Crypton was birthed in 1993,  over 17 years ago in a basement home in Michigan. The founders Craig and Randy Rubin set out to create a new generation of textiles that were moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean, yet still stylish, breathable and soft to the touch.Crypton is still based in Michigan in West Bloomfield, with a sustainable manufacturing facility in Kings Mountain , North Carolina.

What makes a High Performance Textile and why is Crypton different than other manufacturers of this type of textile.

First, let’s look at the characteristics of a High Performance Textile.

• Repelling capabilities. -The textile must resist the absorption or passage of liquids or other substances. The barrier must be able to keep off or out the substances it comes in contact with.
• Stain Release-Must be able to be cleaned so that the stains can be lifted from the textile in a way that does not damage the fabric.
• Moisture Barrier- The textile must protect the components it covers. It needs to keep moisture from degrading the foam or material it covers.
• High Abrasion Resistance – The textile must be able to withstand a large amount of friction and rubbing from heavy use with low fiber damage. Usually, a minimum  of 50,000 double rubs.

So How does Crypton excel in the High Performance Textile arena? Why Crypton over other High Performance Textiles?

Most any High Abrasion Resistant Fabric can be made into a Crypton. It is not a fabric or finish it is a Process!
Most other manufacturers of High Performance fabrics make a finish. A finish as you know is something that can be taken off or something that wears off over time. The Crypton process makes the textile a new product.

 It actually changes the molecular structure of the textile!

So while other manufactures products wear down over time, Crypton actually continues to repel liquids and substances long after the other manufacturers product have failed. Crypton is the only textile solution offering permanent stain, moisture, mildew, bacteria and odor-resistant protection.

 It is actually bathed in a special solution, then ran through wheels to smooth it out. Finally, it is heated in an oven at 325* or higher. The textile then becomes a permanent barrier.

Crypton textiles are very easy to clean. It has excellent stain release properties.

• Use an enzyme  base detergent such as Tide or Crypton’s upholstery cleaner.
• Apply sparingly and rub with a SOFT bristle brush.
• Don’t forget to Rinse!
• Upholstery should be cleaned once – twice per year in addition to spot cleaning to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Did you know that Crypton is bleach Cleanable!

It actually performs as a Solid Surface.

It is CEPA approved and is the ONLY disinfect-able fabric in the World!

Crypton offers free of charge to their customers a program called Crypton Care. They offer Free training sessions for maintenance employees and are available to answer any cleaning or care questions you may have FREE of Charge. Professional cleaning services are also available with Crypton Care at a charge determined by the size of the job.

Something that really makes Crypton stand out is it’s Moisture Barrier. It is the Only fabric on the market currently that can warrant its backing with a guarantee not to allow passage of liquids. This is HUGE especially in Healthcare and Educational environments. This  actually allows for cleaning and disinfecting the textile, leaving the owner with peace of mind that the product is clean and germs have not been transmitted to surfaces below. 

Speaking of germs lets talk about antimicrobial versus antibacterial. What is the difference and why is using one property over the other a wiser choice.

Antimicrobial- This is often referred to as Silver Ion technology. It SLOWS down the growth of germs but doesn’t stop them.

Antibacterial- KILLS germs. It doesn’t just slow down the process but actually eradicates the germs.

I am sure at this point you are certain you would rather have a product with antibacterial capabilities. That being the case Crypton currently is your only option! Because of it moisture barrier capabilities and manufacturering process it is the only manufacturer of High Performance textiles that can boast that claim.

So What’s new with Crypton?

Crypton Manufacturing  has come out with a couple of new products. One is call “Incase“.It runs about 1/3 of the cost as  patented Crypton fabrics. It has the same stain release and repelling properties as the original Crypton but without the moisture barrier. This is recommended more for high commercial use where excessive germs are not as much of an issue. It is antimicrobial but not antibacterial. Incase offers a less expensive alternative for the right environment.

