2026 News 2026: IAD student named to the 2026 Metropolis Future 100

Interior architecture and design student Wyatt Carlton '26 was named to the list of top design graduates in the U.S. and Canada.

Interior architecture and design (IAD) major Wyatt Carlton '26 was recently named to the 2026 Metropolis Future 100, an annual list of exceptional graduating architecture and interior design students whose portfolios reflect a dedication to purposeful design. Carlton is one of 33 students across the U.S. and Canada recognized in the Undergraduate Interior Design category. 

"Wyatt's projects show a clear design process grounded in strong ideas and careful consideration of user experience," said Carlton's nominator Assistant Professor of Design Jill Janasiewicz. "He approaches studio work with seriousness and follow-through, and his portfolio reflects his commitment to refining both concept and craft." 

An internship with Boston-based design firm Visnick and Caulfield set Carlton up for long-term success, and he has been offered a full-time designer position after graduation. "Using the resources here set me up for my future," he said. "I've done more than I ever expected." 

In his 4 years at UMass Dartmouth, Carlton has grown as a designer, honing his taste and broadening his understanding of all that goes into designing a space. "There are so many things that go into a building design beyond just the way it looks," he said. "We have to think about HVAC systems, plumbing, safety, and accessibility, to name a few." 

"Using the resources here set me up for my future. I've done more than I ever expected."

"Wyatt has evolved into a thoughtful and highly capable designer, demonstrating a clear understanding that design extends far beyond aesthetics to encompass human experience, technical rigor, and responsibility to the built environment," said Associate Professor and IAD Program Coordinator Rose Mary Botti-Salitsky. "I have truly enjoyed working with Wyatt throughout his academic journey—we’ve shared many meaningful conversations about design and its impact. His semester abroad was a pivotal moment in his academic experience, broadening his perspective and enriching his approach to design. His recognition in the Metropolis Future100 is a testament to his dedication, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to purposeful, evidence-informed design." 

Q&A with Wyatt Carlton 

Why UMass Dartmouth? 

"I chose UMass Dartmouth because the Interior Architecture and Design program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). I also had a great experience when I first met with program coordinator Rose Mary Botti-Salitsky, she really sold me on the program." 

As a designer, what do you think of our campus architecture? 

"Our campus is very unique. I've come to appreciate the architecture we have on this campus. The library is my favorite building here." 

Any advice for younger students? 

"Time management is so important, especially in a creative field; don't leave things until the last minute. But more importantly, college is a time to explore. You might not always have the time or the freedom to explore and try new things—this is the time to do it!"