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Heather Clements: Together we grow

Heather Clements is an artist and muralist based in Panama City, Florida, who creates artwork that explores the interdependent relationship between humans and nature. Her work combines realistic portraiture with expressive graphic elements and abstractions to create a unique style that aims to inspire a deeper connection with the natural world. She aims to promote sustainable practices and improve mental health by fostering a deeper connection with nature. Over the years Heather has also owned and operated an art gallery/venue space and worked as an exhibitions manager for the Visual Arts Centre of Northwest Florida. Her award-winning artwork has been featured in galleries and museums across the United States.

A woman standing in front of a computer on a desk full of pencils in pencil stands. To the left is a medium shelving unit with storage boxes on top.

Safety, dignity and empowerment

In this co-housing initiative, a multi-family community room has been thoughtfully designed to support families in need. Keeping the principles of trauma-informed design in mind, this space seeks to promote feelings of calm, safety, dignity, empowerment, and wellbeing, here families can share their stories, find support in one another, and cultivate a sense of belonging. What sets this community room apart is its flexibility. With versatile solutions for cooking, gathering, group therapy sessions, and workshops, the space is easy to share and adapts to the needs of its users. It's a joyful space that offers families the chance to connect, to laugh, and to grow.

A beige sofa is in the middle of a room with green walls painted with blue waves in the bottom.  There are little yellow children stool on a blue carpet.
A front view of a kitchen with shelves above full of mugs and glasses. The doors on the kitchen are in light wood.
A storage is on the wall and there is painting of chanterelles on a green and blue background. There is a grey sofa in front of them with a green coffee table full of toys.
A big dining  table with different kind of dining chairs is standing next to kitchen with a tall bridge and freezer.
A kitchen island is in the middle of a room with a white stepstool next to it and barstool from the other side. In the background is a kitchen and a shelving unit full of potted plants.

Building blocks of community 

The perception of safety is just as important as actual safety. By creating a space with comfortable lighting, clear sightlines, and simple rules regarding shared vs. private items, we can minimise negative triggers and foster a sense of security. 

The YPPERLIG table and HAVSTORP cabinets are more than just furniture - they create a generous kitchen and dining area that is perfect for socialising, learning, playing, and connecting with others. By providing multiple chair options and diverse design styles, residents can choose a seat that feels like home, encouraging a sense of belonging. With the added privacy of a curtain, this cosy nook is perfect for getting lost in a good book or simply enjoying some quiet time.

With the IVAR storage range, it's easy to keep shared toys, tools, and art supplies stowed away and organised. The fold-out gym mat is perfect for playful moments with kids, while the closed storage ensures that everything stays tidy and accessible.

Access to nature is crucial for mental health and well-being. Caring for plants can be a relaxing and rewarding activity, and an outdoor area with opportunities for gardening and harvesting edible greens can give residents something to look forward to. For kids, having a space that sparks their imagination is essential. The SÖDERHAMN sofa with its modular soft seating allows for flexible configurations that can be easily adapted for group therapy, story time, or play. By encouraging imagination and self-expression, this versatile piece of furniture can help foster a sense of creativity and community.