Can you tell me about your background, what did you take in school, and where did you work before?

I am a registered interior designer. I worked in presentation, corporate, and retail design prior to joining Herman Miller/COI.

What did you learn from your past work experience that is helping you succeed at Herman Miller/COI?

I use my design background everyday in my work as a healthcare BDM from creating colour schemes, to selecting materials, to creating sketches for the customer to understand our design intent.

What brought you to Herman Miller/COI and what do you enjoy most about your job?

I have always had a love for furniture and Herman Miller is the best in the industry.

What is your job at HM/COI?

I work with our healthcare customers to creating thoughtful and purposeful spaces for people to heal and work.

What are some of your favorite projects you have done and why?

TACC was the most complicated and rewarding project to date. The youth mental health projects have been incredibly creative and rewarding (Foundry, CYCDY, CAPSU).

What are some of the biggest trends you are watching for space planning and development?

Mostly around new healthcare innovations in facilities – technology will play a key role in
how spaces are designed and furnished in the future. Family spaces in healthcare facilities are becoming more important so that family can spend more time comfortably with the patient as they heal and be a part of their healing journey.

What drives your motivation in your role?

The reaction of customers when they see the spaces we have created.

How have your previous projects effected your design solutions?

We learn everyday from the healthcare professionals – how they work, what is important, what needs to change).

What would you like to see happen within healthcare design in Canada?

I would like to see the value of beautiful, thoughtful spaces be recognized as a key factor in a patient’s healing journey and in the clinical practitioner’s love of their work.

What are some of he biggest problems you are seeing in hospitals and their designs?

Millwork is a key road block. We need to have the facilities and GC’s recognize that millwork has a place in the facilities and where modular solutions are available, they should be implemented.

What’s your favorite Piece of furniture of all time?

Nelson Coconut chair – gorgeous AND comfortable!!!

What tip would you give a new designer?

There are so many careers in interior design – don’t get stuck doing something you don’t like.