In the modern design office, smartphone apps are being used as both actual tools and virtual tools—from tape measuresto drafting aids. “I’ve always brought technology into the classroom,” said designer Phyllis Harbinger, who wrote The Interior Design Productivity Toolbox (Wiley, 2014) and also teaches studio design and professional practice courses at the Fashion Institute of Technology. If her students are any indication of the future of the industry, she said, “apps will be an indispensable element for remaining competitive in the design field.” A handful of designers offers their favorites:
ToolsiHandy Level: “A valuable tool when I’m in the field and need to ensure that the work is straight,” said Caleb Anderson of Drake/Anderson. The bubble level he’s referring to is one of five tools in the iHandy Carpenter Tool Kit app, which also includes a plumb bob, protractor, ruler and surface level.
Image Meter Pro: “It allows us to annotate our digital pictures with dimensions,” explains Gideon Mendelson. “Whether we’re documenting a client’s existing conditions, cataloging a client’s belongings or simply noting a construction detail, I haven’t carried a notebook to site meetings in years.” Image- meter-pro.soft112.com. Designer John Douglas Eason uses a similarapp called My Measures.
ShoppingFurniture Styles: “The interior designer’s version of 20 Questions for antique furniture,” said Anderson.
BOH subscribers and BOH Insiders.