The world of interior design is a dynamic and creative field that requires a unique blend of artistic and technical skills. For the senior interior design students at Mississippi State University, their latest studio projects are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit. Senior students, including Leighann Pounders, Lilian Barlow, and Diamond Brown, showcased their impressive projects in an exhibit held in Memorial Hall, featuring digital renderings, 3D-printed chairs, and unique lighting structures. The exhibit was a culmination of three years of hard work, featuring selected works from the students’ time in the program. The projects ranged from medical and hospitality spaces to senior living facilities and restaurants, all displayed on large, colorful boards around the room. These projects were created using advanced software like Revit and Enscape, allowing students to build detailed 3D models from scratch. The students’ ability to design and create complex spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional is a testament to their skills and expertise. The exhibit was organized by rows based on group studio collaborations, with every student contributing unique elements to their display. As Lilian Barlow noted, “You’ll see the same project sometimes, but different aspects that each person worked on. We all worked together and inspired each other.”
The interior design program at MSU is rigorous and well-regarded, with a nationally-accredited curriculum that requires over 120 credit hours. Students must complete a portfolio review between their second and third-year summers, as well as an internship to complete the program. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with students completing projects in their core classes such as Furniture Design, Color and Lighting for Interiors, and Career and Portfolio Development. For example, Leighann Pounders pointed to her custom-painted box and the lamps on display as examples of how the program emphasizes experience and building a portfolio. The students’ dedication and hard work paid off, with many of them already receiving job offers or preparing for their futures in the industry. As Diamond Brown noted, “It’s a friendly, very fast-paced environment. We’ve got these bonds, go on trips together and do these projects together, so it helps us in the real world, too.”
The exhibit was a celebration of creativity and accomplishments from the students’ hard work. As Leighann Pounders said, “It’s really rewarding seeing it from start to finish. We built these concepts from nothing, and now we get to look around and say, ‘We did that.'”
The students’ unique strengths and interests were reflected in their projects, showcasing their individuality and creativity. As Lilian Barlow noted, “This is just a collection of everyone’s favorite projects they’ve done over the past three years. We start with a single line and just build it up higher. It doesn’t show the complete process, just the result, but behind every board is weeks of planning, floor plans, and renderings.”
The exhibit was a testament to the students’ ability to work together, collaborate, and innovate. As Diamond Brown noted, “You’ll see the same project sometimes, but different aspects that each person worked on. We all worked together and inspired each other.”
Key points of the exhibit included:
* Digital renderings and 3D-printed chairs
* Unique lighting structures
* Collaborative projects showcasing students’ unique strengths and interests
* Emphasis on hands-on learning and building a portfolio
* Rigorous curriculum and education
* National accreditation
Examples of the students’ work included:
| Project | Description |
|---|---|
| Custom-Painted Box | A sample of Leighann Pounders’ work, showcasing her attention to detail and creativity. |
| Lamps | A display of lamps created by the students, highlighting their understanding of color and lighting. |
| 3D-Printed Chair | A unique example of the students’ use of advanced software and 3D printing technology. |
As the class of 2025 graduates, they are ready to take on the challenges of the interior design industry. With their unique skills and experiences, they are poised to make a positive impact in the field. The exhibit was a celebration of the students’ hard work and dedication, showcasing their talents and creativity. As the students move forward in their careers, they will continue to innovate and push the boundaries of interior design. In conclusion, the senior interior design students at MSU have demonstrated their exceptional skills and creativity, setting the stage for a bright and successful future in the interior design industry.
