The Durkan dscvr student design competition, in partnership with NEWH, exists to identify and exhibit the talent of the next generation of designers in the hospitality field.
The 2022 winners have been announced!
You voted for the designs you liked best and now we present you the winners.
The Durkan dscvr design competition has been established to exhibit the talent of designers in the hospitality design field and contribute toward the education of future designers, in partnership with NEWH.
Students are encouraged to participate and be discovered! Durkan has partnered with NEWH to bring a unique member only opportunity. In lieu of entry fees, you simply must be a student member of NEWH.
Durkan is the leading US manufacturer of custom designed carpet to the hospitality industry. Specializing in durable Public Space, Corridor and guest room carpet, Durkan offers solutions to any custom design need. As design leaders, we offer the largest selection of archived patterns in the USA or we can make your custom design vision a reality.
NEWH, The Network of the Hospitality Industry, is the premier networking resource for the hospitality industry, providing scholarships, education, leadership development, recognition of excellence, and business development opportunities. Members of NEWH, Inc. are professionals actively engaged in development, management/ operations, architecture, communications, design, distribution, education, manufacturing, production, purchasing, and sales of the Hospitality, Foodservice, Senior Living and related industries. For more information go to www.newh.org.
The Challenge: Create fresh and innovative designs for either a private or public space of a hotel with the provided floorplans and design restrictions below. Be creative, only the walls are your limits!
Using the CAD file (provided in PCX format) of a standard Ballroom & Pre-function, Corridor & Guestroom area, create a design solution of your choice considering the following:
Submissions should include the following:
Submit final patterns with photos or visuals, concept boards, sketches, write up, or other inspiration for PDI (Precision Dye Injected) carpets. Completed package to be sent to Durkan for judging.
Grand Prize: $2,500
Second Place: $1,500
Third Place: $1,000
See "Contest Rules" for specifications and requirements of your design submittal.
Deadline Tuesday midnight (EST), March 15, 2022.
The challenge: Create fresh and innovative designs for either a private or public space of a hotel with the provided floorplans and design restrictions below. Be creative, only the walls are your limits!
Using the CAD file (provided in PCX format) of a standard Ballroom & Pre-function, Corridor & Guestroom area, create a design solution considering the following:
Submissions should include the following:
Please think of each area as your blank canvas, designs confined only by the walls, the most innovative approach would be to avoid using surface patterns with an obvious repeat, with the exception of textural elements used to add detail and layering. We'd like to see how the entire floor space could become one large design.
Submit final patterns with photos or visuals, concept boards, sketches, write up, or other inspiration for PDI (Precision Dye Injected) carpets. Completed package to be sent to Durkan for judging.
Download files:
Public Space PCX Private Space PCXIf you have any questions, please refer to our FAQ section. If you cannot find your answer there, email us at dscover@rsvpcomm.com.
Deadline midnight (EST) Tuesday, March 15, 2022
Cross the t’s and dot the eyes. It’s time to show us what you’ve got. Create your designs and fill out the form.
Please keep these elements in mind by which your entry will be judged.
Entries must be dated no later than midnight (EST) Tuesday, March 15, 2022. Entries dated after this date & time will not be eligible for judging.
Deadline Tuesday, March 15, 2022
Grand Prize Winner
Elizabeth Hadden
Utah State University
Impressions of Safavid Primitive to Persia's history, legends, or mystery is the ancient tradition of glazed ceramic art. Even today, the glory of modern-day Iran is locked within the Safavid era murals and mosaics that enrobe its mosques and museums. This majestic montage of color and meaning incoorperates patterns and themes inspired by timeless tilework and calligraphy at the heart of Iranian artistry. Muted for a modern touch, this design suggests glimmers of elegance, royalty, and enchantment without overwhelming surrounding decor. Evolved from the hues of coveted lapis lazuli and imperial treasuries, this design's subtle blues laced with gold hint at the heritage of magnificent empires of antiquity.
