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El Paso College's Studio 9: Experiential Interior Design Hub

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/15 .. s-studio-9-experiential-interior-design-hub.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, March 15th 2026 at 16:46 GMT by KTSM
      Locales: Texas, UNITED STATES

EL PASO, Texas - March 15th, 2026 - In an era increasingly focused on the impact of physical spaces on well-being, productivity, and community, El Paso Community College's (EPCC) Studio 9 stands as a beacon of innovative, experiential learning. More than just a lab, Studio 9 is a fully functioning interior design hub where students don't just learn about design - they live it, transforming real spaces and impacting the lives of those who inhabit them.

For years, interior design education has relied heavily on theoretical knowledge and simulated projects. While valuable, this approach often leaves students unprepared for the complexities and nuances of working with actual clients and navigating the practical challenges of real-world renovations. Studio 9 flips this model, offering a unique program that bridges the gap between academia and professional practice. The program is proving to be a vital component of EPCC's commitment to workforce development, preparing students for immediate success upon graduation.

The core of Studio 9's philosophy is rooted in collaborative, hands-on experience. Students aren't simply assigned projects; they actively participate in every stage, from initial needs assessment to final implementation. A recent example, the revitalization of the EPCC Administrative Services faculty lounge, perfectly illustrates this approach. The project wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about understanding the specific needs of the faculty and creating a space that fostered comfort, relaxation, and inspiration.

"We weren't just picking colors and furniture," explains Vanessa Reyes, an EPCC interior design student involved in the faculty lounge project. "We spent weeks talking to the faculty, running surveys, and holding focus groups. We needed to know how they used the space, what frustrated them, and what would genuinely make their work lives better." This emphasis on user-centered design is a key differentiator of the Studio 9 program. It reflects a broader industry trend towards creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functionally optimized for the people who use them.

The faculty lounge redesign incorporated a thoughtful blend of new furniture, strategically selected lighting, curated artwork, and biophilic elements - incorporating plants to connect the space with nature. Importantly, the students also prioritized sustainability, sourcing environmentally friendly materials and incorporating energy-efficient design principles. This commitment to green design aligns with a growing demand for sustainable practices within the interior design field and prepares students to address the environmental challenges of the future.

Dr. Kathleen Flores, a faculty member who utilizes the lounge, praised the students' collaborative approach and the resulting transformation. "The students truly listened to our needs and translated them into a space that we all adore. It's amazing how much a thoughtful redesign can impact morale and productivity."

Studio 9 isn't operating in a vacuum. The program's success is fueled by a strong partnership between EPCC's Interior Design Department, the EPCC Foundation, and various community partners. This collaboration provides students with access to real-world projects and resources, while also contributing to the beautification and improvement of the EPCC campus and the broader El Paso community. Currently, discussions are underway with the City of El Paso regarding potential partnerships to revitalize public spaces in underserved neighborhoods, further expanding the program's impact.

Rebecca Lopez, Chair of the EPCC Interior Design Department, emphasizes the program's long-term vision. "Studio 9 is more than just a program; it's a testament to the power of experiential learning and community collaboration. We're not just training designers; we're cultivating creative problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and compassionate individuals who are committed to making a positive difference through the built environment." Looking ahead, Lopez anticipates expanding Studio 9's scope to include accessibility consulting and universal design principles, ensuring that the spaces students design are inclusive and welcoming to all.

As the demand for skilled interior designers continues to grow, programs like Studio 9 are poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of the profession. By providing students with hands-on experience, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing sustainability, EPCC is empowering the next generation of designers to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional, sustainable, and truly transformative.