Ava Living Reaches 94 Countries

Our team has been so busy launching this site, it is only now I’ve grabbed a moment to write for us all.  While I’ve sent each of you a personal note, this will be my first blog on Ava.

I am the Founder and CEO, but also a community member of Ava Living.  Our shared moment in time at this crossroads of technology and creative human capital is expressed in Ava.  Not a blog, nor a directory, nor an open social network, nor a listing service, nor an advertising medium, nor a publication, nor an association, Ava was conceived to be truly unique. 

Participation breeds appreciation.  Believe it. 

We cyclists understand how hard it is to race in the Tour de France because we are riders too.   Authors of unpublished screenplays and manuscripts better appreciate the grace and power of well written works and the artistry within a movie script, more than the uninvolved.   In many walks of life, the amateur participant builds appreciation for the skilled craftsman because they have experienced and understand the workmanship and skills that only training and practice brings.  Woodcarvers, artists, graphic designers, poets are appreciated more by those who also participate and attempt to mimic than by those who merely observe as outsiders. 

Space design is no different.   Many design enthusiasts are participants who have produced their own design works, and appreciate the professional training and practice necessary to execute great design.   Who of us fortunate enough to experience Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall didn’t feel your soul beaming from the breathtaking execution of this glorious space; the experience literally dispels your breath, and in your heart is felt the awe of being in the presence of a Master.

Ava’s simple and sole purpose is to make conversations possible. 

Not idle conversations about random topics, but conversations concerning our common passion:  the spaces in which we live, work and play.   Our very human desire to understand and improve our space is absolutely universal.  As you may have heard me say, Design truly crosses all borders, transcends all languages, and cuts straight to the heart like true art, great music, wonderful food, good friends.  That is why we the community of Ava come from so many countries and virtually all walks of life. 

So to all my fellow Ava Community members I say let's all participate.  Everyone, post your own works, create interesting profiles, share inspiration, generate blogs, create and join groups, bring your friends, become a fan.  Most of all, start a conversation with a designer you admire, or a member whose works are interesting.  Take that first step to participate and share of yourself and you will be amazed at how quickly others will reciprocate with their time, thoughts and ideas.  

Think of Ava as your local coffeehouse, where International designers and enthusiasts meet in a comfortable setting to share ideas and find new solutions.   Participation and conversation will naturally lead to appreciation, respect and even friendship.  I am so very fortunate to be able to call so many members of the Ava community my friends. 

Yes, Ava’s value is the ability to change Interior Design from a local business into an International movement. 

I’m so glad you are here. 

David Bassett-Parkins, Fan

Founder and CEO of Ava Living