2021 Design Problem

You have been hired by a University Student Center to design a light fixture for the bookstore apparel area. Specifically, the Student Center sells jerseys and other clothing that celebrates the school’s sports teams. The luminare should illuminate circular racks of logo clothing, but also have a lively and inviting appearance. It should deliver light in an energy-efficient manner, without glare for the customer and staff. The bookstore apparel area has a ceiling height of 11′. It has sliding doors that open onto an exterior plaza to become an indoor/outdoor space so the fixture will also serve to advertise the Student Center. Determining the architectural design of the apparel area is up to you.

Consider how apparel and people will look under the lighting and how the lighting enhances the product. Energy use, durability and maintenance are important considerations for this institution. Describe how the luminaire is controlled. Identify all major components and materials of the fixture. Document the fixture as instructed under the Competition Rules.

First Place

Emily Pate, Architecture, Miami University

Second Place

Mollie McNally, Architecture, Miami University

Third Place & 

Citation for Presentation

Channing Nelson, Industrial Design, Thomas Jefferson University

Citation for Engineering Achievement

Kari Kruse, Architecture, Miami University

Citation for Innovative Concept

Danielle Young, Interior Design, Miami University

2020

Past Winners

View past design problem & winners

2023

chain restaurant patio

2022

supermarket produce aisle

2021

bookstore apparel area

2020

bus shelter

2019

urban transit center

2018

laundromat and cafe

2017

art museum lobby

2016

japanese restaurant

2015

wine bar and restaurant

2014

hotel ballroom

2013

office building lobby

2012

airport ticket counter

2011

corporate conference room

2010

residential porch

2009

retail fitting room

2008

hotel corridors

2007

student dorm room

2006

hospitality restroom

2005

urban park

2004

computer workstation

2003

library reading station