The USM Design Grant is a study grant launched by the FONDATION USM to encourage innovation by rewarding a student’s project. The grant amounts to CHF 25,000. This competition takes place each year, alternating between Geneva and Lausanne, and is granted in turn to students from HEAD/Haute école d’art et design Genève and ECAL/Ecole cantonale d’art de Lausanne.

The "Next Caravan" project aims to design inclusive and accessible caravan interiors. The 18 bachelor students of the interior architecture department at HEAD – Genève designed enjoyable and ergonomic spaces that are suitable for people of all abilities. The goal was to improve the atmosphere of caravan interiors, while also enhancing functionality and comfort.

The project was conducted in collaboration with the FONDATION USM. The USM Design Grant 2023 has been given to Ilena Escher (winner) and Amarine Dondey (honourable mention). This study grant initiated by the FONDATION USM in 2017 promotes innovation among students.

Design Grant

ILENA ESCHER
StepByStep

StepByStep is a design project to meet the specific needs of people with upper limb loss. The converted van design allows one person to live independently or with others during vacations. It promotes autonomy and adaptability, providing a pleasant and comfortable living experience.

The main concept of this project was developed by studying the daily life of people with upper limb loss to identify the essential spatial elements that needed to be adapted. The design incorporates different heights for easier access and mobility. Storage units are placed in the floor for easy access. The kitchen is at the same height as the seating area, making it easier to move around and use. The living area floor is covered with a soft fabric, reminiscent of tatami mats, creating a comfortable and inviting space. All main elements are placed at a low level, making them easy to reach and use. Dimensions, heights, and lighting are all optimised for user comfort.

Special Mention

AMARINE DONDEY
Dementia Get Away

Dementia Get Away is a design project that aims to allow people suffering from Alzheimer's or more generally from dementia to go on vacation in a motor home for a few days. The interior space is designed to accommodate one patient and their carer. The environment is optimised to provide an escape from the daily life that constantly brings the patients back to their disease.

The space has been designed to foster a feeling of safety by providing spatial reference points and by making it easier to find your way around through various design adaptations. People with this disease often have a desire to leave, even without a goal or without a destination. This caravan proposal aims to provide a getaway that can initiate moments of sharing, remembering, and rediscovering the surroundings.