ABOUT ME
Hi, I’m Brianna, an Interior Design BFA graduate from Virginia Commonwealth Universitywith a passion for human centered and intentional design. Mywork bridges interior architecture and social healing, blending spatial storytelling with technical precision. I specialize in both digital and physical forms of spatial communication, using tools like Revit, SketchUp, Enscape, Lumion, sketching, and model making to translate layered ideas into clear, compelling designs. I approach each project as an opportunityto evoke emotion, honor memory, and create space for joy, community, and care. Whether I am designing for autonomy, teaching Revit as a TA, or guiding clients through mood boards and renderings, I strive to create environments thatfeel restorative, powerful, and personal.
I am currently seeking full time opportunities in interior design, architectural drafting, set design, or creative studio environments where I can contribute to mission driven projects. I am open to relocation and excited to bring my full selfto the next chapter.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Pottery Barn
FULL-TIME DESIGN SPECIALIST (MAY 2024DECEMBER 2024)
⎼ RESPONSIBLE FOR SWATCH ORDERING
⎼ EMPLOYEE OFTHE MONTH (OCT. 2024)
⎼ RESPONSIBLE FOR CARRYING OUTTHE SITE VISITS, AND SCHEMATIC DESIGN PROCESS
Virginia Commonwealth University
PART-TIME INTERIOR DESIGN DEPT. ASSISTANT (AUG. 2024 - MAY 2025)
⎼ RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSISTING REVIT PROFESSOR IN DESK CRITIQUES
⎼ RESPONSIBLE FOR HOLDING ZOOM SESSIONS FOR REVIT/AUTOCAD QUESTIONS
Sherwin Williams
FULL-TIME CUSTOMER SERVICE ASSOCIATE (JAN. 2025 - CURRENT)
⎼ RESPONSIBLE FOR PAINTTINTING & COLOR FORMULATIONS
⎼ RESPONSIBLE FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
⎼ RESPONSIBLE FOR COLOR MATCHING
BRIANNA BROOKS RESUME LINK
SKILLS & EXPERTISE
DesignSoftware
Revit
Enscape
Lumion
AdobePhotoshop,InDesign,Illustrator, Acrobat
AutoCAD
SketchUp
Canva
TechnicalAbilities
3DModeling&Rendering
ConstructionDocuments
Diagramming
MaterialBoards(Digital+Physical)
DigitalCollage&SpatialIdeation
Model-Making(3DPrinting,Foam, Chipboard)
EpilogLaserCutter
Collaboration&Communication
RevitTA&PeerEducator
ClientMoodBoardDevelopment
StrongVisual+VerbalCommunication
ConceptDevelopment&Storytelling
Additional CodingBasics(HTML/CSS)
StrongResearch&PresentationSkills
Opentolearningfirm-specifictools
TABLE OFCONTENTS
Title - Page 1
About Me — Page 2
Work Experience — Page 3
Skills — Page 4
Table of Content - Page 5
Transformative Spaces— Pages 6-16
• Research
•Floor Plan
• Site Analysis & Geometry
• Section Perspectives
• Material Board
• Renderings
• 3D Model + Interior Photos
Midwayto Somewhere — Pages 17-21
• Concept, Renderings
• Floor Plan
• Elevations
Italian Winery : Bindella Vallocaia — Pages 22-26
• Site & ClientAnalysis
• Construction Documents
• Key Renderings
Steelcase NEXT Student Competition — Pages 27-31
• Concept Development
• Plans + Renderings
Contact — Page 32
• Let’s WorkTogether
TRANSFORMATIVE SPACES:
Fostering AutonomyVia Architecture
Menticide refers to the systematic destruction or manipulation of a group's collective identity, culture, and mental autonomy, often through the erasure of history, language, traditions, and values, replacing them with ideologies that serve the interests of an oppressor or colonizer.
This project explores how interior architecture can be a tool for healing and empowerment in the wake of colonialism. It addresses both the physical displacement and psychological erasure, known as mentacide, experienced by marginalized communities. By centering cultural identity, self-reliance, and community-driven design, the space challenges colonial narratives and promotes mental and physical autonomy. It blends abstract symbolism with practical programs to support cultural pride and collective growth. Ultimately, the project sees architecture as a vessel for liberation, transforming space into a site for reflection, restoration, and reclaiming the future.
