Quebec Students Shine in Furniture Design Challenge

Canadian students, led by two entrants from Quebec College of General and Vocational Education programs, took top honours in the 2026 Form Student Innovation Competition.

The grand prize was awarded to Kassandra Avila of Cégep de Trois-Rivières for Vivo, a modular children’s furniture concept that supports play, learning and self-expression. Featuring rounded forms and a soft blue-and-white colour palette, the piece creates a calm and welcoming environment for children of varying ages and sizes.

Avila received $2,000 for the win. A fabricated design of Vivo will be showcased at Neocon 2026, June 8-10, in Chicago.

Émile Tessier of Cégep Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu was one of two students tied for second place. His project, The Foam, was inspired by soap bubbles. The design was developed for educational and child-focused spaces, combining playful aesthetics with practical functionality suited to short-term activities and collaborative environments.

Tessier received $1,000 alongside fellow second place recipient, Vania Lau, of Purdue University.

Canada also earned an honourable mention through Maryssa Baril of Dawson College in Montreal.

Organized by Formica Corp., the Form Student Innovation Competition invites students worldwide to develop furniture concepts that promote creativity, comfort and positive user experiences.

This year’s theme was mood-boosting design.