collaboration amongst groups, as well as quieter spaces for focused work. There are a variety of seating options that allow for user flexibility, with ample power provided throughout the space, to allow visitors to stay longer. Fresh finishes usher in Wentworth’s latest branding efforts and reflect a modern design with a timeless palette.
Thanks, Erin, we are proud to have you working on the renovation!!
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