Mehta Shikha Hiren

BID-Exchange Studio

The studio was divided into two separate projects : 1. ASIAN MULTI-CULTURAL CENTER for the Asian Community settled in Cincinnati, Ohio -- The members of the community approached the University for actual design proposals for a space which upholds their heritage, traditions, history, art and craft education the Community fears losing in the Western world their children and they reside in. The proposal of the Center is literally 'centered' spatially around the concept of unity - a circle, with it's importance in the Asian tradition to design notional, nostalgic movement patterns around a lit central meditative space - connecting the primary and secondary functions visually and physically and defining an experiential, intuitive, non-invasive path for visitors. The space as a whole is thought to behave as an exhibition of the rich culture of the East along with invoking a sense of belongingness.  2. THE HOME DEPOT STORE DESIGN SPACES - The project revolved around strategizing and designing an improved user experience with specific designed spaces in the construction company's stores across USA. The 'Hubs' designed for the same gave opportunity to display information, products, conduct workshops, spread construction know-how along with being flexible to accommodate changing displays and trends in the big stores. Integrating technology with phone apps and interactive carts aided in way-finding, faster check-outs and better, personalized education about construction methods to each user group.