VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
PROGRAM NEWSLETTER
FALL // ‘19
THE EDIT
ON THE COVER “Paper Jam” Kylie Heald (‘20)
Visit https://archdesign.caus.vt.edu/itds/ for more information.
Connecting the past, present, and future of Virginia Tech Interior Design.
IV. C RED ITS
III. ALUMNI
08
10
Meet the Virginia Tech Advisory Board
2020 Calendar of Events
14
16
20
Design Intelligence Rankings 2019: Program Snapshot
Summer Study Abroad Recap
Internship Spotlights
24
26
28
Second Year Studio Goes to Atlanta
Ut Prosim Design Living Learning Lab
Awards and Recognition
38
42
46
Faculty Position Announcement
6 Questions with... Tor Waschenko
52
53
Acknowledgements and Contributors
How to Get Involved
Burruss Hall to the National Mall
PROGRAM NEWSLETTER
FALL // ‘19
II. STUDENTS
I. INTRO
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
FALL // ‘19
I. INTRO
PROGRAM NEWSLETTER
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
MEET THE VIRGINIA TECH ADVISORY BOARD 2019-2020
L I SA TUCKER Professor and Chair, Virginia Tech Interior Design
8
JILL GOEBEL Board Chair
C A R OL IN E A L EXA N D ER Board Chair Elect
J U L IA N N E KIM Nominating Chair FOX Architects, Washington, D.C.
Gensler, Washington, D.C.
CCA LLC, Lexington, VA
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘95
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘90
ltucker@vt.edu
jill_goebel@gensler.com
caroline.alexander403@gmail.com
jkim@fox-architects.com
LINDS EY S LOUGH Alumni Network Chair
L I N D SE Y K I TE Secretary, Alumni Network
L IS A BROC KM A N Nominating Committee
P E T ER BR OWN Nominating Commitee
Bialek, Washington, D.C.
Raleigh, NC
INTEC Group Inc., Fairfax, VA
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘14
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘11
LindseyChitwood@outlook.com
lkite@intecgroup.net
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
AECOM, Roanoke, VA Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘95
lbrockman@bialek.com
peter.brown@aecom.com
CHRI STY G A R R I TY Fundraising Committee
FI O N A G R A N D OWS KI Nominating Committee
A M Y G R OOM E Alumni Network Committee
H E AT H ER ROB I NS ON Fundraising Committee
OTJ, Washington, D.C.
Collins Cooper Carusi, Atlanta, GA
IA, San Francisco, CA
Within Interior Design, Norfolk, VA
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘XX
Virginia Tech Architecture ‘91
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘17
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘98
christyg514918@icloud.com
FGrandowski@collinscoopercarusi.com
a.groome@interiorarchitects.com
HRobinson@withindesigns.com
KRI S TE N R U CH Alumni Network Committee
J U STI N S M IT H Fundraising Committee
FA R R A H G OA L Alumni Network Committee
S C OT T MOONEY Nominating Committee
Steelcase, Denver, CO
FM Studios, Sterling, VA
Gensler, Washington, D.C.
Muse Architects, Bethesda, MD
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘07
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘00
Virginia Tech Interior Design
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘95
KRUCH@steelcase.com
jsmith@fmstudios.com
farrah_goal@gensler.com
smooney@musearchitects.com
MARI E M O U TSO S Nominating Committee
K E L SEY M U IR Alumni Network Committee
M A R C Y T R E P KE
FOX Architects, Washington, D.C.
WeWork, New York, NY
DBI, Washington, D.C.
S Y D N EY GRAC E MI LLER Student Chair
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘19
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘95
Virginia Tech Interior Design ‘20
kelseymuir@vt.edu
mtrepke@dbia.com
sydnem1@vt.edu
mmoutsos@fox-architects.com
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2020 CALENDER OF EVENTS Key Dates
01
02
03
01/21/20
02/05/20 + 02/07/20
25% SENIOR THESIS PIN UP ( Blacksburg)
03/07/20 03/15/20
SPRING BREAK
03/19/20
02/08/20 02/16/20
DESSAU/BERLIN STUDY ABROAD
02/26/20 + 02/28/20
50% SENIOR THESIS PIN UP ( Blacksburg)
MEET THE G R A D U AT E S 75% SENIOR THESIS PIN UP ( Washington D .C .)
JAN
MAR
04
05
06
APR
M AY
JUNE
04/15/20 + 04/17/20
04/30/20 05/01/20
10
SPRING 2020 SEMESTER BEGINS
FEB
100% FINAL SENIOR THESIS PIN UP ( B lacksburg) CAUS SPRING BOARD MEETING ( Washington, D.C.)