2nd PLACE
Hannah Oelz
Savannah College of Art and Design
Tides is inspired by the interplay of the ocean rising and falling over rock pools. This design incorporates abstracted sea creatures and shells to show how the ocean distorts these elements at different times with changing tides. The abstract shapes allow the carpet to be dynamic and flowing, creating movement throughout the space.
3rd PLACE
Heather Wilkinson
Utah State University
Sonoma is designed to bring attention to the gorgeous colorful landscape of the Southwest. The light blues and purples are reminiscent of the setting sun highlighting the multi-colored canyon walls reflecting off the Colorado River below. The rugged rust- and flax-colored fibers perfectly match the panorama one would see when visiting the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Altogether, the hearty earth tones marry with the patterns used grounding the energy of the user when encountering this beautiful carpet. The hallway rug pattern softens the space with smooth patterns of bold dynamic colors and shapes. The carpet fills a need in hospitality by providing a soothing feeling while at the same time, gives a feeling of comfort. The pattern will hold up to the wear and tear of high-traffic areas with the nature-inspired, natural-toned palette. In the ballroom, the carpet reminds us of a classic American oil painting, with rugged cowboys and romantic sunsets, but can be marvelously placed in many different settings. Its motifs and design are flexible enough to fit in anything from a high-end hotel in Beijing, a boutique hotel in New York, or a small ranch hotel in New Mexico.
4th PLACE
Hannah Baldwin
Utah State University
Inspired by the way rivers flow around obstacles, Meander is the perfect carpet for any gathering space. It is a celebration of the rivers that have connected, gathered, and given life to civilizations for thousands of years. Muted colors allow the combination of bold lines and rich textures to take center stage. Sinuous curves draw people in and invite them to wander and mingle together while varying textures provide a tactile element that helps guests feel grounded and connected to the space. Meander's energy, grace, and tactility is sure to make it an instant favorite.
5th PLACE
Sarah Hegetschweiler
Kirkwood Community College
My inspiration came from a bouquet of flowers I received for Valentines Day this year. It was the first bouquet of flowers I have ever been given in which I believe made these flowers extra special. Typically when one attends an event at a ballroom it is for a special black tie event. Flowers carry this sort of elegance and sophistication into a space. They are also known to bring people a great sense of joy. Their vibrant colors and amazing smell can create happiness and brighten any space. I wanted to make sure to use the pops of color within the bouquet without it being too overwhelming. I believe that if I were to walk into this ballroom I would feel the joy that I felt when I was given this specific bouquet of flowers.
Grand Prize Winner
Brianne Brooks
Utah State University
Inspired by the rich colors and depth of space nebulae, Cosmo is a cutting-edge carpet that completes an interior like no other. It is bold, futuristic, and creates strong electricity within a space. Contrast between the gray texture of the carpet and the striking blue emulates the bright, unexpected bolts of color in the dark void of space. Expect Cosmo to be the highlight at next year's Neocon!
2nd PLACE
Nicholas Hahn
Colorado State University
Effervescence: Utilizing basic colors and shapes, this rug design will focus on visual texture to add interest to the rug of the ballroom. It will incorporate round forms in different densities to provide an abstract interpretation of bubbles and seafoam. This rug will be unique in that, it will take the beauty and vivacious energy of effervescence and mirror it onto the floor of the space. These bubble-like forms, which will be evident in both the primary and secondary spaces of the ballroom, will create a sense of interest and excitement that will elevate the room and make it the perfect place for any civilized gathering.
3rd PLACE
Sasitorn Wanspa
Utah State University
Shugo - Assembly Inspired by the interplay between a koi fish and a lotus flower, Shugo combines the concepts of individuality and collaboration. Each marking on a koi fish is unique, but combine in this design to create an intricate and beautiful pattern. Similarly, hospitality design features places where individuals gather together to create unique and meaningful experiences. Each koi fish symbolizes the harmony and unity found in the hospitality market. In feng shui koi are believed to bring harmony and happiness, while purple lotus flowers represent fortune, peace, and a spiritual connection. The color palette represents the calming influence of a koi pond contrasted with the vivid violet and bright orange of the lotus flowers, creating rhythm in the design. The texture is inspired by the graceful swirling movement of the brush strokes of Japanese calligraphy and the calming movement of water. Shugo will transform any interior space into a whimsical gathering place and create a one of a kind experience.
