On October 25, in partnership with the New York School of Interior Design, Baccarat hosted its first-ever scholarship ceremony to engage and elevate New York–area A&D students and ensure that a rising tide of promising designers get their chance to shine. More than 100 influential members of the interior design community joined Baccarat and NYSID to celebrate the diverse design talent of the future.
As guests mingled and enjoyed cocktails from exquisite Baccarat glassware, Adam Banfield, Baccarat’s North American president and CEO, commenced the awards ceremony with opening remarks. “Baccarat, for years now, has had the pleasure of being the trophy purveyor of NYSID’s annual gala in the spring. It is our honor now to give back to the students of NYSID in a truly meaningful way and to bring together this incredible group of designers, partners and friends of the brand at the House of Baccarat to create a lasting legacy between our institutions. Baccarat and NYSID have more in common than you might think. Above all, we inspire joy by helping people craft beautiful spaces.”
After having been challenged by Baccarat to design a space that inspires celebration—and that incorporated lighting, decor and/or tableware from the legendary house—six promising students presented their wonderful concepts to a full house. While all designs were unique and well-articulated, three students were recognized with awards: Bridget Lee, fourth-year NYSID student, was awarded top honors with a $10,000 scholarship; Peter Ibarra, MFA student at NYSID, won second place and a $1,500 Baccarat gift card; and Jason Win, MFA student at NYSID, took home third prize and a $500 Baccarat gift card.
The projects were judged and prizes awarded by Courtney McLeod, founder of Right Meets Left Interior Design, Marshall Watson, principle of Marshall Watson Interiors, and Elizabeth Lawrence, partner at Williams Lawrence. NYSID’s president, David Sprouls, and chairperson of the board Ellen Kravet were also on hand to fete the students.