IDA Design, a unique and innovative industrial design studio founded in 2004, announces the promotion of designer Cara Danis to Principal.
“Cara’s vast design experience, love of building relationships, and passion for innovative design will continue to benefit IDA Design’s partners and our internal team,” said Founder/Owner Mitch Bakker. “Since her start at IDA Design, I have witnessed Cara’s creativity, ambition, and understanding of ever-changing industry trends. Her wealth of expertise and natural leadership abilities are an asset for our clients.”
Danis has 18 years of design experience, with the past 13 years at IDA Design, most recently as Studio Lead managing product development. During this time, she led the team through more than 15 award-winning designs. Danis’ new responsibilities at IDA Design include staff oversight, overseeing finances, strategy, sales, marketing, and fostering rich partner relationships.
Prior to IDA Design, Danis worked in various design roles and industries, including modular housing, recreational vehicles, residential cabinetry, and hospitality furniture. During her time at Coachmen RV, Danis oversaw the advanced design team, where she led design and coordinated development.
Danis has fostered a partnership with the Richmond Institute of Design and Innovation (RIDI), the product design program at Western Michigan University – her alma mater. This involvement includes serving on the Industry Advisory Board, mentoring students, partnering in critiques, and welcoming summer interns at IDA Design.
“It is an honor to lead the talented team at IDA Design and come alongside top industry partners with design insights and support,” said Danis. “As a servant-led leader, I also hope to inspire and mentor the next generation of designers to follow their ambitions and goals.”
As Danis carries the mantle of leadership in design excellence, Bakker will continue to be engaged at IDA through mentoring, partner relations, strategic planning, and product development.
About IDA Design
Mitch Bakker founded the industrial design and research firm IDA Design in 2004 after spending two decades overseeing product design for leading furniture manufacturers. IDA Design was built out of a desire to design in the sweet spot between accessible and desirable. The team has received 20 Best of NeoCon awards, four Good Design awards, a Red Dot award, and numerous HiP and Metropolis Likes. IDA Design has partnered with HNI, Darran, Arcadia and many more. Located in West Michigan – a globally recognized office furniture hub – IDA Design partners with clients worldwide. To learn more, visit idadesign.com.
IDA Design Social Media
Website: idadesign.com
X (Twitter): @ida_design
Instagram: @ida_design
Facebook: @IDADesignLLC
Pinterest: @idadesignid
LinkedIn: @ida-design