4th PLACE
Kierstenn Herr
Savannah College of Art and Design
‘Genesis’ is inspired by the ever-changing nature of stone and the processes that accompany it. This particular design focuses on the formation, existence and depletion of stone. When designing Genesis, a stone's lifespan was studied, as the outcome reflects the ongoing processes of stone. All of these various stages result in a sense of harmony and movement. From elements as micro as sediment, to the texture of geodes, and as macro as deep eroded canyons, a captivating outcome is constructed. These juxtaposing elements such as the fluid texture of a geode, the swift eroded walls of a canyon, and the raw nature of aged stone are combined, as a sense of unity emerges in the pre-function to the ballroom.
5th PLACE
Claire Chang
Savannah College of Art and Design
Eroded encapsulates the essence of geology and the abstract textures of stone from natural weathering. The smooth fluidity of stone formations are paired with the rigid structure and layers found within rocks. The textural elements of stone were studied at both a macro and micro scale, varying from the curves of an endless canyon to the intricate cracks of an eroded rock. The designs combine straight line work with organic waves to create an even balance of organic and geometric elements. The palette remains cool and neutral, providing a calm yet sophisticated look. Color inspiration derived from the toned hues of caves, canyons, and mountains as well as the soft colors found within fine rocks. The organic and fluid pattern of the ballroom holds a sense of movement and flow across the space. The repetitive, rhythmic waves are grounded by a structured texture, unifying an organic motif with a geometric look. I paired this design with a calmer pattern for the pre-function area. This simpler design provides air to the space and complements the busyness of the ballroom.
Grand Prize Winner
Meg Turner
Utah State University
Combining the drama of the written word with the rich detailing of gems, FACETS weaves brief moments of emotion to create a visual story for this space. Shards of light and dark tones that are reminiscent of light bouncing off a faceted gem combine with the smooth, scrawling script of written word and hint at a full spectrum of emotion. These juxtapositions add movement and depth to the carpet, making a visually dramatic composition. The pre-function space blends sprawling narrative script and geometric shards with variety in scale and color. The small pattern of geometric shards guides the users toward the doors of the ballroom, and the natural colors in this tread path will keep the carpet looking fresh for years. The pattern in the ballroom focuses on the geometric depth of faceted gems, and a cut and loop pattern in the carpet emphasizes the movement that is created in the gems as light hits them. This pattern creates greater depth in color and makes the space feel alive and dramatic. With a nine-color palette, FACETS beautifully melds graphics into the world of carpet design, creating depth and visual interest at every level of the space.
2nd PLACE
Bailey Haussler
University of Cincinnati
3rd PLACE
Ali Guymon
Utah State University
4th PLACE
Amy Harmon
Georgia Southern University
5th PLACE
McKinley Emmett
Utah State University
Grand Prize Winner
Hailey Fonda
Utah State University
"Lumin reminds us of light. This collection is meant to inspire light and movement through the organic shapes and color. Inspired by the unique beauty of jellyfish, this collection emanates their inspiring visual and movement, which is shown throughout the ballroom and pre-function areas. The organic lines carry you throughout the space while creating a continuous motion and connection between the two areas."
2nd PLACE
Megan Turner
Utah State University
3rd PLACE
Amber Judd
Utah State University
4th PLACE
Michelle Carbajal
Utah State University
5th PLACE
Ali Guymon
Utah State University
Grand Prize Winner
Natalie Dieters
Kirkwood Community College
"The two patterns were designed to conceptually match the ballroom space and many of the events that will take place in the space. The initial design was from a picture of graffiti in France. There are many places along the street with graffiti in France. The metro also has graffiti along the walls. Graffiti is unique and different for every person that creates it. It is an art form very different from most. The Pre-Function and Ballroom spaces are both unique designs just like graffiti around the world. When graffiti is around each other, it all works and flows together. Just as the Ballroom and Pre-Function spaces are different, but still look cohesive in the design."
