DesignPlus, is one of MIT’s First-Year Learning Communities, and welcomes first-year undergraduates with an interest in design. It is a dedicated space for hands-on experimentation, skill development, mentorship, mutual support, and fun. Every year, around 40-50 students participate, engaging in diverse aspects of design, exploring both its theoretical foundations and practical applications. Weekly lunch gatherings sometimes feature guest speakers connecting students with a particular dimension of design.

In a recent DesignPlus event, the worlds of algorithms and naval architecture were brought together through two speakers, who explore graphic design and shapes from different angles.

MIT Professor Erik Demaine, well-known for his work in algorithms, presented his unique approach combining fonts and folding with mathematical precision. Through origami-like patterns, Demaine creates visually striking fonts and sculptures. His research also delves into computational geometry, a vital aspect of design optimization across fields such as architecture and packaging. This approach emphasizes the intersection of mathematics and aesthetics in design.

Wombi Rose, co-founder of Lovepop and MIT alum, shared his journey from a career in marine engineering to a creative venture reimagining traditional greeting cards. Inspired by a trip to Vietnam, he transformed standard stationery into a canvas for intricate 3D pop-up art, offering a fresh way to convey heartfelt messages.