INTERIOR DESIGN
HiThere! I’m Erika Gallo
In pursuing a degree in Interior Design Technology at George Brown College, I have immersed myself in a transformative academic journey that has not only honed my skills in schematic design but has also equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of industry standards within the dynamic realm of design. What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly blend precision with creativity, creating spaces that not only aesthetically appeal but also function flawlessly.
My academic pursuits have not only equipped me with theoretical knowledge but have provided me with hands-on experience, allowing me to develop technical skills that are crucial in meeting and exceeding industry expectations. I have a keen eye for detail and a passion for exploring the technical intricacies of design, where the fusion of innovation and precision leads to outstanding results.
Beyond the confines of coursework, I have actively engaged in various clubs and extracurricular activities, fostering an all-inclusive approach to design. This not only speaks to my commitment to continuous learning but also highlights my ability to collaborate and thrive in diverse and creative environments. I am driven by a desire to connect with professionals who share a similar passion for pushing the boundaries of design, and I am eager to exchange valuable insights with industry experts.
In seeking a role as an Interior Design Technologist, I am ready to contribute my skills, passion, and fresh perspectives to create innovative and functional spaces that leave a lasting impact. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my unique blend of technical expertise and creative flair to a dynamic professional setting.
REducation
Interior Design Technology
Advanced Ontario College Diploma - In progress
George Brown College, Toronto, ON
Sept 2022 - Present
Interior Decorating
Ontario College Diploma
Georgian College, Barrie, ON
Sept 2020 - May 2022
Hard Skills
AutoCAD
Revit
Vray
SketchUp
Layout
2020 Design
Illustrator
Photoshop
Indesign
Exel
Microsoft
Building Code
Soft Skills Experience
Junior Interior Designer
Lumar Interiors, Richmond Hill, ON
Jan 2018 - Jun 2018
Gained valuable experience by shadowing professionals and learning industry standards. I honed my organizational skills, absorbing knowledge and insights into the intricacies of interior design processes
Volunteer
Student Life Volunteer Squad Member
George Brown College
Jan 2024 - Present
Extra Curriculars
Architecture Club encourages skill and knowledge building through participation in events hosted by the club or hosted externally. This can include, but not limited to: sketch walks, design competitions, talks with industry professionals and site visits.
Problem Solving
Organization
Communication
Customer Service
Collaboration
Leadership
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Design Principles
Schematic Design
Adaptability
Creativity
U r b a n R e n e w a l
RESIDENTIAL
01
02 R e t a i l S t o r e COMMERCIAL
U n i v e r s a l A p a r t m e n t
03 RESIDENTIAL
D r a w i n g s
T e c h n i c a l
04
05 F l o w e r M a r k e t
06 S k e t c h e s & M o r e
Personalized Two-Story Home Revamp:
Client-Centered
Approach
Date: Fall 2023
Project Overview
a complete top to bottom renovation of the two-story home in Toronto's Roncesvalle neighborhood, the renovations will be done within the existing floorplans of the current home The main focus is meeting the specific needs of the homeowners, Susana and Alex Susana, a chef, requires a spacious kitchen suitable for filming, prioritizing sufficient countertop space and versatile lighting Meanwhile, Alex, a photographer, needs a large photo studio with plenty of storage The design solutions will aim to accommodate these requirements while maximizing storage throughout the house for a clutter-free living environment The basement level of the home be converted into a 2-bedroom rental unit with a separate entrance The basement rental unit will have its own kitchen, laundry area and full bathroom that includes a bathtub
Design Concept
Drawing inspiration from Ancerl Studio, the vision for the clients' home renovation transcends into a contemporary masterpiece. Through a seamless fusion of neutral tones and textured elements, the design crafts distinct yet interconnected spaces The goal is to transform the house into a personalized and harmonious home by using natural materials and exceptional craftsmanship This aligns with Ancerl Studio's focus on texture, contrast, and creating a unique living experience.
6 PotLights1. FlushedMount2. SputnikLighting3. DomeLights4. SconcesLighting5. UnderCabinet Lighting 6.
Sustainable Luxury at Legacy Craft Jewelry Date: Winter 2024
Legacy Craft’s Memo:
Legacy Craft Jewelry, located in Toronto's First Canadian Place, offers a immersive experience centered on treasuring the stories behind each piece. Clients entrust us with their old heirlooms, diamonds, and gold, and we rejuvenate them into new treasures. Warm, aged-looking finishes evoke a sense of history, harmonized with modern elements for a unified ambiance. With a dedicated workshop area allowing customers to observe the creation process firsthand, Legacy Craft Jewelry is committed to crafting enduring legacies through its personalized approach.
