Interior Design Commons^™

Cultural Implications In Global Hospitality: New Orleans To Al-Balad, Madeleine C. Helgren

All Graduate Reports and Creative Projects, Fall 2023 to Present

There is a growing trend in the hospitality industry toward a more accurate cultural representation within hotel properties. Cultural accuracy within hospitality not only allows for a more exciting and unique travel experience for guests, but helps to preserve and sustain local communities and traditions.

Building upon research gained through first hand observation, interviews, and academic sources, this thesis aims to explore the integration of global hospitality brands within regionally specific cultures. The resulting conceptual projects integrate a fictional hospitality brand named Josephine into boutique hotel experiences in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the old town of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Al-Balad. …

Farmstead Therapy: Intergenerational Connection And Sense Of Place Via Equine Therapy, Kaleb Griffeth

Student Research Symposium

Therapy has become a crucial element within society. It has offered relief, understanding, and hope for a changed future to hundreds of millions of people just in the last five years (SAMHSA, 2004).

On another front, division between generations seems to be growing by the month. Political, social, and economic differences between generations “X”, “Z”, Alpha, and Baby Boomers make it appear that there is no connection whatsoever across age gaps.

Because equine therapy has proven a succesful branch, especially for those of a younger demographic, Farmstead Therapy was a project designed to bring together the skills of the older …

Terra Sol Retreat: Combining Ancient Building Principles And Modern Technology To Design A Sustainable Desert Resort, Christian Graham

Student Research Symposium

Ancient desert civilizations developed ingenious building techniques to adapt to extreme heat, scarce water, and harsh winds. One of the most effective strategies was the use of thermally massive materials such as adobe, rammed earth, and stone, which absorbed heat during the day and released it at night, creating natural temperature regulation. The Navajo (Diné) hogan, a traditional dwelling of the American Southwest, exemplifies this principle. Hogan walls were often built with packed earth and timber, providing insulation against both the searing daytime heat and the frigid desert nights. Their circular shape also helped distribute heat evenly, while the entrance …

Sorella Women's Center - Fortifying Community Through Trauma-Informed Design, Melayne Dunlap

Student Research Symposium

Sorella Women’s Center is a trauma-informed community resource designed to support and empower women, particularly survivors of domestic violence, who often face limited access to critical services. Rooted in the principles of safety and trust, choice and empowerment, collaboration and community, and beauty and joy, the center provides a welcoming, accessible space for healing and growth. Sorella offers legal advocacy, emotional support, mental health resources, and skill-building opportunities to help survivors regain autonomy and build strong, supportive networks. By fostering connection and resilience, Sorella seeks to break the cycle of abuse, countering the isolation that so often sustains it.

Using Biophilic Design To Improve Behavioral Healthcare Environments, Rachel Tuft

Student Research Symposium

One in five U.S. adults – more than 50 million people – experience a mental health episode every year and more than 11% of children are considered severely depressed (Mental Health America). These alarming statistics are rapidly increasing the demand for behavioral healthcare environments. Yet many of these spaces remain sterile, institutional, and lack the warmth and comfort patients need for effective healing. Research shows that as people spend more and more time indoors the lack of connection to nature in contemporary-built environments is negatively impacting human well-being, leading to increased stress, reduced focus, and slower healing. Studies suggest that …

Goodwater Elementary School, Sara Jones

Student Research Symposium

Goodwater Elementary School is designed as a replacement for the existing Castle Dale Elementary School that the community has outgrown. Serving multiple small towns in the area, this elementary school plays an important role in both education and socialization as the area is sparsely populated.

