The students participated in "Groovystuff by Design: Connecting Education with Industry Challenge" at the April 20-25 High Point Market, a contest by manufacturer Groovystuff.

The winners were Ian O'Hare (Appalachian State University), Ami Seuki (North Carolina State University), Malachi Payne (University of Idaho) and Bethany DeLine (University of Minnesota). They placed first from their respective schools in the popular vote at market for their innovative, environmentally friendly product designs, the company said.

Students were tasked with designing an environmentally friendly product that reflects the Dick Idol Legends brand and can be produced using sustainable furniture manufacturing practices. Students made miniature models and product display boards for High Point attendees to vote on.

The winning designs were voted "most marketable" and "most likely to show a profit" by retailers, interior designers and other trade professionals attending market.

Each student received a $250 cash prize along with royalties for life if their designs are produced and sold.

O'Hare, a second-year industrial design student, won for the Khunkhea Table Collection of teak wood tabletops inspired by the mountain ranges of northwestern Thailand.