Week Twelve: Posters, Parks, and Places

Another week has flown by, and the work continues to develop. We’ve been getting more immersed in the ecosystems around us—learning how things work, meeting new people, and understanding their projects. It’s been a week of listening, observing, and thinking about how we can support others meaningfully.

One highlight was spending a day with the Protected Areas Commission. It’s the first of what I will be many more opportunities to connect with them. It’s always a good feeling to start making friends and finding your rhythm within a group, especially when it aligns with my purpose-driven work.

That said, this week is a bit of a detour—in the best way. I’m heading to the U.S. for some family time, and it’s arriving at the perfect moment. A reset, a chance to recharge, and an opportunity to reflect on everything I’ve been seeing and learning, especially in terms of design, branding, and how people interact with their surroundings.

One unexpected source of inspiration: the U.S. National Parks system. While there are some current political and environmental challenges in play, it’s also a system rich in visual history. The longevity of its design language—from posters and signage to badges and brochures—stands out. Some of these visuals have endured for 35+ years, shaping how people understand and experience the outdoors.

It’s a reminder that physical design still holds real power. A great poster can live on someone’s wall for decades. A thoughtfully designed sign can subtly guide behaviour or spark curiosity. In our hyper-digital world, these analog touchpoints feel especially powerful. They become part of people’s environments—and sometimes even part of their identity.

New York, in particular, has been such a striking example. It’s a walking city, rich in green spaces—Central Park, the High Line, and so many others. Being in these places makes you realize how essential it is to design parks and public areas that invite people in. That offers a breather. A date spot. A thinking space. Or just a moment of calm after a hectic day. The design of these spaces, including the signage and how you move through them, plays a huge role in whether they’re used or ignored.

🤠 The Good: Spending time with family,

😱 The Challenge: Printing! It’s been tricky, whether it’s the inconsistent quality, the limited availability, or the wide range in pricing. It’s surprisingly hard to find a decent printer at a reasonable cost these days.

😎What’s Next: Just being present. Unplugging a little. Recharging with family and my partner. Observing the world around me for future inspiration.