Designing Healing Environments For Pediatric Oncology, Annette Cheng

Student Research Symposium

Children undergoing cancer treatment often spend extended time in clinical environments that can feel cold, stressful, and isolating. This study explores how nature-based and sensory-focused design can serve as positive distractions to support pediatric patients' emotional well-being during treatment. Features such as lighting, green spaces, soft color palettes, aesthetics of the environment, and interactive elements are examined for their ability to create more comforting, human-centered hospital environments. These environments not only benefit young patients and their families but also improve the overall well-being and performance of healthcare staff by reducing stress, increasing job satisfaction, and promoting a more supportive workplace …

The Impact Of Light And Color On Child-Friendly Spaces, Moriah Martin

Student Research Symposium

Light and color significantly affect children's sleep, cognition, mood, and overall health. Proper design can enhance emotional stability, learning outcomes, and physical well-being. This research explores how light quality—brightness, saturation, and hue—along with color psychology, influence behavior, cognitive function, and circadian rhythms. Natural light improves focus, sleep, and mood, while artificial lighting must be carefully balanced to prevent disruptions. Warm colors foster energy and engagement, while cool tones promote relaxation and concentration. Findings highlight the importance of evidence-based lighting and color strategies in educational and childcare settings, ensuring environments that support children's holistic development.

Biophilic Design And The Human Experience, Brooklyn Erickson

Student Research Symposium

Biophilia is the idea that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. It stems from the Greek meaning "love of life." Biophilic design is an innovative approach to architecture and interior design that integrates natural elements into built environments to enhance human well-being. This design philosophy seeks to create spaces that promote physical, mental, and emotional health by incorporating elements such as natural light, greenery, water features, and organic materials. This research examines the benefits of biophilic design and how implementing these principles affects the "Human Experience". In this project the research …

Tile In Time: The Study Of Interiors Through Art, Lauren Nielsen

Student Research Symposium

Lauren is a senior in the Interior Architecture and Design program at Utah State University. Her design philosophy centers around storytelling—she believes that great design not only transforms spaces but also tells meaningful stories. When she graduates, Lauren hopes to work in a historic preservation capacity. This projects draws inspiration from the past as we step into the future.

New Beginnings Behavioral Health, Mckenna Spens

Student Research Symposium

This project is the 2025 IIDA Student Competition. The objective of this project is to design the Lobby/Reception and Inpatient area of a behavioral health clinic. The design must consider the safety and well being of the patients as well as the staff. This project is in partnership with OFS and Carolina and at least 50% of the furnishings shall be sourced from them. The Lobby/Reception must contain a reception desk for 4 staff, a waiting area, and a minimum of 4 lockers for guests. The Inpatient area must contain the following: a sallyport at the entrance; 2 consultation rooms …

Designing For Everyone: The Impact Of Ada In Interior Design, Mimi Miyazawa

Student Research Symposium

In interior design, everyone is considered in the design process to ensure each place is safe, functional, and comfortable. ADA (American Disability Act) is always used in public buildings and is considered for individuals and families in residential buildings. Interior designers ensure places can be usable. This also helps companies prevent lawsuits and become more friendly, allowing people to trust and feel welcome.

Effects Of The Built Environment On Intergenerational Interaction, Hyrum Worth

Student Research Symposium

What are the effects of intergenerational interaction? Who do they impact, and how?

Storytelling In Interior Design: A Hospitality Case Study Based On Avatar: The Last Airbender, Katelyn Isaacson Bauer

All Graduate Reports and Creative Projects, Fall 2023 to Present

Storytelling can function as a crucial element in interior design, offering a powerful means to captivate and engage individuals within a space. The allure of storytelling lies in its ability to evoke emotions, convey messages, and create memorable experiences. Humans are naturally drawn to narratives that transport them to different worlds, evoke nostalgia, or inspire. This fascination with storytelling has led to a notable increase in themed spaces across various industries, from amusement parks and hotels to restaurants and retail spaces. The integration of storytelling into interior design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space but also serves …

