Jesse-James Smith Portfolio '25

interior design

jesse-james portfolio 2025

design purpose

Jesse-James Smith

Ex

To make a lasting impact by integrating my broadened knowledge of innovation, technical precision, and ethnographic approaches to address user needs from multiple perspectives, creating spaces that not only respond to but also inspire and fulfill the diverse needs of all users.

design passion My portfolio represents more than just a collection of work. It is a visual representation of unity in design. The central theme that ties everything together is the circle, which has become a symbol of my journey and my approach to design. My fascination with circles began in my early sophomore year when a professor told us to avoid using complex forms and stick to rectangles or squares in our graphic work, as he believed we weren’t advanced enough. While others adhered to this limitation, I embraced the challenge and chose to incorporate one of the most challenging forms in graphic design—circles. This choice sparked my passion for pushing boundaries and quite literally thinking outside the box, realizing that true innovation comes from challenging the norm and embracing new possibilities.

Unity in design refers to the arrangement of elements and principles in a way that creates a sense of completeness and harmony. The circle, in particular, has come to symbolize this concept for me, representing wholeness, continuity, and the seamless connection of all things. My portfolio reflects this idea, where each project demonstrates the integration of various design elements and principles. Just as the circle brings everything together in its form, my work showcases how elements like color, texture, shape, and technique come together to create cohesive designs.

Contact Phone 765-761-1444 Email jessejsmith03@gmail.com LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-james-smith

Education Purdue University West Lafayette, IN

2021 - 2025

- Major: Interior Design - CIDA Accredited Program - Minors: Construction Graphics, Design & Innovation - Purdue Atheltic Directors Honor Roll - Deans List: 2022 - 2025 - 21st Century Full-Ride Scholarship

Sk

Mo Re

Gr En

Summer 2024

11 E Madison St Ste 300, Chicago, IL 60602

- Enhanced professional skills in a fast-paced studio as an intern in the Work 2 Studio.

- 80% of my time was spent working on documentation, rendering, presentation development, attending site visits, client meetings, and exploring design charettes with the project teams I was on.

- The other 20% was dedicated to the summer-long intern research project that my fellow interns and I presented to various Gensler offices across the North Central Region.

Guest Experience Specialist – Sports Grill & Bar

2022 - Present

3009 Northwestern Ave, West Lafayette, IN 47906

- Enhancing multitasking abilities to manage competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail and quality.

- Fostering collaboration by working closely with a team to achieve shared goals in a positive, engaging environment, building meaningful connections.

- Adapting quickly to changing situations, demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving skills under pressure.

- Developing a customer-focused mindset, understanding individual needs and creating tailored experiences.

Residential Decor Intern

2020 - 2021

Brown’s Accents l 3325 US Hwy 41, Attica, IN 47918 - Assisted in selecting and arranging decorative accessories, including artwork, vases, textiles, and lighting, to enhance interior spaces.

- Managed decor inventory, keeping track of stock, invoices, returns, and new arrivals for the shop and clients.

- Styled bookshelves, coffee tables, and mantels to create visually appealing and cohesive interior spaces.

METROPOLIS Magazine’s Future100 2025 Graduating A&D Students Across North America NEXT Connection - Workplace - Interior Architecture - Steelcase National Design Cowmpetition TOP10 & 1/5 Honorable Mentions

Kirkos Kupcakery - Hospitality - Interior Architecture - ASID, IN Annual State Student Competition - First Place

FW Community Center - Mixed-Use - Interior Architecture - Indiana Engagement & Service-Learning Summit Showcase - First Place

Unity Design Firm - Workplace - Architecture & Interiors - Purdue Interior Design CIDA Gallery Select - Purdue Exponent Newspaper Student Highlight - All Art & Design Undergraduate Exhibition- Second Prize

Interior Design Patricia Recker Hartzell Undergraduate Scholarship Recipient

Involvment Purdue Athletics - Cheerleading

2021-Present

IIDA & ASID - Student Member

2023-Present

IIDA & ASID Purdue Chapter - Senior Rep.

