Mary Li's Portfolio

MARY LI

Embark on an enchanting journey as Mary unveils the captivating world of home textiles, ignited by her family’s rich heritage. From the vibrant streets of Hong Kong to China’s textile realm, she has refined her skills as a showroom sales associate for office furniture and home textile product developer. Now, in the alluring city of Toronto, Mary is poised to manifest her dreams as an interior designer. With experience on multiple commercial and residential projects and as an active member of ARIDO, she looks forward to developing her career in the building industry.

WORK EXPERIENCE

INTERIOR DESIGN PRACTITIONER

PRIVATE TUTOR

INTERIOR DESIGN INTERN

INTERIOR DECORATOR

Dec 2023 - present

2022 - present

Apr 2024 - present Sep - Dec 2023

2020 - 2022

Freelance Toronto, ON

Yorkville University Toronto, ON

Ted Design International Toronto, ON

Freelance Toronto, ON

EDUCATION

BACHELOR OF INTERIOR DESIGN

Yorkville University

HOME STAGING (ROA)

Seneca College

INTERIOR DECORATING CERTIFICATE

Seneca College

RECOGNITIONS

DDA STUDENT COMPETITION Honorable Mention

Silver in the Multiple Rooms Category

FORMICA STUDENT COMPETITION

Collaboration with another student designer

IDEC STUDENT COMPETITION

Collaboration with two other student designers

VOLUNTARY WORKS

ARIDO - Communications Committee 2023 - present

Yorkville University - BID newsletter 2022 -present

SKILLS

Rendering

Space Planning

Concept Development

Researching

Architectural Drawings

Presentation Boards

Hand Drafting

Sketching

Language: English & Chinese (Cantonese & Mandarin)

1 of 3 Projects Representing Yorkville University

SOFTWARE

SketchUp

VRay

Adobe Suite (Acrobat, Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)

Autodesk (AutoCAD, Revit)

Enscape

BlueBeam

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams)

MY DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

Designers not only bears responsiblity to create designs that is suitable to all users but also to the environment.

Designers should use their creativity to blend innovative elements with traditional design to create a unique experience for all.

Designers should extend their respect beyond honouring nature to encompass a deep reverence for the users’ cultural heritage and traditions.

PAST PROJECTS

PROJECTS

COMPETITIONS

Thesis Project - Community Center for Veterans

IDS

CLIENTS

Apartment Renovation

Retail Renovations

Resturant Renovations Attic Renovation

Bathroom Renovation

Kitchen Renovations

INTERESTS

Silver Award in Multi Room Category, DDA Student Competition 2022

RESTAURANT HOSPITALITY WORKPLACE

COMMUNITY

Collaboration project with three other student designers

HOSPITALITY

LOCATION: 5195 Magdalen Street Niagara Falls, ON

CLIENT: Sterling Inn & Spa

(Rename to Ohneka Boutique Hotel & Spa)

SIZE: 50,665 sq ft

PROJECT:

Embark on a voyage of historical and market research, uncovering the essence of the area. Carve a unique niche for the hotel, aligning its identity with the rich tapestry of indigenous art and culture prevalent in the region’s ancestral roots. As a testament to the area’s enduring indigenous heritage, envision a gallery boutique hotel, a haven that breathes life into indigenous creativity. Nurture a sense of local pride by selecting furnishings, fixtures, and equipment from nearby suppliers and manufacturers, cultivating a symbiotic relationship with the community and supporting local craftsmanship.

CONCEPT - WATER

Deeply rooted in Indigenous culture, nature holds profound significance while water stands as a sacred symbol for all Indigenous peoples. It is a powerful embodiment of the Falls, thus inspiring the very essence of the hotel’s design.

Ohneka, the indigenous word for water, symbolizes life, purity, and interconnectivity. It represents the commitment to promoting indigenous art, culture, and sustainable practices.

With flowing lines, curated artworks, and indigenous motifs, the design immerses guests in a tranquil environment that celebrates indigenous heritage. Natural materials, reflective surfaces, and soft lighting create a serene atmosphere, inviting guests to experience the allure of indigenous art and the soothing influence of water and nature.

The reception features a double skylight that brings visitors closer to nature.

Water Dreaming by Denise Nangala

Project inspired by the importance of water in indignenos culture

Collaborating with local Indigenous artists, the guest suites are designed to incorporate a variety of Indigenous motifs infused with a modern aesthetic.

