Jeffco students partnered with Never Summer Industries to design custom snowboards, gaining real-world experience through a hands-on graphic design contest that celebrates creativity and career readin...

Formica Corporation has revealed the winners of its ninth annual FORM Student Innovation Competition, which saw a record 303 eligible submissions from interior design, architecture, and furniture design students across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This year's theme, 'Mood-Boosting Design,' encouraged participants to create furniture pieces using Formica Brand products, FENIX Innovative Materials, and other solutions from the Formica Portfolio. Entries highlighted bold colors, unexpected combinations, and layered textures to create uplifting spaces for residential or commercial use. The grand prize went to Kassandra Avila from Cégep de Trois-Rivières in Quebec, Canada, for her versatile children's furniture system called 'VIVO.' The design promotes creativity, play, and independence with modular components, rounded forms, and a calming blue and white color scheme. Two students tied for second place: Vania Lau from Purdue University with 'Lumine,' a multifunctional bedside table featuring a built-in lamp and pull-out desk, and Émile Tessier from Cégep Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu for 'The Foam,' a playful piece inspired by soap suds for educational spaces. Third place was awarded to Nicholas Luter from Ringling College of Art & Design for 'The Pylon Pets,' a stackable seating system with whimsical Art Deco-inspired animal silhouettes. All top winners receive cash prizes and will attend NeoCon 2026 as guests of Formica Corporation, where their designs will be fabricated and displayed. They will also participate as featured speakers. Honorable mentions went to several other talented students from institutions including Universidad de Monterrey, Dawson College, Ohio State University, and more. Judges praised the thoughtful integration of materials and the emotional impact of the designs. The competition underscores Formica's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the next generation of designers. More details on the winning entries are available on Formica's website.