FARGO, N.D. — On Sunday, September 7, Scheels will host the 8th Annual Interior Design Challenge in partnership with North Dakota State University (NDSU) students. The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. at Scheels Home & Hardware on 13th Avenue in Fargo.
During the competition, 15 NDSU interior design students will work in teams to design a small space related to one of five themes: “Cozy Cabin,” “Updated Traditional,” “Everything Natural,” “Modern Masculine,” and “Rugged Rustic.” The teams will have under four hours to complete their projects using only items from the store’s sales floor.
The challenge includes two awards. The People’s Choice Award will be determined by a public vote, which opens on September 7 and closes on September 14. People can vote in person at the store or online via a link that will be provided. A Judge’s Choice Award will be selected by a panel of local design experts who will evaluate the displays and provide feedback to the students.
Susan Ray-Degges, a professor and coordinator for the NDSU interior design program, stated that the challenge provides students with valuable, hands-on experience. “Challenges like this truly bring design education to life—enhancing student confidence, professional readiness, and community engagement,” she said.
Leah Martin, an interior designer for Scheels and an NDSU interior design graduate, will work with the students. “As a 2002 graduate of the NDSU Interior Design Program, I find great joy in giving back to a program that has shaped my career and continues to inspire the next generation of designers,” Martin said.
The public is invited to attend the event to observe the competition.
