As a believer in the power of design, I am passionate about its ability to transform lives. Design has the capacity to impact one’s mood, feelings, and attitude daily. Therefore, I am committed to designing to shape the human experience for all users positively. As a designer, I recognize the responsibility of the profession, including protecting the environment and human health. I strive to make ethical design decisions prioritizing sustainability, social justice, and equality. In addition, it is essential to prioritize individuals’ physical and mental well-being during the design process. Biophilic design, in particular, is critical for its restorative properties and connection of users to nature. I value the opportunity that design offers to bring about transformative change and shape the human experience. As a designer, I aim to encourage and empower individuals through various inclusive design approaches and solutions. I am committed to using my skills to make a positive impact on people’s lives.
ALTERNATIVE ABODE
A Destination Hotel in Camden, London, UK
Alternative Abode, a destination hotel, is a senior capstone hospitality project. The hotel is located in Camden, London, a hub for young adults and visitors. The borough of Camden is a source of alternative culture, community, and inclusivity. The design of Alternative Abode aims to provide users with a destination experience that promotes counterculture with musical and stylistic influences ranging from the 1920s to the 1980s.
HOSPITALITY | 108,000 SF | 14 WEEKS
Embrace the retro revivalist ambiance at Cafe 45, a delightful blend of a cafe and record store located at the corner of the hotel with convenient street access. The vibrant and inviting atmosphere is complemented by an abundance of natural light. Cafe 45 is the perfect welcome to Camden and destination spot for coffee enthusiasts and nostalgia-seeking guests.
CONCEPT
Camden is known as the music centre of the city of London. It has always been a hub for London’s live music scene, with legendary venues that have launched many big names. Reviving the iconic pieces of a lifetime, Alternative Abode takes an updated retro & mid-century modern approach in terms of both design and finish with musical and stylistic influences ranging from the 1920s to the 1980s.
BOROUGH OF CAMDEN
DESIGN GOALS
• Appeal to target clientele; young adults mid 20s-30s, groups of friends, partners, and individuals
• Foster community through a variety of different patron spaces and amenities
• Evoke feelings of inclusion and acceptance through embracing the alternative culture of Camden
• Maintain a retro revivalist and midcentury design style throughout all spaces
ALTERNATIVE ABODE | LEVEL 1
Upon entering Alternative Abode, guests are immersed in a fusion of retro and contemporary design inspired by Camden’s alternative culture. The entrance sets the stage with a curated playlist spanning the 1920s to the 1980s. The reception area, adorned with retro details, welcomes guests with warmth and a commitment to counterculture, where staff ensure a unique and inclusive experience from the moment of arrival.
A LOBBY TO LOUNGE IN
The lobby lounge immediately welcomes guests, merging retro design details with Camden’s alternative spirit. Colorful accents, retro furnishings, and plenty of natural light create an inviting and visually immersive atmosphere, offering guests a uniquely welcoming lobby lounge experience.
AMPITHEATER
The Alternative Abode Ampitheater combines elegant wood tones with colorful 70s details. Comfortable seating, acoustic finishes, and panoramic windows create an intimate and visually exciting atmosphere, offering guests a uniquely captivating entertainment experience.
THE BRASS TAVERN
Perched on the second story, the Brass Tavern at Alternative Abode merges timeless sophistication with Camden’s alternative spirit. Brass accents, retro furnishings, and panoramic windows create an intimate and visually immersive atmosphere, offering guests a unique Camden dining experience.
RETRO RELAXATION
Guests experience a sense of interlude upon entering their suites. The bedroom is an elegant take on a retro revivalist style, highlighting soft finishes and geometric accents. Users find a sense of calm and reprieve to end their busy days in Camden.
MFA RESEARCH PROJECT
University Student Union Design Proposal for College Students Who Have Experienced Trauma
The purpose of this research is to investigate the spatial and design needs of college students who have experienced trauma that may benefit from using academic social spaces. This study will use a mixed methods approach to answer the primary research question, “How do interior architectural qualities influence the academic social space preferences of college students who have experienced trauma?”
MFA THESIS PROJECT | ONGOING | EXPECTED COMPLETION SUMMER 2024
“When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower” - Alexander Den Heijer
The built environment must be designed to ensure that the users’ needs are met in a nurturing and safe space. It must provide opportunities for comfort, choice, community, and growth.
In the envisioned design, the Student Union becomes a space for students to bloom, analogous to a flower in a nurturing and safe environment. This transformative environment is committed to providing students with the conditions necessary for their holistic development. Drawing inspiration from the resilience of a flower bud, the design aims to immerse students in surroundings that sustain and empower them, enabling not just growth but flourishing.
