The Museum of Flight - Seattle

The Museum of Flight is one of the best places to visit in Seattle. The Museum of Flight showcases over a century of design evolution of aviation. In the center of the main building is the Lockheed Martin SR-71 Blackbird; one of my favorite planes to visit for inspiration. The SR-71 not only looks futuristic, but the designed was ahead of its time. Airplane shapes are generally based on extensive testing in wind tunnels for the most efficient air flow. Industrial Designers are usually responsible for designing the interior of airplanes, most exterior shapes of airplanes are based on science. Naturally with the help of science and air flow airplanes simply look great with out trying.

Design and creative ideas are unfortunately not instant. On a weekly basis I have an internal struggle with cases of creative mental block. Sometimes I have to step away from my desk for a metal break, Museum of Flight is on the top 3 of places I go to take break. Airplanes are great pieces on inspiration because it takes teams of people and millions of dollars to make one come to life. When I look at an airplane, I don’t just appreciate its overall shape. I take my time to try to explore and examine every detail, such as the hinges, turbine wheels, rivets and even graphics from different air squadrons. I believe in order to create great design you must experience great design. This is one of those place you can do that.