My Design Philosophy
“Design for peace. Design for love. Design for inclusion. Design for equity. Design for justice. Design for righteousness. Design for grace. Design for mercy. Design for all things, good.”
Herb Vincent Peterson
In a world where design holds the power to shape societies and influence lives, I find myself bound by a profound responsibility as a designer. Design is not merely an aesthetic pursuit; it is a force that can either marginalize or empower, sow discord or cultivate community. This philosophy encapsulates my guiding principles as a designer—a conscientious approach that extends beyond aesthetics to consider the broader societal impact of my work. As I navigate the realm of design, I am propelled by an unwavering commitment to be a vessel of God’s grace, contributing positively to the very essence of His creation.
My Design Principles
Design is powerful. Design has the potential to marginalize or empower, to start wars or end wars.
As a designer, I carry an immense responsibility. Design is not just about aesthetics or functionality;
it wields significant influence over people’s lives and society at large. Therefore, I try to conscientiously contemplate the broader societal impact of my work, especially when it becomes an integral part of daily life. I strive to create designs that positively contribute to the well-being and harmony of people.
Design is a way to reflect God. The Hebrew word for “create” (Bārā’) is used in the Old Testament to refer to divine activity only—God alone serves as its grammatical subject, implying the writer wanted to emphasize that people cannot create in the way that God creates and that no other god can claim to be the creator. Bārā’ also conveys the idea of ordering function, suggesting God’s creative activity consists of bringing proper order and function to the cosmos. He bestowed his characteristics upon us; his desire to create, to love, to sacrifice. He created us to worship and glorify Him in all that we do and design.
Design is community-driven. I seek to bring people around a table to learn about and from each other.
This principle underscores the importance of creating spaces and experiences that foster collaboration, understanding, and shared learning among diverse groups of people.
Design is optimistic. I strive to design in a way that is inherently hopeful and forward-thinking. I believe that every situation, object, or individual holds the potential for positive change. This optimism is a driving force behind social change, ultimately contributing to the betterment of our world and our lives. This potential is found in the people and communities I work with.
Design is inclusive. I aim to create products and experiences that are accessible and usable by people
from diverse backgrounds, languages, cultures, and abilities. I seek to emphasize accessibility, cultural sensitivity, language inclusivity, user-centered design, universal design principles, flexibility, and ongoing user testing to ensure that no one is excluded. Whenever I see a product or get a brief, I ask the question, “how might people who experience the world differently than me interact with this design?”
Rules I live by
During my time at Anderson University, I discovered design and formulated a list of rules that I aspire to live by. While I don’t follow these perfectly, I make a conscious effort to do so. These rules have been influenced by professors, pastors, friends, projects, professional designers, and personal experiences. They serve as guidelines for both design and life.
1) Glorify God always
2) Immerse yourself. Talk to other people, especially people that think very differently than you.
3) Travel. Get out of your comfort zone. If it scares you, you should probably do it.
4) No $700 bottles of wine.
5) At every meeting ask, “who isn’t here, who should be here, why am I here, and why are you here?” and if needed, go get the appropriate people to join right away. Don’t wait; it causes more harm
6) Don’t try to please everyone; it’s impossible.
7) How dangerous is this design?
8) Always give your work away, especially if it’s for a good cause
9) Drop the everyday to tell others about Jesus.
10) Take sabbaths, slow down, and ask questions.
11) People are people, no matter _____________