Multidisciplinary designer, researcher, and artist with 14 years of creative experience.

Cultivating a humanity-centered design practice to elevate how communities live through curiosity and collaboration.

Design Philosophy

Approach each project from a whole ecosystem perspective. Celebrate the locality and context—weaving together a story of the human-nature connection through materials, color, light, and space.

Graduate Student at SCAD

Currently studying Interior Design (MFA) at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Atlanta.

Thesis topic: The Role of Interior Design in Supporting Whole Health of Women (ages 65-74) Who Live Alone.

Background

2010

I earned a B.S. Architecture degree from University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP). I also studied abroad in Australia.

2011

I explored my interests in landscape architecture while working at a design-build studio. I also developed skills in graphic design, client presentations, marketing, and website design.

2014

I worked as a graphic designer for Emory University Libraries’ events and exhibitions program. I also took on freelance work, helping nonprofits share their stories.

2016

I enrolled in and completed General Assembly’s 10-week Digital Marketing course (May-Aug 2016).

2018

When the university library began a comprehensive web redesign, I pivoted into the role of content strategist. I taught folks the principles behind creating accessible web content and fostered the development of new cross-functional teams.

2020

Wanting to explore my ever growing passion for local food and the culinary arts, I applied to work as a cook at an artisan bakery. Despite embarking on this journey at the worst possible time for independent restaurants, I learned invaluable lessons and made lasting friendships.

2021

I joined the amazing culinary team at Talat Market in Atlanta, and trained under chef-owners Parnass Savang and Rod Lassiter, learning techniques for preparing Thai cuisine, featuring local Georgia ingredients. I feel lucky to have been a part of such a creative, hardworking, and caring group of folks.

2022

I applied to SCAD’s MFA Interior Design program and was accepted! I began my studies in the fall of 2022 and expect to graduate in summer 2024.

Passionate About

  • Textiles!!!

  • Antique/vintage furniture and decor

  • My dog child Mina, a Rat-Cha

  • Gouache and water color painting—especially abstract patterns

  • Collecting heirloom seeds and growing my own food

  • Daydreaming about food and what to eat/cook next

 

© 2017 by Gretchen Harju