Design Your World - by Maria VanDeman and Doug Shapiro
Design Your World follows the story of Serena, a child who goes on a journey in her classroom and home to discover the unique freedom and power of design in her life.
This heartwarming children's book is a reminder that we all have the ability to design our own lives, and that even the smallest choices can make a big difference.
Diseña Tu Mundo
Now available in a Spanish Translation!
“Design is a tool for creativity, agency, community building, problem-solving, and shaping the world around us. This Spanish translation, Diseña Tu Mundo, embodies our vision and will continue to enable important groups of children to see a piece of themselves within the main character and designer, Serena." Maria VanDeman
"Through this book, we hope to inspire children of all backgrounds to share in the power of design and inspire a more diverse and equitable world for all."
- Maria VanDeman, Co-Author
2025 Published Columns
The Equation of YOU
Everyone’s past tells a story, and every future is a work in progress. But what makes a good story?
The Design Vocabulary Challenge
Do you ever have a "design word" that you don't understand, or want to elevate your vocabulary? You're never done learning!
What Makes YOU Magical?
Powerful takeaways from industry leaders gathering together to learn, share, and be inspired.
Industry Themes We Cannot Ignore in 2025
Amid the buzz about the ‘future of work’ and ‘design trends,’ there are three powerful themes which stand out.
2024 Published Columns
Lessons of the year: Vision, Joy, and Agility
Several design industry professionals share lessons from 2024 to inspire us for the year ahead.
Essential Skills to Navigate Career Moves
Career transitions can be an adventure. What critical skills are needed to help boost any career journey?
The October Scaries
Learn from Jose Jordan, Principal of DLR Group and explore this question: Can design help minimize fear itself?
Don’t Be THAT Sales Rep
Do you need a reminder of the importance in building authentic, value-filled relationships in sales?
Following in the Footsteps of Design
Would your “why” inspire a young person to follow in your career footsteps?
The Power of Passing the Baton
Mentorship can bridge gaps and foster personal growth. Do you understand challenges of mentorship that we need to combat?
Details & Dialogue: The Spirit of NeoCon and Design Days
Inspiration can be found all around us. Do you take the time to stop and admire the details?
Listing the Value of Good Design
What can you learn from ThinkLab's Amanda Schneider and the Interior Design Top Giants of Design about the power of design?
The Inevitability of Change
The workplace and the products within it are changing. Are you?
A Year of Impact with ‘Design Your World’
365 days of ‘Design Your World’! Have you read the book?
Human Authenticity in the Digital Age
How will AI change our industry and how do YOU fit into the equation?
Navigating 2024 with a Word of Purpose
Can we replace resolutions, goals, or aspirations with a single Word of the Year?
2023 Published Columns
Seeds to Impact: A Journey from Design to Purpose
A peek at my journey in the design industry, memories, encounters, creations and hopes for the future.
NeoCon: Rivalry or Renaissance?
The “Super Bowl” of commercial interiors has been rapidly changing, and what will the future hold for the design industry?
People are the Amenity
If PEOPLE are the amenity, are our needs being met in today's changing workplace?
Where Do I Hang My Cape?
What SUPER skills can parents (and other caring stewards) bring with them to the workplace?
How vs. What: The Craft of Communication
We all have a story to tell, product to sell, or idea to propel. Is it the WHAT or the HOW of our communication that matters?
Work and Network Everywhere
Growth and connection can happen in both physical and digital circles. Are you taking advantage of opportunities around you?
The 90,000-Hour Challenge: Finding our 'Why' in the Daily Grind
The average American clocks a whopping 90,000 working hours in their lifetime. What is your 'Why' at work?
Designing a Thankful Future
In the hustle and bustle of life, are we making enough space for GRATITUDE?
Want to learn more about speaking, writing, or mentorship?
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