My approach
Utilizing the user-centered design process I focus on understanding people’s needs and translating those into tailored design solutions. I bring the following qualities to my work (more specifics about the process are on the
Services page):
Empathy
As a user researcher I was trained in active listening techniques. I listen, non-judgmentally, and meet people where they are.
Systems Design
Trained in architecture and product design, I am skilled in designing room layouts and figuring out storage systems that work for the specific space and behaviors.
Empowerment
By working collaboratively with clients I can design systems that work for them, and identify habits that can help them maintain their organizing systems.
.jpg)
A lifelong journey to home organizing
My professional organizing and productivity practice builds on decades of experience in understanding people’s needs, and translating those into design and learning solutions.
Growing up in New York City
Living in a small New York City apartment I learned early on how to make the best use of small spaces, and was immersed in the world of art and design.
Architecture
I got a BA in Architecture at Yale and studied how to design spaces. Then I worked in a small architecture firm setting up systems as an office and interior design project manager.
Product Design
At Stanford’s Product Design program, where I earned an MFA in Design, I learned about the power of understanding people’s needs and designing for people. My graduate thesis was on the topic of home storage, where I discovered a gap in how to store “in process” items, which yields ad-hoc solutions such as the ubiquitous
clothes chair.
User Researcher & Strategy
I worked for many years leading design research and strategy projects, and teams, for Fortune 500 clients who wanted to innovate. I led in-depth,
ethnographic interviews in people’s homes (internationally) to understand their needs and partnered with designers to develop new products, strategies, and services.
HR Director
I pivoted my career to Learning and Development through training others in design thinking practices. As a Learning and Development leader I designed and facilitated training programs and workshops, and engaged in one-on-one coaching with leaders, on topics including manager development, team-building, hiring, and onboarding. From that role I expanded to leading the entire HR function which included program design and oversight of hiring and onboarding, benefits and compliance, learning and talent development, and cultural practices.
Pet-friendly Organizing
I’ve lived with both cats and dogs, and rescuing dogs is a personal passion. I greatly enjoy when pets participate in organizing as they can contribute to a therapeutic environment.
Meet Dolly the Llama!
Dolly the Llama, and her sidekick Daphne (a topiary duck), started as a fun public art project and over the years have taken on more meaning. They’ve enabled me to learn about and showcase different holidays, connect with current events, and actively engage with my community. If you want to see more, check out their Instagram account:
dollyllamaseattle
Here I am posing with Dolly wearing a Halloween outfit.
A friend photographed her kids with Dolly for fun outings; this outfit was for the Olympics.
This outfit celebrated the retirement of our UPS delivery man after 30 years of service.
Set up a free introductory call to start your pivot.
.jpg)