05/06/20
SPRING 2020 SEMESTER ENDS
05/15/20
UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES
05/20/20
STUDY ABROAD BEGINS
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
06/19/20
STUDY ABROAD ENDS
07
J U LY
08 AUG 08/24/20
09
SEPT
FA L L 2 0 2 0 SEMESTER BEGINS
10
11
12
OCT
NOV
DEC 12/09/20
FA L L 2 0 2 0 SEMESTER ENDS
FA L L ‘ 1 9 P R O G R A M N E W S L E T T E R
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II. STUDENT NEWS
PROGRAM NEWSLETTER
FALL // ‘19
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
DESIGN INTELLIGENCE RANKINGS: PROGRAM SNAPSHOT Design Intelligence releases 2019-2020 Rankings of top Interior Design Programs
#5
MOST HIRED FROM PROGRAM ( 2 0 - 3 9 G R A D U AT E S )
# 11 MOST ADMIRED UNDERGRAD PROGRAM Leaders and hiring managers have a strong interest in the education and preparation of students who are the future workforce of the profession. Through hiring and working with graduates of many different programs, leaders and hiring managers of interior design firms have a perspective on the relative strengths of schools and how well graduates are prepared for professional practice. See: https://www.di-rankings.com/most-admiredschools-interior-design/ for more information.
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
Schools were grouped into size categories based on the average number of graduates each year in their combined undergraduate and graduate programs. See: https://www.di-rankings.com/most-hired-fromschools-interior-design/ for more information.
RANKINGS BY FOCUS AREAS Interior Design firms and other professional organizations were surveyed regarding America’s Top Ranked Interior Design Schools, which ranks undergraduate and graduate programs from the perspective of the professional practitioners who hire and supervise graduates of interior design. Rankings are compiled for the strongest programs in each of 12 different focus areas. See: https://www.di-rankings.com/twelve-focus-areas-interior-design/ for more information. FOCUS AREA
RANK
COMMU N I CAT I ON S KI L LS
#9
CON ST RU CT I O N MAT ER IALS AND M ETHODS
#7
D ES I G N T ECHN O L OG I ES ( BIM , AI, VR, AR)
#5
D ES I G N T HEO RY A N D P RACTICE
#7
EN G I N EERI N G FU N DA M ENTALS
#3
HEA LT HY BU I LT EN V I RONM ENTS
#5
I N T ERDI SCI P L I N A RY ST UDIES
#3
P RA CT I CE MA N A G EMENT
#4
P RO J ECT P L A N N I N G A ND M ANAGEM ENT
#5
RES EA RCH
#4
S U STA I N A BL E BU I LT EN VIRONM ENTS
#6
T RA N SDI SCI P L I N A RY COLLABORATION ( AEC)
#5
LISA TUCKER M O S T A D M I R E D D E S I G N E D U C AT O R “Lisa has incredible knowledge on the built environment. She always pushes her students to be better and is always there to offer expert advice on anything a student comes to her with. She cares deeply for the Interior Design program at Virginia Tech and takes time to make sure every student succeeds.” Images source: https://archdesign.caus.vt.edu/
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SUMMER STUDY ABROAD Students experience Florence, Italy, and more
In May and June 2019, students from the Interior Design program studied in Florence, Italy with faculty members Brad Whitney and Elif Tural. Students spent four weeks immersed in historic design and Italian culture, and were exposed to many of the foundational design elements of the Renaissance with extensive practice of architectural field sketching. Study was not limited to Florence, and weekend trips included Venice, Chianti, Siena and Pisa. The course was
in
collaboration
with
Santa
International School of Art.
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
Reparata
Photos by Lila De La Rosa (‘21), Imani Hart (‘21) and Katie Karlinchak (‘21)
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STUDY ABROAD STUDENT WORK Imani Hart (‘21) and Katie Karlinchak (‘21)
“The entire experience made me happy. I was at peace and I was able to get outside my comfort zone.” - Imani, on her experience studying abroad
Top: Sketch, Katie Karlinchak Bottom Left: Sketch, Katie Karlinchak Top Right: Final Project, Imani Hart Bottom: Sketch, Imani Hart
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
Imani knew she wanted to study abroad for a long time. In recounting her experience, she emphasized culture the most, especially seeing another approach to design - both the Italian approach and that of the historical. Throughout the course, Imani’s love of language remained at the forefront of her perspective. When considering a direction for the final project, she knew she wanted to incorporate language as the main component. Combined with her fascination with culture, Imani was able to craft a collage comprised of Italian quotes written by strangers she met during her travels. Everywhere she visited, she would ask someone to write down an Italian phrase, with the English translation. Some of the most memorable were “In wine we trust” from a trip to a vineyard and “Ciao bella” written by a fellow American student studying in Italy.
