Introduction
Dorms are lifeless without themes. As one of the residential assistants of West Florence Moore at Stanford, I led the execution of visual elements for our dorm's astrology-based theme.
Our staff of 14 worked with 270 residents to create a thriving and safe community. 60 of the residents were freshmen, whom we facilitated in their transition to college life.
Much of the design revolves around a parody of a popular astrology app, Co-Star. I was engrossed by its clean, black-and-white aesthetic, along with its library of grainy, greyscale objects which accompany pointed horoscopes. I sought to intersect this with the vibrant, colorful elements typically connoted with the cosmos.
One of the first designs I pitched to the staff to adopt the "West Flodiac" theme.
House Sub-Themes
Four houses comprise West Flo (Gavilan, Loro, Mirlo, and Paloma), and each of these houses contains three floors. We corresponded each house with one of the four elementals (earth, fire, water, and air) and each floor with a different zodiac sign ruled by that element.​​​​​​​
Application
The "West Flodiac" visual language played a key role in our decorations, merchandise, and community announcements.
A Year Cut Short
Working on West Flo branding and serving as an RA was unquestionably one of my highlights at Stanford. I'm continually grateful for a unique and supportive co-staff and a wonderful community that lifted me up through my junior year. To belong in a home with these people, even for just two quarters, was an immense privilege and joy. I miss you all daily.​​​​​​​