Location: 1113 W. Moore Street Program: Community-led interactive museum and cultural sanctuary
CONCEPT
A site of cultural restoration and generational empowerment, countering the effects of mentacide through architecture rooted in Native materials, African systems of knowledge, and communal space-making. It operates as an interactive museum and cultural sanctuary.
Research & Manifesto Link (click here)
Form & Pattern Exploration
The forms in the space are derived from research into cultural geometries, such as Nsibidi, and fractal geometry. These patterns informed the angular shape of he walls and its symbolic cutouts, which roject light and meaning throughout he space. The fragmented forms epresent the nonlinear process of ealing and memory, with each panel olding toward reflection and restoration.
Inclusivity
This project centers African and diasporic users, but its message is intentionally broad, the architecture holds space for multiple marginalized subcultures to heal, reflect, and be held with dignity. The design encourages intersectionality by supporting both collective gathering and private reflection.
Fostering Fostering
AutonomyVia AutonomyVia Architecture Architecture
Egress + Accessibility
The design integrates a clear and accessible egress path that responds to building codes while reinforcing the emotional journey ofthe space.
R O C E S S
FURNITURE+SPACEPLANS
Longitudinal3DSectionPerspective
nal 3-D section perspective
rious materials like wood, textured and terracotta, as well as how light the space. It includes staff-only acred space, a library/archives, a reception/entrance, and a makers ab.
e3DSectionPerspective
e 3-D section perspective presents a of materials, including wood, er, glass, and terracotta, along with racts within the space. It the sacred space, film room, oral anguage learning room, art nd staff-only lounges.
InteriorStudio401 TransformativeSpaces
Physical Handmade Material Board
Materials
Material: Clayterracotta
Terracotta Tile
Fired claytile
Carved Iroko Wood
Solid Iroko wood with Nsibidi symbol carvings.
Green Leather
Custom-printed natural cotton for upholstery and wall treatments.
Handwoven Kuba Cloth
Raffia fiber cloth from Congo, featuring dyed geometric patterns.
Recycled Metallic Gold
Subtle brushed gold surface for decorative elements.
Botanical Printed Textile
Layered fabric inspired byAfrican rainforestflora.
Botanical Printed Textile
Layered fabric inspired byAfrican rainforestflora.
Hand-stitched Mudcloth
Traditional Malian cotton fabric dyed with fermented mud.
Jute and FiberTwine Art
Hand-twisted natural jute detailing for screens and fixtures.
Medici Ivory PlasterWalls
Swirled green-and-cream plasterfinish forwalls and columns.
Textile Patchwork
A collage oftraditional African patterns — including Nsibidi, Adinkra, and abstracttribal symbols. Represents the interconnectedness ofAfrican societies and the layered storytelling of heritage, memory, and resilience across generations.
Nsibidi Patterned Roof Cutout
Bold Nsibidi motifs cut out ofthe roof ofthe sacred space.
Textured Lotus Wall Covering
Deep, moodytextile with lotus leaf impressions.
Stained Glass
Painted Iroko Wood
Solid Iroko
Textured Leaf Print (Nature-Inspired Textile)
Emphasizes connection to land and regenerative ebirth and healing
wood with Nsibidki symbol carvings.
TheArtInstallationsareaseriesofinteractiveLEDpanelsdesignedtosparkwonder,reflection,andjoyacrossallages.Thesescreensinvitebothvisualandkinestheticlearners intoanimmersiveexperience,whereculturalknowledge,creativeplay,andself-discoveryunfoldthroughtouchandlight.
Rotatingcontentincludes:
Presence-responsivedisplaysthatreflecttheviewerwithgentleaffirmationsandvisualpoetrytiedtoculturalidentity.
Touch-to-revealfeaturessharingjoyfulfacts,symbols,andquotesacrosstheAfricandiaspora.
Gamesanddigitalplaythatcelebrateexpression,challengeknowledge,orinvitefriendlycollaboration,designedtoengagechildrenandadultsalike. Artshowcasesfeaturingcontemporarydiasporicvisuals,music,andlanguage.
Interactivepromptsthatencouragewriting,drawing,orleavingpersonalreflections,buildingasharedwallofvoicesovertime.
Theseinstallationsarenotsimplyforviewing,they’refordoing.Theyinvitemovement,laughter,curiosity,andmemory.Designedtomeetpeoplewheretheyare,whetherchildor elder,thinkerorfeeler,theycreateafuture-facingspacethataffirmsbeauty,belonging,andimaginationwithoutlimits.
