Two remarkable seniors from Appalachian State University's Interior Design program, Gemma Cullen and Kelly Garoutte, recently captured the spotlight by earning the prestigious NEWH Green Voice Design Competition scholarship. This honor celebrates not only their talent but also their commitment to creating sustainable spaces that make a lasting impression.
A Path Built on Passion
Gemma Cullen always felt drawn to the art of design. Even as a child, she would redecorate her room, allowing her creativity to shine through every detail. Now the owner of her own interior design studio, Form and Function Co., Gemma specializes in luxury residential and rental properties. She also serves as an ambassador for App State's design program, the ASID Chapter Student Representative to the Board, and is actively engaged with the ASID Carolinas board. After graduation, she plans to pursue her NCIDQ certification and expand her business into hospitality and commercial design. For Gemma, design isn't just about aesthetics — it's about creating spaces that reduce stress and bring joy to people's lives.
Originally pursuing a career in nursing and becoming EMT certified, Kelly Garoutte eventually realized her heart was in design. With her love for the psychological and emotional impact of spaces, she joined App State's design program to explore how thoughtfully designed environments can improve quality of life. An avid supporter of her community, Kelly currently serves as the IIDA Campus Center Student Director and participates in various university clubs, growing her network and fostering collaboration. Her interest in biophilic design and sustainability underscores her mission to reconnect people with the natural world through thoughtful spaces that promote health and well-being.
Redesigning a Historic Textile Mill
The NEWH Green Voice Design Competition promotes sustainable practices in interior design, pushing students to explore energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental quality. This year's challenge took Gemma and Kelly on a fascinating journey where they had one task: transform an old textile mill in Charlotte, NC, into a state-of-the-art sustainable hotel while pursuing LEED Silver certification.
Their project drew inspiration from Iceland, a country that epitomizes simplicity, serenity, and a deep connection to nature. Without realizing it, both students independently gravitated to the same concept. Together, they wove Iceland's natural blues, icy textures, and minimalist charm into their designs. Their vision featured a tranquil hotel with a spa and restaurant that embraced the country's geothermal warmth and natural elegance.
The process wasn't without challenges. Balancing their creative visions with strict LEED guidelines required meticulous planning, especially when it came to sourcing eco-friendly materials. This contrast between ambition and sustainability tested their processes. They spent hours researching, refining their choices, and ensuring their design remained as functional as it was beautiful. Despite these hurdles, the duo strengthened their problem-solving skills and passion for creating spaces that put sustainability at the forefront.
An Achievement Larger than the Award
Winning the NEWH Green Voice Design Competition is a testament to Gemma and Kelly's talent, hard work, and dedication. For Gemma, the recognition reinforced confidence in her design process and provided invaluable networking opportunities. "The people you meet in these events could become lifelong mentors," she stated. Meanwhile, Kelly highlighted the power of building relationships within the industry. "It's all about showing up and connecting with others. Our field thrives on collaboration."
The competition also proved to be a moment of personal and professional growth. Knowing their work was judged and applauded by some of the industry's best gave them validation and momentum to pursue even bigger ambitions.
Advice for Aspiring Designers
Both students encourage their peers to seize opportunities like the NEWH competition. Gemma's advice is heartfelt and practical: "When you're passionate about something, you'll make it happen. Tap into your network and keep learning; this industry thrives on growth and connection." Kelly echoed this sentiment with simple yet powerful encouragement. "Always compete. These experiences not only enrich your skills but unlock opportunities you never knew existed."
Their mentor, Devin Waddell, stressed the importance of putting in effort during college, calling it a "front-loaded investment" that sets graduates up for lasting success. With networking events, portfolio reviews, and real-world challenges like the NEWH competition, students at App State aren't just learning about design; they're preparing to lead the industry.
A Legacy of Success
Gemma Cullen and Kelly Garoutte's achievement adds to a tradition of excellence, inspiring current and future students to strive for greatness. More than just a pair of talented designers, Gemma and Kelly represent the optimism, drive, and creativity that will define the future of sustainable interior design.
With their eyes set on exciting careers and a commitment to sustainability, Gemma and Kelly have shown what's possible when passion and purpose collide. This is a reminder that great design isn't just about transforming spaces but also about shaping a better future for our world.
About the Department of Applied Design
One of seven departments housed in the College of Fine and Applied Arts, the Department of Applied Design at Appalachian State University fosters excellence in design education, design research, and professional placement. The department balances theoretical and pragmatic approaches while exploring an awareness of impact through design decisions on the global community. Faculty focus on a holistic approach to creative problem-solving by integrating sustainability and ethical responsibility in teaching and practice. The department offers bachelor's degrees in apparel design and merchandising, industrial design, and interior design.
About the College of Fine and Applied Arts
Appalachian State University's College of Fine and Applied Arts is a dynamic and innovative group of seven academic departments, bringing together a variety of perspectives, experiences, and real-world education to provide unique opportunities for student success. The college has more than 3,500 undergraduate and graduate majors. Its departments are Applied Design, Art, Communication, Military Science and Leadership, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment, and Theatre and Dance. Learn more at https://faa.appstate.edu.
About Appalachian State University
As the premier public undergraduate institution in the Southeast, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives as global citizens who understand and engage their responsibilities in creating a sustainable future for all. The Appalachian Experience promotes a spirit of inclusion that brings people together in inspiring ways to acquire and create knowledge, to grow holistically, to act with passion and determination, and to embrace diversity and difference. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System. Appalachian enrolls nearly 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio, and offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate majors.
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Applied Design logo