Crypton has also partnered with Signature for a new carpet product.  Currently it is broadloom only, but within a year carpet tiles are expected to be available. It is the 1st carpet that is completely cleanable. It offers the same patented Crypton technology; repelling properties, stain release and the antibacterial moisture barrier. The fibers are treated all the way through.

On the more fun side. Crypton has a great retail shop. Available are items such as aprons, pillow cases, pet products. Fun practical items.

Thanks Michelle for all the great information. Hopefully, I have successfully enlightened you  on the world of High Performance Textiles and Why Crypton.

 I want to encourage you to browse their website for more information and solutions, but for today’s blog I will try to touch on some of the highlights.

 First what is Indoor Air Quality?

 Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a term referring to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants.

I am sure it would not surprise you to know that Mold is one of the leading causes of Indoor Air Quality issues. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Some mold can even be fatally toxic to humans.  If you have mold it needs to be removed as soon as possible. Depending on how much of the mold will determine if you can handle the removal ,or if a professional is warranted. If the mold is visible there is no need to spend time and money on sampling as all mold growth is cleaned in the same manner.

 The key to controlling mold is to control humidity levels. Ideally the relative humidity indoors should be between 35-55%.  If the humidity is low you may experience symptoms like dry skin. If it is too high , condensation will occur on cool surfaces, such as windows, AC vents, floor joists and beams in the crawlspace.  This condensation is an invitation to mold growth.

 Something you may not have even considered as an Indoor Air Quality issue is the site drainage outside of your home or building. This plays a huge role in IAQ. For instance, if surface water is directed towards or is trapped against the foundation wall, moisture may enter the basement, concrete pad or crawlspace. The moisture in turn raises humidity levels and encourages mold growth. Check and may sure all gutters are properly fitted and well- maintained and that downspouts discharge water at least 6 ft. away from the building structure.  It is important to make sure the soil near the foundation grades so the water flows away from the building eliminating any gullies or puddles.  Keep leaves, mulch and pine straw, and debris away from the foundation as these items hold moisture.

 Another factor in poor Indoor Air Quality is Negative Building Pressure.

 Negative Building pressure results when an HVAC system inside a building draws in more air from the return ducts than it expels through the supply ducts.

 Most buildings operate under some degree of negative pressure, which means some air must be introduced from the outside to balance the pressure on the inside. In an ideal situation the air would enter the HVAC unit through a valve or duct and be dehumidified before coming indoors.  However, this is rarely the case. So the air finds ways to enter the home through means such as loose sealed windows and doors, cracks in the foundations and crawlspace. Overtime this increases the indoor relative humidity levels.

 Although Crawlspaces are not intended to be a part of the breathing environment, because of negative pressure and cracks, mold, moisture, radon and other elements are being sucked up in to the building above. It is important to seal your crawlspace, plumbing, and ductwork to avoid toxic air traveling to the living space.

 Routine Maintenance and Inspection of the HVAC system is a key component to good Indoor Air Quality.

• Set up and keep regular scheduled cleanings and inspections by a licensed professional HVAC contractor. Have them inspect the drainage pan and tube for proper flow. Have them check all ductwork, repair any leaks and damage as needed.
• Set the thermostat to a proper temperature like 72* to ensure both regular system cycling   ( which provides dehumidification) and also to prevent condensation.
• Always have the fan on AUTO not ON. Leaving the fan ON causes the fan to run continually thus increasing negative building pressure issues.

After researching mold and Indoor Air Quality issues I enlisted the services of DocAir for my home. We used them for mold remediation services( 2 year guarantee). They also installed a dehumidifier in the crawlspace and sealed it as well. They did some drainage modification and site grading and installed a Proof Positive system to combat negative building pressure.

 We are now “Indoor Air Quality” certified which brings great peace of mind to me and my family.

