Artist Biography
Kylie Raffa is a senior Interior Architecture major and Dance minor at Endicott College. Kylie has been a part of the Repertory Dance Ensemble for four years and has been an active member of the ECAD club (Endicott College Architecture & Design Club) serving as their Creative Director. She recently represented ECAD at the IIDA fashion show “The Menu” as the club’s model. She has also been on Endicott’s Deans List all four years. Kylie has completed three internships during her time at Endicott, and is looking forward to working in the field of design post graduation. Kylie would like to thank her friends, family, advisors, and professors for supporting her journey at Endicott and completing this project.
Thesis Abstract
Kylie’s project, the den., was inspired by her love for animals and passion for adoption encouragement. In the southern region of the United States, “loose dog culture” is widely accepted, leading to the increase in stray animals and overpopulation. The den. is a dog resource center that intends people to adequately educate themselves before adopting an animal. The purpose of this building is to educate the public and potential adopters what it is like to own a pet and the benefits animals can have on your mental health.
the den. focuses on a more experiential learning approach to educating the public on adopting an animal. The project features interactive models and technology that promotes more engagement from the public. Resources for dog owners are also involved in the den. ensuring that people continue to come back and continue learning more. the den. has a multipurpose approach to its space, allowing for a wide range of demographics to utilize the space increasing the amount of people that can be enlightened by their mission.