Phase one of ReMida Inspired is revitalising the spaces at ReMida. Some changes are cosmetic as we undergo maintenance and painting; others are more noticeable as we evolve two main areas into their new forms — special thanks to everyone who visited last week and took advantage of the extended trading hours on Saturday. Your patience, feedback, and support are greatly appreciated.
Transformation One: Our New Reception Space
Since early 2017, visitors have entered ReMida via the downstairs entry, which has served as a dual reception and material processing space. From next week, the front room will be a reception and display space where visitors can learn about our different programs, education and festival programs, upcoming events, and Jellyfish Plastics. The change is mainly cosmetic, as the room has not been a collection material collection space for members. We are excited to have a space where people can discover what ReMida is doing and ask questions about what’s coming up.
Transformation Two: Our New Processing, Volunteer and Material Collection Space
As you head outside, you encounter the space where we store and display our wood offcuts and the first collection area, informally known as the Rummage Room or where the art and craft supplies are stored. The space is now our Engine Room; it will be a dual volunteer and material processing space and a collection area for members. Now, in terms of its essential function, the room’s function remains the same. But instead of the volunteer work area being closed off, it will now be open so visitors can see and chat with volunteers about the latest materials, what is being processed down and why, and ask questions about their projects and material needs.
You may notice that the large table from the processing room has made its way into the engine room; this helps define the space as a new or expanded material processing and volunteer workspace. The room is still a material collection space, which will be located in the front part of the room as it has been.
Transformation Three: Update to the Large Material Room
Changes to the main collection space aim to make the room more open. The shelving in the middle of the room and the displays on top of the shelves will be adjusted. We have additional cosmetic changes planned for the new year. The changes will be noticeable to people familiar with the space, and we’ll keep fine-tuning the placement of shelves and displays over the next several months.
Some Important Things to Note
The overall amount of space, shelving and materials remains the same. Some of your favourite items may be in a different space, but they’ll all be around somewhere (unless we’ve run out, which happens occasionally).
You are most welcome to provide feedback on the changes. The best person to speak to is Dr Paul, who is generally around the building somewhere. You can also message us via the contact form on the website.
Once we've made the changes, a space takes about a year to settle into. Aside from some finishing touches and adjustments to the displays, this will be the main set of changes for the next twelve to 18 months.
But where are the Photos?
Next week, we’ll post a comprehensive update on the changes for each room on the Facebook page, accompanied by photos and, hopefully, a virtual tour. We’re currently in the chaos phase of the changes, and we’ll have the before-and-after images in a new gallery next week.
The Work Continues
We have a big week of work ahead; thanks again to everyone who visited last week, and we look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday for the first run of collections in the updated spaces.
Thank you for sharing these exciting updates about ReMida Inspired! It’s wonderful to see how you’re revitalizing the space to enhance the experience for members. The new reception area sounds like a fantastic initiative, providing a dedicated space for learning about your programs and events. It’s a great way to spark interest in everything ReMida has to offer.
I’m particularly excited about the transformation of the Engine Room. Opening up the volunteer space for visitors to interact and learn about the material processing is such a brilliant idea. It fosters a sense of community and collaboration, allowing everyone to feel more connected to the work being done. I find the challenge of connecting materials often inspires a more creative piece.