DI STUDENT, KARINA VEGA, TAKES SECOND PLACE AT THE IIDA SOCAL STUDENT DESIGN CHARETTE 2024

May 1, 2024 | DI In the News

Congratulations to Design Institute (DI) student, Karina Vega, for taking second place at the IIDA SoCal Student Design Charette 2024! Both the first and second place teams won cash prizes for their efforts. DI students, Cassy Blanton and Nikole Taro participated in the charette, as well.

Interior Design Students from colleges all over Southern California together working on a project to present to IIDA professionals — DI Student, Karina Vega, and team working on their project.

There were around 30 students from design schools in Southern California that were nominated to participate in this event. They were randomly divided into teams, and all were given the task of designing a 10,000 square foot commercial space in downtown Los Angeles.

Each team had four hours to sketch and develop full design concepts and floor plans all by hand. The teams then presented their projects to IIDA professionals and the winners were determined.

We asked Karina a few questions about her experience at the IIDA charrette competition.

What was the biggest challenge you faced?

The initial challenge I encountered was attending the event! Although I was thrilled about being nominated, it felt intimidating to compete with numerous other skilled individuals. Upon receiving our team assignments, the next obstacle was figuring out how to distribute tasks. Since we had all just met, it took us a few minutes to break the ice and start to work on the project.

What did you learn from that challenge?

To trust the process and have fun! Sometimes we become so focused on the result that we forget to enjoy ourselves and have a good time.

What class/classes helped you the most to feel prepared for this?

A combination of many of the courses I’ve taken, including Visual Communication, Sustainable Environments, Human Factors, Perspective and Rendering, Oral Communication, and all the interior design classes. I think that each contributes valuable insights that can be utilized when designing any space.

What was your favorite part?

Getting to meet new people and make more connections!

Do you have any tips or advice for fellow students about getting involved in charettes/competitions?

Don’t overthink it and just embrace the experience!

DI student team from the IIDA Southern Califorina Studetn Design Charette 2024 — Pictured from left to right: Karina Vega, Cassy Blanton, Nicole Taro.

For more information on the next IIDA SoCal Design Charette, please click here to visit their website.

Come visit DI and see our student projects on campus by scheduling a tour with our Admissions Team.