Here at House Tipster Industry, we are incredibly excited about the exceptional student work happening at the high school and university level around the world. After all, these talented young creators will soon be the next generation of interior designers, manufacturers, artists, and more out there influencing the industry.

That’s why we were proud to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology’s winner announcement for their Fall 2018 Stark Carpet Design industry-sponsored project.

This semester, students were able to enter their class’ final hospitality carpet design projects into the Stark Carpet competition for a chance to win one of nine cash prizes, ranging from $250 to $2,000.

Not only was the goal for students to create an aesthetically beautiful rug design, but the carpet itself would have to consider the wear and tear it would need to endure in a high-traffic hospitality space.

From the materials to the weave, the carpets would have to withstand everything from high-heeled guests to the harsh New York City winter elements, for example. It’s quite the task – and students performed exceptionally well.

The final award presentation event took place at FIT in Manhattan on December 17, with a ceremony honoring nine textile surface design students whose work really stood out as exceptional.

Esteemed textile designer and FIT graduate Malene B joined the event as a keynote speaker and judge alongside educators Deborah Hernandez and David Setlow and more industry-leading judges.

Malene graduated FIT in 1999, after completing a similar program to the ones these current students are working their way through now. Who better to pass along some incredible wisdom to the next generation of up-and-coming creators?

To see more photos from the event and awards ceremony, be sure to visit our exclusive gallery here.