Allison Garber Portfolio by Allison

ALLISON GARBER

INTERIOR DESIGN PORTFOLIO

COMMUNITY CENTER

AGING IN PLACE HOME

DESIGN FIRM OTHER DESIGN WORKS

COMMUNITY CENTER

PROJECT BRIEF

The main portion of this project focuses on redesigning an existing warehouse space of Faith Community Center in Gary, Indiana. In the warehouse of the community center the client wants a video production room, bathrooms, classrooms, a storage room, a community space with room for a stage and chairs, and a dance studio for his daughter. Along with these spaces I included a gym and locker rooms.

GARY, INDIANA

PROJECT GOALS

RESEARCH

In order to create a better understanding of Gary, Indiana, its community, and Faith Works Network I did a lot of research to prepare myself for the design process. I researched into the geographical context, social context, history of the city, the client, examined other community centers for inspiration, and read articles. Along with this kind of research, I visited Gary to get a visual idea of how it was and also visited the client to tour their facility and determine what they wanted.

HISTORY OF GARY

The city began from building the world’s largest integrated steel mill along the border of Lake Michigan. As this mill grew, they started building a city around it and homes for the mill workers. The transportation network grew, which added railroad tracks bringing in more businesses and residents. Gary’s population rapidly declined after reaching a population of 178,000 due to changes in manufacturing and globalization. Cities and businesses grew outside of Gary adding to the cities disinvestment and abandonment. In the present day, the quality of life and the ability to obtain basic amenities and services remain strained. Neighborhoods are now in dire condition with high rates of vacancy and deteriorating buildings.

FAITH WORKS NETWORK

Faith Works Network is a 40+ member community of pastors, local stakeholders, and individual partners that are dedicated to empowering and enriching the lives of people in Gary. They provide various services including community outreach and networking events. Faith Works Network is focused on faith-led and collaborative economic development. They emphasize 6 pillars; Farm to Table, Business Growth, Holistic Healing, Environmental Justice, Renewable Energy, and Community Safety.

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT

Gary is located in Indiana, below the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It has a very close proximity to Chicago, about 25 miles southeast of downtown Chicago.

SOCIAL CONTEXT

Overall population in Gary has decreased over time due to a poor quality of life, public safety issues, low workforce population, and health issues. The rate at which the population is declining is slowing down, but will continue as people will move for work and there is a slow pace of new residents entering.

RACE/ETHNICITY

CONCEPT

The design concept for the community center is luxury, creating an environment that feels as refined and inviting as a high-end hospitality space. The client envisions the community center as a luxurious hotel-like space, providing an elevated yet welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. While the rest of the building embraces a palette of mainly blues and whites, this space will align and also stand out with high-end look.

Flowing lines and organic curves introduce a sense of movement, softening and enhancing the space. A curated color scheme, containing turquoise, soft neutrals, and metallic accents, balances comfortability with an upscale feeling environment. This space is intended for every individual who enters to feel valued, comfortable, and embraced by an atmosphere of quiet luxury.

MOOD BOARD

PHYCIAL MATERIAL BOARD

CONCEPT

BUBBLE DIAGRAM

ADJACENCIES

Creating digital models of designs/patterns inspired by the concept, mood board, and physical material board helped to create some preliminary ideations for the space. These helped to create spacial layouts, materials, level changes, and architectural elements.

This plan shows where walls were previously and the new spaces that were created. The new layout remains open highlighting a central gathering space surrounded by specialized areas designed for diverse activities. Spaces, like the video production room, storage, classrooms, gym and adjacent locker rooms, dance studio, and convenient entry/exit points, ensure the building is functional and accessible. This layout promotes efficient movement and interaction while supporting a wide range of community needs.

2ND FLOOR REDESIGN

Although the main portion of this project focuses on the redesign of a warehouse for the community center, the beginning of this project focuses on redesigning the second floor of the main building for migrants that are in need of temporary housing. In this new design there is a kitchen area, lounging areas, laundry room, clinical room, counselor room with separate quiet rooms, children’s daycare room, and fully reconstructed bathrooms.

The dorm rooms all have a custom bunk bed, along with closet space, mirrors, and a table with seating.

Creating the custom bunk bed included ideation sketching, digitally modeling, and physically modeling. Key features the bunk bed had were personal shelving, a whiteboard above their head for adding drawings or photos, a light near their head, separate drawers, and a privacy curtain.