The dust in our house is down tremendously and our family allergies at home have dramatically decreased. We are very pleased with the results. TVA is also running a special for many of these services in which they will give a credit for up to $500.00 towards improvements. Flood victims are waived the initial inspection as long as a certified TVA vendor is contracted to do the work. We took part in this initiative. More here

Doc Air is an expert in IAQ issues. Thanks DocAir for all the research and helpful information.

For  even more information about IAQ issues and how you can treat and improve your environment visit  www.docair.com

DocAir provides services for residential, industrial, governmental, medical, and commercial clients throughout the South East.

Services provided by DocAir:

• Flood Recovery
• Proof Positive- solution to negative building pressure
• IAQ evaluations
• Exposure Assessment
• Mold Abatement specification and remediation
• Testing and Sampling
• Drainage modification
• Expert Witness  in IAQ area
• Forensic Investigations
• HVAC Systems analysis
• Ventilation Studies

If you have questions or need assistance, or know someone who needs help, feel free to contact Barry at bwestbrook@docair.com or call DocAir at 615-373-2498

So since that seems to be what you are looking for, I pulled some additional pictures of some of my favorite manufacturers that I think do well in the area of ADA reception desks. I think you will agree that function and ADA compliance can come together in these reception desks without compromising design style. I might add that these manufacturers are also surprisingly affordable.

Featured below are ADA reception desk creations by:

Artopex

Groupe Lacasse

Paoli

Check out this PDF from Mayline on how their reception lines can meet ADA compliance as well.

For more information on specifics for ADA reception desk compliance check out ADA guidelines.

You may also like my previous posts on ADA compliant office furniture and ADA reception desks by ARD furniture.

There are many other wonderful manufacturers that handle ADA compliant reception desks. You can check out the reception links tab on my blog for even more helpful information.

 

That said they want it all.

The systems furniture needs to be adaptable, aesthetically pleasing but most of all affordable. That can be hard to find if you don’t know where to look. However, lucky for me and my readers I have a PERFECT solution.

One of my favorite products since I have been introduced to it about 3 years ago, is Interworks EQ by Kimball Office. This product has been around for decades and continues to offer a strong presence in the market place. But don’t let the longevity fool you. The product has been updated to accommodate new technology, growth and expansion, and designers eyes.

So why is this product one of my favorite solutions. It really can deliver on all fronts. Check out how below.

Interworks EQ has adapted to the changing  work environment, while offering a variety of aesthetic and affordable solutions.

Electrical and Technology perks- With the exception of the full glass panel, the panels can house base or mid electrical and data. A great added benefit to the panel is its immense space allotment in the top channel for high tech data requirements. 

The 4 circuit 8 wire system can be configured to a 3-1  -3 hot – on separate ground and neutral with a single hot with a dedicated isolated ground and neutral  for computer protection. Or, you can also configure a 2-2 configuration with 2 hots sharing one ground and neutral and the other 2 sharing the other ground and neutral. Check with your electrician and furniture supplier on the building supply to determine your options. The electrical components are installed with a simple snap in assembly and jumpers between panels to reduce install time.The solutions are simple but effective.

Universal Hinge connector- Having a universal connector makes change and reconfiguration much simpler. The hinge connector allows for versatile arrangements in L, T, X or 120* configurations. This can create a world of adaptability some other systems just don’t offer without a great deal of hassle.

Reduced cost of Installation- In addition to the snap in electrical and the universal hinge, Interworks EQ panels come with top cap, wire-way panel, hinges and glides and carpet grippers ready on each panel. So the installer is not wasting time searching for components to install.

Another great added benefit is the specification tools.As a Designer this proves to be invaluable. Kimball Office Interworks EQ has programs with Auto-Cad, 2020 Imagine, Giza as well as other manufacturers software. Auto hardware is available on many of the software programs and changing from configuration to configuration is a breeze with the specifying tools. This saves money and time and insures a good order and install the first time around. This I know from experience!

Varying heights and width or panels and components-

Monolithic Panels- Full fabric tack-able acoustical panels are the most affordable configuration and offer the widest range of possibilities. You are able to create reception systems areas all the way to management areas.

