Diane Lam – DIANE LAM DESIGN

The Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California is the largest school of social work in the world. To accommodate an ever increasing expansion in programs, the university looked to office space in City Center, located two miles north of the University Park campus in one of Los Angeles’ largest high rises, to house their administrative offices. The university worked with Ware Malcomb Architects and Diane Lam, principal of Dotrio, Inc. to select furnishings and finishes that would reflect their culture: professional, classic, and welcoming. Dividend storage, Reff Profile, Generation task chairs, and Saarinen guest chairs in cardinal create a classic collection of furnishings for the private offices. Dividends workstations compliment the offices and provide ample area for individual expression. The multipurpose room, offering expansive views of downtown Los Angeles, was designed for maximum flexibility, accommodating student seminars, faculty and staff training and board meetings. The Multigeneration hybrid chair’s flex back and comfortable seat along with the Pixel flip top and nesting tables ensure a smooth and easy transition from these various uses. Small huddle rooms along the main corridor and the staff break room provide quick and easy spaces for collaboration to take…

Aim Higher than the Heart – How Libraries can be leading examples of Sustainable Design

Post author:Diane Lam
Post published:February 1, 2015
Post category:Library

Many library systems are in the process of upgrading, renovating and/or building new main and branch libraries all over the country. Here in California, the Sacramento Public Library and the County of Los Angeles Library systems are just two that are extremely busy with both large and small construction projects. Speaking to many librarians, public officials and facility managers, there is an interest in learning more about sustainable building practices and how they can be utilized for their upcoming projects. Collaborating with architects and interior designers specializing in library design and sustainability can provide librarians with valuable insight on how their libraries can not only be the heart of their communities but also be leading examples of sustainable design. With the increased recognition of the benefits of green building, more and more libraries are considering incorporating strategies to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment. Promoting renewable, clean energy has also become a priority. In fact, California leads the country in energy efficiency standards and has several important laws that have prompted librarians and city officials to seriously begin to think of how future new construction and renovation projects can…