UK interior design students reimagine Lexington nonprofit to help children in crisis feel safe
University of Kentucky interior design students spent a semester developing trauma-informed redesign plans for The Nest, a Lexington nonprofit serving families for nearly 50 years.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW via LEX NEWS) — University of Kentucky interior design students are helping children in crisis feel safe by reimagining the spaces inside a Lexington nonprofit that has served families for nearly 50 years.
The Nest provides free childcare for families without a support system and supports survivors of domestic violence. After decades of serving the community, the organization is now looking toward a trauma-informed redesign.
“We’ve been in this building for almost 50 years now, and the space is getting a little outdated,” Jenny Norman, assistant executive director of The Nest, said.
UK interior design students spent the semester at The Nest talking with staff, studying the space and developing trauma-informed design plans.
“I really think that interiors is about human experience. And so, working with a community partner and showing that everybody deserves design,” Aanya Chugh, UK interior design professor, said.
Student Jillian Mandel built a quarter-scale model of The Nest featuring quiet corners and design elements intended to help traumatized children feel safe and in control.
“I think a lot of people just, again, think it’s blankets and pillows. And it is so much more than that. It could really change people’s lives,” Mandel said.
Her design gives children calming spaces and tools to regain independence, including sinks at different heights so kids can help with tasks alongside adults.
“Just to make everyone feel more included in everything going on and to give them that autonomy back as well,” Mandel said.
Some changes, including new rugs and color updates, are already in place.
“Now I have 16 different projects, that I can look at and say, ‘Here are some ideas of what we could do with the proper funding,'” Norman said.
Norman said The Nest is seeking monetary and physical donations to make those projects a reality. To learn how to donate, visit The Nest’s website.