2021-Present

CLA - Student Council

2023-Present

odeling evit, SketchUp, AutoCAD, Rhino, Architectural Hand Modeling, 3-D Printing

Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Wellness, Diversity and Inclusion Panel

2021-Present

aphic nscape, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, Hand Rendering/Drafting

Human Factors & Ergonomics Society - Purdue Chapter

2023-Present

kills

resume

Gensler, Chicago - Interior Design Intern

2025

Recognition

xperience

w h at ’ s

01. 02.

Workplace - Interior Architecture

Hospitality - Interior Architecture

NEXT Connection

Kirkos Kupcakery

Steelcase NEXT National Competition - TOP10 & 1/5 Honorable Mentions

ASID, IN Annual State Student Competition - 1st Place & Best in use of Daltile

portfolio 2025

inside?

03. 04.

Workplace - Architecture & Interiors

Senior Living - Interior Architecture

All Art & Design Undergraduate Exhibition - 2nd Prize Purdue Interior Design CIDA Gallery Select Purdue Exponent Newspaper Student Highlight

Purdue Interior Design CIDA Gallery Select

AGING IN PLACE

lets take a look!

unity design

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01.

NEXT

Steelcase NEXT National Student Competition TOP10 & 1/5 Honorable Mentions Fall 2024 Location: Chicago, IL Individual Work

Inspired by the iconic bascule bridges of Chicago, this design embraces the structural elegance and symbolic resonance of triangular forms. The “foundation” is carefully planned with interlocking triangular shapes, creating dynamic pathways that facilitate movement and connection throughout the various spaces. Each triangular element not only serves a functional purpose but also embodies the deeper significance of stability and harmony, reflecting the bridges’ role in linking diverse neighborhoods across the city. By incorporating varying angles and elevations, the design encourages exploration and interaction, inviting users to engage with the environment while building a sense of community.

N O C

EMPLOYEE TOUCH-DOWN

project 01.

SITE & CONTEXT

CHICAGO STAYS CONNECTED THROUGH

The new Steelcase NEXT office will be located in Fulton Market in Chicago Illinois. Fulton market is located in the West Loop of Chicago. Originally home to industrial spaces and wholesale food markets, West Loop is exploding with modern high-rises, top-tier restaurants and new residential and office buildings. The Chicago River that runs through the heart of the city was a major trade route for lumber and meat packing companies and has the most movable bridges in the United State. These movable bascule bridges paved the way to making Chicago as successful as it is today because of to their ability to seperate and allow boats to pass through, providing the city with access to various goods and services.

PLACES

NEXT RESTAURANTS HOTELS RETAIL

SCHEMATICS PEOPLE

NEXT MUSEUMS EDUCATION PARKS

TRANSIT

NEXT PARKING BUS STATIONS TRAIN STATIONS

CLIENT GOALS

CONNECTION

ME + WE

IDENTITY

FIXED TO FLUID

EQUITY

OPEN & ENCLOSED

ADAPTABILITY

BRAIDING DIGITAL & PHYSICAL

project 01.

DESIGN DRIVERS

INSPIRATION IMAGERY

FORM

CONNECTION

IDENTITY

COMPRESSION & EXPANSION

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ORIGINAL LOGO DESIGN

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4

6

3

8

5

16 16

17

2 15

LEGEND

FLOOR 06 PLAN

1

14

13

10 12 11

1

NEXT EMPLOYEE ENTRY

6

CLIENT PRESENTATION ROOM

11

HUDDLE ROOM

16

PHONE ROOMS

2

CLIENT GREETING DISPLAY

7

WORK CAFE STORAGE

12

VISITOR FLEX OFFICE

17

MONUMENTAL STAIR

3

CLIENT CELEBRATION BAR

8

WORK CAFE

13

PRODUCTION & OPERATIONS

4

RECEPTION

9

TEAM MEETING ROOM

14

BRIDGE POINT

5

CLIENT DISPLAY

10

DIRECTOR OF P&0 OFFICE

15

EMPLOYEE TOUCH-DOWN

9

project 01.

