Rekindling Passion

rēˈkind(ə)l..stir up or ignite (something) again

Each new year we set intentions. There is action required with intentions as one commits the task to working memory while making progress toward a goal. Thinking about the end from the beginning also establishes “the why”. So, what is the why for UDP this year?  Rekindling passion.

 One of our passions as a practice is environmental stewardship.  We have been part of the 2030 Commitment for 3 years and working to reduce our project’s carbon footprint.  We are also using the Framework for Design Excellence to inform our decision making.  Designing for Energy, Water and Well-Being are just a few of the design principles that focus our work toward creating healthy, resilient, and regenerative solutions.  With each small step, we know that we are designing a better built environment for all.  

Reflecting on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we are inspired by his charge for all to be committed to the “eternal principles of beauty, love and justice” as part of “your life’s blueprint”.  Amid systemic injustice, covid and climate change, there is opportunity for renewed thinking in how one centers people to create equity in the design process and outcomes.  When passion is present, it ignites creativity, fuels ideas and stirs action. Passion is contagious and authenticates purpose.  We are motivated by Dr. King’s legacy and are working to create the Beloved Community, where all share in the wealth of the earth and everyone is cared for, absent of poverty, hunger and hate.

 As life longer learners, here’s to a year of rekindling our life’s blueprint and measuring our progress toward creating equitable communities!