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I N T E R N S H I P S P O T L I G H T: MERRYN WILLIAMS Hutker Architects, Martha’s Vineyard, MA
Merryn Williams (‘20) interned with Hutker Architects, a residential design firm in Vineyard Haven, MA on Martha’s Vineyard. The office had around 30 people in the Martha’s Vineyard location, with another office in Falmouth, MA. During her internship, Merryn worked on the Interiors team of around 8-9 designers.
Q1:
Can you describe the type of work Hutker does?
MW: Residential,
specifically
high-end,
with an emphasis on second homes on the island that families use together for
vacations
and
gatherings.
focus on things that aren’t usually
The
emphasized in the timeline of a school
architects in my location focused on
project.
island projects, but the Interiors team did projects all over New England and New York. Designers focus on the longevity and durability of materials, and design lots of beautiful custom
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What was the office culture like?
MW: It was comfortable and fairly casual. Describe your role.
furniture created by local makers. Love
Q4:
to support local craftsmen, artists, and
MW: I was an interiors intern and I did a
creators. Q2:
Q3:
What
sparked
range of things. I got to see every your
residential design?
interest
in
aspect of the design process during my 10 weeks. For example, I worked on concept boards to get a feel for what
MW: It’s something I hadn’t done before
the client likes very early on. I also
and I got the impression that it would
worked on an install; we were there
play into personal artistic interests.
when furniture and fixtures were being
Once I got into it, it felt more personal
brought in. It was so cool to watch
and small-scale. It gave more room
everything coming together since I’d
for deep attention to details. I got to
previously only seen drawings of the
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
spaces in plan and elevation. Q5:
What did you enjoy most about this experience?
MW: I
really
enjoyed
getting
to
see
the different phases of the design process in action, which you don’t truly understand until you experience working in them. Having the chance to work on all the finishing elements and details during a photoshoot on a finished site was very exciting as well. Plus, the island itself was so focused on local, unique businesses and restaurants, so living there was wonderful and gave me plenty to do when I wasn’t in the office.
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I N T E R N S H I P S P O T L I G H T: CLAIRE GRABLE ASD Sky, San Francisco, CA
Claire Grable (‘20) spent the summer interning in San Francisco, which she chose because of its “booming design industry” and the opportunity to work with tech companies. Continue reading to learn more about her experiences on the West Coast. Q1:
Can you talk about what it was like
to work on the opposite side of the
country? Did you find there were any surprises? CG:
The working culture was very casual on the West coast. Everyone worked very hard but also got a lot done and did
Q3:
Is there something you enjoyed most
CG:
About ASD Sky, I enjoyed the people
good work. There is a good work life balance there and nothing was taken too seriously.
most. It seems a bit cliche,
but they
were all so welcoming. There were lots
Q2:
Describe your role in the office.
CG:
ASD Sky is very inclusive and didn’t
Everyone truly gets along and it is not
make me feel like I was just an intern.
tense at all. They even threw me a
Each day was very different - sometimes
going away party! They were very, very
I would be picking up redlines, doing
thoughtful in that way.
of parties and different social events.
various tasks for my mentor, or working
Regarding the work: the scale of
on design presentations. I would also
projects and getting to have depth
take notes at client meetings, work
and longevity on one project was a
on elevations, and go on site visits.
great experience. In doing so, I got
Between all of the projects I worked
very close to one designer who then
on, I got to work in Schematic Design, Construction
Administration,
got to go to a really big meeting which was cool!
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
became my mentor.
and
Construction Documentation. I also
22
about your internship?
Q4:
What were some of the biggest
takeaways or lessons learned this summer?
CG:
I became more proficient in Revit and was exposed to office behavior and real life teamwork. I also had to get more comfortable asking
questions
and
learning
to
become flexible, jumping from project to
project.
Overall,
it
was
really
valuable to learn about the phases of the projects and how they operate in the field.
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SECOND YEAR STUDIO G O E S T O AT L A N TA Steelcase and Collins Cooper Carusi Architects office visits
In September, second year students took
Following the office tour, the students also
a trip to Atlanta, Georgia, to visit the
visited Global Ministries Headquarters, one
Steelcase showroom and Collins Cooper
of Collins Cooper Carusi’s projects located
Carusi Architects.
in
The students were given a tour of the Steelcase showroom, with the chance to hear a presentation from some of Steelcase’s designers. The students had seen many of
Atlanta.
The
project
also
commented that it was a moment when they realized the impact that interior designers have on behavior and emotions.
the products before, but had not yet been
Overall, the students felt that the trip
exposed to the research sector of Steelcase.
offered a lot of perspective and got them
During
excited to eventually work in the design
the
presentation,
they
recalled
becoming more appreciative of the space they were in, knowing that its design was so heavily informed by research. They also felt like they had a better understanding of what a product can offer to your space when designing. Alexa Buckland and Emma Hilt, two students who attended the trip, commented
on
how
exciting
it
was
to
experience so many different configurations and layouts in the showroom, and to learn how each one deliberately formed the space. In visiting Collins Cooper Carusi, this was many of the students first time visting an
architecture
and
design
firm.
