## Supporting Communities Through Thoughtful Design
When design professionals talk about creating spaces that serve people, the conversation often centers on corporate environments and commercial success metrics. But sometimes the most meaningful projects happen when we step outside the boardroom and into our communities.
Tangram Interiors recently partnered with the Orange County Rescue Mission (OCRM) in Tustin, California, donating essential furniture to support families experiencing homelessness. The contribution included 61 Steelcase Node desks for student classrooms, plus workstations and task chairs for the organization's corporate office.
## The Challenge: Learning in Uncertain Times
The timing of this donation couldn't have been more critical. OCRM renovated their classrooms during the 2020 pandemic to accommodate remote learning for 61 resident students. As hybrid schooling continues to shape educational landscapes, creating functional learning environments has become essential for children who already face significant challenges.
**The reality is stark**: children experiencing homelessness often fall behind academically compared to their peers. Access to proper learning furniture and organized study spaces can make a tangible difference in educational outcomes.
## Beyond Furniture: Creating Dignity Through Design
While the donation included practical items—desks, chairs, and workstations—the impact extends far beyond functionality. These pieces create organized, professional environments where OCRM staff and volunteers can effectively serve residents across multiple departments.
"There are countless families that are suffering and OCRM acts as a safety net for when they need a place to stay, eat or educate their children," explains Joe Lozowski, CEO of Tangram Interiors. His family's volunteer experience at OCRM during Thanksgiving 2019 opened his eyes to the hidden challenges many Orange County families face.
## The Professional Takeaway
For commercial interior designers, this project highlights an important principle: good design should create equity, not just aesthetics. When Jim Palmer, OCRM's President and CEO, speaks about providing homeless children with "the same resources available to their peers of higher socio-economic status," he's describing design democracy in action.
**Consider these questions for your practice:** - How can your firm contribute unused or sample furniture to local nonprofits? - What partnerships might amplify your community impact while showcasing your capabilities? - How does your work create more equitable spaces, regardless of the client's budget?
## Making Space for What Matters
The OCRM partnership demonstrates how commercial design expertise can address real community needs. By donating furniture that supports both education and administrative functions, Tangram helped create environments where vulnerable families can access essential services with dignity.
This isn't about charity—it's about recognizing that design professionals have unique skills and resources that can strengthen communities. Whether through donated furniture, pro bono design services, or volunteer expertise, the commercial design industry has opportunities to create positive impact beyond traditional client relationships.
The next time you're considering what to do with sample furniture or planning your firm's community involvement, remember that sometimes the most important spaces we design aren't the ones that generate the biggest fees—they're the ones that serve the greatest need.
