July 15th, 2021- Boerne-Champion Senior Hallie O’Higgins earned a gold medal in the Senior Interior Design event at the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) National Competition held in Nashville, TN. O’Higgins placed 1st in this event at both the region and state-level FCCLA competitions this past spring earning her the opportunity to advance to the national level. The Interior Design competition is known as one of the most difficult events to participate in. On October 1st, FCCLA members are given a client scenario which they must then redesign a space to fit the client’s needs and wishes. This event also requires the member to develop a series of concept boards to visually show the clients their new potential space with new flooring, wall coverings, furnishings, lighting, etc.
After the client’s original space had been redesigned using Chief Architect software and the concept boards had been completed, Hallie then proved her extensive knowledge in interior design by giving the judges (playing the part of the clients) a 15-minute presentation explaining her design concept. This type of competition gives FCCLA members a true insight as to what being an interior designer would entail. Not only did Miss O’Higgins receive a gold medal in this division earning a score of 96 on her rubric, she, along with her advisor and teacher, Mrs. Lynnese Graves, was also notified last week that she placed 2nd overall in the nation.
Hallie has been in the Architecture/Interior Design pathway courses since her freshman year and will be in the Practicum in Architecture class this year. Seniors enrolled in this capstone course will have the opportunity to experience an internship with a local architecture or interior firm or a local home décor business. Students also receive a 10-Hour OSHA General Industry Certification and the opportunity to sit for the Chief Architect Software Apprentice Certification Examination. Many thanks to the local businesses who have supported the Architecture/Interior Design practicum students including Architect Ben Adam, Robert Thornton Great Homes, Stadler Custom Homes, Twin Sisters Interior Design and Flooring, The Sanctuary, The Corner Cartel, Laurie Saunders, Jac’s Personal Touch, Two Trick Pony Consignment, Double-R-Drygoods: Elegant Interiors, Hunting and Gathering and Calamity Jane’s Trading Company.
