Earlier this month, we found out that our fantastic Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KPT) Associate, Carla Resendiz has been nominated for the Future Leader Award at the KTP Best of the Best Awards. The ceremony is due to be held today (23rd Sept).
These awards are a celebration of the best partnerships between businesses, academics and qualified graduates. Ahead of the award ceremony, we had a chat with Carla to find out more about her KTP project and what inspires her work.
Tell us a bit about your project.
The WellBe Homes by Norscot are a range of timber frame home kits for self-builders that are designed in a way that makes them easy and cost-effective to adapt to lifestyle changes. These homes will allow people to stay in their dream home for longer; helping them face the challenges that arise when getting older. The project is a knowledge-transfer partnership between Teesside University and Norscot.
What inspired you to apply for this opportunity?
As an industrial designer, I link design with health so having the opportunity to work on a project like this was a dream come true. My motivation for this project comes from members of my family who have struggled with diabetes, cancer and dementia and knowing how potentially beneficial these homes could be in the future for so many people who may find themselves in similar situations in the future.
Tell us some of our project highlights
Before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, we were able to host in-person research sessions with local community groups, including the Caithness Disabled Access Panel. Being able to work together with the public to ensure we are meeting their needs and wants through this project has been invaluable.
We have presented the outcomes of the project as part of two international conferences; one hosted in the USA and the other in New Zealand.
We also recently completed a soft launch of the range at the Scottish Self Build & Renovation Show in Aviemore this month. The feedback has been positive which is great to hear!
How do you feel about being nominated for the Future Leader Award at the KTP Best of the Best Awards?
It’s excellent news to be shortlisted; I can’t wait to see what opportunities this could open up for me to continue doing what I love.
What’s next?
We’ve created homes that celebrate the achievement of ageing. I can’t wait for the first WellBe homes to provide its residents with an improved quality of life.
We’d like to wish Carla and all the other finalists the best of luck!
