Nadine Johnson

• Course: BDes (Hons) Interior Design
• Email: spacesbynj@outlook.com

Title of Piece: Fresh Start Centre

Statement:

The Fresh Start Centre will be of mixed-use occupancy boasting 10 1-bedroom bedsits for mother and baby. Consisting of a kitchen diner, small lounge, and bathroom. With the added benefit of there being an onsite Coffee and Zero Waste shop, this will give residents the opportunity to take on employment or training in hospitality and catering.

The property will accommodate a crèche, where young mothers will have support with childcare and parenting.

The site is adjoined to an allotment, which will provide fresh fruit and veg for resale and will also encourage mothers to eat healthily. The goal of this project is to prepare young mothers for independent living and to help them acquire the skills required to go on and lead healthy lifestyles, whilst still maintaining their independence.

With the current housing crisis, young mothers facing homelessness are finding themselves stuck in unattractive, overpopulated emergency housing with a lack of support or opportunities. These environments can have a negative impact on their health and mental wellbeing.

Providing young mothers with a safe and secure space to start their journey into parenthood is paramount. With on-site support, training and employment, a positive environment decorated to high standards and trained staff, this will provide the support needed to help motivate and boost the confidence of young residence.

My Experience:

During my three years of studying Interior Design at the University of Wolverhampton, I've had the opportunity to meet some inspiring people. The skills, experience, and knowledge I have gained in this time will stay with me forever. Being a female designer, I take great interest in following the works of powerful women who paved the way for women like myself in the industry.

Zaha Hadid is at the top of my list. When the opportunity presented itself to visit Vitra in Germany, I was so excited. I knew I would have the chance to see Zaha first building complex, the famous 1993 Fire Station. Vitra was mind-blowing having a private tour of their offices; exhibitions full of many incredible designs, the whole experience of that trip will be a lifelong memory. Hats off to the tutors organising such a motivating trip.