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Four people sit in modern chairs around a round table, engaging in conversation, surrounded by greenery and a brick backdrop.

2025 Student Design Competition Showcase

Presenting the winning student design competition projects for an adult patient behavioral treatment facility in Denver

The IIDA Student Design Competition (SDC), sponsored by OFS and Carolina, celebrates the talent and fresh design ideas of design students around the world who are currently enrolled in an interior design or interior architecture program. The competition provides emerging professionals the opportunity to showcase their work and gain exposure in the interior design industry.

For this year’s competition, students were invited to design several critical areas within a new adult inpatient behavioral unit, located in Denver. The design should include spaces that support healing, intuitive wayfinding, and evoke confidence and trust for adult patients and their families. Students were also asked to ensure that the design supports seamless interaction for patients, families, and care staff to optimize the experience and outcomes through interior design — all while taking into consideration new drivers in behavioral care like acoustics, sensory interventions, and family-focused areas.

Jurors

Aimee Burmaster Hicks
Aimee Burmaster Hicks, IIDA
Principal, Interior Design Director, Page
A woman with curly hair smiles confidently while standing in a bright, green-filled environment, dressed in a cream-colored blouse.
Maria VanDeman, Ind. IIDA
Director of Design Strategy, OFS
A smiling woman with shoulder-length hair wears a black jacket and a necklace, posing confidently in a well-lit indoor space.
Patricia Paulson
Senior Interior Designer, HDR
Smiling woman with curly, voluminous hair, wearing glasses and a light green blouse, posed against a neutral background.
Lakiesha Stanley, IIDA
Interior Designer, Healthcare, Gresham Smith
A man with a beard smiles confidently while wearing a blazer over a sweater. He stands outdoors near a brick building.
Paul Widlarz, AIA
Vice President and Principal, HGA Architects and Engineers
A plain white background fills the space, providing a neutral canvas with no other visual elements present.

WINNERS

FIRST PLACE:
LeAnne Hlavka, Interior Designers Institute
Sunshine: Day 1 Behavioral Health Clinic

Receiving this award is validation that my work is headed in the right direction, and that there is a place for my design perspective in the current industry. This award means a lot to me on a personal level, as I lost my dad while working on the project and did not know if I had it in me to finish. I will hallmark this achievement as an example of perseverance, and know my dad would find the win to be really novel.

Quote

LeAnne Hlavka

Sunshine: Day 1 is a thoughtfully designed facility integrating informed design solutions that radiate around a holistic patient experience and journey to more days of sunshine. Skylights and windows allow for natural and cast light and shadow while LED lights tunable to circadian rhythms are specified with LightGlass simulated glass features. The care desk promotes a positive relationship between staff and patients; the sundial courtyard moves patients out to nature; and the arched fireplace encourages gathering and community. Considerations of patient testimonials seeking autonomy, comfort and dignity in treatment centers are prioritized by designing the clinic with materials, tall structures and expansive views that resemble a mountain retreat. The ideas of “Prospect” (view of nature) and “Refuge” (shelter) in biophilic studies show that both in tandem reduce stress, enhance mood and a feeling of safety, therefore, alcoves and curved shapes are thoughtfully included to offer respite. Gentle colors, intuitive wayfinding and clutter free rooms inhibit potential triggers, resulting in a safe space sensitive to all patients.

A woman with long hair smiles confidently while wearing a light blazer over a dark top, set against a textured white wall.
LeAnne Hlavka, Interior Designers Institute
Bright, welcoming lobby of a behavioral health clinic featuring modern furnishings, potted plants, and a circular reception desk.
A welcoming lounge area featuring modular seating, indoor plants, and natural lighting, promoting comfort and community interaction.
Bright dining area featuring modern cabinetry, cozy seating, and a TV nook, creating an inviting atmosphere for social gatherings.
A serene sundial courtyard features greenery, a stunning sundial, and people engaging in conversation, promoting connection with nature.
A serene inpatient room featuring wooden walls, natural light, and a cozy seating area, designed for comfort and healing.
Interior view of Lavender Lodge's inpatient corridor, featuring a patient room, care desk, and design promoting visibility and light flow.
A modern healthcare reception area features a circular care desk, light colors, and welcoming staff, designed for patient comfort and navigation.
A spacious therapy room features diverse seating arrangements, plants, and light fixtures designed to create a welcoming, open environment.
A modern staff charting area designed for collaboration and comfort, featuring natural light, plants, and a variety of workspace solutions.
Detailed floor plan showing various lodge areas, including reception, patient rooms, and communal spaces, with material legends.
Reflected ceiling plan displaying various ceiling materials and lighting features, including timber, paint, and acoustic elements.
Day 1 visual board showcasing a color palette, acoustic materials, and various OFS Carolina product solutions for design inspiration.
Design concepts and floor plans for a behavioral health clinic in Denver, featuring renderings, color palettes, and furniture selections.
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SECOND PLACE:
Leah Ferry, Kent State University
Path to Balance: A Healing Environment for Behavioral Health

