La Roche University Interior Architecture & Design Students Partner with Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry to Reimagine Spaces

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 20, 2026 – Students in La Roche University’s Interior Architecture & Design program recently partnered with Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry to develop design concepts for the nonprofit’s new facility near the University.

Anchorpoint relocated in April to a 15,000-square-foot building on Vincentian’s campus at 8250 Babcock Blvd. The organization invited La Roche students to reimagine four spaces: a support group room for mental health programs, a sanctuary for quiet reflection, a staff retreat for rest and rejuvenation, and a clinical learning library for mental health professionals in training.

Through the University’s SOLVE Center, 28 sophomore and junior students visited Anchorpoint to tour the facility, measure and photograph the spaces, and learn about the organization’s needs. Each team received a project budget, requirements, and design guidelines emphasizing warm, welcoming, and trauma-informed environments that incorporate natural elements.

Students then participated in a 48-hour design charrette, working in teams to develop proposals that included renderings, layouts, and recommendations for furnishings and materials.

On October 15, students presented their concepts to Anchorpoint representatives at La Roche. The organization will review the proposals and may request revisions, with the goal of incorporating the students’ designs into the finished spaces.

“This project gave our students the opportunity to work with a real client, respond to real needs, and apply their classroom learning in a meaningful way,” said Michelle Kirkpatrick, co-chair of the Design Division and Chair of the Interior Architecture & Design department at La Roche. “They’re gaining valuable professional experience, building their portfolios, and contributing to an organization that provides important services to our community.”

“We were impressed by the attention to detail, creativity, and thoughtfulness the students brought to this project,” said Mark Heinbockel, executive director of Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry. “Their ideas reflect our vision for creating welcoming, supportive, and trauma-informed spaces where individuals and families can find hope and healing. We’re grateful for this partnership and excited about the possibilities for bringing the students’ designs to life.”

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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