UNK STUDENT BRANDI FLYNN WINS NATIONAL KITCHEN AND BATH STUDENT DESIGN AWARD

Dr. Phyllis Markussen
Department of Family Studies and Interior Design

University of Nebraska at Kearney senior Brandi Flynn of Gibbon won the second place award out of nearly 140 entries in the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s (NKBA) Student Design Competition.

Flynn, an interior design student, will receive the award during the Board of Directors Gala at the National Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Chicago, April 1-4. The show draws attendance exceeding 50,000 including international design professionals, kitchen and bath business and industry leaders, and association members.

“Brandi joins a select group of 16 other UNK Interior Design students who have placed first, second or third place in this competition since 1992,” said Dr. Phyllis Markussen, chair of the UNK Department of Family Studies and Interior Design. “Her (Flynn) award-winning design will join 16 other award winners on the ‘Wall of Fame’ in Otto Olson, 214C. UNK’s interior design program is nationally known for its excellence in design and placement of students in the industry.”

The NKBA Student Design Competition is held annually and provides national recognition to students for their exceptional ability to design award-winning kitchens, bathrooms and other spaces.

“A national design award provides students with acclamation and reputation in the design community that enables the student to help secure internship and employment opportunities not otherwise available to all students,” Dr. Markussen said. “A panel of five NKBA certified members judged the 138 entries based on a safe, functional use of space, innovative design solutions, professional presentation and overall aesthetic statement.”