Widths- 18″,24″,30″,36″,42″,48″,60″

Heights- 34″,42″,48″,54″,62″,66″,80″

Full Glass Panels- Want a full glass look, well Interworks EQ has it. Heights available at 62″,66″ and 80″H. Widths are available in 24″,30″ or 36″

Sectional Panels- This offers style, individuality and functionality. You are able to keep private areas private and other areas visible where needed. With the combination of fabric , glass( both clear and frosted) and metal sections you can create a unique look that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. You can attach the sectional panels to the monolithic panels and use only where needed to save on expense while still delivering the results you need and want.

Sectional panels come in the same heights as the monolithic panels and same widths up to 48″.

With the exception of the glass sections you can even specify different fabrics and looks on each side. This gives you even more versatility and design options.

Stack-able Panel Sections- The ultimate in versatility. Want short panels now but you may need to add sections later to create more private environments. You want to be able to adjust to different work environments as times change. You may want to consider Interworks EQ and the stack-able solution. You don’t have to worry if you need to add privacy later, because you can!

Stack-able sections are fabric or glass and come in 12″,14″ or 18″ H. The widths match all panels sizes of both the sectional and monolithic panels. You can stack up to 2 stacking sections high up to 32″ H not to exceed 80″H or 66″H depending on original configuration.

Privacy Panels and Hinged doors- This is one of my favorite options on the Interworks EQ system. The privacy panel can offer just enough of the private office without the added expense. The privacy panels can come in all fabric, translucent glass, or fabric/marker board combination. You can see in the gallery below how I used the privacy panel on a job I installed. A more traditional hinged door is available for the 80″H systems office areas.

Compatibility with components of other Kimball Office Products-Using Kimball Office Footprint ,Perks and Traxx you can open up an even broader design pallet as well as cost savings. Your local Kimball Office sales person can guide you on how this can save space and time. The storage possibilities and organizations tools are endless.

Sustainability- And if all that isn’t enough you should check out the sustainability of the system. Interworks EQ exemplifies Kimball Office commitment to the environment. It is certified as low emitting furniture, fully Indoor Air Quality( IAQ) compliant and can contribute to LEED-CI points.

So now you get an idea on why I LOVE this product. Until the end of 2010 Select Kimball Office dealers are running a HUGE special on this product. To take advantage of that special contact me.

Life is in the details.

So is a successful interior environment. One detail that is often an after thought is interior signage. Yet it is this detail that can enhance or hurt an experience for your patron or customer.

Here are some helpful planning tips to get you started that will provide not only a functional way finding environment but one that is aesthetically pleasing as well.

Where do I need signage?

Below is a list of some basic Interior Signage and locations

Directories- look for a product that is available in a full range of lens configurations as well as one that can accommodate a printed insert enabling the system to be updated as necessary 

 Locations:

• Lobbies
• Elevator exits
• Stairwell exits

Floor Directional- Look at products that have inserts that can be updated easily.

Locations:

• Corridor intersections
• Elevator exits
• Stairwell exits

Overheads-

Types: wall mount, flush ceiling mount, or suspended

Locations:

• Lobbies
• Corridors
• High traffic areas impeding visibility of wall signage

Evacuation Maps- Make sure the signage is in accordance with local code. Maps need to have a changeable insert.

Locations:

• Elevator exits
• Stairwell exits
• Hotel Rooms
• Classrooms

Conference Rooms

Locations:

• Conference rooms
• Meeting rooms

Office/Suite/Room Identification- Check ADA guidelines and Braille capabilities. Look for non-glare and clean flush appearances.

Locations:

• Offices
• Hospital/Assisted Living/
  Patient Rooms
• Hotel Rooms
• K-12 and University classrooms
• Other areas where signage must accommodate change.

Misc. room Identification- Look for ADA complaint and Braille requirements. May want multiple lines of text option.

