MSA Design is proud to announce that the firm has received the 2026 Cincinnati Design Award for Experiential Graphics for its comprehensive experiential branding and environmental graphics developed for the Indian Hill Exempted Village School District (IHEVSD). The recognition celebrates the successful transformation of multiple campus environments through a unified, meaningful, and student-centered graphic design system.

The award-winning work was part of the district’s long-term strategic Master Plan, which included renovations and additions to the Primary School Elementary School, and High School along with a new Middle School. MSA Design collaborated closely with district leadership, faculty, students, and community members to create a system that enhances learning, strengthens identity, and reflects the character of the Indian Hill community.

Inspired by the village’s rolling hills, wooded parks, horse paths, and natural beauty, the graphics draw from a conceptual framework centered on earth, water, and sky. These elements guide the spatial experience for students, staff, and visitors. Earth-inspired graphics identify gathering areas, water-themed graphics support student artwork displays, and sky elements highlight STEM and innovation zones. This system creates cohesion across campuses while still allowing each school to express age-appropriate design.

Indian Hill Primary School features playful illustrations and interactive features that invite exploration. The Elementary School incorporates more detailed natural graphics that highlight local flora and fauna along with district values. The Middle School shifts toward a mature and STEM-focused aesthetic with geometric patterns and a recurring hexagon motif that reflects innovation and scientific learning. Together, these design solutions shape environments that inform, inspire, and celebrate the learning journey.

Since installation, teachers and students have embraced the graphics as part of daily learning. Students use the visuals to navigate spaces, make content connections, and strengthen their sense of belonging. Families and visitors experience a consistent and welcoming identity that reflects the pride of the Indian Hill community.

“We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” said Chris Patek, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at MSA Design. “Our partnership with Indian Hill Exempted Village School District has been grounded in collaboration and a shared desire to elevate the student experience and support each students journey. The district’s vision and commitment to meaningful, community-rooted design allowed us to craft environments that reflect Indian Hill’s character while inspiring curiosity and creativity each day.”

“This recognition reflects the power of a shared vision. Our partnership with MSA Design transformed not just our buildings, but the daily experience of our students. Every graphic, every visual cue, and every learning environment was intentionally crafted to celebrate who we are as a community and to inspire the learners who fill these spaces.” said Kirk Koennecke, CEO/Superintendent, Indian Hill Exempted Village School District. “We are deeply grateful for this collaboration and proud of the environments our students now call home.”

The Cincinnati Design Awards honor excellence in architecture, interiors, landscape architecture, experiential graphics, and engineering across the region. Selected by a jury of nationally recognized professionals, the awards highlight projects that demonstrate creativity, innovation, and positive community impact.

MSA Design is grateful for the recognition and extends its appreciation to the Indian Hill Exempted Village School District for its trust, collaboration, and shared dedication to creating enriched environments for students.