3

4

6

7

9

8

5 2 19 20

18 1

12

11

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16 14

14

1

CREATIVE COLLAB RM

6

CLIENT SERVICES

11

WILDCARD SPACE

16

MEETING ROOM

2

MEETING RM

7

DIGITAL MARKETING DIRECTOR OFFICE

12

PRODUCTION & RESOURCE CENTER

17

BRIDGE POINT

3

LACTATION RM

8

CREATIVE DIRECTOR OFFICE

13

HUDDLE RM

18

HUDDLE RMS

4

WELLNESS RM

9

DIGITAL MARKETING DEPARTMENT

14

PHONE RM

19

MEETING ROOM

5

BRIDGE POINT

10

CREATIVE DEPARTMENT

15

MEDIA DEPARTMENT

20

CLIENT SERVICES DIRECTOR OFFICE

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FLOOR 07 PLAN LEGEND

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15 17

10

FLOOR 07 ZONING ANALYSIS

KEY SP

ME ZONES THE COLOR BLUE INCREASES FOCUS, FEELING OF SECURITY, AND TRANQUILTITY. WE ZONES

FLOOR 06 ZONING ANALYSIS

THE COLOR ORANGE STIMULATES CREATIVE THINKING, BOOSTS ENERGY LEVELS, AND ENCOURAGES SOCIALIZATION

*

project 01.

PACES FLEX OFFICE

RECEPTION RCP 10’ - 2” AFF

LEGEND

OCULAR COUPE TOWER CABLE SCALLOP - WORKSURFACE SERIES 1 - TASK CHAIR

3” MONOPOINT - FLOS

SEAMLESS RECESSED EMERGENCY LED - LIGHTING DESIGN STUDIO

9’ - 6” AFF

This multi-functional space can be reconfigured with its movable desking system to accomodate different needs. From office, to meeting room, to a space for online interviews and more.

LINEAR SLATE 2 - AXIS 10’ - 2” AFF

DIRECTIONAL LED EGRESS SIGN - COOPER LIGHTING SOLUTIONS

WORK CAFE

BRIDGE POINTS LOW- SEATING

VICTOR2 - RECYCLING UNIT

MEDIUM- SEATING

ESPRESSO & WATER MACHINE

HIGH- SEATING

PRINTER AND COPIER

There are four “Bridge Points” in the office. Adjacent to each department, they provide a quick check point while on the go for coffee, water, printing, and copying. Under counter storage houses paper, paper clips, push pins, markers, etc.

This alternate space plan allows for a easy transition from an everyday cafe to an intuitive space for office wide meetings, guest speakers, catered lunch-ins and more.

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STORAGE DETAILED TO REFLECT CHICAGOS “ORGANIZED” GRID LIKE CONNECTING STREET BLOCKS

project 01.

DN

The custom reception desk is just off the right of the entrance past the client greeting display. Users are guided through wayfinding elements like the angular forms the walls create and path on the floor. The desk has an ADA compliant height at one end. On the right we see another client display that is aligned with the client presentation room. Awards and other treasures are displayed here for the clients to engage with.

DN

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RECEPTION AND CLIENT GREETING DISPLAY

MATERIALS

FF&E

WORK CAFE

Montara650 Chair Steelcase

Circula Side Table Steelcase

Away from the Desk Steelcase

Palm Stool Steelcase

Thread Power Outlet Steelcase

Trace Pendant Steelcase

MATERIALS

FF&E

GARDEN SPACE

Cosh Armchair Steelcase

Medici Lounge Steelcase

Sistema Ottoman Steelcase

Facile Bench Steelcase

Urban Shelf Steelcase

Medium Plus Steelcase

project 01.

OPTION 1

OPTION 2

PRIVATE OFFICE

OFFICE SPACES

As a “me” zone private offices are detialed in primarily blue to increase focus, feeling of security and create a sense of tranquility. Option 1 provides a great space for those who are more hands on workers who prefer to collaborate often. Option 2 allows the occupant to have a more private office. Option 3 is ideal for executives as the layout is functionally and visually planned for important online meetings.

DN

DN

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OPTION 3

MATERIALS

FF&E

MEETING ROOM

Chord Chair Steelcase

Ocular Table Steelcase

Buoy Steelcase

Floow Side Table Steelcase

RoomWizard Steelcase

Stella Spotlight Axis

Buoy Steelcase

Flex Media Cart Steelcase

Languanitas Steelcase

RoomWizard Steelcase

Cowl Lamp Steelcase

Stella Spotlight Axis

MATERIALS

FF&E

CREATIVE COLLAB ROOM

project 01.