Locations:

• Restrooms
• Stairwells
• Any secondary (non-office) room
• Common Areas

Workstation Nameplates- Look for inserts that can easily be updated. Various mounting option may include tape, pin, magnet, Velcro and under-cap attachment.

Locations:

• Workstations
• Open office environments

Flag Mounts- Flag mounts are double sided and typically oriented horizontally, however, they may be mounted vertically as well. Both orientations are perpendicular to the wall.

Locations:

• Lobbies
• Vestibules
• Corridors
• High traffic areas impeding visibility of wall signage
• Restrooms

Interior Stairwells- Fire and building code typically requires that stairwells in buildings of three floors or more identify the floor and exit point. Raised text and Braille are not required.

Locations:

• Interior stairwells

Does my business need ADA compliant signage? If so what are the ADA regulations for signage?

Take Form- a commercial architectural interior signage company does a wonderful job explaining ADA compliance requirements in this PDF. It is simple and easy to understand.

ADA Compliant Interior Signage Regulations

Ready to get started? Consider this information when choosing an interior signage provider  and planning your environment .

1.Be able to provide basic facts about the project  

• Your name, title and contact information
• Company & address
• What kind of project is it (hospital, residence hall, corporate office, etc)?
• What is the stage of the project (planning & design, construction, etc)?
• Have interior finishes been selected? If yes, describe
• Occupancy date
• What is the project size (signage budget, number of signs, overall project budget, square footage, etc)
• Have sign types, quantities and locations been determined? If no do you need someone to perform these programming functions?
• Will the signs be purchased on GSA, state or other contract?
• Please supply a floor plan in .dxf or .dwg format if possible. Supply room #’s and or room names.
• Floor plans need to indicate fire extinguisher stations and fire alarm pulls down.

2. Design concerns

• Select materials to be used, colors and finishes.
• Note that some non standard finishes my result in longer lead times.
• Talk to your signage representatives about what materials and styles would best suite your environment.
• If LEED credit points are needed check with manufacturer for sustainable signage products that will work in your environment.

3. Way finding and Programming

• Understand the level of way finding required.
• Identify every location with a role in the signage network (type of sign).
• Consider position and viewing distance.
• Designate sign types, message copy and content.
• Address all ADA and life/safety compliance issues.

4. Quotation and Approvals- Look for a company that will supply you a detailed quotation with the following information.

• Rendering of the signs
• Location plan
• Message schedule
• Installation details
• Cleaning and Maintenance information
• Printed Insert Templates where needed
• Reorder information for future needs

5. Installation- Make sure you have qualified, certified licensed installers that will correctly install your signage needs. Federal and Local codes must be met to insure a clearance from local and federal agencies for occupancy.

Below is a list of some interior signage companies that are leaders in the industry.

You can also contact me for more information.

So how can that be shown in the office work environment?

 When planning your office space it is important to understand the ADA guidelines for the disabled. For more information and training on these guidelines you can contact the Government Access Board  or other experienced professionals in the field of ADA Compliant Training. 

As it relates to furniture for ADA interiors, I have listed some important tips and sample furniture products to help in the furniture selection process.

ADA Furniture Tips and Solutions

• It is important to recognize the height and width restrictions of a disabled person. This is primarily related to those in a wheelchair.

Work surfaces must be able to adjust to a height in which a wheel chair can get under.Almost all manufacturers of systems furniture have some sort of adjustable table or adjustable support to meet this requirement. Since it needs to be adjustable you must be aware of allowing some spaces that have mobile pedestal filing units or freestanding filing units. Support Pedestals WILL NOT work in this environment as they are not at the required height to support the ADA height work surface. Standard work surface full or partial, full to the floor end panels WILL NOT work either.

In cafe, training and conference areas you need to consider either setting aside tables for ADA compliance or choosing adjustable height tables that can adjust for any individual. C  Brands Cobalt Base Series has an ADA compliant table that works great in healthcare and hospitality dining  and office environments. Most manufacturers can accommodate ADA compliant height tables but you need to ask for it.