They
enjoyed seeing how designers work in the field and they had the chance to talk to a young designer who offered some crucial information on the transition from school to work. Fiona Grandowski, Principal, walked the students through the conceptual design phase at Collins Cooper Carusi, to which Alexa commented “seeing the professional use of concept design was clarifying.”
24
downtown
included a sanctuary, to which the students
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
industry.
Photos by Alexa Buckland (‘22) and Micaela Head (‘22)
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UT PROSIM DESIGN LIVING LEARNING LAB Pilot design-build aims to get students involved in designing campus spaces
This course is a design-build course led by
Tell us a little bit about what you’ve
Dr. Lisa Tucker created to offer students the opportunity to design for other students. This Living Learning Lab course will be ongoing for
been working on in this course. SD:
Living Learning Community (LLC). The
four semesters, and this fall has been the first
proposed program is called Rhizome,
semester. The students in the course this semester
which aims to reveal all of the hidden connections between global issues -
have been focusing on conceptual design and
which is what students in the LLC will
design development. Interior Design Seniors, Sydney Delbridge and Delaney Leach, are among the participants of this pilot course and share their experience thus far.
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We’re working on a space for a new
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
focus on. DL:
More specifically, we’re designing a work-lounge for the students in the LLC - a place to work, collaborate and
host visitors. The idea is for them to
students to learn and make mistakes.
be able to reflect on what they’re
It’s hard to know when and what to
learning; rejuvenate and start to have
delegate
conversations and then respond and
directly on things.
problem solve.
DL:
So far, we have worked on space
lead
more
sets
in
the
way
that
best
contributes to the team has been a
systems; developing feature elements
positive challenge.
well
as
incorporating
biophilic
Interacting
with
the
various
design and considering budget. We
stakeholders is a challenge because
have also been coordinating with a
everyone has their own idea of what
number of professionals such as the
they want the space to be. And we
LLC
have to filter than information and
program
developer,
Jennifer
Operations of Student Affairs.
figure out how to use it... SD:
catering
towards
the
Finally, what have been some of the
Working in a team of 10 has been a
rewards?
learning experience because typically teams of up to 5. Its also been helpful
still
will be most valuable.
so far?
design projects are made up of smaller
...while
students and creating what we know
What are some things you’ve learned
SD:
Seeing the product be developed in front of us and knowing that someday
to learn how to work with fellow
it will come to fruition and be a space,
designers and how to listen to critiques
which is an aspect that we don’t have
from clients and professionals.
with typical studio projects has been
I’ve been working on custom modular
really rewarding. It’s also helpful to
systems, so I’ve been working more
work with non-designers, so that I can
on
I’ve
learn how to better explain my ideas
been focusing on materials, power,
to people who may not understand the
anthropometrics.
design language that we use.
the
technical
aspects Typically
I
don’t
gravitate towards those aspects during a project when I’m on my own.
DL:
This
is
a
expression
And some challenges you’ve faced? SD:
to
Understanding and utilizing everyone’s skill
Lawrence and Francis Reene, Chief of
SD:
when
planning; designing custom modular as
DL:
and
valuable of
Ut
and
rewarding
Prosim,
Virginia
Tech’s Latin motto meaning “That I May Serve.” We’re getting the chance
Working with a range of skill levels and
to give back to the Hokie Community
exposure, as the class is open to 2nd,
by contributing what we’ve learned in
3rd, and 4th year students has been
the Virginia Tech program.
challenging.
I’ve
been
finding
the
balance between leading as an older student
and
allowing
the
younger
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2ND HOME 2019 SOURCE LIGHTING COMPETITION Jessica Zapata receives Award of Recognition in 42nd SOURCE Lighting Competition
Jessica Zapata (‘20) was recognized for her
The overall concept for 2nd Home was based
commercial office space lighting design, titled
on Hygge, which is the Nordic idea of home.
2nd
Jessica didn’t want the coworking space
Home.
The
competition
objective
was
to create a lighting design that supports the conceptual design of the student’s project, using Eaton products. Jessica and her professor, Dr. Elif Tural, attended the awards ceremony in Philadelphia last semester to receive the award.
to feel “sterile” or “too high tech.” In the lighting design, she incorporated linear lights and spot lights in the feature tree house. She noted that it was challenging to incorporate lighting
for
a
competition
because
she
wasn’t accustomed to considering lighting as early on in a project as this. The lighting element changed her opinion of her work though - she felt more positively about it after incorporating the lighting.
