ID. +Collective

Welcome to the first sunset of 2024. It's been a tough second half of 2023 and we are looking forward to changes 2024 will bring.
May you and yours be blessed with peace, prosperity and joy in the coming year. ...

Oftentimes it’s not so obvious what a business needs for their project.

Most of the time it’s a designer being willing to ask the questions, and actually listen to the answers. It’s the best beginning we can ask for.

Recognizing and respecting the process is our specialty.

Schedule a discovery call today and let us help you where ever you are in your process.

It's been in the works for years.
Written on paper
Drawn out
Discussed with makers
Talked about with designers

It's not just a design studio.
It's a space to bring ideas
It's a space for high quality local talent
It's a space to empower dreams
To serve clients and colleagues

Join us online for info sessions on Tuesdays or Wednesdays to learn how you can get involved as a maker, artist, service provider or trades person, fill out an application and join the community.

Virtual sessions are on Zoom

Tuesdays at 4:00pm
Wednesdays at 1:00pm
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Does this statement surprise you?

“CEOs keep insisting that some of the best reasons to come back to the office are to reconnect with colleagues, meet in person again and have the kind of spontaneous interaction that boosts creativity,
.but new research finds that many returning employees just want to get their work done.”

What's your thoughts do you want to go back or find new ways for getting your work done?!
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Design.

Engaging spaces in an artistic dialogue. Resulting in environments that are expressions of your brand.

It's what we do.
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Ready to take the first steps?

We have a creative process to get you started that is built around collaboration, transparency and design thinking, it begins with ensuring we are on the same page right at the start.

Whether it’s a simple floor plan, or a full on new concept, we will work together to create a team that effectively evaluates your concept ideas.

Starting any project with a common goal and understood expectations establishes an environment for creating the best results.

By working together as a team, we craft a strategic design solution that is built for you.

Booking a discovery call today ( link in bio 👆🏼) gets the process started and brings your dreams to life!
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It takes time to develop a plan especially when the client wants to make thought out and intentional changes, and has been operating in the same space for over 20 years.

We have been working on workflows, those that exist and ones that will improve the day to day of the staff and service for customers.

It's not all about what you can see. Sometimes it's what you can't see that has the most impact on a project.
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Storage is another component of the improvements we are implementing for

Quality Craftmanship
There is no compromise. All of the products we use are made by humans and with their very talented hands. Every piece is individually born and crafted into a healthy piece you will be proud of and will live for generations.

The Planet
ID. +Collective only works with Makers who are respectful of the planet in their choice of materials, the way they make their products and how they handle their waste. We believe our spaces should not only be well made and beautiful, but should also not be a health risk.

Made in the US
We focus on using products are designed and made in the USA. ID. +Collective strongly supports the return of craft and furnishings production by artisans and small studios in New England and the USA.

Authenticity
No copies! All of the designs from our Makers are of their own creation, or under the license of the original designer. We will always be transparent about who designed an item and who actually made it. In almost all cases, it is the same person.

Diversity & Community
Various perspectives and cultural backgrounds make our community stronger and relevant. While all of our Makers live in New England and the USA, many come from families that started somewhere else and we are proud that we are nearly evenly divided between women and men owned studios. We also believe people should be treated fairly and properly paid for their contribution.
Interested in learning more schedule a discovery call today...
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The art of meaning yes when you say yes.

'Yes I can take that on and here's what I'll need from you to make it work.'

'Yes, and I'll need to push back the deadline on [this project] to accommodate. Will that work for you?'

It's a simple change in language, but it can have a big impact on how you approach your work and your relationships. Start saying 'yes, and...' and watch your leadership acumen soar!
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We know it's not Thursday... but we wanted to give a shout-out to a great client in Gray we had during early pandemic times.
This was a great collaboration and team at did a wonderful job bringing all of the clients dreams to life for their forever home with just the right materials and finishes.
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❤️

Are you a designer or an architect looking for a place to call your studio without giving up your autonomy...

Do you want to work in a collaborative environment and have access to local, quality vendors, creators, artists, small batch makers and trades people you can count on?!

If you missed our April Pre-Open House you can still signup for the interdisciplinary design studio discovery call and private tour.

Learn how the subscription works and how how you can secure your spot to co-create, mentor, workshop and work on your individuals or joint projects.

We will have all the tools you'll need to succeed.

📷 inspiration photo by Liz Daly Photography
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Recently our founder participated in the entrepreneurs summit with and after experiencing all of the innovative entrepreneurs and creative idea support and learning from those who gone before and been successful. It prompted this evaluation of ourselves...

While we are drawn to the poetic expression of conceptual ideas, at the core, we are enthusiastic problem-solvers who, because of our diversity, are unafraid of crossing disciplines and traditional boundaries in search of satisfying, innovative and economical solutions.

Each project is unique and so to are the processes by which we arrive at the built conclusion. It is our goal to leverage the tools and resources available to us to realize optimal aesthetic and functional results for our clients.

What's prompting or motivating you today?!
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This weeks design tip is all about the room that people don’t really talk about....

