New Normal Turn to Normal

“New Normal, Social Distancing and Work from Home” no one has ever thought that these three phrases will become part of new lifestyle in this period.  One of the biggest impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on human behavior is the way people perform or do their jobs. In the design field, social distancing might not be a big problem because designers have used the advantage of computer programs and technologies for a while, but people still need to socialize in the work place.

COVID-19 pandemic situation compelled the way this project was done by automatically using social distancing protocol.  The first task is the design part, the owner of this project is a petite-size woman therefore the ergonomic design needs to be focused.  The most challenging design part is the compact space that every centimeter is counted in this project.  The built-in furniture in the bedroom and living room are the main issue compared to the requirements and functions.  The closet in the bedroom has a limitation of length and width but needs many functions inside the closet itself.  The requirements are not only to store the cloth but also need extra functions as follows:

1. a full mirror that is able to hide when not in use
2. a small safe cabinet that hides inside the drawer
3. the space for all kinds of cloth of which some are hanged and some are folded
4. Shelves for hanging bags, accessories and uncommon used staffs. 

For the living area, the entrance requires shoes storage on one side and the bookshelf on the other side which is the location of reading and relaxing area.  The opposite side is the multi-function built-in furniture combined with bookshelf, entertainment area, working table, Buddha shelf, and storages.  The second task involves with social distancing and communication aspects which show how to make social distancing effectively.  Luckily, the modern technologies, applications, design programs, and social media have become handy tools to help everyone communicate and solve problem efficiently, both verbally and visually throughout the pandemic.

As designers during this period, we have the ability to adjust ourselves to all circumstances.  The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way designers modify themselves once again with “New Normal” and finally it would become the ordinary lifestyle.