Our Story

DesignBoards™ emerged from years of observing how people engage with thoughtfully curated materials.  Again and again, it became clear that simple materials— when presented with intention and paired with just enough structure—could invite exploration, creative engagement, and meaningful connection.

The idea first took shape through the TrayScapes™ experience, an open-ended approach to arranging and rearranging materials. For more than a decade, TrayScapes experiences have been facilitated in longterm care communities, memory care settings, healthcare centers, and adult day programs.  Along the way, it became clear that the balance between freedom and structure played an important role in supporting engagement. 

The DesignBoard evolved from these observations.  Divided into distinct sections while still allowing for flexibility and personal expression, it offers a simple framework for exploration and discovery.

Witnessing the impact of these experiences inspired the creation of DesignBoards and Curated Material Collections as a simple way for others to bring these experiences into their homes, programs, practices, and organizations.