LSU School of Interior Design continues to be a launching pad for talented professionals, as evidenced by the recent selection of three LSU alumni for Interior Design magazine’s prestigious 30 Under 30 (30/30) list. Kim Nguyen (LSU BID Class of 2020), Brannon Hardy (Class of 2021), and Marguerite Eppling (Class of 2023) are among the up-and-coming designers who have been recognized for their outstanding work and potential to shape the future of the design industry.

Kim Nguyen: Innovating with Impact

Kim Nguyen, RID, NCIDQ, IIDA, LEED Green Associate, is a 2020 graduate of the LSU School of Interior Design and an interior designer at FLAD Architects in Tampa, Florida. Recognized for her blend of modern sensibilities and cultural influences, Nguyen brings an innovative approach to different spaces. Her passion for creating sustainable and thoughtful designs is reflected in her work, which emphasizes functionality, aesthetic harmony, and eco-conscious choices.

Nguyen’s selection for the 30 Under 30 interior designers is a testament to her dedication to the craft and her determination to elevate design through sustainability, environmental responsibility, and inclusivity.

“I am so grateful for Flad’s nomination and honored to be seen as a young, upcoming designer through this program!” Nguyen said.

Brannon Hardy: Impacting the Industry

Brannon Hardy, who graduated from LSU in 2021, is an associate designer at Gensler, a global architecture, design and planning firm, at the Nashville, Tennessee office. His approach to interior design goes beyond aesthetics—he designs spaces that tell a story. Hardy’s goal is “to impact the industry through a client-centered approach, allowing the client to live through our designs and achieve a sense of self through their space.”

“I feel so lucky I had the opportunity to be a part of Interior Design Magazine‘s Nashville 30 under 30 class. Wrapping up 2024, I was incredibly humbled to be accepted as part of the inaugural, national class of 30 under 30 designers and receive the Interior Design NEXT Emerging Design Talent Award,” Hardy said.

“Visiting Chicago and sharing the room with so many passionate designers across the country was an incredible experience I will not forget. There was a buzz in all the connections we made and a shared positivity about what the future could hold. I look forward to seeing where everyone goes from here,” he said.

“Being a part of this group is an honor and I could not be more thankful for it. It is a testament to those I’ve considered a mentor, my family, my friends, and my partner. All have supported my growth in this industry. I hold this as a reminder to continue trusting the process and reaching for more.”

Marguerite Eppling: Emerging Visionary

Marguerite Eppling, IIDA, (BID Class of 2023), has wasted no time making her mark in the interior design world. Eppling is an interior design coordinator at Stantec in Chicago, Illinois with a versatile background encompassing projects across hospitality, federal, multi-family, residential, and workplace sectors. She excels in integrating functionally innovative solutions into her designs while consistently striving for aesthetically pleasing outcomes, and is an advocate for environmental responsibility.

“It was truly an honor to be among some of the most talented and emerging design leaders right here in Chicago,” she said. “A special thank you to design futurist AJ Paron for her inspiring words and visionary outlook on the future of young designers. I also want to express my gratitude to Caroline G. Murphy for her leadership and dedication to the program. It was an incredible night filled with insightful conversations and valuable connections. My thanks go out to all the representatives who shared their time and knowledge about the latest innovations in the industry.”

“I’m eager to see where the Class of 2024 will go from here. I’m confident that each one of us will make a remarkable impact!”

Her selection for 30 Under 30 is an exciting recognition of her early career success, and her future in the industry looks incredibly bright. She is already contributing to a new wave of interior designers who value inclusivity, sustainability, and social impact in their projects.

A Bright Future for LSU Interior Design

The recognition of Kim Nguyen, Brannon Hardy, and Marguerite Eppling underscores LSU’s strong position as a leader in interior design education. These talented alumni have set the bar for future generations of designers, demonstrating that LSU Interior Design graduates are equipped to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation in the design industry.

“With their exceptional talents, vision, and commitment to improving the built environment, these three young designers are poised to help shape the future of interior design,” said Marsha Cuddeback, LSU School of Interior Design director. “As they continue to grow and succeed in their careers, they are sure to inspire future LSU graduates to follow in their footsteps, proving that a degree from LSU is not just an academic achievement but a springboard to making a real-world impact.”

Learn more about the LSU School of Interior Design.