Front Row: ASID Students Julia Griffith, Kate McPherson, Marissa Pohuski. Back Row: Rudy Saunders, Design Director of Dorothy Draper Inc. NYC; Merriweather Franklin, Interior Designer with The Greenbrier (WVU Alum Art History 2011); ASID Faculty Advisor Nicole Kreidler, PhD Interior Architecture; ASID Students Emily Rolston, Hannah Collins, and at the end is the President of Dorothy Draper Sebastian Varney
The West Virginia University School of Art and Design’s Interior Architecture (IA) students recently traveled across West Virginia to both learn and educate.
In early March, Third- and fourth-year students attended The Greenbrier’s 9th Annual Dorothy Draper Decorating Weekend, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of Dorothy Draper Inc., America’s first interior design firm. Throughout the weekend, students heard from leading experts on the history, techniques and signature style of Dorothy Draper Inc. and connected with design professionals from across the world.
“We were the youngest individuals there, which felt intimidating at first, but everyone was incredibly welcoming,” said Kathleen McPherson, a senior in the Interior Architecture program. “It was refreshing to hear from professionals as they talked about the industry, how they started out, and what we can expect when we start our careers.”
The students were also given an exclusive tour of the Presidential Suite, a 5,000-square-foot space that is two stories high and includes seven separate suites.
“The most eye-opening part of the tour was realizing that many great historical figures had once stayed within those very walls,” McPherson said. “From President Eisenhower to the former Duke and Duchess of Windsor, it was fascinating to witness firsthand the grandeur experienced by some of history’s most distinguished guests.”
The IA students applied for and received a grant from the WVU Student Government Association for the trip, which they supplemented with additional fundraising and support from the School of Art and Design so that a faculty advisor could also attend.
“Industry and academic partnerships are crucial for providing students with real-world experiences that complement classroom learning,” said Rachel Beach, teaching assistant professor in the Interior Architecture program. “The long-term benefits for these students, soon to become professionals, include lifelong memories, a strengthened passion for design, and a commitment to continuous professional growth.”
Later in the month, the WVU IA students had the opportunity to pay it forward by participating in the Marion County Board of Education’s STEAM Career and Technical Education festival. The event allowed grade school students and parents to explore various careers in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Beach and WVU IA students spoke about the process of creating textiles and brought materials including paint chips, fabric samples, wood Formica chips, carpet and vinyl flooring that students could use to make personalized mood boards.
Materials provided to Marion County students for mood boards
“In just three hours, we facilitated the creation of at least 15 unique mood boards, providing students with a tangible understanding of STEAM concepts within the context of interior architecture,” Beach said. “The event effectively connected academic learning with real-world applications, offering valuable insights into STEAM education pathways and fostering a deeper appreciation for the creative and technical aspects of interior design.”
For more information about the Interior Architecture program, visit artanddesign.wvu.edu.