Wow, 2011 is officially here.  The beginning of a New Year is time to reflect and shoot for the stars in all that we do.  Some take to resolutions, I on the other hand, prefer to write goals and update the long term ones written in years past.  I thought it would be fun to share some of those goals with you since most of them relate to the design world.  Hopefully I’ve inspired some goal writing of your own.  

    1.  Become LEED certified - I planted the seed a year ago by taking the initial steps and classes.  I’m ready to study and conquer! 

    2.  Complete CEO certificate at FIT – I began taking classes last year and only have one class left.  I’ve learned some great new ideas for my business.  

    3.   Custom Furniture Design - I’ve been developing product designs for furniture and lighting and want to refine the initial set so I can begin discussing with manufacturers. 

    4.  Run the NYC Marathon – Training has begun and I’m excited…just as long as I stay injury free.  I’m in full recruitment mode so plan your excuses. 

    5.  Win Another Award – It’s addicting and I’d like to get another award wining project under my belt.  Will it be yours?

    6.  LED Lighting Education- It’s on the books for April 19th.  The focus is using LED’s for the home.  Class is being offered by NY School of Interior Design.  There is so much to learn from this ever evolving technology.

    7.  Have More Fun – I love what I do and I plan to enjoy it more this year by continuing to be creative and spreading the enthusiasm with my clients. 

    8.  Take Up Another Photography Class - I love photography!  I’ve taken one class already but the skills still need improvement…so many technicalities for me to learn. 

    9.  Learn the Art of Wine – I’ve long enjoyed a good glass but I’d like to understand the differences in the regions.

   10.  Give Back – I will mentor young designers or volunteer throughout the Denver and NYC communities.  If you have any suggestions please forward them.

Here’s wishing you a beautiful 2011.  Share each moment with those you love and never take a minute for granted.  Cheers!

If you haven’t already heard, the LEED program is exploding within the design industry.  This year I will studying to aquire my LEED GA title.  This is an important step in my profession since every day we are learning the impact that each of us puts on the environment.  I’ve come to realize that the design and construction industries are a major contributor to this crisis.  Therefore I want to learn how I can improve my designs to lessen my everyday impact.  Below I’ve included some information for you so you too can inform yourselves with this new program.

What is LEED?
-  Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.  An internationally recognized green building certification system, providing third-party verification that a building was built using techniques to make it more efficient through mechanical and water systems, emissions reduction, improved indoor air quality, and using local resources. 
 
Why?
-  It is important that we use responsible building techniques to lessen our impact on the environment.  In addition indoor air quality is extremely important as it can potentially make you sick if harmful materials & chemicals are in the products you buy. 
 
Who can call their building LEED certified?
-  Currently LEED certification is for new construction however they have developed a list of guidelines for residential remodeling and they offer ways to make your current home more energy efficient. 
 
Why is Paradigm Doing This?
-  Because I see the importance in knowing how to make buildings safer and more environmentally responsible.  I am also passionate that I can help your health and well being through the materials that I specify.  In the end we all win at making this world a bit more green.