6 Fundamental Stages Of Play In Daycare Design, Jacey Jensen

Student Research Symposium

THE 6 STAGES OF PLAY RESEARCH

The six stages of play are fundamental for children's growth and development as they provide valuable opportunities for learning, socialization, and self-expression. Through play, children engage in sensory exploration, develop essential motor skills, and enhance cognitive abilities such as problem-solving and creativity. Each stage of play- from solitary play to cooperative play- builds upon the previous one, fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development in a progressive manner. Play also allows children to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, helping them develop communication skills, and emotional resilience. Overall, the six stages of play provide a …

Third Place Theory In Library Design, Becca Mathis

Student Research Symposium

The concept of the "third place" in library design has gained significant attention in recent years, reflecting a shift in libraries' roles from mere repositories of books to vibrant community hubs. This poster explores the application of third place theory in library design, aiming to understand its implications for creating welcoming and inclusive spaces. This research investigates the key elements of third place theory and their implementation in contemporary library architecture. the findings highlight the importance of fostering social interaction, promoting a sense of belonging, and accomodating diverse user needs in designing third place libraries.

Improving Behavioral Health Outcomes Through The Built Environment, Lucinda White

Student Research Symposium

Primary Care Clinic cares for patients from 0-18 years old and specializes in youth needing behavioral health care. The safety and comfort of patients and staff are the most important priority and inform all design decisions. Typical Behavioral Health clinics feel more like a prison than a place of help and healing. The goal of Primary Care Clinic is a safe, comforting, and typical environment for all.

Women's Safe House In Ethiopia, Ellie Ericksen

Student Research Symposium

This is the reality faced by numerous women and their children seeking refuge in safe houses throughout Ethiopia. Since 2022, the country has been engulfed in a brutal civil war. Rebel forces from the northern Tigray region have pushed back against the Ethiopian government, resulting in devastating bombings of cities and villages, claiming tens, if not hundreds of thousands of lives. The government's blockade in Tigray has severely restricted access to essential resources such as food, medicine, electricity, and communication, leaving 17 million people in dire need of assistance and resulting in widespread displacement. Amidst this turmoil, there have been …

Ketamine Clinics: Designing For Better Patient Outcomes, Erica Evans

Student Research Symposium

Bright Mind Wellness is a state-of-the-art ketamine clinic that offers a spa-like experience for patients seeking treatment for mental health disorders. The clinic's main patient demographic includes individuals suffering from major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, PTSD, and/or chronic pain. Ketamine has been shown to be an effective treatment for these conditions, and the clinic's design is centered around creating a safe and calming environment for patients to receive their treatments.This presentation aims to explore the therapeutic benefits of ketamine and how it can be used to aid in the treatment of mental health disorders. We will delve into the science …

Sunrise Mental Health Clinic, Kassie Kunzler

Student Research Symposium

How color affects our mental health and how we can apply it in interiors to help in the healing process.

Designing For Autism, Brinley Gibby

Student Research Symposium

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder with a wide spectrum of different symptoms in varying forms and varying levels of severity. ASD can be detected and diagnosed in a child as early as three years of age. Because of the range of symptoms and the range of severity in those symptoms, those with Autism Spectrum Disorder experience their own strengths and challenges. When it comes to designing for people with ASD, especially children, many aspects of design need to be taken into account in order to make a space as comfortable and as stimulating or as non-stimulating as …

Elementary Education In Ethiopia, Sarah Wiscomb

Student Research Symposium

In developing and developed countries alike, children do not have access to basic education because of inequalities that originate in sex, health and cultural identity (ethnic origin, language, religion). These children find themselves on the margins of the education system and do not benefit from learning that is vital to their intellectual and social development. Factors linked to poverty such as unemployment, illness and the illiteracy of parents, multiply the risk of non-schooling and the drop-out rate of a child by 2. Undeniably, many children from disadvantaged backgrounds are forced to abandon their education due to health problems related to …

