KENNESAW, Ga. | Jun 10, 2026

Kennesaw State University architecture student Madison Wall turned a vision for Atlanta's historic Sweet Auburn district into a first-place finish at the Super South conference and competition.

The multidisciplinary competition brings together students from across the Southeast to present innovative design and technology projects before industry professionals and a panel of judges. Wall, a student in Kennesaw State's College of Architecture and Construction Management (CACM), impressed judges with her project, “Percolate,” an integrated design that reimagines a vacant lot as a welcoming community gathering space. Her award-winning project combines sustainable design, cultural preservation, and community engagement.

"I was in complete shock," Wall said. "I was fairly confident about moving forward in the process, but I was hoping for fourth or fifth place. When they announced my name for first place, I was not expecting it at all."

Developed in KSU's fourth-year integrative architecture studio, “Percolate” transforms a vacant parking lot in Sweet Auburn into a community-centered artist studio and gallery space. The design draws inspiration from the American Institute of Architects Framework for Design Excellence, which encourages architects to incorporate sustainability and community impact into their work.

“Instead of just having a rain garden, it's a rain garden that brings people into it, gets them outside, and educates them on sustainability factors,” Wall said. “When you integrate all of these different principles together, there is a synergistic effect that enhances sustainability.”

Sweet Auburn's rich cultural history played a major role in shaping the project. Through conversations with community members and visits to the Apex Museum, Wall learned about the district's significance and envisioned a space that would celebrate local culture while creating opportunities for interaction. The project includes artist studios, gallery space, and a central courtyard designed to draw people into the site regardless of whether they are paying customers.

The project's emphasis on accessibility, sustainability, and community engagement helped distinguish it from other entries in the competition. By blending environmental performance with spaces designed to foster connection and cultural appreciation, Wall created a design that addressed both community needs and broader industry priorities.

“Madison's achievement reflects the creativity, technical expertise, and commitment to community impact that we strive to cultivate in our students,” said CACM Dean Hazem Rashed-Ali. “Her project demonstrates how thoughtful design can address real-world challenges while creating meaningful experiences for the people who use these spaces. We are proud to see her work recognized at a prestigious regional competition.”

The project challenged Wall to apply the technical skills required in professional architectural practice. In addition to developing the design concept, she coordinated structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems while ensuring the building met code requirements. Despite the project’s complexity, Wall said the experience strengthened her passion for designing spaces that improve quality of life. Her work focused heavily on occupant wellness, including access to views of nature and outdoor gathering spaces.

“I'm really interested in how a space can change a person,” she said. “Trying to figure out how to bring nature into an empty parking lot in downtown Atlanta for the benefit of people became a major focus of the project.”

Wall credits KSU architecture professor Robin Puttock for helping shape her interest in sustainability and wellness-focused design. She also credits her fellow students and peers for fueling her drive.

“She was the first person who really introduced the idea that built environments can impact how people feel,” Wall said. “That sparked a passion for me, and she's supported me every step of the way. Studio culture and the friends I have made are so important. We push each other, support each other, teach each other, and regardless of all other factors, I do not think I would be where I am without this community of people.”

The award has also strengthened Wall's confidence as she prepares for her final year at KSU and a future career in sustainable architecture. She currently works for Wendel Architecture, where her project recently helped her earn an opportunity to join the firm's sustainability team.

“Winning this competition reminded me why I love architecture and sustainability work,” Wall said. “It gave me confidence that this is what I want to do and that I can make a difference through design.”

– Story by Raynard Churchwell

Photo provided

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university's vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.