Furthermore, the incorporation of trauma-informed design solutions underscores the commitment to student well-being These architectural features will not only acknowledge but actively respond to the challenges and experiences that students may bring with them. In doing so, the Student Union becomes more than just a physical structure; it becomes a dynamic and compassionate entity that contributes to the overall flourishing of students as they navigate their academic journey and personal growth
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
CLEVELAND CLINIC
A Behavioral Health Clinic in Cleveland, OH
The goal for this project was to design a space fit for healing and growth as a behavioral health pediatric clinic. The clinic is for children ages 2-18 facing mood disorders and/or substance abuse. The design of the clinic aims to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all users, including patients, providers, and visitors, through a significant focus on comfort and wellbeing.
HEALTHCARE | 11,500 SF | 12 WEEKS
CONCEPT
The concept of reverie and respite paints a dynamic pattern of constant growth and regrowth. Within healthcare design, adaptability and flexibility are vital to the success of the design. These characteristics respond to changes in relation with the need to change over time while recognizing that future needs and uses cannot be fully predicted. Through positive distraction, flexible furniture and many elements of support, like signage, wayfinding, and users’ sense of choice, the concept of reverie and respite will enhance the wellbeing of staff and patients alike.
DESIGN GOALS
Provide users with a sense of control through elements of privacy and choice as well as utilization of flexible and movable furniture.
Promote comfort & dignity while designing inclusively for different ages, heights, and weights.
Foster support by providing intuitive signage and wayfinding to alleviate discomfort and make users feel welcome and confident in reaching their destinations.
Incorporate meaningful positive distractions through local art and biophilic elements to lower levels of stress and anxiety.
Select furniture, fixtures, and equipment that is durable, cleanable, and adaptable to the user’s needs.
CLEVELAND CLINIC | FLOOR PLAN
CLEVELAND CLINIC | REFLECTED CEILING PLAN
Ulrich’s Theory of Supportive Design promotes wellness by focusing on design decision making in regards to key factors of stress reduction. The theory provides three main design standards, including a sense of control with respect to physical-social surroundings, access to social support, and access to positive distractions in physical surroundings. A variety of seating options allows users the empowering option of choice. The users’ wellbeing is supported in the design of the break room. Positive distraction is implemented through environmental graphics and art along the halls. All LED lights have dimmable qualities to provide users with a sense of control. Acoustic ceiling tiles are used in staff zones for cost efficiency. Implied skylights are used throughout patient spaces for positive distraction and empowerment.
The acoustic dividing screens serve as a sound barrier between waiting areas and therapy spaces. This keeps patients calm while providing feelings of privacy and safety.
Speakers playing white noise and soothing music will allow the waiting room to be a more comfortable space for users to speak freely and privately regarding financial and medical details.
Acoustic ceiling tiles will be prioritized in staff workspaces in order to maintain and boost productivity and focus.
Therapy room and exam room walls are constructed with a high STC (sound transmission class) value to improve the sound attenuation.
A water fountain is incorporated into each healing garden to add white noise and create a calming atmosphere for users.
CLEVELAND CLINIC | SOUND MITIGATION DIAGRAM
Sound can have both physical and psychological effects on patients. Healing environments as such must move beyond the requirements of HIPAA to reduce patients’ stress. Research shows that noise is directly linked to patient stress levels as well as disruption of staff concentration and overall disorientation within the built environment. Acoustic control must address these potential stressors in addition to providing speech privacy between staff and patients per HIPAA. Acoustical treatments incorporated in the design include high NRC ceiling treatments, high STC door and wall materials, and acoustic paneling where helpful. Use of these treatments will make the space safe and welcoming while reducing potential stressors for both staff and patients.
MILLWORK
0'1 1/2" 0'
WILSONART
LAMINATE ON 1-1/2” PLYWOOD
3/4” THICK SUSTAINABLY SOURCED WOOD PLANK WRAPPED PLYWOOD
WILSONART
LAMINATE ON 1-1/2” PLYWOOD
TACKABLE FABRIC METAL “L” CHANNEL
SUSTAINABLY SOURCED WOOD PLANK WRAPPED 2” TUBE STEEL SUPPORT BEAMS
LAMINATE ON 1/2” THICK PLYWOOD SUBSTRATE
SATIN BRUSHED METAL DRAWER PULL BEYOND
3/4” PLYWOOD SUBSTRATE
2-1/2” LIGHT WEIGHT METAL FRAME 2'6" 1'0" 0'3 1/2"
METAL TOE KICK ON 1/2” THICK PLYWOOD SUBSTRATE LAMINATE DRAWER FRONTS BEYOND
Intuitive wayfinding techniques are implemented along the corridor to ensure users are comfortable and confident in reaching their destination. Semi-private seating is incorporated along the walls for areas of respite. The vitals room is left without a door, making it feel like a more casual part of the patient process as well as instilling security, while being able to maintain sight lines.
THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE
Wallcovering providing positive distraction and promoting biophilia
Carolina Voyage Bariatric Guest Chair for caregiver
Carolina Voyage Patient Recliner
Armstrong LVT with Quiet Comfort Luxury Flooring Underlayment for support
The exam room is designed to promote a sense of hospitality, comfort, and security for both the patient and the caregiver, in a potentially unfamiliar environment. The layout of the room is designed to empower the provider, ensuring seamless access to necessary materials and facilitating patient interaction.
Moveable clipboard for words of affirmation and/or provider notes
Wall-mounted equipment
Wall-mounted lockable storage
Provider stool
Wall-mounted sanitizer
Wayfinding cue correlating with signage outside door
CREMA COFFEE HQ
A Thriving Workplace Design
This project aims to design Crema Coffee Roasters’ headquarters with a focus on innovative workplace design inspired by synergy. The goal is to create a collaborative space that promotes community, purpose, and the human experience, using curvilinear forms, collaborative furniture, and biophilic elements. The design fosters a harmonious blend of synergism with an open plan, ample circulation, natural materials, and diverse work areas.
WORKPLACE | 10,000 SF | 12 WEEKS
The design for a workplace for Crema Coffee Roasters is inspired and informed by the concept of synergy, the notion that the interaction of two parts creates a combined effect more significant than the sum of their separate effects. Within a workplace environment for a company that prioritizes community, purpose, and the human experience, it is essential to design a space that promotes collaboration by reinforcing the benefits of coming together and creating something exceptional. Curvilinear forms in collaborative furniture and biophilic elements will work together to create a balanced and harmonious blend of synergism within the workplace. A synergy community will thrive by designing an environment with an open plan, sufficient circulation, a balance of natural materials, and a blend of work areas, providing users with a sense of choice.
CREMA COFFEE HQ | LEVEL 1
CREMA COFFEE HQ | LEVEL 2
WELCOME IN
STROZIER LIBRARY
Higher Education
The Strozier Library redesign focuses on balancing functionality and safety for its post-pandemic reopening. Diverse lounge and study areas, along with strategic design elements like flooring changes and partitions, aim to meet various needs. Inspired by a puzzle, the concept emphasizes the significance of each design element and user, fostering a sense of belonging and creating a positive experience for all.
EDUCATION DESIGN | 8 WEEKS | GROUP PROJECT
EMBODIED COGNITION
Atrium Redesign with a Theoretical Approach
The existing atrium space faces issues with frequently unused furniture featuring exposed backs and an overabundance of lounge seating not conducive to study. Embracing embodied cognition, a theory that posits the influence of physical surroundings on cognitive processes, the redesign aims to optimize the environment for enhanced engagement and purposeful learning.
THEORY & CRITICISM | 2,000 SF | 4 WEEKS | GROUP PROJECT
In the redesigned WJB atrium space, the theory of embodied cognition is applied for an enhanced learning experience. Green paint and faux planters bring a calming effect, providing a serene contrast to the original red finishes. Faux hedge planters offer a connection to nature, especially for the areas lacking outside views. A step-up feature along the back wall aims to empower users to contribute positively to the community. Booth seating with tall backs ensures a sense of protection, while a custom planter/bench modular unit offers versatile and casual seating for friendly conversations, and can be stored in pieces when the space needs to be used for events.
123 PARK OVERLOOK
Aginig In Place Residential Design
The goal is to design a home suitable for a retired couple aging in place in Charleston, SC. The design will include safety, convenience, spaciousness, and overall accessibility. The design will balance the needs of different physical and cognitive abilities, making use of universal design principles and accessibility standards.
RESIDENTIAL | 1,960 SF | 8 WEEKS
ARGONAUT BUILDING
Construction Documents
The objective of the Argonaut Building Project was to acquire proficiency in developing construction documents. The first level is designated for a business, featuring executive offices, workstations, and social spaces. The second level is currently available for future tenants. The Construction documents included floor plans, furniture plans, reflected ceiling plans, sections, elevations, and detail drawings.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS | 12 WEEKS | TALLAHASSEE, FL
ARGONAUT INTERIOR BUILD-OUT
TALLAHASSEE, FL
FURNITURE DESIGN
A Custom Furniture Piece for Music Lovers
This mid-century-inspired custom furniture piece for music lovers showcases meticulous joinery, CNC precision-cut plywood, and modern innovation. Crafted without nails or glue, it seamlessly organizes vinyl with movable record ends, and also adapts to a growing collection. The result is a distinctive blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern functionality, creating a distinctive showcase for cherished records.
FURNITURE DESIGN | 6 WEEKS
Sanded & stained 3/4” plywood with polyurethane finish
Mortise & tenon joinery Pocket cuts on shelves to provide a path for record ends
Raised edge surrounds all shelves to ensure items do not fall
Openings in back allow for wire connection and management
Box joints are used where corners meet
Toe kick opening provides vacuum access