A Decade of Collaboration: OFS and Kansas State University

Ten years ago, OFS and Kansas State University’s Master of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design program embarked on a partnership that has become a cornerstone of innovation, design education, and industry collaboration. This milestone represents more than just years on a calendar—it symbolizes a decade of nurturing creativity, professional growth, and the exchange of knowledge between academia and industry.

In September, we welcomed Kansas State University (KSU) students to our Huntingburg, Indiana headquarters, giving them a first-hand look at OFS’ world-class manufacturing facilities. Students toured our factory, interacted with our design and production teams, and gained insights into the process of turning concepts into finished products. This experience not only connected the classroom to real-world applications but also provided the students with a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in furniture design and production.

The partnership started in 2014, driven by a shared belief in the power of hands-on learning. Through this collaboration, KSU students have had the unique opportunity to work with real industry briefs, participate in design challenges, and receive professional feedback. Several student projects over the years have even moved beyond the classroom to become OFS products.

As we look back on this incredible decade, we’re reminded of the brilliant work of KSU students and the mutually beneficial nature of this partnership. Together, we’ve pushed the boundaries of design thinking, producing work that is both innovative and practical. We’re excited to continue this journey, shaping the future of design for the next generation of architects and product designers.

This program at Kansas State University is widely regarded for its holistic approach, combining interior architecture, product design, and furniture design into one cohesive curriculum. Students in the program graduate with a Master of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design degree in five years, learning to integrate different design disciplines and solve problems with a comprehensive perspective.

This partnership with OFS has provided KSU students with the invaluable experience of working on real-world design challenges. From workplace storage solutions to specialized healthcare furniture, the range of project briefs has allowed students to think beyond aesthetic design and consider user needs, manufacturability, and long-term usability.

Looking forward, OFS and Kansas State University remain committed to inspiring the next generation of designers through continued collaboration and shared passion for thoughtful, purposeful design.