Hi there! I’m Emily Minnix, a 4th year interior design student excited to take the next steps in my career as an entry-level Interior Designer.
I’ve always been drawn to art for its ability to spark emotion, which led me to discover my passion for interior design. It’s the perfect blend of creativity and problem-solving, allowing me to transform spaces into meaningful experiences.
With hands-on experience in commercial, residential, and hospitality design, I’ve developed a well-rounded understanding of working with diverse clients and tackling unique project challenges. I’m passionate about designing spaces that not only push creative boundaries but also bring people together and make a positive impact on communities.
COMPRESSED RESUME
RECENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
INTERIOR DESIGN INTERN I Modern Traditions LLC.
MAY 2024 – PRESENT DAY
INTERIOR DESIGN INTERN I Wendel Companies
MAY 2024 – AUGUST 2024
FREELANCE: INTERIOR DESIGNER I Trinity Lutheran Church
FEBRUARY 2024 - PRESENT DAY
INTERIOR DESIGN INTERN I THA Design + Architecture
AUGUST 2024 - PRESENT DAY
EXTRACURRICULAR
ASID STUDENT CHAPTER MEMBER:
• LOWER – CLASSMAN REPRESENTATIVE
JANUARY 2024 – PRESENT DAY
SELECTED PARTICIPATE, STEELCASE NEXT STUDENT COMPETITION
• One of two students selected by faculty and peers to represent VCU in this design competition
EDUCATION
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia
BFA: Interior Design
MINOR: General Business
SKILLS
Adaptabllity
Communication
Collaboration
Problem - Solving
Space Planning
Revit
Enscape
AutoCAD
Sketchup
MS Office
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THE CORPORATE CAMPGROUND
Fall 2024 16000 SF Chicago, IL
“Being More Human”
Redefining Corporate Spaces For Inspired Escapes 2024 Steelcase Student Competition
This project was selected by students and faculty to represent VCU Interior Design in the Steelcase NEXT Student Competition.
811 W. Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 6th & 7th Floor
URBAN CAMPING
Chicago's urban camping opportunities began to gain traction in the early 2010s as a way to offer residents and visitors unique outdoor experiences within the city's urban setting. The initiative was begun by programs like ‘Camping at the Park District’, allowing people to camp overnight in select city parks, such as Northerly Island and Palmisano Park. This program aimed to promote outdoor recreation, connect people with nature, and provide an accessible alternative to traditional camping.
These experiences bring a touch of the wilderness into the heart of the city while encouraging community and outdoor engagement.
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Logo Development
RECEPTION
The "Corporate Campground" integrates natural elements with the structured essence of city living. This unique office space will harmonize greenery, wooden textures, and the flow of a communal fire pit, with the exposure of concrete, glass, and orthogonal elements. This balance creates an environment where employees can momentarily escape the corporate rush, experiencing moments of tranquility and connection similar to camping under the stars and city skyline, yet remain anchored in the dynamic energy of a modern workspace. By merging the outdoors' organic warmth with urbanity’s sleek functionality, the design supports the office’s mantra of "being more human."
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OFFICES
Section Looking West
Section Looking North
6TH FLOOR
7TH FLOOR
WORK CAFE
WELLNESS ROOM
LACTATION ROOM
PRODUCTION & RESOURCES
RECEPTION
OPEN COLLAB
WORKSTATIONS
HUDDLE ROOMS
VIRTUAL RETREAT
OFFICES
CLIENT PRESENTATION
Custom Sound Absorbing LED Panel
Custom Recycled Nylon Canopies
HUDDLE ROOMS
The office's standout feature is the "Virtual Retreat," a dynamic space where visitors and employees can explore cutting-edge technology. Equipped with VR and AR headsets, video game consoles, communal tablets, a green screen, and walking desks for movement-friendly work, this area caters to both relaxation and innovation. Communal features like bleacher seating create shared experiences, while private areas, such as a Steelcase camper, offer individuals a space to immerse themselves in personal AR experiences.
WORK CAFE
WILD CARD - VIRTUAL RETREAT
WORK CAFE
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH
February 2024- Present Day Henrico, VA
Narthex and Preschool
Fostering Community
Freelance Project
Trinity Lutheran Church in Henrico, Virginia, is a faith-centered community committed to their motto “Gathering around the cross of Jesus. Growing in God’s grace. Going out to share His love.”. The church offers a variety of programs, including worship services, Bible studies, youth events, and childcare services, all focused on spiritual growth and fellowship. With a strong emphasis on service and outreach, Trinity Lutheran encourages members to live out their faith both locally and globally. Its family-oriented environment creates a supportive space for individuals and families to connect, grow, and serve together.
Hub
Unity
The new modern-style church narthex mirrors the dynamic growth of fellowship within Trinity Lutheran Church’s congregation. The narthex will cultivate diverse relationships, providing a nurturing environment where congregants can gather, connect, and worship together. Through functionality, interactive features, and versatile spaces, this design symbolizes the ongoing journey of fellowship at Trinity Lutheran Church, inviting all to join in the ever-evolving tapestry of shared faith and communal growth.