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
e. . me m Hoo H d d 22nn
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C O N N E C T H E A LT H A N D D E S I G N R E S E A R C H C E N T E R 2019 ANGELO DONGHIA SENIOR SCHOLARSHIP Sydney Miller receives Donghia Foundation Scholarship for 27,000sq.ft. research center design
Sydney Grace Miller (‘20) was one of twelve
Connect Health and Design Research Center
students selected to receive the annual Angelo
imagines a university facility that supports
Donghia Foundation Scholarship Award out
interacting, learning and creating with people
of 69 student projects from accredited design programs nationwide. The Angelo Donghia Foundation awards scholarships to deserving students who are entering their senior year in an undergraduate interior design degree program. Each winner
from
diverse
disciplinary
backgrounds.
The goal: to design spaces that integrate technology and learning, and respond to the blended life styles of today’s students and professionals while keeping sustainability in mind. The surrounding site and existing building,
receives up to a $30,000 scholarship toward the
which was originally a factory, serve as a
completion of their education.
basis for the concept of the space. The building form is unique in that it is two
30
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
different shapes joined together, creating the opportunity to activate the “connection” space in the design. Since the project is located in the industrial district of Roanoke, VA, raw materials and their joinery became a primary conceptual driver. The
concept
of
material
joinery
is
implemented by the activation of the joint area in the building. This central location became The
the
hub
space
was
connections
for
social
connection.
designed
between
to
different
foster
fields
as
well as relationships between students and professionals. A
wood
and
glass
slatted
feature
showcases the joinery in a visual way, as highlighted feature,
throughout
along
with
the
natural
space.
This
light
from
clerestory windows, filter light into the social connection area.
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WEST EDGE TOWER 2019 IDEAS COMPETITION Claire Grable awarded First Place in annual ASID/IIDA IDEAs Competition
Located within the existing West Edge Tower
through. A focus is put on mirroring the
in Seattle, WA, a coworking and hospitality
experience that one has while traveling
space pulls inspiration from the Paradise ice
through these caves, moving from open to
caves, nestled within the summit of nearby
enclosed and from darkness to light. The
Mount Rainier. These caves, created by heat
overall goal is to offer a shift in perception
rising through the mountain and melting ice,
that one has of the space through varying
form a series of transparent layers that rise
scales and levels of enclosure.
up and cascade over all those who stand beneath. An aspect of the caves that was referenced is the passing of light through them. As the ice builds on itself, it forms
to do, as it allowed me to create a unique sense
different
of place for each space while having an overall
levels
of
thickness
and
allows
different amounts of light to penetrate
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“This is one of my favorite projects I’ve gotten
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
cohesive design.”
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2019 IDEAS COMPETITION Honorable Mentions
In
addition
to
Claire
Grable’s
winning
favorite
project.
The
entries
were
project, three other Virginia Tech Interior
judged by a panel of professionals from the
Design
design community.
students
were
recognized
for
their submissions to the ASID/IIDA IDEAS
Winning projects were displayed at the
Competition. The competition was open to
ASID/IIDA IDEAS Gala in Richmond, VA in
all levels and encouraged students to submit
September.
V T I N N O VAT I O N C E N T E R MEGAN LEE (‘19) First Place
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their
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
TERRA COMMONS COWORKING SYDNEY MILLER (‘20) Honorable Mention
HOTEL ZURU KELSEY MUIR (‘19) Honorable Mention
FA L L ‘ 1 9 P R O G R A M N E W S L E T T E R
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III. ALUMNI NEWS
PROGRAM NEWSLETTER
FALL // ‘19
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
VT ITDS IS HIRING! FA C U LT Y P O S I T I O N A N N O U N C E M E N T Please see following details regarding the open faculty position.
