Freshman Interior Design students recently visited Rivermont Independent Living in Norman, OK as a part of their studio course. 36 students attended the trip, joined by Professors of Interior Design Dr. Suchismita Bhattacharjee and Dr. Yeji Yi and graduate teaching assistant Naila Hasan.
This field trip is part of a larger project for Interior Design Studio II, which focuses on integrating human-centered design, universal design features and ADA standards in the design process. The students are tasked with designing comfortable and functional senior living units with accessible storage features, easy-to-clean surfaces and materials that will create a sense of openness.
As a part of the pre-design process, students examined various styles of independent living units to gain on-site experience. They also conducted interviews with elderly residents to learn about their needs and preferences. Based on the research data collected during the visit, students will create a two-bedroom residential unit within a proposed assisted living community.
A team of Construction Science and Architecture students from the Gibbs College of Architecture made their mark on the national stage this week, earning third place out of 37 universities competing at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Student Competition, held during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, February 16-18, 2026.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has elevated Gary Armbruster, FAIA, ALEP to its prestigious College of Fellows—AIA’s highest membership honor—for his exceptional work and sustained contributions to architecture and society. Fellowship recognizes architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant impact at a national level. Members elevated to this distinction carry the FAIA designation after their name.
Students from the Spring 2026 Graduate 4 Architecture Design Studio, led by Professor Amy Leveno, exhibited their work at the School of Visual Arts. The exhibition, titled Reimagining the OU School of Visual Arts, featured drawings, models, and animations developed throughout the semester's studio project. The show was hosted in The Spotlight, a creative gallery space located on the first floor of the Fred Jones Art Center, and ran from January 20–30, 2026.