BUNK BED IDEATION

DIGITAL & PHYSICAL MODEL

RENDERED FLOOR PLAN

The rendered floor plan highlights the changes in flooring materials and the arrangement of furniture. The flooring finishes incorporates a mix of wood, stone, and even rubber. Curved lines, reflected in both the material transitions and wall designs, draw inspiration from the organic and wavy lines in the concept imagery. A variety of seating options are offered throughout the space, adding visual interest and a sense of dynamic movement. Seating options for the central community space are shown more in depth on the following page.

EVERYDAY SEATING SETUP

This furniture layout is designed for everyday use, offering a variety of seating options to suit different functions and individual preferences. The space includes lounge chairs, tables and chairs, benches, stools, and couches. It accommodates a range of activities, allowing people to socialize, work independently, or simply relax and lounge.

CONFERENCE SEATING SETUP

This furniture layout is designed for conference seating facing towards the stage. This space includes the use of stackable chairs and a middle pathway separating them in half to be used for circulation and accessibility.

BANQUET SEATING SETUP

This furniture layout is designed for banquet seating for meetings, events, and collaboration to occur. The space consists of multiple large circular tables and stackable chairs.

THE COMMUNITY SPACE

This community space design prominently features curved lines in the ceiling, walls, and furniture layouts, which not only enhance visual fluidity but also align with the elegance of high-end spaces.

The ceiling design, with its varying ceiling heights showing a waved design and integrated lighting, creates a dynamic focal point that draws attention. Another ceiling element that is prominent when entering the space is the waved design hanging from the ceiling, this is used below skylights so when the sun is above it casts a waved shadow on the flooring.

The use of a turquoise-inspired color palette across seating and accent walls adds vibrancy and complements the overall upscale feeling atmosphere. The smooth and polished flooring material transitions contribute to the luxurious yet functional ambiance.

The interplay of light, color, and texture enhances the sense of movement and vitality, making this space a true embodiment of the luxury concept. The combination of elegant design elements ensures that the space is both welcoming and visually interesting.

THE DANCE STUDIO

The dance studio maintains the overarching theme of luxury. The reception area features a custom curved desk paired with an accent wall and illuminated LED light showcasing where the dance studio’s name would be. The overall aesthetic of the reception and studios follows a purple and white color palette, reflecting the client’s stated preference.

While the dance studios themselves are minimally furnished, they are designed to include hand railings, full-length wall mirrors, wall-mounted speakers, and a tripod for video recording.

LARGE DANCE STUDIO ISOMETRIC

DANCE STUDIO RECEPTION ISOMETRIC

VIDEO PRODUCTION ROOM

The video production room features a minimalist design, with black walls that create a professional and focused atmosphere. A dedicated green screen area is integrated into the space, providing versatility for video production. The room is fully equipped with stage and adjustable lighting fixtures, and a central tripod with a highquality camera, ensuring functionality and adaptability for various production needs.

AGING IN PLACE HOME

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

PROJECT BRIEF

This project focuses on designing a home for a retired couple in their late sixes. The couple has always lived in Nashville, Tennessee and want to continue living there, but they want to move into a new home that supports aging in place. The spaces they want to be sure are included in the house would be two bedrooms, one master and one guest, a sun room, and an extra room used for a home-office/workout room. This project contains CD’s and presentational work.

PROJECT GOALS

DESIGNING FOR AGING IN PLACE

Designing for aging in place ensures older adults can maintain their health, happiness, and independence while staying in familiar surroundings. A key priority is fall prevention, as falls are a leading cause of injuryrelated deaths among older adults. To address this, features like smooth, slip-resistant flooring, short-pile carpets, wider hallways, and single-floor layouts reduce tripping hazards. Lighting design, including indirect and ambient lighting, can improve visibility and safety, while avoiding shiny surfaces or complex patterns helps accommodate changes in visual perception as you age. Additionally, using higher contrast color schemes, warmer tones, and brighter tints can improve visibility for older adults. Functional updates like grab bars, drawer and door levers instead of knobs, adjustable shower heads, walk-in showers, and easy-to-reach storage enhance accessibility in kitchens and bathrooms. Incorporating elements like outdoor connections, natural lighting, and technology such as automatic lights and remote-controlled devices further promote ease of use and well-being. By addressing specific needs—such as reduced motor skills, memory loss, or sensory changes—these designs create safe, comfortable spaces that adapt to the evolving needs of older adults without compromising style.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Nashville, Tennessee, known as "Music City," offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Located in the Central Basin at 550 feet above sea level, Nashville features a hilly landscape near the Highland Rim. The weather in Nashville is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can range from mild to cold, with wet and damp conditions, while spring brings comfortable temperatures and occasional rainfall. Summers are hot, sunny, and muggy, while fall offers crisp, mild weather that's perfect for outdoor activities. Beyond its geography, Nashville is celebrated for its lively lifestyle, with plenty to see and do. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich music scene, enjoy rooftop bars and nightlife, and experience the friendly atmosphere whether it's art, history, food, or sports.