Create a sustainable specialty retail experience that optimizes product or service sales while ensuring customers feel they have obtained the best value for their purchases Select merchandise or services from a diverse range of offerings to meet varying customer needs Develop a comprehensive retail design solution for a 2000 sq. ft. space in downtown Toronto, including provisions for a storage area, a kitchenette, and a barrierfree washroom for staff. Craft an inviting and appealing environment with a user-friendly layout to enhance the shopping experience.
“Crafting Legacies, One Story at a Time”
Perspective Sketch
SHOWROOM
CASH - WRAP
Tailored Home Design for a Dynamic Lifestyle
Date: Fall 2023
Challenges & Solutions
To address challenges in the existing floorplan's sharp edges and ensure compliance with Ontario Building Code standards, Adjustable features, such as height-adjustable countertops, were added to cater to Jesse's needs. Thoughtful space planning optimized pathways and storage solutions while utilizing smaller furniture and equipment to maximize space efficiency. side by side washer and dryer units apposed to stackable and pocket doors further enhanced efficiency A breakfast bar design allowed for unobstructed access with a minimum rotating space of 1500mm and within the whole space. Additionally, considering transfer space, grab bars, and locating the barrier-free washroom close to Jesse's bedroom were key considerations to ensure accessibility and convenience for all occupants These solutions not only promote independence and social connection for both Jesse and his father, David, but also prioritize their comfort and ease of use within their demanding schedules
Create a home tailored to suit suit dynamic lifestyle, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity using the existing floorplan. Use OBC (Ontario Building Code) to design principles in which prioritize seamless mobility for and universal design. incorporate innovative solutions in the kitchen and communal areas. Storage needs, including Jesse's sports equipment, are carefully considered. The overall design solution aims to create an adaptable, flexible home that promotes independence and social connection for both Jesse and his father, David, Jesse’s father is never home due to his overnight graveyard shift work schedule. Create design solutions while accommodating their demanding schedules.
REFLECTED CEILING PLAN
COMPLIANT OBC CODES
3.8.3.3.ACCESSIBLEDOORS
ALLDOORSINABARRIER-FREEPATHOFTRAVELMUST HAVEAMINIMUMCLEARWIDTHOF860MM ALLSUITESAREREQUIREDTOHAVEATLEAST760MM CLEARWIDTHDOORSIFSERVEDBYACORRIDORMORE THAN1060MMINWIDTH.
3833 (10)ACCESSIBLEDOORS
ALLDOORSINABARRIER-FREEPATHOFTRAVEL AREREQUIREDTOHAVELATCHSIDECLEARANCESOF: –300MMONTHEPUSHSIDEOFTHEDOOR,AND –600MMONTHEPULLSIDEOFTHEDOOR
A-3838(2)(B)BARRIER-FREEDESIGN-CLEARANCES
ACCESSIBLEWASHROOMSREQUIREACLEARTRANSFERSPACEOF 900X1500MMANDACLEAR1500MMTURNINGRADIUSWITHINTHE STALLORTOILETROOM,ASDEMONSTRATED TWOGRABBARSAREPROVIDED;ONEBEHINDTHEWATERCLOSET, ANDANL-SHAPEDGRABBARBESIDETHEWATERCLOSET THETOILETPAPERDISPENSERISLOCATEDIMMEDIATELY UNDERNEATHTHEL-SHAPEDGRABBAR,BUTNOTMORETHAN300 MMFROMTHEWATERCLOSET
A-38838(5)BARRIER-FREEGRABBARS
L-SHAPEDGRABBARSPROVIDEGREATERSUPPORTFORPEOPLE WHORELYONGRABBARSTOASSISTTHEMINTRANSFERRINGTO ANDFROMASTANDINGORSEATEDPOSITION THEUSEOF2STRAIGHTGRABBARSLOCATEDAT90DEGREE ANGLETOONEANOTHERISALSONOTACCEPTABLE.
