Bridge Building was one of my first initiatives at IDEO.org, designed not only to set a high standard of craft among designers but also to foster community, trust, and cultural depth within the team. I led this project from concept to execution, collaborating with a talented illustrator to bring an intricate, layered story to life. Drawing on a personal metaphor of bridge building, with inspiration from Donna Karen Rush’s poetry, I crafted an interactive experience that wove together creative writing, visual design, and physical elements.

The project culminated in a beautifully crafted book, complete with original poetry, a QR code for a custom soundtrack, postcards featuring quotes and illustrations, and a large-format newsprint poster, all carefully arranged into a tactile, immersive package. This wasn’t just a design piece; it was a statement of my commitment to building a team culture rooted in care, shared experience, and collective growth. Bridge Building stands as a testament to my belief that leading by example in craft and community building creates the foundation for a trusting, engaged team.