IN-BETWEEN SPACE

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IN-BETWEEN SPACES

ERY AK

PC

02.

KIRKO

ASID, IN Annual State Student Competition 1st Place & Best in use of Daltile Spring 2024 Location: Brooklyn, NY Individual Work

This design draws inspiration from the timeless principles of balance, repetition, and symmetry inherent in Greek culture, seamlessly intertwined with the dynamic elegance of radial design. Embracing the symbolic power of circles, a key motif in ancient Greek art and architecture, the space unfolds as a harmonious symphony of interconnected elements.

Circular patterns, reminiscent of Greek motifs like the meander, adorn surfaces, establishing a visual rhythm that resonates with the country’s historical aesthetics. The radial design principle is employed not only to create visually striking focal points but also to evoke a sense of unity and equilibrium, mirroring the Greek emphasis on balance and order.

U K S

main dining area perspective

project 02.

SCHEMATICS

THE BLUE ZONES & GREEK CULTURE The Blue Zones, renowned for their longevity and wellbeing, include regions across the globe where people consistently live healthier and longer lives. While Greece is not a designated Blue Zone in its entirety, certain Greek islands such as Ikaria have gained recognition for their high percentage of centenarians and low rates of age-related diseases. The cultural emphasis on communal gatherings and a relaxed pace of life further underscores the positive impact of these lifestyle choices.

MATERIALS INSPIRATION

BALANCE

REPETITION

SYMMETRY

project 01.

PROJECT GOALS

FINAL & INITIAL BLOCK DIAGRAMS WORK ZONES

PUBLIC ZONES

PRIVATE ZONES

Create am intentional yet impactful brand package that connects users to the sace along with the brand ethic.

Boost Productivity within and overall mood for both patrons and employees

Create a strong connection between patrons and employees, creating a unified space of users.

KIRKOS KUPCAKERY

Encourage movement, offer opportunities for relaxation, and incorporate biophilic elements to foster a holistic approach to wellness.

RENDERED FLOOR PLAN

CODE

MATERIALS & FURNITURE SPECIFICATIONS

ADA D

CERAMIC TILE

WALL TILE

PORCELAIN TILE

LOUNGE SEAT

WASTE ENCLOSURER

BOOTH SEAT

LEGEND

EGRESS PATH PATRON CIRCULATION STAFF CIRCULATION ACCESSIBLE SEATING

LOUNGE SEATING AXON

kirkos Kupcakery

DINING BAR SECTION: NTS

project 01.

PLAN

BRAND IDENTITY

LEMON OLIVE CUPCAKE

RED WINE CUPCAKE

SAVORY TZATZIKI, FETA CUPCAKE

CERAMIC TILE

project 01.

DALTILE

DALTILE LVT DALTILE PORCELAIN TILE CAMBRIA QUARTZ DALTILE

DALTILE STONE TILE

DALTILE QUARTZITE

entry waiting & pick-up

CERAMIC TILE

IRM

IG

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03. uNI

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All Art & Design Undergraduate Exhibition - 2nd Prize Purdue Interior Design CIDA Gallery Select Purdue Exponent Newspaper Student Highlight Fall 2023 Location: Palm Springs, CA Individual Work

This Design seeks to create a visually captivating and emotionally resonant experience, inspired by the timeless beauty of Palm Springs’ deserts and the cacti that belong to them. Through a careful blend of repetitive lines and curved edges, the design aims to embody the essence of cacti while offering a seamless and immersive user experience. The design aims to instill a feeling of unity with nature, reflecting the companies direct goals and brand identity in correlation to their practice using unity to create harmonious interiors using all of the principles of design.

S

exterior perspective

project 03.