It’s the room that is on the list of required, not the room that gets people excited. It is however the room we check first when doing a design audit. It’s a tell about the overall design integration.

If you’re opening a restaurant , retail boutique or salon one of the most challenging rooms for an owner to design is the restroom. Let’s jump right in.

Tip🆔 A restroom must be both visually appealing and functional. If it lacks in either area, restaurant patrons can be deterred from returning.

Tip 🆔 One of the best ways to source inspiration for your restaurant’s bathroom’s design is by browsing through current restaurant restroom design trends.

Tip 🆔 Make sure that your restaurant’s bathroom matches the rest of your restaurant’s décor, otherwise it can look like an afterthought.

Personality in any businesses restrooms is a must!  It can be simple small things like signature candles, interesting light fixtures, fun personal messages in a form of neon sign or an interesting wallpaper.  Even though the mirror’s size is typically dictated by a building code, it can still have fun and original frame. 

Restrooms these days have become a place for taking selfies so create that fun environment that will be shared on social media.
Why not switch things up and be known for your fabulous bathroom!

If you are thinking to open a new business or are in the process of rebranding and remodeling your existing business, book a discovery call today and schedule your project now.
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This weeks takeaway...

It takes more than a great idea for a new concept to be successful. There are so many layers and unknown obstacles.

Have you ever thought about how many decisions you make in a day... no really think about it for a minute, we’ll wait.

The simple act of deciding on a chair for your business waiting room or the dining room requires at least 7.

So if you’re creating a whole concept or remodel you have a lot of decisions to make.

Wouldn’t it be great to have a team to help you make some of those decisions?

Free up your time for questions like “where am I going to go for a walk with my friends?” or what you’re having to drink and eat at the newest restaurant in town...

We want to help you with all that!

We are what you call professional problem solvers, the experts that will condense your needs to help you make the decisions.

We help business owners get the decisions made faster, the ones that will aid them in launching their concept quicker, and with increased success.

Come see what it’s all about, schedule your discovery call in 2023 and put decision making in your rear view mirror!
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Small Spaces...

Anyone who’s ever had to deal with a tiny apartment knows that small space living comes with its own set of challenges. It doesn’t mean designing these spaces is impossible. With a little planning and forethought, even the most cramped spaces can become equal parts functional and eye-catching.

Let's design something eye catching together...
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Saturday 's weekly take away said by our founder after her experience as a participant In Maine Center for Entrepreneurs Top Gun Program.

"At the heart of confidence is
the willingness to Do' -April Elaine Powell

What are you willing to Do?
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What's not to love about this living wall, using sheet metal leftover from the automotive industry?

Plant-covered " Living Walls" are becoming increasingly popular, as they look nice, produce oxygen, and (when outdoors) help keep buildings cool. A relatively new one is claimed to be more plant-friendly, plus it's made of recycled materials.
Along with benefits such as air purification, "living walls" are also said to help regulate the temperature within new buildings which they're built into. A study now indicates that they have the same effect when added to older, existing structures.

Want to learn more on how you can enhance your business interior and exterior with live plants? Schedule some time with our collaborator Mackenzie .jungle.couch

dream develop and design it's in everything we do and it's how we collaborate.
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Have you been in a business lately that has a good idea and a good reputation and yet the interiors look like they’ve been forgotten or had six different ideas mashed together, and not in a good way?

Part of the services we offer is meeting clients where they are, no matter their size or how long they have been around. We help them identify, plan and take action on where they want to go.

Especially in how they appear. Think of your brand identity or concept as the first impression, and it doesn’t stop because your busy.

Is it time for a refresh on your businesses face or a rebranding of your concept and you need help getting started?

Schedule a discovery call today and experience working with a team that meets you where you are and guides you to where you dare to go!

Dream Develop Design it's in everything we do and how we collaborate!

Schedule link in the bio 👆🏼
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# designguidance

When the owners of approached us to help them with making changes to their retail store front we were very excited!
Here was an iconic Maine staple taking intention steps to not only utilize their space better but they also wanted to include their community.
Alison and Matt have taken their dreams of building a community around making incredible bread and pastries in a space that invites you to see and appreciate the artisans and crafts people who have had part in making Maine.

Their dedication to their craft, their staff and the community of Maine is right in line with ID. +Collectives mission to support the small batch makers, trades people, service providers and designers who bring all their passions and talents to every project.

Thank you Alison and Matt we can't wait to see this project develop and the design revealed.

Intentional collaboration is where it's at!
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Good design is problem solving at it's finest...

Think about the problems you need solved....

What's vexing you in your business or getting under your skin? You know the merchandise isn't selling, or the customers keep complaining about the sound pollution while their trying to eat.

Let's chat about how our enthusiastic crew of problem solvers can help you with solving your problem...
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Good design is problem solving at it's finest...

What's the problem you need solved today...

What's vexing you in your business or getting under your skin? You know the merchandise isn't selling, or the customers keep complaining about the sound pollution while their trying to eat.

Let's chat about how our enthusiastic crew of problem solvers can help you with your problem...
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Next steps...