Understandingthatlightandsoundimpactindividualsdifferently—basedonage,sensoryprocessing,andcognitiveneeds—theLEDpanelsfeatureadjustablebrightnessandvolumecontrols. Visitorscanpersonalizetheirexperiencethroughanintuitiveinterface,ensuringcomfortandaccessibilityforall. Thisthoughtfuldesignelementreflectsacommitmenttoinclusivity,allowingeachpersontoengagewiththeinstallationsinawaythathonorstheiruniquesensorypreferencesandsupports focused,joyfullearning.
Positionedbesidethe communitykitchen,thedinin areaservesasacommunalh wherenourishmentand connectioncometogether Designedtofeelwarm,open andfamilial,thespace encouragespeopletogathe sharemeals,andengagein conversation.Morethanjust placetoeat,thediningarea functionsasanextensiono healing,whereculture,memo andeverydayjoyareexchang aroundthetable.
SeniorYear Renderings
SeniorYear SeniorYear Renderings Renderings
TheFilmRoomcreatesaspace whereidentityishonoredand affirmed.Itcomplementsother sensorylearningenvironments byprovidingimmersivevisual contentthatnurtures connection,reflection,and pridewithinthecommunity.
2025 SPRING InteriorStudio401 ReGroundWell
SeniorYear Renderings
In sacred spaces, apertures serve as conduits for light, embodying the principles of rectilinear geometryto create environments that reflect order and harmony. These illuminated spaces resonate deeply, offering a sanctuarythat counters the psychological scars of colonialism and menticide. The infusion of light not only symbolizes spiritual awakening but also facilitates mental clarity and healing, aligning with African therapeutic practices that emphasize the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
Throughoutmydesigneducation,Ioften struggledtoaffordthematerialsneededfor model-makingandprojects,whichlimitedmy abilitytofullyengageandcreate.Thislabwas bornfromthatexperience,adedicatedspace wherecommunitymembersofallagescan accessresources,tools,andsupporttobring theirideastolife.
TheLearningLabfocusesonsharingknowledge aboutAfrica,AfricanAmericanhistory,andthe widerAfricandiaspora—includingregionslikethe Caribbean,UKandAsia—highlightingstoriesand historiesthatareoftenoverlooked.
TheMakersLabofferscreativetoolssuchas lasercutters,sewingmachines,andmore, welcomingengineers,designers,fashionmakers, andcreatorsofalldisciplines.It’sdesignedto fostercollaborationanddialogueacross generations,cultivatingasenseofautonomy, community,andsharedculturalpride.
Thisspaceisn’tjustaboutmakingthings—it’s dingconnections,empowering pression,andsupportingcultural ginaninclusive,supportive environment.
Primarilydesignedforauditorylearners,the OralStoryRoomhonorstherichtraditionof oralstorytellingwithintheAfricandiaspora. Throughspokenword,music,andsound,this immersivespacepreserveshistory,celebrates ancestors,andfostersdeepcommunity connection.
Theroomfeaturescommunityseatingcircles toencourageopendialogueandshared learning,alongwithwhiteboardsforhands-on engagementandideasharing.Surroundedby plantsthatbringlifeandcalm,thespace nurturesawelcomingenvironmentwhere storiesandknowledgegroworganicallyacross generations.
This sanctuary serves as a living archive, a spatial vessel forthe preservation and celebration ofAfrican narratives often erased orfragmented by colonial violence. Within its glass-encased structure, the walls hold more than light; they hold memory. Visitors are invited into a lounge area lined with soft seating, where curated collections of oral histories, ancestral teachings, and reclaimed artifacts are available for quiet reading and reflection.
MidwaytoSomewhere
DanceofLight&Shadow
2ndYear
Final
MidwaytoSomewhere MidwaytoSomewhere
The concept is brought to life in "The The concept is brought to life in "The DanceofLightandShadow”,aspacethat DanceofLightandShadow”,aspacethat encouragesvisitorstorethinkfamiliarideas encouragesvisitorstorethinkfamiliarideas about shapes, colors, and objects. The about shapes, colors, and objects. The design challenges traditional definitions design challenges traditional definitions and pushes the boundaries of what we and pushes the boundaries of what we understand as reality, inviting a more understand as reality, inviting a more abstractandfluidexplorationofspace. abstractandfluidexplorationofspace.