BRAND IDENTITY When it comes to UD Interiors, unity is more than a principle of design. Unity is the quality of being one. UD Interior’s spaces aren’t only intentionally designed using a harmonious blend of principles and elements of design, but they’re also formulated to hold significance to the meaning of unity. Unity to UD Interiors means creating environments that foster inclusivity, accessibility, and diversity, making each of their

UD interiors

DESIGN DRIVERS

PRODUCTIVITY

BUBBLE DIAGRAM

COLLABORATION

INCLUSIVITY

FLEXIBILITY

SUSTAINABILITY

LEVEL 1 FLOOR PLAN SPATIAL ARRANGMENT

When it comes to the elements of the cac project, we see the unified curved edge straight lines used throughout the two idea of creating a unified space is a balance; a balance in materials, colors, o spaces and the use of curved angles an

project 03.

MATERIALS

unity design firm

cti that inspire this es and continuous o floor plans. The acheived through opened and closed nd straight edges.

LEVEL 2 FLOOR PLAN

CUSTOM WORK DESK

WORKSPACE GOALS

FLEXIBILITY

PRODUCTIVITY

COLLABORATION

FURNITURE SELECTIONS

Essential in a workplace, the perfect desk provides a designated, organized and personalized space for employees. As seen above, this one of a kind custom desk provides its users with adecuate storage, an adjustable height workspace, acoustic paneling to reduce noise in the workplace that also act as pin boards for personalization, and a built in plant box for greenery; proven to increase well-being and productivity.

RESOURCE ROOM VISUAL

project 03.

BREAKROOM VISUAL ELEVATION - NTS

collaborative work zone

L ELEVATION - NTS

ARCHITECTURAL MODEL - HAND-CUT AND MODELED

SITE PLAN

SITE MAP

BUILDING MATERIALS AND THEIR INFLUENCES Unified with the rest of the design, the exterior of this project consists of natural materials bringing it closer to being one with its surrounding elements. Clay, harnessed from the desert soil, takes place as a primary exterior finish as a natural insulator, providing the structure with an environmentally conscious means of temperature regulation. The sun soaked surroundings inspire the utilization of concrete, not only for its durability but also for its ability to absorb and radiate heat. Within the details of the building, the warmth of natural oak wood introduces an element of timeless elegance. This fusion of diverse materials reflects a space that not only stands as a testament to sustainable design, but also harmonizes with the unique demands of the desert environment.

ARCHITECTURAL SCHEMATICS

rECEPTION

project 03.

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04. ag

Purdue Interior Design CIDA Gallery Select Hand Drafted & Rendered Fall 2023 Location: Cincinnati, OH Individual Work

ADA accessibility is seamlessly integrated into the design, offering functionality without sacrificing aesthetics. Wide doorways are implemented throughout, providing ample space for wheelchair maneuverability.

The kitchen features low countertops, pull-out shelves, and a custom stand, sit, or roll under island. In the bathrooms, grab bars become a part of the architecture as they are detailed to be embedded into the walls.

These thoughtful design choices prioritize comfort and inclusivity, creating an inviting environment that feels welcoming to all, regardless of mobility needs.

ing

kitchen and dining SPACES

project 04.

FLOOR PLAN

PROJECT GOALS The goal of this design is to create a loving home for an elderly couple to be able to live in for the rest of their lives. With that in mind this design focuses on making the home barrier free, sustainable, and making sure it still feels like home by adding ADA mechanisms that dont look like an afterthought.

DINING SUNROOM

PRIMARY BATH

DESIGN CONCEPT The new and improved design for the Smiths is inspired

by Ohio’s State Seal. On the seal are the words “Juncta Junvant,” a Latin word meaning unity. A harmony of balance, contrast, and repetition is used to bring this design together to represent unity as a whole. To the right is an ideation sketch that represents balance, contrast, and repetition.

MATERIALS PALETTE

PANTRY

LAUNDRY/ CLOSET

BATH 1

MATERIALS

BUBBLE DIAGRAM

BALANCE CONTRAST REPETITION

P

KITCHEN

GARAGE

FOYER

CONCEPT SKETCHES

PATIO

LIVING ROOM

BEDROOM 2

SUNROOM SKETCH

B

project 04.

O

PRIMARY BED

BEDROOM 2

Living SPACE

BATH 2

PASSIONS BE

community engagement

cheerl

leading

portfolio 2025

artistic expression

thank you!

YOND DESIGN