Week 3: History and the Future

Contributions of interior design to contemporary society in relation to historic preservation

Throughout history Interior Design has influenced society in many ways. As design has advanced quality of life has improved. During my Internship, I have had opportunity to study historical examples of what was at one time considered to be “modern” tools for daily living. For example, windows used to use ropes and weights to raise and lower. Modern window systems allow for improved functionality and better energy efficiency. Another example was lead paint, which was used to improve the life of objects, but was later found to be dangerous to one’s health. Today’s paint is safer and still offers superior longevity compared to lead paint. During my Internship I have to be careful cleaning items that may contain lead paint. These two examples of Interior Design Advancements are items that we continue to use today, however in their more advanced forms. 

Opportunities for Lifelong Learning in this area

Learning from historical interiors guides us in improving our future designs. The past offers Interior Designers the opportunity to continuously learn and improve technology, design, and function for the future. 

Historic Pedestal Sink Interior Design in Historic Preservation contribute to public and community service

Historic preservation is an important part of our society’s future. Through education and public events that bring focus to historical design, we generate interest to preserve the past and also improve future designs. 

This week I researched historic fireplace tiles and pedestal sinks. Prior to this experience I did not realize that specific brands of fireplace tiles were so important and valuable. I was surprised to learn that so many brands from the 1800’s were still manufacturing fixtures today. For example, one sink I researched was made by the Crane brand. This brand is still in business today. 

Beth MeadowsIntroduction

Beth Meadows is the Salvage Coordinator for The Knox Heritage Salvage Room. She is my Intern Supervisor. Beth graduated from the University of Tennessee and is originally from Memphis. She began working for Knox Heritage as an Intern while she was still in college. Her interest in Historic Preservation led her to continue her career with Knox Heritage. Beth is also an artist and many of her paintings are inspired by her interest in historic architecture and design. She was really excited to be a part of the Estate Sale at the Alexander Inn because she enjoyed the history of the old inn. 

Comments

[MBR]

A summary of your weekly activities is missing from the post. Be sure and add the summary, and I will reread the post next Monday.

When you address the content of the weekly focus, I encourage you to talk with at least one person, if not more, about the focus and share what you gain from the insight of those who have been working in historic preservation for many years. I appreciate the comments you are adding about your own experience of what you are learning through your work. In addition to adding the weekly summary, talk with at least 2 people who work at Knox Heritage what the opportunities are for life-long learning? The answer you have provided needs further clarification. The answer needs to be more specific. Give examples.

Thank you for introducing Beth. I enjoyed meeting her in the Salvage Room on Thursday. Be sure and get her perspective on next week's focus. Ask to interview someone upstairs, and ask them to share their perspective on next week's focus to add to what you are learning. I am looking forward to hearing more about the old mill you will be documenting.