Julia Dallas

Q. Why is design an important part of revitalizing communities?

R. Community design ignites a sense of place – it provides unique individuals a platform to celebrate and discover, not only themselves, but each other. 

Q. What has been most surprising, rewarding, or fun about your Collaborative experience?

R. Learning not only from my fellow Collaborative teammates, but from the Radnor ABC students and board was an incredibly enriching experience. Communication between design team and community fostered a better understanding of how individuals use the space – not just preconceived notions and ideas of what improvements could be made to comply with present trends. Listening and truly taking into consideration how people live, study, and socialize in this unique place made for a stronger design and comfortable home. 

Q. What do you love most about Philadelphia?

R. Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods – I discover that more deeply as I wander about the city in search of increasing my mental map. The intimacy of the streets, from tiny window gardens to front stoop chats, truly possesses a neighborly persona even amid its high-rises. A favorite pastime of mine is observing the various door knockers as I walk down a new street.  If you haven’t done so before, the next time you find yourself in a rush, do yourself a favor and slow down for a moment to enjoy the subtle door details – you might even spot a pineapple or two.