Silent auction enables Interior Design students to put creative skills to work

Interior Design students at Tidewater Community College’s Chesapeake Campus put their creative skills to work preparing furnishings and creative items for the third annual silent auction. Hosted by the student chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), the auction gives students the opportunity to put techniques learned in the classroom to work in real-life projects.

“We’re thrilled with projects like this one because it provides a portfolio building opportunity and gives student designers more opportunities for hands-on work,” said Jennifer Hopkins, Interior Design program head.

Low party table with cushions and butcher block table This year’s entries include refurbished tables, decorative chairs, photo frames, decorative baskets and more.

“I’ve enjoyed every phase of the project, especially gaining business experience and putting my creative talents to work,” said Rubby Hutton, a second-year student and president of TCC’s student chapter of ASID.

Nicole Custer and Johanna Murat refinished and repaired a damaged and distressed table. “I’ve always loved refinishing furniture and when we found this piece broken and stained, we knew we were up for the challenge,” Custer said.

“It was really great collaborating and seeing our ideas come to life,” Murat added.

Silent auction participating students included Phyllis Brock, Jessica Coennen, Nicole Custer, Christie Haskins, Rubby Hutton, Johanna Murat and Beth Wiley. The auction pieces were on display in the lobby of the Chesapeake Academic Building during November.