Bridging Cultures through Design: A UNA Study Abroad Experience

By Mr. Dhrumil Patel, Professor of Interior Architecture and Design

In May 2025, faculty members Laura McKee, Dhrumil Patel, and Kendra McLain from the Department of Visual Arts and Design led 21 students from the Fashion and Interior Architecture and Design programs on a transformative study abroad journey across Italy and France. This immersive experience offered students the opportunity to explore two of Europe’s most iconic cultural and design-rich regions, where historical legacy meets contemporary innovation.

The program began on May 18, with departure from Huntsville to Venice, Italy—a city celebrated for its enchanting canals and rich artistic heritage. In Venice, students explored Venetian Gothic architecture, connected with local artisans, and witnessed how centuries of culture have shaped design in this floating city.

Interior Architecture and Design students took a special trip to Vicenza, renowned as the home of Andrea Palladio. Known for its classical architectural influence, Vicenza offers an academic deep dive into balance, symmetry, and the architectural ideals that continue to inspire designers today.

The group then traveled to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Walking the same streets as Michelangelo and Brunelleschi, students visited the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Uffizi Gallery, and textile studios that bridge historic craftsmanship with modern-day fashion and interiors.

Next on the itinerary was Rome—the Eternal City. Here, students engaged with architectural landmarks like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Roman Forum, while examining the ways ancient infrastructure informs today’s design practices. Rome also introduced students to fashion houses that merge classical inspiration with contemporary aesthetics.

The final stop was Paris, France—the global capital of fashion and design. From the Louvre and Notre Dame to Fondation Louis Vuitton and Palais Galliera, students were immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of haute couture, modern interiors, and European culture. Fashion and Interior Architecture and Design students alike explored Parisian neighborhoods, boutiques, and museums while reflecting on their creative and cross-cultural growth.

Traveling by regional trains and flights, students experienced diverse European landscapes, daily cultural immersion, and a rhythm of life that fuels artistic discovery. The program blended hands-on learning with cultural engagement, offering each student a platform for academic growth and personal transformation.

The FASH-IAD Study Abroad 2025 program was more than a trip—it was a journey of global awareness, design exploration, and lasting inspiration, guided by dedicated faculty passionate about student success.

        Mr. Dhrumil Patel