Receiving this award is an incredible honor because it validates the power of thoughtful and intentional design. As a designer, I strive to create environments that have a meaningful impact on people’s lives, and this recognition reinforces the importance of that work. It also motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas in design.

Quote

Leah Ferry

Path to Balance presents a holistic approach to behavioral healthcare by integrating fluid architectural elements, nature-inspired materials, and therapeutic strategies with a focus on guiding design principles of the seamless integration of curves and organic shapes; nature-inspired therapeutic spaces; adaptability and personalization; and safety, accessibility, and comfort. The intuitive wayfinding, sensory-responsive environments, and adaptable areas embrace biophilic principles and acoustic interventions through greenery, nature-inspired wall coverings, sound-absorbing materials, and white noise integration. Flexible therapy rooms and multi-use spaces that can be adjusted to meet individual needs, allow space for reflection, work, and rest while mitigating stress-inducing stimuli, while the care desk is strategically positioned to maintain a clear lie of sight. This design prioritizes ligature-resistant solutions, ADA-compliant features, and staff visibility without compromising the sense of autonomy and dignity for patients. Private spaces for de-escalation, including the Quiet Room, offer patients a sanctuary for self-regulation within a secure setting. Path to Balance is more than a healthcare facility—it is a dynamic, healing environment that fosters growth, resilience, and well-being through intentional, human-centered design.

A young woman with long blonde hair smiles warmly, wearing a light-colored top and layered necklaces, with a bright window backdrop.
A modern healthcare reception area features a curved desk, warm wood accents, and staff in scrubs interacting with a tablet.
Two healthcare professionals discuss patient information in a modern, welcoming lobby, while patients relax in comfortable seating.
A healthcare professional in scrubs stands by a wooden cabinet, while a relaxed man sits in a chair, using his phone, surrounded by mountains.
A modern waiting area featuring curved wooden accents, comfortable seating, and people engaging in conversation and reading.
A modern reception area features a curved desk, a woman at the counter, and a man reading on a couch, with nature-themed elevator doors.
A woman reads while seated on a cozy window nook, with a bed and workspace in a modern room featuring a scenic view outside.
Floor plan layout displaying various functional areas like patient rooms, lounges, therapy spaces, and consultation rooms.
Design plans for "Path to Balance," featuring healing spaces, patient rooms, and communal areas, emphasizing comfort and renewal.
Ceiling plan layout depicting various ceiling heights and details, featuring a central area with specific height measurements labeled.
Floor plans show a lobby layout with seating areas and a reception, and a courtyard design featuring greenery and seating arrangements.
Elevations show a patient corridor with rounded doorways and nature-themed artwork, alongside detailed care desk designs and dimensions.
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THIRD PLACE:
Katie Becher and Samantha Crown, Florida State University
Vantage Point Behavioral Health Clinic


"After participating in the IIDA competition, I can confidently say I have become a better designer and team player. This competition is challenging and rewarding for everyone involved and I am so grateful to have been recognized for this amazing opportunity."
- Katie Becher

"If you would have told me a couple of months ago that our project placed in this competition I wouldn't have believed it. There is never any harm in doing something that pushes you out of your comfort zone."
- Samantha Crown

A young woman with long, wavy blonde hair smiles warmly. She wears a simple off-the-shoulder white top and a delicate pearl necklace.
Katie Becher, Florida State University
A smiling young woman with long hair stands in front of lush greenery and pink roses, wearing a halter-top dress and sunglasses.
Samantha Crown, Florida State University

Vantage Point Behavioral Health is an inpatient behavioral health facility serving patients eighteen and older, encompassing a combination of indoor and outdoor areas for use by patients, families and friends of patients, healthcare providers, and staff. The safety of all users is the main priority, utilizing design as a tool to promote wellness. Located in the city of Denver which is recognized for its vibrant urban skyline and scenic mountain views that appeals to tourists and locals alike. Therapy can lead to significant breakthroughs and insights into one’s mental and emotional health — similarly in nature, hidden depths are what build strength in our world. The clinic encourages patients to visualize themselves in their own environment and have control over their perspective and healing. Important sightlines for healthcare providers will be maintained throughout the facility to ensure the safety of patients. With a goal of encouraging patients to find strength in the depths of their own horizons, the facility will be inspired by the layers of Colorado’s nature, using an attentive design approach to create a positive, calming atmosphere where the healing power of sight is woven into every aspect of care.

