October 29, 2025
Gia Kieu, with her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Georgia Southern University (along with her minor in Environmental Sustainability), brings a unique perspective to contemporary workspace design.
“Traveling between Asia and the U.S. every year has deepened my understanding of how historical, social, and cultural contexts influence the way people perceive and express themselves through art, design, and architecture,” Kieu explains. This cross-cultural immersion has cultivated an empathetic, human-centered approach that defines her work.
Kieu’s mission extends beyond aesthetics. She views art and design as a universal language that communicates meaning—of a brand, a community, or a generation—while simultaneously honoring cultural values. Her design approach is rooted in empathy and inclusion, with sustainability as a core commitment to contributing to a healthier planet through thoughtful, responsible design.
SnapCab’s “Space to Be You” Pod Design Contest challenges emerging designers and professionals to reimagine the modern workspace pod—a critical element in today’s flexible office environments. Each year, a winning design is featured at NeoCon, North America’s premier commercial interiors trade show in Chicago, providing unprecedented exposure for the selected concept.
The contest seeks designs that balance personal expression with practical functionality, creating spaces that could serve as both productive environments and restorative retreats.
In 2024, Kieu’s winning design, the Zen Garden Pod, offered a beautiful solution that could transform the conventional workspace into a mindful sanctuary. Drawing inspiration from Japanese garden philosophy, the pod creates an indoor landscape that captures the essence of outdoor tranquillity.
“Crafted from bamboo panels and adorned with organic shapes, the Zen Garden Pod offers a captivating retreat to seek a moment of respite amidst a zen garden setting,” describes Kieu. The design philosophy centers on bringing natural elements indoors to restore focus and inner calm—essential qualities for today’s dynamic work environments.
Every element of the Zen Garden Pod was carefully selected to contribute to the overall atmosphere of tranquility:
Visual Elements: The back wall design showcases Acoufelt WoodBeQuiet linear planks, an acoustic panel that mimics the appearance of natural timber, which is complemented by a lush display of maintenance-free moss texturing. These elements create an immediate visual connection to nature while requiring minimal upkeep.
Acoustic Comfort: Understanding that true tranquility requires acoustic refuge as well as visual calm, Kieu incorporated Envirocoustic™ Wood Wool acoustic ceiling tiles. These Cradle to Cradle Certified tiles provide superior sound absorption while maintaining low VOC emissions, ensuring both auditory and air quality comfort.
Tactile Experience: The ‘Look Both Ways’ carpet by Interface combines Zen-like purity with subtle playfulness through its LVT patterns. An Asher ottoman, reminiscent of river stones, along with a sculptural, hand-crafted maple wood side table complete the sensory experience. The harmonization of these furniture elements invites users to engage with the space physically as well as visually.
Evident throughout the design, is Kieu’s minor in Environmental Sustainability. The pod demonstrates how sustainable materials can enhance aesthetic and functional goals, rather than compromise them:
The Zen Garden Pod’s debut at NeoCon 2024 garnered significant attention from industry professionals, showcasing how emerging designers are addressing contemporary workplace challenges. The design demonstrates that workspace pods can be more than functional enclosures—they can be transformative environments that support both productivity and wellbeing.
“This thoughtful design approach ensures a harmonious blend of natural elements, providing a tranquil and rejuvenating environment for users,” Kieu notes. The pod represents a new generation of workspace design that prioritizes human experience while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Kieu’s success in the “Space to Be You” contest highlights the importance of cultural diversity and sustainability in contemporary design education. As workplaces continue to evolve, designs like the Zen Garden Pod point toward a future where personal wellbeing, cultural sensitivity, and environmental stewardship are integral to commercial interior spaces.
The collaboration between SnapCab and Georgia Southern University’s Interior Design program demonstrates the value of industry-education partnerships in nurturing emerging talent and bringing fresh perspectives to market.
SnapCab’s “Space to Be You” Pod Design Contest represents the company’s commitment to innovation and supporting emerging designers. By providing a platform at NeoCon, the contest bridges the gap between academic design excellence and commercial application, offering students like Kieu invaluable exposure to industry leaders and potential career opportunities.
