Metropolis Digital Optimism Talks logo

Join us every second Tuesday of the month for a dose of optimism with thought-provoking guests who are revolutionizing their fields. Innovators will lead virtual workshops for an hour of discovery, inspiration, and community. Led by editor in chief, Avinash Rajagopal, these workshops will be guided by our audience, where questions are not only welcome but encouraged.

Register Now
natural habitat cold spring home exterior

Metropolis Editors, Natural Habitat, sustainability, sustainable architecture

METROPOLIS Introduces Natural Habitat, a Sustainable Homes Video Series

The series debuts with a tour of a tranquil upstate New York retreat designed with Passive House principles.

Read more
fireplace

December 2, 2021

Determined by Design Believes in High-End Design for All

The Washington, D.C.–based firm specializes in “equitable design outcomes” by steering developer clients toward thoughtful, high-end interiors for affordable and supportive housing.

By: Kia Weatherspoon

Kia Weatherspoon, an Air Force veteran as well as a designer, launched her firm, Determined by Design, in 2012 to give residents of affordable housing access to interiors normally reserved for market-rate properties. “A big part of our equitable design process is educating our development partners. We design to change lives,” Weatherspoon says.

portrait
PORTRAIT COURTESY © R. DIONE FOTO
Enigma chandelier

Enigma chandelier “A perfect decorative light fixture can make a statement and add character.” troylightinglights.com

light stone wall

Cumberland Stone brick “Varying textures and finishes are a big part of creating an elevated aesthetic. We specify them from a single vendor to keep the cost within budget.” ceramictechnics.com

patterned textile sample

Avant, Redox Tandus Centiva carpeting commercial.tarkett.com

painting

Mining for Coal by Kim Johnson “It’s often overlooked in affordable interiors, but placing art is among the first things we think about and advocate for.” minted.com

golden bowl

Pure Foundations Centerpiece bowl “The value of adornment is that it adds character.” westelm.com

fireplace

 Flex Electric Fireplace “This is a cost-effective solution for elevating a common area to a space with a sense of community.” ecosmartfire.com

round white padded chair

Bohemian armchair X Patricia Urquiola “We like using hospitality vendors because of the high level of craftsmanship.” moroso.com

yellow couch

Drop In sofa “For affordable housing, the tendency is to specify vinyl. Part of our process is educating [clients] that softer fabrics can be functional and beautiful.” thayercoggin.com

Would you like to comment on this article? Send your thoughts to: [email protected]

Latest

  • A large waterfront power plant with three tall chimneys and a rectangular base stands against the cityscape and hills under a cloudy sky, setting an industrial scene reminiscent of installations showcased at 3daysofdesign.

    Viewpoints

    UIA 2026: No Easy Answers in Barcelona

    Rather than offering a unified vision for architecture’s future, the 2026 UIA World Congress embraced contradiction, bringing together diverse voices to debate ecology, technology, craft, and the social role of design.

  • Wood museum building by Leers Weinzapfel Associates in snowy landscape with timber beams and angular roof.

    Projects

    In Missoula, a Museum Grows from Timber and Memory

    Designed by Leers Weinzapfel Associates, the National Museum of Forest Service History’s new hub transforms donated materials and expressive timber forms into a learning environment.

  • Modern high-rise building with staggered balconies stands among other tall buildings in an urban cityscape under a partly cloudy sky.

    Projects

    SOM Creates a Breathing Building

    Located in Shenzhen, China, WeBank’s headquarters takes a porous and responsive approach to occupant health and comfort.