SHOW LTU 2024 unveils the future of architecture and design May 2-4

In its third year, SHOW LTU 2024 is set to shine a spotlight on the future of architecture and design work rooted right here at Lawrence Technological University.

The exhibition includes more than 150 original works created by graduating students as well as work of alumni of LTU’s College of Architecture and Design (CoAD). This year, SHOW LTU was on May 2-4, 2024 at Building 3 in the College of Architecture and Design.

“Participating in a public exhibition of capstone projects, especially with an industry and alumni night, is a pivotal experience that significantly prepares students for their future careers,” said Lilian Crum, associate dean of CoAD. “Having this opportunity to discuss their projects with notable industry members, graduating students gain a platform for learning, networking and professional development.”

Participants of SHOW LTU 2024 have completed either a master’s degree in architecture, or a bachelor’s degrees in graphic design, game design, interior design, product/industrial design, or transportation design. There will also be a selection of student work from junior-level courses. For example, students from an elective called “Curious Objects and Connections,” developed experimental product design objects that were exhibited at Milan Design Week in spring.

The event represents a rare opportunity for students, alumni, and the public to connect and consider what the future will look like.

Rima Shkoukani, a graduating product/industrial design student, made it a priority to check out SHOW LTU early in her studies at LTU. She said that seeing her peers’ work was inspiring and motivating. It gave her a chance to network with industry professionals and meet professors who broadened her understanding of other disciplines at LTU. She recommends other students do the same.

This year, Shkoukani will exhibit two product/industrial design projects and a furniture piece at SHOW LTU. They include Seatbelt Redesigned, an exploration of restraint systems that offers a new look at form, function, and materials as we approach a future with autonomous vehicles; ScanBrite, a tool allowing patients to communicate effectively with dentists from the comfort of home; and a furniture piece titled Zaytun inspired by Middle Eastern techniques with a modern twist.

She calls this opportunity to show her work a fully-immersive experience.

“It’s an honor to be a part of this LTU showcase,” said Shkoukani. “Not only is it a celebration of my strongest pieces and accomplishments over the past 4 years, it’s an interactive resume and portfolio. I’m excited to get to show off all the hard work and skills I’ve developed throughout the duration of my education to my family, friends, and industry connections.”

Fellow LTU CoAD graduate student Emily Bigelow is completing her master’s degree in architecture. She displayed her thesis work, titled “Building Biodiversity: Architectural Interventions for Mangrove Restoration and Community Engagement” in the May exhibition.

“This is a great opportunity to show off our industry-specific interests and talents to prospective firms,” she said. “Networking at this event can help students obtain niche job positions that are specific to their career ambitions.”

SHOW LTU encapsulates LTU’s core philosophy of theory and practice by bringing these works to light.

“Capstone projects for design and architecture students serve as a culmination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills acquired throughout their academic journey,” said Crum. “These projects are integrative experiences where students apply complex theories, methods, and materials to real-world or hypothetical design and architectural challenges, demonstrating their competence and innovation.”

SHOW LTU 2024 included an alumni preview, industry night, and awards ceremony. Awards were presented at 5 p.m. and the show opened to the public at 6 p.m. Renowned Architect Thom Mayne spoke at the showcase as a special addition to this year’s program.

Friends and family members of LTU students attended SHOW LTU on Saturday, May 4, 2024, following commencement.

by Stephanie Casola