2nd PLACE
Kristen Evans
Georgia Southern University
3rd PLACE
Tracy Manuel
Louisiana State University
4th PLACE
Andrea Motino
Georgia Southern University
5th PLACE
Abigail Hall
Kirkwood Community College
Grand Prize Winner
Abigail Kolar
Kirkwood Community College
"These two patterns were designed to conceptually match the ballroom space and many of the events that will occur there. The ballroom primarily serves as a space to hold events, gatherings bringing together family and friends. The concept of these designs are centered around the idea of community. The initial design was inspired from photos of stained glass windows found throughout Iowa. Just as stained glass windows are made up of several pieces of glass, each unique and important, so are communities. Each person is a unique individual, and when brought together, each individual is critical in making up the completed, beautiful picture."
2nd PLACE
Kristen Evans
Georgia Southern University
3rd PLACE
Tracy Manuel
Louisiana State University
Grand Prize Winner - Professional
Ann Borrelli Smith
DPOVinteriors
"Inspired by the fashion forecast of Fall 13/14, this carpet collection is an homage to the Renaissance. This time period was known for wealth and innovation. Fabrics were lush with heavy brocade patterns. To update the Renaissance color palette and pattern, this collection was integrating black and cream with the addition of shadow and illusion."
Grand Prize Winner - Student
Libby Hurder
University of Northern Iowa
"Once I gathered inspiration pictures, I made the decision to focus on the vertical lines of the building. I chose grey to represent all of the concrete used in cities and the deep red to symbolize the color of the old brick in buildings. By overlapping and rotating my pattern, I hope to represent the hustle and bustle of the busy day to day city life."
Runners-Up - Professional
Joemy Vega
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Megan McNee
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Student
MaTrasa Phillips
3rd Place
Grand Prize Winner - Professional
Alexandra Pilgrim
Lot 11, Ltd
Alexandra Pilgrim is artistic by nature. She sees the world in color, as textures, patterns, and shapes, in light and in dark. With a background in the hospitality industry she understands the importance of being trendsetting - not trendy, finding beauty in simplicity, providing exceptional quality in design and service, and always staying young at heart and mind. Through a formal education, at The Art Institute of Colorado, she learned to communicate creative ideas and hone her skill set. Her resume includes collaborative work on a variety of branded and boutique hotels across the country. In addition to free-lance design work, and a marketing position at Lines, a commercial furniture group, Ali is a Mother - her greatest creative accomplishment.
Grand Prize Winner - Student
Lorin Bordeville
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
I'll start with the idea that design has value. And, some 7,000 hours in design studies
at Kwantlen has only just brushed the surface of a plethora of design possibilities. It is enlightening though, whether as a tool or speciality, that's emerged a field of immense interest: the opportunity to impact the lives of so many people through colour, drama and emotion. This is inspiring. I want to design more than just the functional requirements of space, but also the unique user experience that delivers meaningful emotion and curiosity. Nothing is more rewarding than to watch someone's face turn upward in awe as they experience a space for the first time and connect with it on a strong personal level. It is possible to dramatically improve the community, individual, social, and life-richness of people through the use of evidence-based design. I intend to design for the world. Work status: school full-time. Work interests: creative, collaborative environments. Design interests: hospitality, lighting, colour.
Runners-Up - Professional
Kayla McCullough
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Divina Balazo
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Professional
Ann Borrelli Smith
3rd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Takuya Imoto
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Grace O'Brien
Honorable Mention
Runners-Up - Student
Erin Saucier
Honorable Mention
Runners-Up - Student
Blair Thomson
Honorable Mention
Grand Prize Winner - Professional
Amy Bos
Kraemer Design Group
Amy is a licensed Interior Designer and Graphic Designer based out of Detroit, Michigan. After receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Ringling College of Art and Design in Florida, she continued to explore her interest in the architectural profession by attending Harvard's Career Discovery summer program at the GSD. Working in a variety of cities throughout the U.S. such as Sarasota, Boston and Detroit, Amy has been able to contribute her skills to an eclectic array of design firms on projects that range from Interior Design to Urban Analysis. These experiences have enabled her to cultivate her own design approach, and have provided the opportunity to co-author an article on Urban Planning in the internationally published MONU Magazine. Amy's expertise in graphics, typography and strategy has become an integral part of her design process and the foundation for her style of communication. She enjoys working on diverse projects at a variety of scales, which allows her to bridge traditional professional divisions. Amy believes that an interdisciplinary approach is essential to creating meaningful creative dialogue and comprehensive design work.