The cafe is the resturant where customers could enjoy a casual meal with a water feature that provides a calming atmosphere.

Basement bar uses reflective and translucent feature of water when selecting the finishes.

Maku Tjukurrpa by Anita Pumani

Grandmother’s Country by Michelle Possum Nungurrayi

Spirit Garden by Brook McIlroy

RESTAURANT

Silver Award in Multi room category, DDA Student Competition 2022

LOCATION: Markham, ON

CLIENT: Chinese noodle shop

SIZE: 2,354 sq ft

PROJECT:

Embark on a quest to discover the perfect site through meticulous location exploration. Craft a bespoke design that harmonizes with the surroundings, accommodating a minimum of 64 seats for dining and an intimate bar area with 14 seats. Delve into a profound analysis of the five senses, deciphering their profound impact on the space, as each sight, sound, scent, taste, and touch shapes the ambiance, creating an immersive experience like no other.

CONCEPT - CHINESE GARDEN

Awakening from the harmony of Chinese architecture and garden artistry, this exquisite restaurant embodies a seamless fusion of Eastern and Western influences. A hidden passage, veiled in mystique, serves as the enchanting gateway to the whimsical garden beyond.

Adorned with intricately laser-cut local wood, it delicately conceals and transforms the towering concrete columns, giving rise to two enchanting pavilions amidst the serene landscape. Beneath the lofty ceiling, adorned in obsidian hues, ethereal white acoustic clouds emerge, gracefully mirroring the heavens above, veiling the mechanical veins within.

As your senses wander, a mesmerizing sand garden and a tranquil water feature seamlessly merge into the tapestry of acoustic mastery, weaving a symphony of relaxation and serenity.

BLACK ACOUSTIC SPRAY PAINT FOR CEILING

CLAY WALL FINISH

SHOU SUGI BAN WOOD

POLISHED CONCRETE FLOOR

Elevation is used to show the change in ceiling height, distinguishing the different areas within the restaurant.

Circular entrance to the dining hall framing the scenery inside.

Noodle bar is opened to allow customers to experience the making of their cuisine.

WORKSPACE

LOCATION: 11 Adelaide St W, ON

CLIENT: Activision Blizzard

SIZE: 17,508 sq ft

PROJECT:

Extensively researched and analyzed the gaming industry to inform the design process, while the building and its surroundings were evaluated for optimal use of natural light. Biophilic design elements were incorporated to create a tranquil and wellness-focused space. A hybrid and collaborative design approach was adopted to foster creativity and team spirit. Sustainability was prioritized, with a focus on carbon-neutral and eco-friendly furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Energyefficient appliances and plumbing fixtures with an energy star rating were chosen to reduce the project’s carbon footprint and preserve the environment for future generations.

CONCEPT - FORESTLAND

Within the realms of Activision Blizzard, Warcraft stands tall as an iconic masterpiece. As a studio nestled in Toronto’s embrace, our project draws inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of Warcraft’s enchanting landscapes: the verdant forestlands, untamed wilderness, and bustling villages.

Each facet of our space is thoughtfully crafted, weaving together the lush greenery reminiscent of the forest, the ethereal reflections and transparency of tranquil lakes found within the wilderness, and the sturdy embrace of stones, concrete, and wood, akin to the villages themselves. Immerse yourself in a harmonious sanctuary where the essence of Warcraft breathes life into every corner.

The cafeteria is a fun space where staff could relax, socialize or collaborate.

There are different types of workstations to suit the needs of all staff in a hot-desking work environment.

LOWER FLOOR

UPPER FLOOR

New interior stairs have been added to provide easy access between the two floors, while also creating a space for socializing, collaborating, or hosting company meetings. Additionally, the design incorporates a mail room situated under the stairs, making efficient use of the available space.

COMMUNITY CENTER

LOCATION: 610 Bay Street, Toronto, ON

CLIENT: The Royal Canadian Legion and Veteran Transition Network

SIZE: 46,556 sq ft

PROJECT:

The Toronto Coach Terminal which was built in the 1930’s is revamped to a community center that is catered to support veterans to transition back to civilian lives. The design aim to retain most of the existing condition of the building, the new space will provide veterans with basic needs and other facilities to help them adjust to their new environment.

