Time Is Running Out

In recent days, I've been contacting design firms for potential placement.  Not surprisingly, not a hell of a lot of interest.

But as I contemplate the idea of going someplace else to work, I think back, a bit, to the places I've worked.  

It occurs to me that since graduating and entering the real world, I've been fortunate to work in good places.  The first firm I worked for was in a walk up rehab of a former cigar factory; a loft space.  After that, another converted factory space.  And when I started my own, it was in another loft converted from industrial space, although for the first time it had a modern elevator.  which was a good thing, the office was on the fifth floor (we eventually added some space below, with a connecting spiral stair)

A little over four years ago, I moved into the heart of downtown, in a client's building; now a third floor walkup.   The building was built about 1858, making it one of the oldest extant buildings in Milwaukee, on one of the first commercial streets.  It was built as a home for Lipps Department store, and rented offices on the second, with for-lease assembly halls on the third.  These were intended mainly for fraternal organizations, and had seating tiers around the outside, with a higher one for the Grand Poobah.

I've never had to work in a fluroescent lit office, with carpet, work cubes, and acoustic tile.  Always high ceilings, abundant light, and unique environs.  

A few months ago, my son said he thought my current place was more 'professional' than the previous.  Although that hasn't seemed to do  me a hell of a lot of good, it was an interesting thing to hear.

Might be over for a while; but in the interim, here are a couple of photos of the big ol' empty office as it stands now: