Library and Technology Services is pleased to announce that Holly Fasching ‘26, Design, and Kenna Macdonald ‘27, Mechanical Engineering, have been selected as the winners of the FML Library Design Contest for their submission, Mossgrove, a design that will bring an organic dimension to the geometric architecture of the Fairchild-Martindale Library.

Chosen from a competitive field of entries during the fall 2024 semester, Mossgrove will be brought to life as a Capstone project through the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. This collaboration will allow students to transform the winning concept into a physical installation, fostering interdisciplinary teamwork and hands-on learning.

“Studies show that indoor plants improve one's productivity, focus, and wellbeing. Combining this with our personal experiences in nature, it made sense to create a timeless, biophilic design. We hope that Mossgrove can enhance the day-to-day of those who experience it,” said Macdonald.

Fasching added, “We plan to include lighting elements that mimic nature's circadian rhythm. The gradual shifts in light will evoke sunrise and sunset, fostering a sense of balance and calm. The Earth breathes, and so do we. It’s not magic, it’s nature. It’s our nature.”

Throughout the spring and fall 2025 semesters, Holly and Kenna will work alongside Capstone students and faculty advisors, including Brian Slocum, Director of Design Labs at Lehigh, to refine, prototype, and construct their design. LTS is proud to support this initiative, which highlights student creativity and innovation in reimagining library spaces, and is pleased to award Holly and Kenna $600 each in recognition of their achievement. Please join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved honor!

We are grateful to the following individuals for their expertise in guiding this project, from evaluation and feasibility to risk analysis and advising:

  • Anna Chupa, Professor, Art, Architecture, and Design
  • Natasha de Luna, Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations
  • Eugene Han, Assistant Professor of Architecture
  • Judd Hark, Interim Director of the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, LTS
  • Joe Hartner, Associate Director, LU Facilities
  • Jesse Pearson, Director of Administration & Planning, LTS
  • Alex Radus, Associate General Counsel
  • William Santa, Director of Environmental Health & Safety 
  • Brian Slocum, Director of Design Labs at Lehigh
  • Rick Smith, Director, Office of Technology Transfer
  • Lynn Takacs, Risk Management Analyst, Office of Risk Management
  • Bill Whitney, Assistant Vice Provost for Experiential Learning Programs, Office of Creative Inquiry

Stay tuned for updates on the progress of Mossgrove as it takes shape in the coming year.

Congratulations once again to Holly and Kenna. Your winning design beautifully embodies LTS's goal of creating engaging learning environments for the campus community. We are already looking forward to seeing your work in the FM Library!

Sincerely,

Greg Reihman, Ph.D.
Vice Provost for Library and Technology Services