Design Wise by Vern Yip
Once Designer Vern Yip was confirmed as the guest speaker at a local Charleston museum fundraiser, I reserved my seat. My calendar was marked and I ordered a copy of his newest design book, Vern Yip’s Design Wise.
Along with more than one hundred attendees, I listened intently as he shared his life stories, design insights and creative guidance. After he finished speaking, I realized just how much his design approach aligned with Montessori principles.
Offering a Personal Touch and Thoughts on Children’s Spaces
As the event ended, Vern graciously greeted guests and signed each purchased book. When it was my turn to meet him, I asked him specifically about children’s rooms. As a parent, he certainly had great firsthand experience.
First, he recommended a thoughtful overall design without a theme. Next, he stressed creating organized and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Last, he felt it’s important to build children’s rooms that will last throughout their growing years.
Treasures to Enjoy
Meanwhile, in his book, Vern mentioned how (and early on) he and his spouse decided to leave their precious things out and displayed in their homes. By doing so, they teach their children to value, appreciate and handle the items with care. After all, cultivating a respect for the environment is a big part of parenting!
Dr. Montessori’s Approach and Vern Yip’s Design Wise Align
Much like Vern’s approach to home spaces, Dr. Montessori felt the child’s environment should be beautiful, purposeful, orderly and well-maintained. Everything the child is surrounded by in a Montessori environment facilitates and encourages independence, learning and exploration. Dr. Montessori also preferred materials made of glass, porcelain, metals and wood. Natural materials are pleasing to the child’s eye. But, because they are more fragile, they must be handled with great care and respect. It is such a wise and early life lesson for any child!
Prepared Home Outcomes
Throughout his book, Vern Yip presents a myriad of important design elements. By paying attention to these details, a beautiful and well designed home can be realized. Maria Montessori’s extraordinary work provides the framework for aiding and enhancing the innate development and inner design of the child. Both are guiding, teaching and inspiring us while clearly describing the outcomes to expect based on their expertise. Best of all, these guides can help families realize an outcome of greater peace, harmony and happiness in their homes and lives.