Handiwork by interior design students allows them to spread cheer

A leather-topped coffee table; a blue and gold painted canvas; a colorful changing table with storage box; a red and black side table — all hand-crafted by interior design students for the first annual Interior Design Program Designer’s Showcase and Silent Auction.

The auction pieces were on display in the new academic building on the Chesapeake Campus during the early weeks of November.

“Having the work on display was a real boost, as it gave students the chance to showcase their talents, and every item had a least one bid,” said Matt Keane, co-president of the student chapter for American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).

“Our goal was to give students the opportunity to be creative, while making a piece that reflects their personal style,” Keane said.

“We’re big on repurposing items to help protect the environment, and this project encouraged students to be creative and renew an item, or create something new,” said Whitney Regan, co-president of the student ASID chapter.

Half of the proceeds from the auction will go to the decking the halls of the homes of four disabled veterans. Recipients were selected by Veterans Affairs office staff on each of TCC’s four campuses.

“We’re thrilled to be able to honor disabled veterans in this way,” Keane said.

“Come December, with garlands, wreaths and trees, we plan to go all out for them,” Regan added.

This Designer’s Showcase and Silent Auction is just one of the projects on tap for interior design students this school year. The group plans a Palette Challenge in the spring, with each student receiving a plain, wooden palette and one week to transform it into an inviting piece for the home or office.

“We see these projects as portfolio building experiences,” Keane said. “Firms are looking for a progression of work, and these offerings fit that bill.”

LaTonya Phillips, an ASID member, agrees saying, “I know when I get out in the field that I’ll be ready because of the work in the classroom and hands-on projects like this one.”