My name is Katie Freeman. I’m a designer and a recent MFA graduate from the School of Art, Art History, and Design at the University of Iowa. My thesis focused on designing furniture and objects specifically for adults with sensory needs—whether visual, auditory, tactile, or a combination of these. This work is deeply personal, as it stems from designing for my own sensory needs and lived experiences.

While there is growing awareness and research in designing for children with sensory sensitivities, the same attention has not yet reached the adult population. I see a critical gap in the design industry—one that I aim to fill by creating inclusive, aesthetically engaging, and calming environments for adults.

I live and work in Iowa, where I run my business, Katie Freeman Designs.

I am working on collaborating with others interested in the field of sensory design, as well as gaining opportunities to create calming spaces for local clients. However, in order to do this, in order to further my research as well as provide for upcoming clients, I need to purchase equipment and materials. With the funds from this fundraiser, I will purchase a 3D printer and filament to create goods to bring calm into homes and workspaces.