CHICAGO - With Chicago's world-renowned architectural skyline as the backdrop at Oak Street beach, more than 900 local architects and interior designers recently competed at the 26th annual Brenda Faist Associates Battle of the Design Stars beach volleyball tournament, sponsored by Sedia Systems. The competition featured 60 co-ed teams. When the sand settled, Legat Architects reigned supreme to take first place after winning eight out of nine games.
"I've played my heart out in this tournament for the past three years and our team finally won," says Jacqueline Petrosius of Legat Architects. "Win or lose, it's always a blast coming out here. This event brings everyone who loves architecture together in one place. It's like an industry reunion."
Second place in the tournament went to Goettsch Partners with seven wins and two losses. Trophies were also awarded to Harley Ellis Devereaux for best T-shirt design with honorable mention going to Linden Groups Inc. Architects. Studio One Design/Jensen and Halstead was recognized for the team with the most unique attire and Teng Associates was called out for demonstrating the most spirit.
The event was created and managed by Brenda Faist, affectionately known as the unofficial ambassador of beach volleyball in Chicago. Faist is the founder of Brenda Faist Associates, an independent manufacturer rep firm for educational and contract environment furnishings targeting Chicago's A&D community.
"I'm thrilled to see how this event has grown from 16 teams back in 1982 and to have Sedia Systems as the primary sponsor of the event this year," says Faist. "It's always gratifying for me to provide this opportunity for Chicago's A&D professionals to get together, reacquaint, make new connections and have some fun. Little did I know 26 years ago that the initial idea would develop into the signature sporting event in Chicago for architects and interior designers."
Sedia Systems designs, engineers and manufactures fixed and multi-purpose seating solutions for lecture halls, classrooms, and auditoriums in education and training environments. Established in 2004 and privately owned, the company differentiates itself by offering architects and designers the industry's largest selection of seating components and finish options. Sedia Systems' corporate offices and product showroom are located in Chicago, with additional operations in High Point, NC. For more information, go to www.sediasystems.com.