Do you have a hospitality, restaurant, retail boutique, design or wellness focused project you've been stalled on?

Making a decision to change anything in your business is hard for just about everyone.

Changing physical space can feel a little overwhelming, and once you do it, it's permanent.

We want to help you pull your plan together.

We are here to help you succeed.

We will curate a team to help you cover all your bases.

From taking the dream you have planned, to developing the sketches into action plans and on to executing the design to a brick n mortar experience.

Schedule that discovery call... the first 30 minutes are on us!
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We love Birthdays, in fact our founder calls them A Personal New Year celebration. It's a time to envision new possibilities and positive intentions for our life, work and overall health. We also believe that looking back on the year can provide each of us with valuable insight to what brings us the best quality of life.

We celebrate the entire week of our founder's birthday and would love for you to join us in an exercise to start this personal new year off right!

Follow along on the scroll.

Reflect: What have you been dreaming about learning, achieving or experiencing?

🏁Start

Choose: what positive impact on your life, on others do you envision from initiating these new things?
Write it Down: Choose three and write them down! Set realistic targets to achieve and Go!

🛑Stop

Reflect: Look back at your calendar, planner and reflect on events, tasks, experiences that resulted in negative outcomes. What was at the top?
Choose: What can you eliminate ( people, events, habits) in the year ahead?
Write it Down: Choose 3 and cut them from your plan.

😁Continue

Reflect: What are you Celebrating? What went really well in the past year? What are you proud of?
Choose: what habits, events, people, experiences and moments brought you the most reward and quality of life?

Write it Down: Choose 3 must keeps. Make sure to add them to your calendar.
Now let's have a dance party💃🏻💃🏻🕺🏾💃🏻
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Hey there Monday, it’s time for new friends and discovered gems…

Today we honor and reflect upon the millions of working women and women business owners in the US who have made a lasting impact through their important contributions and accomplishments.

Here’s to a few gems we have met along the way!
.eat .art

Cheers to you all!

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In celebration of , we are proud to celebrate our clients current and past who have worked tirelessly to develop and design their dreams!

To all you entrepreneurs out there fighting for you passions. This is for for you!

Like a small boat
On the ocean
Sending big waves
Into motion
Like how a single word
Can make a heart open
I might only have one match
But I can make an explosion
And all those things I didn't say
Wrecking balls inside my brain
I will scream them loud tonight
Can you hear my voice this time?
This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I'm alright song
My power's turned on
Starting right now I'll be strong
I'll play my fight song
And I don't really care if nobody else believes
'Cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me
Losing friends and I'm chasing sleep
Everybody's worried about me
In too deep
Say I'm in too deep (in too deep)
And it's been two years I miss my home
But there's a fire burning in my bones
Still believe
Yeah, I still believe
And all those things I didn't say
Wrecking balls inside my brain
I will scream them loud tonight
Can you hear my voice this time?
This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I'm alright song
My power's turned on
Starting right now I'll be strong
I'll play my fight song
And I don't really care if nobody else believes
'Cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me
A lot of fight left in me
Like a small boat
On the ocean
Sending big waves
Into motion
Like how a single word
Can make a heart open
I might only have one match
But I can make an explosion
This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I'm alright song
My power's turned on
Starting right now I'll be strong (I'll be strong)
I'll play my fight song
And I don't really care if nobody else believes
'Cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me
Know I've still got a lot of fight left in me

Songwriters: Dave Bassett / Rachel Platten

Fight Song lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

It's Friday whether you're celebrating Cinco de Mayo or first Friday we hope your going to celebrate the day and keep dreaming and developing
your designs...

Dream. Develop. Design. it's in everything we do and how we collaborate.

🗓️The Collective will be closed next week May 9,10, 11, 12th to prepare for our big pitch, to celebrate April Elaine's Personal New Year.
Our responses to DM's and emails will be slower than usual. We will return to regular Programing on Monday May 15th.
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Are you a designer or an architect looking for a place to call your studio without giving up your autonomy...

Do you want to work in a collaborative environment and have access to local, quality vendors, creators, artists, small batch makers and trades people you can count on?!

If you missed our April Pre-OpenHouse you can still signup for the interdisciplinary discovery call.

Learn how the subscription works and how how you can secure your spot to co-create, mentor, workshop and work on your individuals or joint projects.

We will have all the tools you'll need to succeed.
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Mid week musings...

Perfectionism and patience. I like to say I'm a recovering perfectionist and I'm doing my own work to have more of the latter.

When I see something I want improved, it takes time for me to stop and think about the most effective way to get results as a leader. The best way is not always the most logical. And it's not my way to give out orders and make demands. Especially since I work with businesses owners most of the time, not staff.

Over time I've learned that often the most effective way to get results is to ask a simple question: "How can I support you?"

I would love to hear more from other leaders on what's in their tool box for making changes, utilizing patience and a respectful dialogue.

📷 .co

Thinking of simple changes to make in the WELL certification process. Let's start with one just about everyone cal relate to, the work place.
It's check your work station with us. Follow along on these 4 slides.
Want to learn how you can do more, schedule a discovery cal in our bio 🔝
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