Dezeen School Shows: an interactive library for children in a repurposed substation is among the interior architecture projects from students studying at the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design.
Also featured is a women’s co-working space and a youth centre for children aged 12 to 16 in Virginia, US.
Corcoran School of the Arts and Design
Institution: The George Washington University
School: Corcoran School of the Arts and Design
Course: Interior Architecture Studio 5 – Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
School statement:
“The Interior Architecture Master of Fine Arts (MFA) at the George Washington University’s Corcoran School of the Arts and Design in Washington, DC, is the only council for Interior Design Accreditation, an accredited programme in the United States’ capital.
“It is designed for students who pursued a bachelor’s degree in a field other than interior design, interior architecture or architecture and are looking to follow a studio-based curriculum that will teach various aspects of interior design, theories and technicalities.
“We believe in fostering a community that encourages creativity and pushes the boundaries of design with an emphasis on conceptual thinking and the design process.”
Oasis Leukemia Treatment Centre by Meghan Carter
“Oasis Leukemia Treatment Centre for teens is rooted in the concept of an embrace, where spaces transition from open, communal environments to more intimate, cocoon-like enclaves.
“This progression supports a balance between connection and solitude, offering teens the ability to choose how they engage with their environment.
“Central to the design is a reimagining of the infusion experience. Instead of one standard setting, Oasis offers a variety of infusion spaces, including private, semi-private and communal. This allows patients to receive treatment in a way that best suits their emotional and social needs.
“By prioritising comfort, autonomy and peer connection, Oasis creates a supportive and empowering healing environment for young people.”
Student: Meghan Carter
Course: MFA, Interior Architecture – Studio 5, Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Email: meghan.carter25[at]gmail.com
GAD Youth Centre by Kimberly Wooster
“The Fredericksburg Youth Centre is designed as a protective and empowering environment for youth in grades six to ten, grounded in the belief that safety is the foundation for learning and growth.
“When young people feel protected, they are more open to exploring new ideas, building skills and gaining the confidence to step into the world and begin the cycle of discovery again.
“This philosophy is embedded in the architecture: a strong, armour-like exterior gives way to soft, nurturing interiors – spaces where vulnerability and curiosity are welcomed.
“Monolithic forms under a soaring skylight and scaling triangular motifs (a nod to the strength and stability of triangular geometry) symbolise each child’s potential to rise, adapt and grow.
“The design becomes both a physical and emotional shelter: quietly bold and deeply intentional.”
Student: Kimberly Wooster
Course: MFA, Interior Architecture – Studio 5, Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Email: kimberly.wooster[at]gwu.edu
The Collective: An Alternative Social Club by Emma Catherine Cohen
“The Collective is a members-only, non-alcohol-based social club for DC’s emerging professionals seeking connection and creativity.
“Inspired by the ripple effect, the space features interactive elements that encourage curiosity and engagement.
“Each detail is intentionally designed to promote exploration and connection. In a city characterised by ambition, The Collective offers a transition from productive daytime co-working to lively evening gatherings.
“With a blend of quiet sophistication and an innovative spirit, the club creates a vibrant atmosphere filled with inspiration, allowing members to connect authentically without the influence of alcohol.”
Student: Emma Catherine Cohen
Course: MFA, Interior Architecture – Studio 5, Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Email: eccohen001[at]gmail.com
Red Line by Dena Storck
“Red Line is a women-centred think tank and co-working space that reimagines civic interiors as leadership, research and resolution platforms.
“Located in Washington, DC, Red Line transforms 20 Massachusetts Avenue into a layered journey of intellectual ascension, spanning grounded research, spirited debate and strategic collaboration.
“Inspired by the symbolic power of movement, the project uses vertical circulation to shape the user experience.
“Limestone-wrapped structures and concrete floors establish a modern foundation. At the same time, warm woods and red textiles emerge in collaborative spaces, signalling reflection and resolution. The space honours legacy while amplifying future female leadership through design.”
Student: Dena Storck
Course: MFA, Interior Architecture – Studio 5, Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Email: denastorck[at]gmail.com
The Bridge by Aalia Cunningham
“The Bridge is an experiential youth centre designed in partnership with the GAD Youth Centre, in Fredericksburg, VA, to support teens ages 12 to 16 as they navigate the complex space between childhood and young adulthood.
“This transitional phase is often underserved, leaving young people without the structure or support they still need.
“The Bridge fills that gap. Rooted in mentorship, creativity and autonomy, the centre empowers youth to explore their identities, build real-world skills and cultivate a deep sense of belonging.
“The architecture reflects its mission through spaces that invite movement, inspire reflection and encourage meaningful connection. It is not just a place to go. It is a place to grow.”
Student: Aalia Cunningham
Course: MFA, Interior Architecture – Studio 5, Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Email: aalia.cunningham[at]gwu.edu
The Literary Playground by Meredith O’Neill
“The Literary Playground is an immersive, story-driven environment that blends the quiet reflection of a library with the interactive energy of a children’s museum to promote early literacy, imaginative play and sensory exploration.
“Set within a repurposed 1919 electrical substation of Navy Yard in Washington, DC, the project transforms a historic space into a vibrant, child-centred community hub.
“Organised through a colour-coded wayfinding system and rich with narrative cues, each zone supports diverse activities – from reading and storytelling to creative play and art-making. This encourages emotional growth, social interaction and cognitive development.
“Designed to accommodate a range of learning styles and sensory needs, the Literary Playground invites children to step into a world where they don’t just read stories – they live them.”
Student: Meredith O’Neill
Course: MFA, Interior Architecture – Studio 5, Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Email: mereditheoneill[at]gmail.com
Tide and Vine, Where Wine Meets Water by Julia Gordon
“Tide and Vine is a waterfront urban winery designed to make wine exploration inviting, social and layered.
“Inspired by the fluidity of water and the aging process of wine, the space unfolds through a progression of materiality, light and form that guides guests from approachable, open zones to immersive, sensorial experiences.
“Sculptural curves mirror currents, while tactile finishes evoke vineyard heritage and coastal atmosphere.
“This is a place where design fosters connection, confidence and curiosity, welcoming everyone from casual sippers to seasoned enthusiasts into a journey of discovery.”
Student: Julia Gordon
Course: MFA, Interior Architecture – Studio 5, Graduate
Tutor: Christina Filipescu
Email: julia.gordon[at]gwu.edu
Partnership content
This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Corcoran School of the of Arts and Design. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.
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