A welcoming reception area at Vantage Point features a modern design, with staff assisting visitors and accessible seating for all.
Bright, modern interior featuring diverse patrons seated at stylish tables, large windows, and natural decor elements for a welcoming atmosphere.
A serene rooftop garden features lush greenery, seating areas, and a central circular structure, all under a starry sky ambiance.
Cozy, modern room featuring a comfortable seating area, shelves, and a large window with a seated woman enjoying the view outside.
Layout and design concepts for Vantage Point Behavioral Health Clinic, showcasing floor plans, aesthetic choices, and facility features.
A detailed floor plan showcasing various rooms, including living spaces, offices, and communal areas, with clear dimensions and layout indications.
Detailed floor plan of an in-patient facility showing areas like lounges, patient rooms, therapy spaces, and outdoor dining.
A layout displaying various flooring finishes and furniture options, including chairs, tables, and seating designs for décor planning.
Reflected ceiling plan depicting lighting fixtures like skylights, wood slats, and acoustic elements throughout a layout.
Exam room layout features calming design elements, secure storage, and accessible features, promoting patient comfort and well-being.
Floor plan of an exam room detailing zones for patient, provider, and guest areas, along with furniture and ADA accessible features.
Detailed elevation design of private patient rooms, featuring accessible signage, room names inspired by Colorado peaks, and Braille.
Detailed axonometric drawings showcase a custom millwork desk design, including transaction counters and ergonomic task chairs.
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HONORABLE MENTION:
Michael Hernandez Reyes and Hailey Reicks, Kirkwood Community College
Healing Through Connection Center

Healing Through Connection Center embodies the resilience and unity of an aspen grove, where individual trees thrive through a vast interconnected root system. Combining Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian comfort, the space achieves a delicate balance of clean lines, organic materials, and soft neutral tones. Wayfinding techniques enhance navigation and accessibility through a color-coded system applied to rooms and hallways while skylights in the milieu space bring in natural daylight while a continuous light strip enhances spatial awareness. Open communal areas encourage social interaction and connection, while private nooks and enclosed rooms provide solitude and reflection. The design considerations reinforce safety, comfort, and therapeutic engagement with a patient-centered approach. Patient rooms have non-locking doors for safety without compromising dignity; belongings are stored in locked compartments; medication room layout facilitates a secure and smooth process, and the nourishment center is a secure, locked room adjacent to the care desk for easy access. This facility is more than just a treatment center—it is a space for growth, renewal, and holistic well-being. Blending nature, thoughtful interior design, and human connection, it fosters a sense of community, trust, and reassurance, ensuring an environment where patients, staff, and families can heal, grow, and thrive together.

A well-designed corridor features two silhouettes: one resembling a doctor and another depicting a person entering a kitchen area.
A modern exam room features a bench, desk with medical supplies, and chairs. Silhouettes of a seated person and healthcare worker are visible.
Plans and renders of the Oru Healing Center showcase a welcoming reception lobby, spacious inpatient areas, and calming color palettes.
A modern reception area featuring a wooden desk, intricate wall patterns, plants, and cozy seating by large windows allowing natural light.
A modern, open hallway featuring wooden accents, seating areas, and large skylights, designed for accessibility and comfort.
A modern, well-lit communal space with wooden accents, featuring seating areas, decorative light fixtures, and silhouettes of people walking.
A cozy staff overnight room featuring a bed, modern furniture, a washbasin, a stylish chair, and soft lighting elements.
A modern courtyard features benches and trees, with two transparent silhouettes of people walking, set against a bright sky.
A spacious medication room featuring shelves for storage, a workstation, and a silhouette of a healthcare professional.
The design features a hallway with color-coded doorways, enhancing navigation with distinct shades for each room's entrance and markers.
3D axonometric illustration of a patient room featuring safety elements, including anti-ligature door and behavioral health chair.
Floor plan showcasing layout with a lobby, staff area, patient rooms, and common spaces, complete with dimensions and labels.
Rendered architectural section cut displaying a patient entrance and several patient room and wetroom designs with varied colors and layouts.
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Learn more about the Student Design Competition here.

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