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Multi-Purpose Information Station
This station serves as the first point of contact for congregants as they transition from the chapel to the Narthex, where they gather and socialize. Information about upcoming events will be shared here, either posted on the bulletin boards or displayed on the mount flush televisions. For larger events, the counter is designed with sufficient depth to double as additional space for food or refreshments.
TV Monitors By Others
Glacier White Corian Solid Surface
Manuf. Corkboard.com
Product: Custom Pin Bpard Color: Sand
Laminate to Match Kitchenette Counters
Coffee Bar
Formica: Soild Surfacing “Tumbled Glass 413”
Present Day Progress
BINDELLA WINERY
Spring 2024 Richmond, VA
“Terra, Vite, Vita”
Inspired by A Rich and Rooted Past
CLIENT PROFILE AND INSPIRATION
Bindella is a high-end italian winery located in Tuscany, Italy. Bindella seeks to create wines that reflect the beauty and diversity of the Tuscan landscape while inspiring meaningful connections among wine lovers around the world.
“terra (land), vite (vine), vita (life)”
Bindella emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature while respecting the land, to produce with the intention of giving. Bindella strive to create spaces that are dedicated to “taste and hospitality”
TUSCAN DESIGN
SPACIAL PLANNING
TASTING ROOM
Bindella Winery stands as a testament to the timeless elegance and resilience of the grapevine.
Rooted in a legacy of respect for nature and unwavering commitment to sustainability, Bindella’s journey intertwines with the land, nurturing a rich heritage that spans generations. Just as the grapevine draws strength from its roots, Bindella draws inspiration from its history and culture.As guests enter the building, they will feel as though they have transported to Tuscany, where Bindella’s legacy began. Focusing on traditional Tuscan design elements and the importance of sustainable materials, Richmond’s new winery will be a mirrored image of Bindella’s history and culture.
Showroom
Tasting Room 3. Wine Storage
Copy/File Room
Private Office
Restroom 7. Meeting Room
8. Kitchenette
9. Sensory Room Room Key Floorplan
SHOWROOM
SHOWROOM
The wine storage design draws inspiration from Bindella Winery’s iconic cellars, which are adorned with chandeliers, paintings, and sculptures. The original cellars feature sky-blue ceilings, symbolizing the sky above and creating a sense of openness and connection to nature. I chose to capture these elements in my design, emphasizing the artistic and symbolic qualities that define the Bindella cellars.
To further reflect these characteristics, the wine storage is positioned to be a focal point, visible from every public area within the building. This ensures that the storage space is not just functional but also an integral part of the overall experience, echoing the elegance and cultural significance of Bindella’s design.
THESIS VOLUME 1.0
Research
Fall 2024 - Spring 2025 Richmond, VA
Thesis Volume 1.0
A supportive housing community for young adults, aged 18-24, aging out of foster care
Explore my preliminary thesis research
THESIS
MANIFESTO
The journey from childhood to adulthood is a critical time, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery. However, for many young adults aging out of the foster care system, this transition is filled with uncertainty, lack of resources, and the risk of homelessness. Every year, thousands of these young individuals face the harsh reality of navigating adulthood without the safety net most of their peers enjoy. It is not simply housing that they need but a holistic approach that empowers them with the skills and confidence to thrive independently.
The challenge is clear: young adults aging out of foster care often face challenges when preparing for independent living. Without support, they are at risk of homelessness, unemployment, and emotional isolation. In my thesis, I propose the design of a community-based transitional housing facility in Richmond, tailored to the needs of young adults leaving the foster care system. This space will go beyond serving as a shelter; it will be a nurturing environment where these individuals can cultivate independence while remaining grounded in the support of a strong community. The facility will feature communal spaces where young adults can learn life skills, connect with peers and mentors, and explore educational and career opportunities.
CONCEPT
Inspired by the construction of a quilt—a symbol of home, comfort, and community—this thesis project is intended to embody the essence of unity and support. The design will integrate private living spaces, communal areas, and learning environments into a nurturing environment for young adults transitioning out of foster care. The quilt’s embrace offers warmth, protection, and a sense of belonging, mirroring the facility’s aim to provide stability, security, and emotional support. Every element of the design harmonizes to create an environment where residents can feel at home while building a strong foundation for their future.
This manifesto is a call to reimagine how we approach transitional housing for young adults aging out of foster care. It is a call to action to provide not just a temporary solution but a foundation for lifelong success. Through thoughtful design, we can create spaces that empower these young adults, offering them the hope, stability, and tools they need to thrive in their futures.
Personal Art
Compiled work from 2023 - 2024
The Newlyweds Oil on Canvas 16” x 24” Commission
Oil Paint on Canvas
16” x 24” Commission Mother and Son
Oil Paint on Canvas
24” x 36”
Seventeen
Digital Drawing
Merchandise Design For Alternative Band “Parsley” Commission