CONCEPT - POLARIS

Veterans have selflessly given up their lives for us and our country. Their heroism serves as great inspiration, and they should be taken care of as they retire from service. Veterans face many difficulties as they readjust to civilian life. They need to navigate between different organizations and work through loads of paperwork to access the services and the support they require.

Polaris, also known as the North Star, is one of the most radiant stars that people use to guide themselves when lost in the wild.

The Polaris Project envisions a community center, a sanctuary for veterans who find themselves lost amidst the challenges of returning to civilian life. The mission of this project is to create a nurturing and empowering environment, where any veteran in need can find the support they need to rediscover their sense of direction.

The Polaris Project aims to guide our veterans toward the new horizons that await them. Through a close-knit community, the center will provide emotional, physical, and practical assistance, providing the care, resources, and camaraderie they need and fostering hope for their next phase in life.

Let us rally around those who have served and protected us, and let the Polaris Project be the guiding light that leads them to brighter tomorrows.

The latest plan available is from 1920’s and the building has been decommissioned since 2021.

Poppy and horizon are both important elements of the concept which has been used in the development of the floor plan.

COMMUNITY CENTER

Cafeteria is set up with mostly movable furnishings and buffet are served giving veterans more flexibility.

A billiard lounge area is opened to the reception area to create a welcoming atmosphere as veterans first enter the facility.

Most of the original features, like travertine finish, chandelier and stairs will be remained as is to pay respect to the history of the building.

The new wing is created from the covered bus stop with original sun roof remained to create an outdoor atmosphere.

RETAIL

LOCATION: 604 College Street, Toronto, ON

CLIENT: Ben McNally

SIZE: 2,948 sq ft

PROJECT:

Reseach the history and revamp the brand identity of a renowned bookstore. Through study of the market and demographic of the new location that the bookstore will be moving to.

CONCEPT - TREASURE HUNTING

In the era of increasing online presence, crafting a memorable experience for customers becomes paramount. The ambiance of a bookstore, reminiscent of a treasure hunt, holds a unique allure for many patrons. To enhance this sense of discovery, our design places a pronounced emphasis on lighting, infusing the space with an aura of intrigue.

Strategic lighting design is employed, with a focus on illuminating the bookshelves, which serve as repositories of treasures waiting to be discovered by customers. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the appeal of the curated collection, elevating the overall experience.

Complementing this approach is the integration of track lighting at the center of the space. This not only enhances visibility but also introduces a versatile element that accommodates various events. From book launches to other gatherings, the design ensures adaptability, transforming the bookstore into a dynamic and engaging venue for a range of activities.

Bookstore from entrance

Store front design

Elevation for both floors

Taking inspiration from multiple set designs for movies and video games, lighting design is most important to create a treasure hunting atmosphere.

RESIDENTIAL

LOCATION: West Greenwich Village, New York City

CLIENT: Artist couple is the owner of the loft

SIZE: 4,500 sq ft

PROJECT:

Industrial building built in 1920s is turned into a mixed-used loft which is to be subdivided into three distinct occupancy which is to be designed for the artist couple who needs a work/live unit, ADA unit for an elderly couple with disability and a rental unit. As the building has a ceiling height of 16’AFF, the design made full use of space by creating a mezzanie floor which almost doubled the loft size.

MY RESPONSIBILITY: Research, FF&E Selection and Rendering

CONCEPT FOR ARTIST COUPLE - PALETTE

A space that creates a foundation for the users to live a creative life, that gives back to the community and supports renewal and lifelong learning.

CONCEPT FOR ELDERLY COUPLE WITH DISABILITY - EASEL

A space that accentuates and supports the display of art and fosters the joy and resilience of the users.

CONCEPT FOR RENTAL UNIT - CANVAS

A space that is the foundation for creative exploration and the inspiration for new ideas and experiences in a dynamic city and artistic community.

To enhance space utilization, a mezzanine level is added to all three units. Additionally, to promote inclusivity, a mini escalator is installed within each unit, and at least one washroom meets barrier-free standards.

A circular staircase has been incorporated into the rental unit, fashioning an industrial-style dining and living area that harmonizes flawlessly with the exposed brick wall of the original building.

The client boasts an impressive collection of vintage designer furniture, seamlessly woven into the design. Notably, the Tulip chairs and Saarinen Dining Table complement the industrial aesthetic of the home office, where occasional meetings will take place.