DEW Construction is proud to share that Josh Deutsch, Project Engineer, was awarded Best in Show at the 2026 AIA Vermont Furniture Design Competition, “Flip the Switch,” held this past weekend at the Montgomery Center for the Arts.
This year’s competition challenged designers to create a free-standing illuminating device using predominantly reclaimed, reused, or recycled materials. Entries were juried on Creativity, Innovation, Aesthetics, and Functionality, bringing together Vermont’s architecture and design community in a celebration of craftsmanship and sustainability. The exhibit is open weekends through June 28.
A Design Rooted in Reuse and Local Context
Josh’s winning piece stood out for its thoughtful storytelling, craftsmanship, and strong connection to place.
His pier-inspired lamp reimagines salvaged construction materials through the lens of Burlington’s working waterfront:
Constructed from reclaimed timber posts and bound with marine rope, the piece draws directly from materials collected during a recent hotel renovation in Burlington, Vermont. Echoing the weathered character of dock pilings, the design integrates a soft internal illumination that brings warmth and new life to elements once destined for disposal. The exposed bulb, framed within stacked wooden forms, highlights both the raw textures and the story of reuse—transforming construction remnants into a functional, sculptural object that bridges industrial history with contemporary design.
Silent Auction Now Live
In conjunction with the exhibit, select pieces are available through the AIAVT “Flip the Switch” Silent Auction, now live and running through June 28 at 5:00 PM.
Proceeds from the auction support AIA Vermont’s advocacy and educational programs and contribute to the Montgomery Center for the Arts’ historic restoration efforts. MCAVT is dedicated to enhancing the vitality of life in our local regional communities by providing a venue for a diversity of educational, cultural, artistic, and social experiences.
Celebrating Craft, Creativity, and Sustainability
The competition highlights the importance of hands-on craftsmanship and sustainable design, encouraging participants to divert materials from the landfill while creating durable, meaningful pieces.
Josh’s recognition as Best in Show reflects not only his creativity and attention to detail, but also his broader commitment to innovation, resourcefulness, and thoughtful building practices.
We congratulate Josh on this outstanding achievement and are proud to see his work representing DEW and the construction industry in such a creative and impactful way.