Grand Prize Winner - Student
Yau Cheung
George Washington University
Yau Cheung is from Hong Kong and currently a junior at George Washington University, pursuing a bachelor degree in Interior Design. Originally majoring in Biochemistry, Yau changed his plans after interning at a furniture company based in Hong Kong, where he became intrigued by the concept of interior design. "To me, designing a space is an art that people might not necessarily notice or understand but they can all feel and sense. It is not just as simple as picking a chair or choosing a textile, it is to create a desired atmosphere that is generated by combinations of color, textile and fabric, etc. I love how much surprise design can bring. Design by itself entails a lot of autonomy and freedom. If it wasn't for this design competition, I would never have converted what I have experienced in Japan into a tangible carpet pattern. It is almost like engraving the feelings I felt for Japan back then into a carpet."
Runners-Up - Professional
Cheryl Turnage
Creative Design Concepts
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Jenna Miller
University of Northern Iowa
Honorable Mention
Runners-Up - Professional
Jillissa Moorman
University of Northern Iowa
3rd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Lauren Shaw
Virginia Tech
Honorable Mention
Runners-Up - Professional
Stacy Toberman
Portfolio Associates
Studio Pick
Runners-Up - Student
Leah DeVries
University of Northern Iowa
Honorable Mention
Grand Prize Winner - Professional
Karen Bradley
Group One Partners, Inc
Karen Bradley is the marketing coordinator at Group One Partners, Inc.—a Boston-based architecture, interior design and purchasing firm specializing in the hospitality industry. With more than five years of experience in graphic design and marketing, Karen is an integral part of the marketing and design team that focuses on new business development and internal and external communications initiatives for the firm. She holds an associate’s degree in graphic design from Ballyfermont College in Dublin, Ireland and a certificate in design and visual studies from The Liberties College in Dublin, Ireland. Karen is also an active member of The Hospitality Industry Network (NEWH) and The Professional Association of Design (AIGA). She enjoys working in the creative industry and being surrounded by all sources of inspiration—from nature and architecture to typography.
Grand Prize Winner - Student
Emily Riebkes
University of Northern Iowa
Emily is currently a Sophomore Interior Design Student at the University of Northern Iowa, and works as a C.N.A. at a nursing home. She chose to get educated in Interior Design because of her love for different buildings and their architecture inside and out. Working in a nursing home has also given her perspective on how much an environment impacts a person’s well-being, both in comfort and safety. The designs I created specifically for this competition were based off of “Nature’s Natural Beauty.” As we constantly try to creep closer and closer to accomplishing green design all around the United States, I realize that we need to come up with creative ways to influence others of the same thing. If we constantly try to teach people about saving our environment by the materials we use in different products, why not express this idea by putting nature’s beauty on display? I based my design strictly off of the ripples and reflections of water. Any student would be extremely thankful for this opportunity and I would just like everyone to know how truly grateful I am. This is a great accomplishment that will help start me on my way to the career of my dreams.”
Runners-Up - Professional
Kim Hayden Holt
Design & Industry
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Agatha Strompolos
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
2nd Place
Runners-Up - Professional
Samantha Cash
Deacon Design, Inc.
3rd Place
Runners-Up - Student
Kacie Wasserman
Art Institute of Houston
Honorable Mention
Runners-Up - Professional
Carissa Thompson
Designer
Honorable Mention
Runners-Up - Student
Ryuehi Minami
Fashion Institute of Technology NYC
Honorable Mention