This post is in a series where we talk to healthcare interior designers about their work as interior designers in the healthcare market. Dr. Debra Harris is the CEO of RAD Consultants and is certified by the American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers (AAHID).
What is one book, person, or talk that has been most influential in your career?
A discussion in the middle of dinner at a conference with Janet R. Carpman, one of the authors of Design That Cares. At the time I was a master degree student at the University of Oregon. That conversation with Janet led me to pursue a PhD with a focus on architecture and public health.
What products have you been excited about recently?
I am interested in lighting solutions that support circadian rhythm entertainment to minimize health risks of workplace occupants.
Do you have any go-to design solutions or techniques for creating healing environments?
No, however I am very interested in materials and the role building finish materials play in the survival or eradication of pathogens that lead to human disease.
If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?
Keep your moral compass and keep moving toward the goals you set for yourself. Don’t concern yourself with extrinsic rewards, intrinsic value is its own reward. If your work can make a difference in the lives of others, however small, it is an accomplishment worth noting.
What is one product that doesn't exist but should?
“Self-cleaning” NAME YOUR PRODUCT HERE. It is a concept that is unfulfilling, but would be super fantastic if possible.
We've also talked to Michelle Clark (REES Associates), Jennifer Fink (BDA Architects), Lindsay Hampton (Pulse Design Group), Melinda Avila-Torio (THW Design), Lilliana Alvarado (UPHEALING), Ashleigh Pfluger (TJNG Partners Inc.), Jane Rohde (JSR Associates), John DuBard (Boulder Associates), Lisa Cini (Mosaic Design Studio), Susan Clark (Clark Patterson Lee), Crystal Hill (Odell Associates), Libby Laguta (L2D.design), Kristin Ellingsen (Office Furniture Group), Kimberly Bernheimer (PF&A Design), Melissa Perry (Inventure), Kelley Dorsett (HDR), Christin Troutman (MCA), Keith Stanton (Thoma-Holec Design), and Clairanne Pesce (Array Architects).