CONCEPT

The Nashville Basin, also known as the Central Basin, is a natural dip in the terrain at the heart of Tennessee, where Nashville is located. This region is distinguished by its rolling hills, diverse ecosystems, and a unique mix of urban and rural landscapes. For the Johnson’s, who love nature and spending time outdoors, creating a home that reflects this connection is essential to fostering a sense of belonging. Incorporating large windows allows them to feel more connected to the surrounding environment, bringing the outdoors in. Inspired by the basin’s natural, imperfect forms, the design embraces organic shapes and curves that mirror the area’s landscapes.

The interior design captures the essence of the Nashville Basin by using organic materials, textures, and forms that echo its rolling hills and lush greenery. Warm, earthy tones are paired with natural materials like oak wood and limestone—purposeful choices, as both are abundant in the Nashville area. These elements evoke the natural environment of the basin, creating a space that feels warm and inviting.

INSPIRATION IMAGES

SKETCHES

CONCEPT STATEMENT INSPIRATION IMAGES & SKETCHES

ADJACENIES

JOHNSON'S

BUBBLE DIAGRAM

EXISTING BEDROOM

EXISTING 1/2 BATH

EXISTING BEDROOM

EXISTING KITCHEN

LIVING ROOM

DINING ROOM EXISTING BEDROOM

EXISTING BATH

BEDROOM

AND A RACK PLACED UNDERNEATH FOR HANGING CLOTHES

TO BE CONSTRUCTED ACCORDING TO ELEVATION

BATHROOM CABINETS TO BE CONSTRUCTED ACCORDING TO ELEVATION AND DIMENSIONS PROVIDED

FIXED SEAT BUILT UP TO 1' 7"

CABINETRY BUILT ACCORDING TO ELEVATION

WALKING FLOOR CONSTRUCTED AS SHOWN, 5 COLUMNS PLACED, ROOF PLACED FOLLOWING THE SAME SHAPE AS THE FLOOR

7 HAND RAILING TO BE PLACED ALONG NORTH AND WEST SIDES OF STAIRWAY

CABINETS BUILT ACCORING TO ELEVATION AND SURROUNDING KITCHEN CABINETS CONSTRUCTED TO MATCH OTHER NOTES

INSTALL NEW SINKS AND PLUMING FIXTURES FOR THE BATHROOMS AND KICTHEN

INSTALL GARBAGE DISPOSAL FOR THE KITCHEN SINK

INSTALL ALL NEW PLUMBING FIXTURES FOR THE BATHROOM TOLIETS AND SHOWERS

INTSALL NEW APPLIANCES, CABINETS, SHELVING, FIXTURES WHERE SHOWN

BUILD UP LAND TO HOUSE AND GARAGE LEVEL

LEGEND EXISTING WALLS

NEW LAYOUT

The new layout of this home includes wider hallways and better spatial flow, minimizing barriers such as steps and narrow passages. A new overall open and spacious design featuring the relocation of bedrooms to be closer to primary living spaces, the creation of a primary bedroom with an adjacent ada-compliant bathroom that has a walk-in shower and grab bars for safety. The addition of a sun room and the use of large windows connect indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing natural lighting and further emphasizing a sense of openness. The new spatial arrangement supports mobility, convenience, and comfort for aging in place.

PROJECT NUMBER

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL P4

FINISH LEGEND

NOTES

1 ENG WD 2 IS APPLIED TO SHELF MOUNTED BELOW THE TV ON THE FIREPLACE AND LS2 PLACED ON THE FIREPLACE

2 P4 PAINTED ON THE NORTH

ON PLAN

SHERWIN WILLIAMS HARBOR TOWN WHERE NOTED ON PLAN

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL P5 BENJAMIN MOORE MISTED FERN ACCENT WALL IN DINING ROOM ENG WD 1 L1 CONC CONC MANUF. COLOR INSTALL PLAN FINISHES

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL PWT1 GARDEN STATE TILE GIADA KITCHEN BACKSPLASH

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL WC1 MAYA

WALLS CHAMPAGNE

NOTED ON PLAN MANUF. COLOR INSTALL SWT1 TILEBAR LOVINA WHITE WHERE NOTED ON PLAN

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL LS2 STONE CENTER LIMESTONE FIREPLACE

IMIX CONCRETEGARAGE AND WALKWAY MANUF. COLOR INSTALL

AMERICAN PORCHWALKWAY COLUMNS

CEILING FINISHES

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL GYP BD 1 USGALL CEILINGS

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL ENG WD 2 WD WALLS CHAMPAGNE WOODEN BEAMS

MANUF. COLOR INSTALL P3 SHERWIN WILLIAMS SIERRA HILLS ENTRY DORWAY ARCH

MATERIALS AND FINISHES

Natural materials and textured walls enhance slip resistance while adding character to the space. Warm tones, brighter tints, and natural contrasting colors embody the Nashville Basin concept, evoking a sense of warmth and connection to the outdoors while improving visibility. Limestone and wood finishes are incorporated, reflecting the abundance of these materials in the Nashville area.