Always plan with the idea that someone with a disability will be using your facility at some time.

 

• Drawers, overhead and filing issues need to be addressed. 

Choose ADA compliant hardware and handles such as the Rail and Arc pulls by Kimball Office. This allows individuals to easily grasp the handle and open the filing units.

Choose overheads that are easy to open such as hinged doors with arced pulls or hydraulic self assist over-cabinet doors that open and close on their own with a gentle nudge. It is still important to note the individuals needs. Some individuals can stand and reach a standard overhead height and others can not. You must keep that in mind in your planning.

The height of a lock in a 5 High lateral can also be an issue. It is important to maximize your floor space and using tall files accommodates this. However, look for a manufacturer that has ADA compliant options that allows for a lock at a lower height. For example, Kimball Office Fundamental files have a lock option on their 5H lateral that is at 38 5/8″H .

• Panel Systems and Demountable partition system door requirements need to be considered.

Systems furniture manufacturers offer a levered handle specifically for ADA compliance. In most cases as it relates to management and private office areas it makes sense to specify this option.

When specifying a door for systems furniture and demountable partitions a 42″w hinged or gate  door that has a clearance of at least 36″ is recommended to meet ADA Compliance. Most 36″ doors only have a clearance of a little over 31″. Kimball Office furniture offers a hinged 42″w door that has a clearance of 37 1/4″. 

• Electrical for desking and systems furniture is an important consideration.

Look for a panel systems product that has the ability to place electrical anywhere along the height of the panel . You need to be able to place phone, data, and electrical at a reasonable height of approximately 36″ H for easy access.

As it relates to training areas, conference and desking or work surface situations you can also use an on the desk top mount electrical and phone, data solution.

The important thing is to ask you designer and furniture representative for ADA compliant solutions. They should be familiar with the requirements and solutions for your environment. The above list is only some of the items you need to consider when planning your space.You do not have to be the expert, only aware of the challenges as well as the need for a comfortable environment for all individuals.

 You may also be interested in my post regarding ADA compliant reception desks.

Anabelle you will be missed!

Anita

In Memory of Anabelle – Canine Superb
Monday February 15, 2010

This afternoon we are dealing with our grief at the death of Anabelle our family dog of 16 years.  So I’m writing my thoughts and memories.

Sixteen years ago I drove down a lane in rural Henry County on an errand to pick up a rescued sheltie with the idea of keeping the dog for a couple of weeks to see if she was desirable.   Hordes of Shelties greeted me with their genetic propensity to bark.  For the first time I saw a beautiful ‘tri-color”; “Oh, I hope that is her,” I thought.  It was not she but Anabelle fulfilled my hope of being ‘tri-colored.”

On the way home, the year old dog that was thin and small for her age was nervous about being alone with a man.  She never took easily to men, maybe because a man was the source of her abuse.   I recall talking and singing to the animal.  “This is crazy,” I once thought, “a grown man carrying on a conversation with an animal.” 

At the end of the two weeks, even though Anabelle was still nervous about the new environment we knew she was a keeper.

It was sometime in the first year that Anabelle joined us on a trip to Pontotoc to visit my parents that we realized the Therapy Dog possibilities with her.  Dad was incommunicable when we visited him in the nursing home where he was nearing the end of his long life.  The only response we got from that visit came when Mom suggested we put the dog on the bed.  Dad touched the dog and began to rub it with his fingers.  The next day’s visit the inhabitants sitting near the doorway spotted the dog and began to move toward her with cane, walkers, and wheelchairs.  They surround the dog, but she allowed it seeming to know that it was important for them.