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
Interior Design Program 800 Drillfield Drive 232 Burruss Hall (MC 0205) Blacksburg, Virginia 24061 (540) 231-5583 e-mail: ltucker@vt.edu https://archdesign.caus.vt.edu/it ds/
Tenure Track Assistant Professor in Interior Design The Interior Design Program in the School of Architecture + Design, College of Architecture and Urban Studies, at Virginia Tech is seeking motivated and engaged colleagues to join the faculty as tenure track assistant professors with an anticipated start date of August 10, 2020 for the Fall Semester of the 2020-21 academic year. The Position The primary responsibilities of this position are to balance teaching a design studio with a lecture course in the accredited undergraduate Interior Design Program (BS.ID) each semester with the development of an externally recognized agenda of research, scholarship and/or creative activity. Possible design studio teaching includes all levels, sophomore through senior of the program. Possible lecture courses include lighting, building systems, professional practice, materials and design detailing. The ideal candidate will combine the development of a robust scholarship agenda with an unwavering passion for teaching students in a professional design curriculum. Appointment to the rank of tenure-track Assistant Professor carries with it, professional responsibilities in teaching/learning, research/discovery, and outreach/engagement/service. Assistant Professors are expected to practice innovative modes of teaching in accordance with the School’s pedagogical traditions, integrating their teaching activities with School, College and University ongoing research initiatives, scholarship, and creative activities; and engage in outreach and/or service work, including community service-learning projects, service to the profession, service to students through advising work, or service to the School, College, or University through participation on various committees, etc. Minimum Required Qualifications A terminal degree is required with at least one degree in Interior Design; candidates with degrees in Architecture combined with significant Interior Design experience will also be considered. The NCIDQ credential is preferred or ability to take the NCIDQ within two years of hire required. Candidates should demonstrate an excellent body of work in design, as well as experience in teaching design studio and other courses across the Interior Design curriculum. Successful candidates should demonstrate a teaching style that effectively integrates the learning experience of the design studio with the program’s initiatives in areas such as user-centered design, interdisciplinary/collaborative design projects, research/evidence-based design education, sustainability and wellness, and three-dimensional modeling/digital fabrication. Preference will be
given to a candidate that is comfortable with the tools and methods involved in developing design experiences spanning both physical and digital media (Revit, Grasshopper, Rhino, VR, etc.). The Interior Design Program The Interior Design program has consistently been ranked in the top ten by Design Intelligence since 2002. The Interior Design program is one of four programs housed in the School of Architecture + Design, which includes Architecture, Industrial Design and Landscape Architecture, and is one of four Schools in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies. Students and faculty in the program have access to outstanding facilities and equipment, both digital and analog, and each of our approximately 150 students over our four-year curriculum has their own desk in our open-studio setting. Applicants are expected to work collaboratively and encouraged to work across disciplines. New faculty will be expected to work with the College and School in furthering key strategic initiatives in the realization of the University’s Beyond Boundaries Vision and the university-wide Destination Areas. Our graduates work in some of the best design firms in the country. Visit our webpage for a partial listing of firms where our graduates have worked or are working now. The University Virginia Tech, founded in 1872 as a land-grant institution, is currently ranked as a Top 25 Public University by US News & World Report and a Top 25 Public Research University by the National Science Foundation. Through a combination of its three missions of learning, discovery, and engagement, Virginia Tech continually strives to accomplish the charge of its motto: Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). As the Commonwealth’s most comprehensive university and its leading research institution, Virginia Tech serves a diverse population of 32,000+ students and 8000+ faculty and staff from over 100 countries, and is engaged in research around the world. The University also benefits from a broad and loyal alumni base that fills the town during football games and alumni events throughout the year. Blacksburg Blacksburg is home to 43,000 local residents. Because of the town’s award-winning services, reasonable cost of living, safety, moderate climate, and abundant leisure activities, Blacksburg is consistently ranked among the country’s best places to live and has earned a reputation nationwide as a well-managed, stable, and forward-looking community. In 2016, 2012 and 2011, Bloomberg Businessweek named Blacksburg the best place in the United States to raise children. Blacksburg has been ranked among the nation’s best places to live by Blue Ridge Country Magazine, Men’s Journal, 50 Best Small Southern Towns, The Sporting News, and Retirement Places Rated. Outside Magazine ranked Blacksburg a top-10 “dream town” for outdoors enthusiasts with natural resources for hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, and climbing.
The broader area around Blacksburg is currently one of the fastest growing parts of the State and is connected to thriving artisanal, "farm to table" communities such as Floyd. Nearby Roanoke is a growing city with expanding urban amenities as well as upcoming Amtrak rail connection to Washington DC, New York and Boston. Considerable investments in the local economy continue to make the region increasingly popular for new businesses. Recently Roanoke was named a top 5 city for technology startups by Entrepreneur Magazine. Altogether, the region is also earning a reputation as a hub of work/ life balance. Application Process All applicants must complete and submit the online faculty application at http://listings.jobs.vt.edu referencing job number 511267. The search will remain open until the position if filled, but to be assured full consideration, complete applications should be submitted by November 15, 2019. Candidates also must submit a cover letter, a resume/curriculum vitae, a statement of the candidate’s approach to teaching, and the names and contact information for three current references as attachments to the online application. In addition, candidates must provide supplemental materials within the application portal, including a portfolio with examples of professional and/or creative work and of the work of students taught, samples of research and scholarship, and/or other pertinent information supporting their application. Contact: Lisa M. Tucker, PhD Program Chair ltucker@vt.edu
Q1:
What sparked your interest in the
TW:
It all started at my first Construction
field of Interior Design? Administration
meeting
I was 5 years old.
was
when
There we are, my
sister and I standing on the muddy lot of my family’s soon-to-be-built home Pennsylvania (pictured on right). Weekly, like my client meetings today, we would drive over to the site to check the status of our new house! While my mom and dad would do their weekly walkthrough, my sister and I would play games in our 2x4 playground by jumping room-to-room through the studs as if we had some sort of superpower.