ELEVATIONS

ROOM -FIREPLACE

PRIMARY BATHROOM ELEVATION

LIVING ROOM FIREPLACE ELEVATION

The primary bathroom is designed with accessibility and functionality in mind. It features a floating vanity set at an accessible height for easy use. Oblong mirrors reflect the concept of the basin, adding a soft, balanced aesthetic to the space. The wall materials are textured to enhance slip resistance, while each material draws inspiration from natural elements like rounded stones and organic wavy patterns. Leverstyle handles on the sink and drawers ensure ease of use and accessibility. The shower is equipped with grab bars, an adjustable shower head, and foldable bench seating to provide stability and support. Additionally, the bathroom includes a wall-hung toilet at a higher height, with ample clearance for wheelchair accessibility if needed in the future.

This elevation highlights the limestone fireplace, which features a wooden mantel and hearth for a warm, natural look. Above the hearth, a large TV is positioned for optimal viewing from the couch or chairs. The wall is painted in a brown tone, complementing the fireplace’s aesthetic and enhancing the overall warmth of the space.

RENDERED FLOOR PLAN

The rendered floor plan showcases the flooring design and indicates potential furniture placement. The primary flooring consists of natural darker wood, while the bathrooms feature limestone flooring, both materials integrated throughout the whole interior. The garage and covered walkway are constructed with concrete for durability. Every flooring choice reflects the Nashville Basin concept, creating a natural, earthy ambiance while also being non-slip and suitable for aging in place.

DESIGN FIRM

AUSTIN, TEXAS

PROJECT BRIEF

RESEARCH ON OFFICE DESIGN

AUSTIN, TEXAS

PROJECT GOALS

This project focuses on designing an interior design office, beginning with the interior and then moving to the exterior. The building serves as the workspace for my design firm and includes a small apartment that can be used personally or rented out. The property features a small structure that has been transformed into a fully functional design studio. The office layout includes a reception area, a presentation room for client meetings, a break room, a breakout space, a design production area, a collaborative workspace, a resource room, a prototyping room, a private/ quiet space, and a private office. Exterior Perspective

Modern office design is shifting towards a curated destination approach, tailoring spaces to meet the unique needs of each company rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all model. Employees now expect work environments that blend traditional office functionality with the comfort and privacy they enjoy at home. Color plays a crucial role in setting the mood—bold hues can spark creativity and interaction, while natural tones bring a sense of biophilia and calm. Privacy options such as enclosed pods or quiet rooms are essential for focus, stress reduction, and improved productivity. Ergonomic support is another key factor, as properly designed seating helps prevent strain and fatigue, ultimately increasing efficiency. Additionally, energizing breakout zones provide collaborative and inspiring spaces where employees can recharge, build relationships, and foster creativity. By integrating these trends, office spaces can become dynamic, adaptable environments that support both productivity and well-being.

Austin Texas is a city that has a strong sense of community, electric energy, and a vibrant culture. The city’s emphasis on outdoor activities encourages interactions among residents and cultivates feelings of belonging to them. Austin residents like to feel connected to their unique hometown. Beyond this, Austin has emerged as a thriving tech hub, that attracts a significant number of high-tech companies. More tech companies are relocating and it’s where many tech companies were founded, like Dell. The combination of community, connection, culture, and technological growth makes Austin a place where innovation meets a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere.

CONCEPT

This design firm’s concept is based on connectivity. Not only is it essential for the design team to stay connected with one another, but also to build meaningful connections with the clients. In Austin, connectivity takes on a special significance—it reflects both the city’s strong sense of community and its reputation as a thriving tech hub. This concept bridges human connection and technological progress, creating designs that are collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking. This concept helps to blend a digital and futuristic atmosphere with Austin’s style. The use of bold colors and varied shapes gives the space a tech-forward, distinctive look. Colors like red, blue, and orange are integrated throughout the design to energize the environment. Blue symbolizes technology and connectivity, while orange reflects Austin’s identity. Together, these colors blend to highlight the connection between Austin’s vibrant culture and its tech-driven background.