Anabelle was certified for therapy and worked with the University of Kentucky Children’s Hospital to initiate the Therapy Dog policy. Anabelle was the first therapy dog to visit the Children’s Hospital.  She received her 10 years badge for service and visited approximately three years longer until she was physically no longer able to go. She retired her position just before Christmas 2008. Anabelle had a bus pass, her own ID and spent her visiting day in the office where she received visitors regularly.  She was friends with the Hospital administrator, employees and many children who came to UK hospital and many children who never left the building after their birth or illness. In return she participated in a TV commercial and promotion ad for the UK hospital laparoscopy program.

Anabelle attended the weekly orientation for new employees and demonstrated the importance of wearing your identification, and learning some of the common words in other languages.  She was able to say “good-bye” to the children in English, Spanish, and others languages that the children might request.

Stories of the power of a therapy dog’s visit are extremely rewarding, I’ll leave that to my wife to tell because I did not personally experience it.  Anabelle was small enough to lift and place on the bed beside the children, using the mat the hospital provided.  She seemed to know when to be still, when to snuggle and when to respond with a kiss (quick lick). During the visit children smiled, laughed or just quietly patted the dog.  On one occasion after leaving a child who had not talked for weeks, the parents ran out into the hall and called her back because the child spoke for the first time.  Doctors have been known to see Anabelle and to say, “Don’t leave, her visit will do more good than mine.”

Entering the hospital Anabelle skipped and leaped with joy.  When she knew she was leaving she sat down and refused to budge. Because she was too heavy to carry we had to get a red wagon in which to place the dog for entering and leaving.  Anabelle sat in it like a princess with her head held high, barely acknowledging the adoration she received as she rode down the hall. 

In the office where my wife worked she was known to be closest to whomever was eating at the time and she knew who placed food in their can and spilled crumbs on the floor.  She has been known to be wrapped up in the IT wires under the desk of my wife’s director and chewed the mouse cord in two trying to get out. 

She didn’t bark, she was a strong woman and could free herself if she had to!

The past few months the quality of her life has been ebbing.  Mild strokes occasionally have inhibited her ability to stand and walk and for a few weeks she has not been able to get up from a prone position.  Sunday we decided it was time to make the hard decision.    All the children and grandchildren had an opportunity to say good bye this weekend or to be told of the impending decision that Anabelle would not be here the next time they came for a visit. This morning I cleared the snow and dug a doggie grave.  At 3:00 p.m. today she drew her last breath with the help of Jennie, her vet.  She was buried with her head on the pillow of the toy that came with her 16 years ago.

The loss of a dog has always been hard.  We have had several dogs in our married life; however, Anabelle was a special dog, who, I believe, used the pain of her early years to be sensitive to the feelings and needs of others.  She was a well disciplined dog who loved children and until the last couple of years was excited about seeing the grandchildren.  

Most of us to live to the 90s, like her, lose our sight, hearing, awareness of those around us who love us.  When I watched her draw her last breath in the middle of the doctor and the people who loved her, I could only wish that the time of my death could be so carefully planned by me.

Our “service” prior to taking her to the vet was to listen to the video sent today my Aunt Monti. The lyrics are below: 

I look up and I see God 

I look down and see my dog

Simple spelling G.O.D

Same words backwards D.O.G

They would stay with me all day

I’m the one who walks away

But both of them just wait for me

and dance at my return at glee

Both love me no matter what

Divine God and canine mutt

I take it hard each time I fail

But God forgives, Dog wags his tail

God thought up and made the dog

Dog reflects a part of God

I’ve seen love from both sides now

It’s everywhere, amen bow wow

I look up and I see God

I look down and see my dog

And in my human frailty

I can’t match their love for me

 Amen and Bow Wow

“Don’t work HUM”

Hum- the sound of a productive team working well individually and together.

Kimball Office furniture company developed HUM Minds at Work in partnership with Formway Design. As they noticed the nature of work changing, they knew that to stay ahead of the game they needed to adapt to a new way of thinking and working. Through the study of “Cognitive Ergonomics”-the study of thinking processes in the work environment that affect both the physical and the mental- Kimball Office and Formway developed the collaborative/teaming  furniture product HUM.

