Designing the Future: Reimagining Spaces for Community and History

Step into a world where innovation meets heritage in this dynamic student exhibition, showcasing the work of junior Interior Design students from the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art. This exhibition features two transformative, research-based service-learning projects that have given students the opportunity to work directly with real clients and industry professionals.

The first project reimagines the gift shop and event spaces at the State Botanical Gardens of Georgia. Students conducted research by engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders, including volunteers, visitors, employees, and donors, gathering valuable insights that directly informed their design concepts. In addition to their design work, students collaborated with Graphic Design students in the Layton Design Studio to develop a cohesive branding strategy that enhances the Gardens’ identity and enriches the visitor experience.

The second project takes place at Fort Benning, GA, where students have been working closely with a diverse range of stakeholders—including architectural historians, archeologists, UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government, and facilities managers—to transform a historic gas station into a multi-functional space for archeologists. This new facility will house offices, laboratories, and an exhibition space to showcase the site’s historical and archaeological collections.

This exhibition highlights the power of design to connect history, research, and community. Through real-world collaboration and thoughtful, research-driven solutions, these talented students are shaping spaces that preserve the past while envisioning a vibrant, sustainable future. Join us to see how design can transform the spaces we live, work, and learn in.