INSPIRATION IMAGES

SKETCHES

BUBBLE DIAGRAMS

SITE PLAN

EXTERIOR

WEST EXTERIOR ELEVATION

The exterior of the building features a sleek combination of concrete, steel, and glass, creating a minimalist yet industrial aesthetic that aligns with the overall design concept. Expansive windows maximize natural daylight, enhancing the sense of openness and seamlessly connecting the interior with the exterior. Thoughtfully designed landscaping complements and elevates the building’s appearance, creating a welcoming and inviting presence for visitors and staff. The parking lot is designed to accommodate ten vehicles, including one designated handicap space, with multiple entry and exit points for convenience. This exterior design strikes a balance between functionality, modern style, and industrial elegance, making it both practical and visually compelling.

FLOOR

PLANS

These floor plans prioritize flexibility, functionality, and creativity, offering a diverse range of spaces for both work and lounging. The overall layout is open and designed to maximize the purpose of each space. Multiple meeting and collaboration zones reinforce the concept of connectivity in the workplace, fostering teamwork, engagement, and seamless interaction among designers and clients.

2ND FLOOR 1ST FLOOR

PROTOTYPING ROOM

The prototyping room supports hands-on creativity and modelmaking, equipped with a 3D printer, laser cutter, and drafting table for precision work. A glass wall connects this space to the rest of the office, maintaining an open connection. However, the smart glass technology allows these windows to switch to a frosted state easily, offering privacy whenever needed.

COLLAB SPACE

The collaboration space is designed as a dynamic area where designers can step away from their individual workstations in the design production space to engage in brainstorming, idea-sharing, and teamwork. With a movable whiteboards and seating with attached tables, the space promotes creativity and adaptability through easy reconfiguration.

PRIVATE/QUIET SPACE

This space provides designers with a quiet, secluded place from the busier, more energetic areas of the office. Designed for focus and relaxation, it features soundabsorbing materials and acoustic panels to minimize noise. Lounge chairs and privacy pods equipped with desks that have integrated technology, this area offers a versatile setting for private work, deep concentration, or simply a break from the workspace.

ELEVATIONS

BREAK ROOM ELEVATION

This break room elevation showcases a custom kitchenette equipped with a mini fridge, sink, microwave, and espresso machine, providing convenience for quick meals and refreshments. The rest of the room is designed with a round table and chairs, along with a high-top table, all strategically positioned to face the windows. This maximizes natural daylight and offers a scenic outdoor view.

PRESENTATION ROOM ELEVATION

This presentation room elevation features a large conference table, TVs for displaying design work, and cabinetry for storage or serving food and refreshments. Designed specifically for client meetings, the room is strategically located near the reception and waiting area, ensuring easy access for visiting clients. Its placement enhances convenience and professionalism, creating a seamless experience for presentations and discussions.

PRIVATE OFFICE ISOMETRIC

The private office is designed with a spacious desk, storage, and comfortable seating, making it ideal for focused work and meetings with staff or visitors. A glass wall with smart glass technology connects it to the workspace, offering an open feel while providing privacy when switched to frosted mode.

RECEPTION & LOBBY

Upon entering, the reception area features an accent wall with integrated acoustic and LED panels that have a tech-inspired design. The wall also incorporates concrete elements, LED strip lighting, and a back-lit logo. The space flows into the waiting area, highlighted by a curved staircase that opens to a large wall of windows, allowing lots natural lighting. Above a circular seating area designated by a change in flooring to carpeting, hanging red and orange linear lighting adds warmth and style. Adjacent to the space, a wall of screens displays a slideshow of the firm’s previous projects. The presentation room has a glass wall, extending from the secondfloor railing, that has smart glass technology and also offers visual interest, daylight, and visibility from the waiting area.

BREAKOUT SPACE

This space is designed to intended for collaboration, informal client or visitor meetings, lounging, work, and brainstorming. Its goal is to inspire engagement, creativity, relaxation, and relationshipbuilding. Bold, bright colors and a visually dynamic ceiling with triangular shapes create an energizing atmosphere, offering a more playful contrast to the office environment of the building. Additionally, the outdoor seating provides an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while engaging in any of the activities within the breakout space.

DESIGN PRODUCTION SPACE

This area is dedicated to junior designers, featuring workstations equipped with essential design tools, integrated outlets, and both movable and fixed storage. Large windows provide ample daylight, offering views of the sunset and a connection to the outdoors.

A bold ceiling feature—a suspended concrete slab illuminated by LED lighting— enhances the space’s visual appeal. For a change of scenery, designers can work on the balcony. Bold orange and blue colors, derived from the design concept, liven and energize the space.