Lichen from Central PA where I grew up. Lichen are beautiful complex structures of the mutualistic relationship between algae and fungi.
Eli Robbins
My work sits at the experiential intersection of the built environment and digital interaction. I have a Masters in Architecture from the University of Oregon and a Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies with a Minor in Studio Arts from the University of Pittsburgh. After interning at an award winning Medical Simulation Lab, Fisher Architecture in Pittsburgh, SERA Architects and Von Tundra in Portland, I moved to NYC to begin my experience design career at the top experience design agencies Ralph Appelbaum & Associates and ESI Design.
I balanced my day job with personal creative work, like furniture design and linocut printing, which satisfied my need for craft. Eventually, I moved to Philadelphia and began work at the revolutionary firm CLR Design that changed the way zoo exhibits and animal habitats are designed around the world. This allowed me to experience the larger design scales of masterplanning and landscape architecture for the most unusual clients: Lions, Giraffes, Elephants & Monkeys. I was brought in by Bluecadet to help them form the groundwork for their spatial design studio. I now work with key partners on independent projects and freelance for top experience design agencies.
My creative approach—no matter the client or context—is to identify the key user groups and deeply understand their needs and experiences. I have an iterative and hands-on approach to design full of experimentation and prototyping.
For me, experience design isn’t about wowing your users, but rather, a way to leave a lasting impact on your audience. It’s a way to connect with people on the deepest levels; an opportunity to change the way they think and feel. Ultimately, it’s about creating accessible memorable experiences.
