Shaw 2014 Market Introductions - Niagara Falls

 Merrilee Olmstead, ASID, CID, President of Space@Work Inc 

 ONGOING AMBASSADORS FOR ASID

Q : :  Why do you love interior design? 

It's artistically and technically challenging at the same time. I like the creativity and problem solving aspects very much. It's rewarding to see people react when you give them not only what they asked for but what they didn't realize they needed and it's more beautiful than they ever expected it could be. 

Q : :

My Uncle was a High School Guidance Counselor and after I described my talents, interests and desires he showed me the college brochure for Kendall College of Art & Design in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I was delighted and made my decision to go into Interior Design. I had many interactions with the medical field and stayed in a hospital as a youngster on several occasions. I have always had an interest in seeing a warmer humanity and healing art used in the design of Hospital and Medical facilities. 

Q : : How long have you been a member of ASID? 

For more years than I can count. I became an NSID Student Chapter Member while in college. I was an Associate member of ASID for many years. I became a Professional Member in 1998. 

Q : :

I wanted to be part of an organization in which a person had to meet set education and experience standards in order to belong. I wanted the credentials. I also enjoyed the exposure to new products and technologies as seen at the National Trade Shows and Conventions. 

Q : :

I never expected to get involved beyond just being a member and having primarily a social relationship with other professional Interior Designers. At the urging of one of our local Chapter Leaders, Arlene Wright, I joined the Board of Directors of our Chapter. I took on more responsibility because the opportunity came at a point in my life when I had more time to volunteer. It challenged me in ways I never had been challenged before and took me out of my comfort zone. I learned to have the courage to try new things and do things that previously I was either too afraid or intimidated to try. I met people from all over the United States, Canada and beyond, more than I never dreamed of meeting or knowing. Some have become personal friends. ASID gave me training, experience and confidence that I would not have received or developed anywhere else. I look at things differently now. Whereas something may have been perceived as an obstacle before, I now seek out the solution and gather the necessary tools (even if I've never used those tools before). It has been a very rewarding experience and in turn I've involved, challenged and inspired others to get involved in ASID, to grow and develop in their respective professional careers. It gave me the opportunity to make accomplishments that I previously never dreamed of; ANYONE can have the same opportunity that wants it. Just step up and volunteer. 

Thanks Merrilee!!!