3 8 3 12 UNIVERSAL TOILET ROOM
AUNIVERSALTOILETROOMSHOULDHAVE–AMINIMUM DIMENSIONOF1700MMX1700MM,AND–ACCOMMODATEA CLEARTURNINGCIRCLEOFATLEAST1700MM FIXTURESSHOULDBEPLACEDTOALLOWAPERSONINAMOBILITY DEVICETHEOPTIONTOEITHERBACKINBESIDETHEWATER CLOSET,ORTRANSFERFROMTHEFRONTOFTHEW/C
3.8.3.13. SHOWERS AND BATHTUBS
REQUIRE THE PROVISION OF A CLEAR FLOOR SPACE WITHIN THE SHOWER OF 900 MM BY 1500 MM, AS WELL AS THE SAME CLEAR FLOOR AREA OUTSIDE OF THE SHOWER
SHOWER CONTROLS MUST BE INSTALLED ALONG THE BACK WALL OF THE SHOWER AND WITHIN REACH OF THE REQUIRED SHOWER SEAT
GRAB BARS WILL BE PROVIDED TO ASSIST A PERSON WITH TRANSFERRING TO THE SHOWER FACILITY AND FOR ASSISTANCE AS REQUIRED THROUGHOUT BATHING ACCESSIBLE BATHTUBS ARE SIMILAR TO “STANDARD BATHTUBS” BUT ALLOW FOR SAFETY BY THE PROVISION OF GRAB BARS AND SLIP RESISTANCE
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATINGS FOR FLOORS AND ROOFS-SECTION 9.10.8.1
FLOORTOBEMIN FIRERESISTANCE RATINGOF45MINS
EGRESS WINDOWS OR DOORS FOR BEDROOMSSECTION 9 9 10 1 EACH BEDROOM HAS ONE OUTSIDE WINDOW IS OPENABLE FROM THE INSIDE WITHOUT THE USE OF TOOLS
PROVIDES AN INDIVIDUAL, UNOBSTRUCTED OPEN PORTION HAVING A MINIMUM AREA OF 0 35 M²
SMOKEDETECTORSANDCARBON MONOXIDE-SECTION910193
INSTALLEDONEACHSTOREYOFTHE HOUSEANDOUTSIDESLEEPINGAREAS INCLUDINGTHEBASEMENT
Plans, Schedules, and Specifications
Date: Winter 2024
Project Overview
Working individually on this assignment involves developing Plans and Schedules for Working Drawings of a personal kitchen using AutoCad. The task includes conducting field measurements, drafting floor plans, and documenting existing features and finishes to accurately represent the current kitchen layout. Researching alternate materials for upcoming renovations and documenting choices in the Finishes Plan and Schedule is part of the assignment. Specifying new fixtures in a Plumbing Fixture Schedule demonstrates the ability to plan and organize a renovation project effectively. This hands-on experience in design, drafting, and project management prepares for future endeavors in the field of architecture and design.
A Takashi Murakami Inspired Gallery Reception
Date: Fall 2023
Concept
Embracing the spirited essence of Takashi Murakami's art, the reception area design exudes playful vibrancy through a swarm of colors and whimsical lines. The primary goal is to evoke a childlike sense of wonder, inviting visitors to unleash their creativity without inhibition or judgment. Sustainable principles shine through in the choice of decor, where recycled glass accents contribute to the eco-friendly ambiance. With Murakami's joyful palette and lively aesthetics, the reception area becomes a sanctuary where guests can revel in carefree exploration and artistic expression.
Design an art gallery reception area by selecting an artist whose style serves as inspiration. Integrate their principles, choose two product details for enhancement, and prioritize sustainability. The aim is to create a captivating space that inspires visitors as they enter the gallery while ensuring functionality and practicality.
A
B
A & B
Elevation
Elevation
Hand Drawings
A lifelike illustration featuring three ceiling lamps aims to assess how natural light interacts with the fixtures, revealing the diverse lighting effects from different angles
Concept
Sketches, both handdrawn and digitally drawn can be viewed below to effectively convey ideas, demonstrate functionality, visualize potential final spaces, and illustrate overall floor plans and perspectives.
A still shot utilizes pencil and alcohol markers to showcase potted plants which are arranged to emphasize how natural light creates varying brightness levels, accentuating the interplay of light and shadow and enhancing how one another interact
In this drawing, structural lighting positioned above the door provides subtle coverage, while a strategically placed lamp on the front desk casts a warm glow, illuminating the arch wall with inviting ambiance. The infusion of natural light through the door frame enhances the overall aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of artificial and natural illumination in the space.
A digitally drawn perspective showcases a realistic scene, illustrating how lighting influences the reception area and its surroundings. The use of backlighting on a curved arch produces a captivating glow, enhancing its graceful contours and forming a visually striking silhouette.
“Design is so simple. That’s why it’s so complicated”
- Paul Rand