From making initial design sketches all the way to seeing their design built into a premium house, students in Lethbridge College’s Interior Design Technology (IDT) program are being offered a one-of-a-kind opportunity thanks to Ashcroft Master Builder.
The Ashcroft Design Challenge officially launched on Thursday in partnership with Lethbridge College. First-year IDT students will create an original home design that is unique, innovative and reflective of what modern living in Lethbridge looks like. Those first-year students will then be paired with second-year students who will bring the design to life in virtual reality. Designs will be judged by Ashcroft Master Builder, and the company will then build the winning design, with the designing students working with the team as interns.
“Starting today, we will embark on a journey of collaboration with the next generation of design students, allowing them to develop their talents in real-life situations,” says Rodrigo Esparza, Ashcroft Master Builder General Manager and Partner. “This partnership will complement an already outstanding design program by allowing the students to participate in the design build of a brand new Ashcroft model home. Once completed, their friends, parents, teachers and members of the general public will be able to tour this home and see their creativity and imagination come to life.”
This Ashcroft Design Challenge is another example of the industry partnerships that are vital to Lethbridge College’s success. By working closely with a company that frequently hires the college’s graduates, students gain exposure to a potential employer, while receiving industry-specific training. Proceeds from the sale of the finished home will be donated back to the college.
“We are fortunate to be in a community filled with like-minded partners such as Ashcroft that value their role in education,” says Dr. Paula Burns, Lethbridge College President and CEO. “The opportunity for our students to learn from professionals and see how their skills can directly translate to a career is invaluable, and we are excited for the possibilities that this partnership can present.”
Students will need to include real-life considerations in their designs, such as cost, architectural controls and consumer demand, while focusing on creating innovative and unique designs. The winning design will be announced at surRENDER on April 25.
“The Interior Design Technology students and staff could not be more excited to partner up with Ashcroft Master Builder in the coming weeks and months,” says Cherie Reitzel, Interior Design Technology instructor. “We are thrilled to have this opportunity to showcase our planning and rendering skills in a real-life project and to see this project come to life in our community. This partnership and competition will be nothing short of life-changing.”
Ashcroft Master Builder Ltd. is an award-winning home builder based in Lethbridge; it was one of the first builders to take part in The College Home project with Lethbridge College and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Lethbridge Region.