Samford University interior design student Jonathan Haas won a top state award for his senior thesis design project.

Haas won the first place in the mixed-use/residential category in student competition sponsored by the Alabama chapter of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA).  He was recognized March 4 at the state organization’s bi-annual awards gala in Birmingham.

Student participation in the design competition included junior and senior interior design students from the University of Alabama, Auburn University, University of North Alabama, Virginia College and Samford. Student awards were also given in retail and corporate design categories.

Haas’ winning project detailed a proposed plan to re-purpose an existing downtown Birmingham structure, the historic Birmingham Branch of the Federal Bank of Atlanta, to meet new academic and community needs.

“The design was based on the desire to create a space that supports community interaction and encourages creative thought through the addition and subtraction of building elements, the objectification of hallowed spaces, and the intersection of public and non-public areas,” said Haas, who  completed his senior internship this semester. He is from St. Louis, Mo.

Samford interior design department chair Jeannie Krumdieck, IIDA, says Haas’ recognition underscores the quality of the Samford program.

“Jonathan’s project exemplifies the caliber of work the students at Samford are capable of producing,” said Krumdieck. “Our faculty and students alike greatly appreciate the IIDA professionals in our community and the support they provide our program.”