To date, I have successfully
fought the urge to demonstrate that same “super-power” on my projects in construction today. Design and Construction is also in
6 QUESTIONS WITH...
my blood. My Polish grandfather is a
TO R WA S C H E N K O
carpenter by trade and built the house
Alumni Spotlight Story
in Long Island in 1955. My father was
my mom grew up in by hand on his lot an apprentice of him.
Tor Waschenko is an Interior Designer in Washington, Architects.
DC
working
for
IA
Interior
She graduated Virginia Tech in
Q2:
What has been a pivotal challenge
TW:
To me, this came when I put my career
you have faced in your early career? above anything else. I put such a
2015 with a B.S. in Interior Design. Originally
priority on pleasing others that my
from Ambler, Pennsylvania, she started her time
relationships, my happiness, and my
in Blacksburg studying civil engineering and running cross country. She switched her major to Interior Design in the summer of 2012 after completing the summer transfer studio.
health all suffered. a
strict
balance
Now, I maintain knowing
that
my
health, and my happiness, and my performance at work depend on it. It is easy to lose your balance in life when you’re adjusting to change, but recognizing the importance in keeping yourself happy is paramount. If you’re
42
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
making
yourself
happy
by
making
time for you while also balancing your responsibilities at work, you’ll naturally keep your boss and your clients happy as well. Q3:
What does this balance look like for
TW:
Naturally, I am a people-pleaser which
you personally?
requires extra effort to remember to also please myself too. Whether it is getting a manicure or pedaling on the stationary bike during lunch to check my personal emails, I always feel better about myself when I take at least 30 minutes to recharge. Q4:
What is your favorite material?
TW:
I love tile for its limitless shapes, colors, and patters but most importantly, it
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43
is
arguably
the
material
that
you
will spend the most time looking at. We see it whether in the shower, or washing your hands, you get to really see all of the details up-close and personal. Q5:
What is something you wish you
TW:
Stay curious. Ask questions. Take every
could tell your undergrad self?
mistake as a learning opportunity. Don’t be afraid to fail. It is impossible to know everything in this field.
You
will learn something every day, and that’s the beauty of it! Don’t put so much pressure on yourself to know everything
about
everything.
Also,
make sure to get good sleep before a pinup! Q6:
What is your favorite memory from
TW:
Riding in a helicopter above Blacksburg
undergrad?
to take photos for a research project I was working on with Matt Wagner, Greg Tew, Julia White, and Sarah Reichert. We were redesigning the Allotment gardens in the abandoned shopping center
in
Christiansburg,
Virginia.
Matt Wagner and I got to ride around in a helicopter above Christiansburg to get the perfect photo for our rendering. After we got the shot, the pilot asked us if we wanted to see the rest of Blacksburg and the view of his house / my apartment too! Of course we ecstatically agreed and I remember waving down to say hello to friends during class change!
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
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BURRUSS HALL TO THE N AT I O N A L M A L L Alumni Spotlight Story
Stephanie Houston (‘17) and Kelsey Hutton (‘18) of FOX Architects share their experiences within the Interior Design industry, post-graduate life, and staying connected with fellow Hokies in Washington, D.C. Q1:
What has most surprised you about working
in
the
Interior
industry post-graduation? SH:
Design
Honestly, it surprised me how well prepared I was coming out of the Interior Design program at VT, it really set me up for success and set me apart from other designers who didn’t have
watching my first project get built was
the same education background. Like
pretty cool. In school, the lines on the
knowing how to form a concept and
paper were always just lines; today, the
implement it into a cohesive space—
lines become physical things in space.
that’s something that you use on a Q2:
regular basis. KH:
Like Stephanie said, I also felt well prepared
to
graduation.
start A
my
couple
career of
Washington,
D.C.?
Where
are
unwind after work or explore on the
things
weekends?
surprised me, like how many people are
46
in
your favorite spots in the city to
after
involved in a single project. In school,
Why did you both choose to work
KH:
I interned at FOX Architects in DC
it was always the professor, myself
after my junior year at Virginia Tech
and sometimes a partner (if it was a
and I always had a feeling I would
team project). In the “real world,” I’m
end up back here after graduation. I
constantly corresponding with project
loved exploring the city that summer,
managers, brokers, landlords, clients,
and really enjoyed getting to know
furniture
representatives,
the designers at FOX; so it was an
general contractors… and the list goes
easy decision for me! There is ALWAYS
on! I was also surprised by the entire
something going on in the city: industry
construction administration process-
events, project tours, pop up exhibits,
dealer,
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
SH:
sporting events. These days you can
up bar going on that you have to check
find me at a farmers market in Virginia,
out, or a new exhibit at the Hirshhorn
shopping in Georgetown, touring a
to explore. We’re spoiled because all
historic house like Mount Vernon, or
the Smithsonian museums in DC are
relaxing in DC’s wine country.
free so you never get bored!
