Challenge Brief

DESIGN FOR IMPACT

Everything you need to design Carlos' kitchen. The goal, the deliverables, and how to submit.

THE MOODBOARD DESIGN CHALLENGE BRIEF

Design a kitchen moodboard and concept that responds to Carlos’s needs while balancing timeless beauty, craftsmanship, durability, and warmth.

The goal is to show how thoughtful design can support independence without compromising style. Consider how cabinetry, storage, lighting, appliances, ergonomics, and materials can work together to make Carlos’s everyday life easier and more comfortable.

Design Direction

Create a warm, inviting, refined Traditional or Transitional kitchen that reflects Carlos’s preferences:

Dark wood cabinetry, such as walnut (no light-colored cabinetry)
Light-colored countertops
Warm, neutral tones with subtle green accents (absolutely no blues)
Warm lighting (2700K–3500K)
Timeless cabinetry details and character
Durable, high-quality materials

Accessibility & Functionality

Prioritize solutions that minimize bending, reaching, lifting, and prolonged standing.

Consider:

Raised countertops and work surfaces
Accessible storage within comfortable reach
Easy-access storage for heavy items
An ergonomic, highly functional island
Improved pantry and tall storage solutions
Enhanced task and under-cabinet lighting

The Impact

For Carlos, this kitchen represents independence and dignity, allowing him to complete everyday tasks with less physical strain and less reliance on others.

Show us how accessibility can be seamlessly integrated into beautiful, inspiring design. Design with purpose. Design for Impact.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO SUBMIT

1st Deliverable

Curated Moodboard

Select one of Cabinet Couture's cabinet doors as the architectural focal point, and assemble a moodboard using any of the following samples: countertop, fixture finish, flooring, tile, paint, decorative materials, and/or hardware. You may source samples ideally from our sponsoring vendors or from any of your preferred vendors.

Presentation boards will be provided by Cabinet Couture. Pick yours up at our showroom. Physical moodboards are due at 5615 Burnet Road, Suite 4, Austin, TX 78756 by October 16.

2nd Deliverable

Concept Elevation

Include one of the following non-dimensioned elevation views: a color hand sketch, visualization, or rendering showing an elevation perspective illustrating how your selected materials work together within the kitchen.

A single elevation view or illustration is required. More than one is not necessary.

3rd Deliverable

Design Narrative (100–500 words)

Describe your design philosophy, material selections, and accessibility considerations.

As part of the accessibility considerations, please elaborate on what functional features, solutions, or accessories you would implement and how your design improves Carlos' daily life.

4th DELIVERABLE