The Body Is Only A Vessel, Victoria Johnson

Student Research Symposium

The body is only a vessel treats funeral homes less as venues for the exhibition of embalmed bodies and more like vessels constructed to fulfill whatever needs of those left behind, documenting how funeral practices aren’t so much a dance with death but a shuffle around it. By exploring the mundanity of death and the implied tension between the present life and the afterlife, the project visualizes quiet emblems of loss through texture, light, and space. Doors and windows serve as allegories to “the other side,” as impressions of light and shadow demonstrate the delicate balance between life and death. …

Parkinson's Accessible Home, Bailey Wilde

Student Research Symposium

I chose this research topic because I have watched my uncle and his family change every aspect of their lives due to the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Over the past 10 years, his health has progressively gotten worse and his living conditions are in no shape to adapt with him and his family's needs. He is in need of a home where he can age in place.

Proper Acoustics Create Better Learning Environments In The Classroom, Brian Harris

Student Research Symposium

The acoustics of a classroom can greatly help or hinder the learning process for many students. Studies have found that speech intelligibility can be affected by poor acoustics and this can lower the student’s comprehension scores. When correct acoustic tools are implemented, student success can be augmented.

Re-Imagining Labor And Delivery Facilities In Hospitals, Kenley Roberts

Student Research Symposium

This labor and delivery hospital wing has been redesigned with the woman’s needs in mind. Modern mothers want more natural birth experiences. There is many popular fads going around where women are having at home and underwater births. This is unsafe especially if complications arise and cannot get to the hospital fast enough. These re-imagined labor and delivery rooms create a safe environment that feels less like a sterile hospital and more like a home. These hospital rooms provide better comfort for the mother when laboring and delivering as well as the family.

Mélange De Motifs: Custom Pattern Designs Inspired By The Interiors, Architecture, And Gardens Of Vaux-Le-Vicomte, Jill Christine Harmon

All Graduate Plan B and other Reports, Spring 1920 to Spring 2023

How can a historic precedent be successfully employed to inform modern design? History will always provide a degree of influence in contemporary design. In design, a historic precedent can be the backbone of a creative concept and stands as a relevant and informative aspect throughout the project. The precedent acts as a basis in developing designs with substance and meaning and is a fundamental practice in architecture, landscape architecture, and interior design. Delving into the history of Vaux-le-Vicomte, often referred to as Vaux, provided three relevant aspects which compose the historic precedent for this MFA project. First, the creative initiative …

Pediatric Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic: Design Focus On Invisible Disabilities With Sensory Sensitivity, Shelbi Boehme

Student Research Symposium

The focus of this research presentation is to design a Pediatric Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic in Logan, Utah providing diverse therapy spaces for children diagnosed with a range of disabilities. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) implemented some good generic standards for accessibility for persons with physical disabilities, but what about universal design for all disabilities? Designing spaces for a Pediatric Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic involves researching many different types of disabilities that would be treated at the facility. Particularly invisible disabilities such as Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Asperger Syndrome, and Traumatic Brain Injuries. These types of disabilities are often left out when designing …

Addressing Orphanage Design, Megan Orme

Student Research Symposium

The body of society is the people in its communities. There are girls without parents or a home that lack the development to contribute to such. These girls need refuge. Creating an orphanage that modernizes the care of these girls is dire. This facility will help mend the societal processes for facilitating children without permanent homes and families. By creating rooms and freedom within a secure facility, girls will grow and develop prepared to contribute to society as they feel loved and built up in a difficult position in their lives. The purpose of this study is to address the …

Shared Roots: An Examination Of The Interconnectedness Of Cultures And Nations Manifest Through Art And Design, Hannah Baldwin

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

Design creates culture. Culture shapes values. Values determine the future.— Robert L. Peters

The way that people influence their surroundings through art and design is a fascinating lens through which to view culture and history. Visual arts, including architecture, illustrate how cultures meld and shape one another’s histories and values as they come in contact. Pattern making, in particular, is found in every culture as a way of recording and making sense of the patterns of life. This project seeks to highlight the interconnectedness of cultures by examining the history and cultures of three European countries through the lens of …