The generation of “we can have it all” coupled with the technological breakthroughs have made businesses that are more mobile, agile, and leaner.  In this competitive environment innovation is the key to survival.

“Ideas are the new currency”

So how do you tap into the creative mind of your employees to bring about that innovation and next “Big Idea”?

HUM has taken down some of the traditional workplace barriers that keep creative inspiration from flourishing.  The HUM furniture design promotes collaboration of minds and helps facilitate the flow of ideas. 

Some Examples of the HUM environment

Here are some of the key elements to the design that enhance the collaborative and creative environment.

• Go to Zones( Now, Soon, or Later) help you work in the moment or offload thoughts for a while. 

Go to NOW- Place things immediately in front of you on your main level desk terrace.

Go to SOON- Utilize the terrace box or 2nd level just above your desk space for things that you need to get to but are not your first priority.

Go to LATER- HUM also has filing capabilities( over 700 configurations) and terrace boxes for those things you just need access to every now and then. This allows you to keep your desk clear for the main task at hand.

• Personal Space and Focus work

Private Office- freestanding furniture- HUM offers freestanding furniture applications to help facilitate all the office needs. This allows for coordination of furniture from the collaborative, creative spaces to the private office, giving consistency to the interior aesthetics.

See Me Screens and Fabric Privacy Panels-See Me Screens help filter distractions, yet allow eye contact. There is a science to the positive and negative space of the screens.Available in 15 colors. Or you can create your own using Kimball Office By Design Team. 100% sustainable recyclable wool is used for the fabric privacy panels for those even more focus driven environments.

Adjust-ability-each person can personalize their space to meet their individual needs. It doesn’t have to be cookie cutter anymore. The main desk level can be adjusted to your height comfort. Whether you are a piler of a filer HUM offers a solution for your work flow.

• Collaborative Interaction

Meet Me Spaces-These are spaces in between the private zones that facilitate mini-meetings that occur throughout the day. Through the use of the See Me Screens you can tell when it is a convenient time to ask for a quick opinion or question while it is fresh on your mind. Then you can easily lean over for a quick collaborative encounter.

Touch Down Spaces-Spaces that provide extra space to huddle and collaborate with many people with out having to totally leave the work area. Impromptu conferences promote creative minds when they are at their best.

• Accessories-bookends, papertrays, displays, and monitor arms. LED lighting and capability for electrical. It is all there.

Although HUM may not be the furniture solution for every office work environment it does answer a great deal of the challenges we have in our creative and collaborative workspace.

I must also mention that HUM’s sustainability story is quite impressive. The Kimball Office team and Formway design put a lot of effort into using sustainable, recyclable products. You can explore that further by going to Kimball Office and checking out the sustainability statement.

Get HUMming!

For more information about Arnold Reception Desk (ARD) and their standard reception desk products or custom ADA capabilities visit www.ardesk.com

 The most inviting space in a lobby area is the reception desk or counter. This is most often the initial presentation to your quests. The reception area should be designed to help the user feel comfortable while creating a positive impression of the business and its facility.

The ability of a business to work effectively in receiving its users can have a tremendous impact on its guests. Special attention needs to be paid to the number and type of doors, ADA requirements, and traffic flow.  The reception desk or counter needs to be designed in such a way that the space, size and height as well as the working area are functional for both the employee and their guests.

For example, ADA requirements necessitate a counter height of  approximately 30″ ( 76 cm)no more than 36″ to accommodate users with disabilities.ADA guidelines

Arnold Reception Desk ( ARD) is able to incorporate ADA height counters into most of its models. See some of the solutions below.

Receiving ALL users properly creates a sense of comfort and compassion and is an important consideration in the design of a reception area. Arnold Reception Desks proves that reception desks can not only be functional but aesthetically pleasing as well.

For more information about ARD standard reception desks and custom capabilities visit their website at www.ardesk.com or contact me and I will help make your reception area exceptional on all levels.