Two Holly & Smith Projects Recognized with Interior Design Awards

Holly & Smith Architects is honored to have two projects recognized by the IIDA Delta Regional Chapter as part of the 2026 Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA). The awards celebrate outstanding interior design throughout Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi, while recognizing projects that demonstrate creativity, thoughtful support, and excellence in design.

D Vickers Hall at Southeastern Louisiana University received an Award of Recognition for the transformation of one of the University’s longstanding academic buildings into a brighter, more collaborative environment for teaching and learning. The project includes the renovation of the existing 80,000 square-foot building and a 33,000 square-foot addition supporting several academic departments.

The renovation prioritizes natural light, student and faculty collaboration, and a stronger connection to the campus, all while staying aligned to Southeastern’s brand. Judges commented the project, stating, “This project successfully balances historic respect and modern functionality in a major academic building renovation and expansion. The design thoughtfully integrates salvaged materials with new construction, enhances natural light and collaboration, and responds directly to client requests for state-of-the-art media facilities. Attention to craft, durability, and technological integration is evident.”.

The Louisiana Lottery Headquarters received an Award of Recognition for its transformation of a dated office building into a vibrant, modern workplace designed to support collaboration, transparency, and employee wellbeing. The renovation reimagines the existing office environment while incorporating the Louisiana Lottery’s brand throughout the space.

Strategic changes opened the workplace to create new collaborative zones and allow natural light to reach deeper into the building. Updated furnishings, finishes, lighting, artwork, and custom graphics further reinforce the organization’s identity while supporting new ways of working. Judges praised the project, noting, “The design succeeds in delivering a modern, engaging office environment that supports new ways of working and employee connectivity.”

We are grateful to the IIDA Delta Regional Chapter for this recognition and to the clients, consultants, and project teams whose collaboration made these projects possible.