In 2011 IIDA sponsored a design competition called “Couture”. This competition ran for several years. We won the award for “Best of Show” representing Mesa Community College. I participated as part of a collaborative team of 4 interior design students and 2 fashion design students to design, create and implement a fabulous couture outfit made from building materials and dictated by strict guidelines, concept and color palette. This couture outfit was to be worn our selected team model and showcased on the model runway. We were given the concept of “Purely Refined” and our color palette was muted soft tones of greys, blue grey, soft lilac, soft sea mist green and cream. Our inspiration theme was a Buddhist goddess/female “Skydancer” who depicts the embodiment of light and energy. We were given color paint chips, fabric, a spool of cream color carpet yarn, green linoleum floor tile, glass tile, and carpeting. It was a fabulous experience and would love to collaborate again with designers and conquer any strict guidelines to achieve beauty.
That same year I participated in the Maricopa County Home Show Competition and won honorable mention. Our parameters were to create a concept, design, construct and implement the design in a 20’ x 10’ space. We were on a limited budget for the build out materials, and had to get sponsors to loan us the furniture and furnishings. Our concept was a stylish architect’s office. With lateral files and cubby unit for plenty of storage and comfortable seating for client meetings across an open concept partners desk. The walls were pre constructed and assembled on site by contractor friends of mine. The vinyl wood look plank flooring was donated by Shaw floors and much of everything else was loaned to me by local industry commercial partners. Even the fabulous globe chandelier was on loan from Hacienda lighting. The custom hand painted faux door was donated as well by a local artist friend of mine. This was fun challenging and exciting to implement.

Me standing by Sponsor board with the Best
of Show trophy in my hands

Maricopa Home Show Architect’s office

Maricopa County Home Show Competition

The Concept Inspiration Board

Jennifer Brautigam, our chosen model, part of our collaborative team, wearing our designed Best of Show outfit. We won “Best of Show” representing Mesa Community College, 2011.

Maricopa Home Show Competition