A Texas teenager is making his mark on the computer modeling world — and disabled veterans are the inspiration.
Sachchit Balamurugan, a 16-year-old Frisco resident, won the top prizes at the Business Professionals of America (BPA) regional competition in both “Computer Modeling” and “User Experience” categories for his 3D-modeled home design. Interested in computer modeling since middle school, Balamurugan created a completely accessible, safe and sustainable living space for people with disabilities, including voice-controlled systems, motion-sensing lighting, adjustable-height furniture, drawer-style kitchen appliances and an emergency alert system.
“I’ve always been surrounded by service and veterans, and have always loved helping out,” said Balamurugan, a Boy Scout who just finished his review board for Eagle Scout, the organization’s highest rank. “I was inspired to design this project after watching a video online about the struggles that disabled veterans face in their homes. It really opened my mind.”
Balamurugan, who attends Texas Online Preparatory School and plays competitive tennis, spent around 15 hours researching the obstacles that veterans with disabilities face through personal interviews. Those questions included not only what life is like with a wheelchair, for example, but also interviewees’ favorite colors and aesthetics. From there, he worked for approximately 30 hours on the actual design, incorporating the veterans’ feedback into his final 3D model.
“They talked about having a more homey feel, so I decided to put a plant wall behind the dining area so it gives more fresh air,” said Balamurugan, who hopes to eventually enter the field of biomedical engineering. “They said my design would be really helpful, since it’s giving them more space.”
Besides devices planted in every wall that can be activated to call help in case of medical or other emergencies, Balamurugan included a few touches just for the military community “to keep the patriotic mindset,” he said, like a wall of honor with space for medals and an adjustable gun rack. Since everything is adjustable, including the TV, the house design also works for non-disabled family members, partners or roommates.
Balamurugan’s creation will be featured at the Texas BPA State Association’s State Leadership Conference competition beginning on Feb. 27.
“I hope my model gets recognized further, where people start designing more stuff for disabled veterans,” he said. “I want to create spaces that aren’t just accessible for them, but also practical, comfortable and safe. Veterans have done so much for my country, so I’ve always wanted to help them back.”
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