Similar to Kelsey’s path, I also interned in DC my junior year at Virginia Tech (as
Q3:
many do). I loved the energy of the city,
fellow Hokies in the area? Why is it
important to you both to have that
and kept my connections from both the
network?
industry and VT post graduation. My connections with alumni from school
How have you stayed in touch with
SH:
Well, you end up working with a lot
are what landed me my job at Fox, and
of Hokies no matter where you end up
I will be forever grateful. Aside from
in DC—it’s inevitable with it being the
work, DC just has so much culture and
closest “big city” to Blacksburg. For
history. As cliche as it sounds, walking
us, I think it’s easy because at Fox the
around the monuments at night is
majority of our office is comprised of
one of my favorite things to do. The
VT alumni. Aside from that, a few of
tourists are gone, and the light from
my good friends from Studio moved up
the monuments guides you around.
here, and we always find each other at
There’s also always some kind of pop-
industry events and schedule a brunch
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47
every now and then to check in. You
lot. FOX Architects is a company that
never know where those connections
gives opportunities to those who ask
are going to take you, and besides
for them, which is one of the many
having industry connections, it’s nice
reasons why I love working for this
to have a support system already built
firm.
into a new area. KH:
KH:
Cosmo Couture is without a doubt
I agree, it’s so important to have
the most exciting industry event (and
that support group around you after
project!) of the year. Sponsored by
graduation; and it especially helps
IIDA MAC, local design firms pair up
when they understand our industry.
with a manufacturer to great an avant
When
FOX,
garde runway gown out of recycled
we already had a connection from
Stephanie
architectural materials. It is a lot of late
being leaders in IDEAS at school.
nights and weekends; but, it was so
It’s comforting to work with someone
worth it to see our vision come to life
who comes from the same education
and walk across the runway! The most
background, and like Steph said, we
rewarding
have many other Hokie grads in the
in Cosmo Couture was collaborating
office too! I run into fellow VT ITDS
with my coworkers in a different form
grads
of
around
the
started
city
at
at
various
networking events all the time, it’s a
part
creativity,
about
it’s
a
participating
great
bonding
experience!
SMALL industry, people! SH:
SO small- Lisa Tucker was not kidding
Q4:
when she told us that. She would
Is it the same source that you had
while in school…or has it changed in
always say “your classmates are your
an office setting?
future coworkers;” now look at Kelsey and I!
Where do you derive inspiration?
KH:
At school, I would find inspiration in the classes outside of studio (yes,
Q3:
SH:
What has been the most exciting
even
project you have worked on? (inside
science
gen-ed
classes
would spark my curiosity and inspire a
or out of work!)
concept or color palette). These days,
For Five Coffee Roasters is a line of
I am often inspired by people, nature, traveling, and music.
Boutique coffee shops that originated in Queens, New York, and is now
SH:
I would say I derive inspiration from the
expanding up around Northern Virginia
people I work with, the client’s brand,
and DC. FOX Architects won the first
and the city itself. Every morning on
three of these new locations opening
the bus, I read something in Interior
up in the area, and I was brought
Design magazine so that I can start the
onto the team to design them. For
day inspired.
a younger designer, this was a lot of responsibility, but it’s been a great process so far and I’ve really learned a
48
the
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
“ Outside of Virginia Tech connections, it has also been important to me to stay connected to industry members through our local IIDA chapter. Many designers at FOX Architects are IIDA MAC board members and we encourage each other to get involved in community philanthropic and networking events. Stephanie and I actually found ourselves on a committee this year and it has been a great way to stay up to date on events and volunteer our time for an important organization. ” - Kelsey
Left: Taylor Catlett (‘19), Kelsey Hutton (‘18), Stephanie Houston (‘17) and Savannah Mills (‘16) at FOX’s Summer Picnic
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FALL // ‘19
I V. CREDITS
PROGRAM NEWSLETTER
VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
SPECIAL THANKS... Contributors and Authors
EMMA WOO D WA R D Student Liaison Newsletter Content
LI S A TUCKER Newsletter content and program updates TOR WAS CHE N K O Story content KELSEY HUTT O N Story content STEPHANI E HO U STO N Story content
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN
A M Y G ROOM E Alumni Liaison Newsletter Content
KE L S E Y M U IR Newsletter Layout and Graphics
INTERESTED IN GETTING I N V O LV E D I N O U R S P R I N G NEWSLETTER?
Please reach out to Alumni Networking Chair, Amy Groome, to connect with alumni in your city or to have your story featured in our Spring 2020 issue!
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THANK YOU Visit https://archdesign.caus.vt.edu/itds/ for more information.
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VIRGINIA TECH INTERIOR DESIGN