2023
FALL
BATHROOM BATHROOM
InteriorStudio301
MidwaytoSomewhere
DanceofLight&Shadow
Thematerialsusedinthespaceenhancesound andlight,goingbeyondsimpleabsenceto createakindofdarknessthatismorecomplex. Light,shadow,anddarknessareshownto dependoneachother,reflectingthewaythe subconsciousandrealityareconnected. Engagingwithone'sinnerconsciousnessinthis spacefostersself-awareness,growth,anda strongerconnectionbetweenmindandbody.
2ndYear
Final
LOUNGE LOUNGE
MidwaytoSomewhere: DanceofLight&Shadow
2ndYear
Final
CAFE CAFE RECEPTION RECEPTION
InteriorStudio301
Midwayto Somewhere
DanceofLight&Shadow
Delving into the concept of darkness, I exploredhowitisnotsolelydefinedby absence but also by the way we interact with it. To achieve this, I incorporated dark-hued drapery, challenging the conventional perceptionofdarkness.Whenwethink of darkness, color doesn’t immediately come to mind. However, by manipulating light on these colored drapes, I created a sense of darkness withoutcompletelyeliminatinglight.
2ndYear
Final
This approach reflects the idea that darkness doesn’t necessitate the absence of light but rather a shift in how light interacts with color. The choice of dark tones in the drapery allows for an evolving play of light and shadow,aligningwiththeconceptthat allelements—color,light,anddarkness —are interconnected. This fluid relationship encourages viewers to question not only what is visible but also the very rules that govern our understanding of the world. By abstracting these concepts, I invite them to reconsider their perception of reality, beyond the simple colors they see.
2023 2023
FALL FALL
InteriorStudio302 InteriorStudio302
BindellaTenutaVallocaia BindellaTenutaVallocaia
2ndYear 2ndYear Renderings Renderings
Taste Room
A harmonious blend oftradition and modernity, the tasting room offers an immersive sensory experience.
Art Display Hall
This gallery space celebrates the intersection ofviticulture and art.
CLIENT: BINDELLA - TENUTA
VALLOCAIA
CONCEPT
A memorab seamlessly blending elegance with serenity. The design emphasized sophisticated aesthetics while incorporating sustainable and accessible designprinciples.Weaimedtoharmonize refined elements that would envelop guests in the essence ofwine, creating a welcoming space where everyone felt connected to the rich traditions of Italian wineculture.
DesertWhite natural stone walls provide a neutral backdrop for rotating exhibitions, while Rivestimenti a Spacco classed columns add texture and depth tte ts origins in pularity in re, offers erest. Desert nown for its nous quality, and exterior i a Spacco uce a tactile raditional stone splitting techniques. Stucco Veneziano walls provide a smooth, polished finish, adding depth and warmth to the spaces. Complementing these materials, Virginia walnut brings a rich, organic touch to furnishings and fixtures.
InteriorStudio3 InteriorStudio3
BindellaTenuta BindellaTenuta Vallocaia Vallocaia 2ndYear 2ndYear
Final Final
Axonometric View
Showroom Elevation
Showroom
The showroom showcases the winery’s finest selections within a setting that reflects craftsmanship and elegance.
Terrazzo floors and stucco Veneziano finishes exude timeless sophistication, while Virginia walnut display fixtures highlight the rich tones of the wines. Strategic lighting enhances the visual appeal, guiding guests through the curated collection.
IInteriorStudio302 nteriorStudio302
BindellaTenutaVallocaia BindellaTenutaVallocaia
2ndYear 2ndYear PartitionPlans PartitionPlans
2023 FALL InteriorStudio302 BindellaVallocaia
To the left, you’ll find enlarged plans of the ADAcompliant bathrooms, the showroom, and the taste room. These spaces, along with their layouts, are essential to the overall design, as they truly embody Italian heritage and communal gathering.
To the right, you’ll find detailed information about our wall, shelving, and column cladding details.
AxonometricViews
2024 FALL InteriorStudio302
SteelcaseNEXTComp
The monumental staircase is designed to make a statement, featuring prominent display showcasing the LED NEXT logo. This feature not on highlights the brand’s identity but also underscores its forward-thinkin approach. Pedestals along the stairs hold the logo branding signs, mak it easy to showcase various brands as visitors progress through the spa
The interior offices include color coordinated materials with coordinating department workstations for wayfinding. Each office is meant to feel welcoming, inclusive, and should promote productivity and well-being.
