MATTHEW LU DESIGN PORTFOLIO A

PORTFOLIO TO U C H YO U R H E A R T S PAC E D E S I G N

Matthew Lu

2022 - present

Design is a pursuit of poetry

EDUCATIONS

• 2019-2023 (San Francisco State University) Bachelor of Science

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS & CONTRIBUTION

My name is Matthew Lu, and space design and interior architecture are my lifelong

• Certificate of Recognition “The class of housing for people with special need”

passions. I also explore architectural and movie Mecha design, using creativity to

• Letter of contribution to junior Interior Design students “Associate Professor Karen

inspire and connect diverse audiences.

John son Carroll

My pursuit of space design began with an early introduction to Lego, which sparked my hands-on, creative mindset. After high school, I shifted focus towards crafting creative solutions and leaving a legacy that defines who I am and the stories I tell.

FIELD RELATED EXPERIENCE

I chose interior design after realizing the significant impact design quality has on

• Empress Lane Demo and Proposed Plan Drafting - 2022

• Pacific House Demo and Proposed Plan Drafting - 2023

people’s well-being. Growing up in an environment that lacked ideal living conditions, I saw firsthand how good design can improve life. This journey has taught me that design has the power to meet people’s needs and that sharing my experiences can make a meaningful difference.

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

SOFTWARE

• Hand Drafting

• Autocad

• Visual and Spatial Awareness

• Sketchup

• Communicative Approach

• Enscape

• Team Oriented Perspective

• Photoshop

• Professional Presentation Skill

• Illustrator

• Creative Thinking

• Indesign

• Multilingual: Chinese, English, Japanese

• Canva

• Client Relationship Management

• Excel

REFERENCE

• Sohyela MohammadiGorji, Ph.D. Associate Professor soheylagorji@sfsu.edu

E: matthewhplinteriordesign@gmail.com

• Karen Johnson-Carroll, Ph.D Associate Professor johnsonC@sfsu.edu

A: San Francisco, CA

• Gus Vouchilas, Ed.D. Professor, Interior Design gusv@sfsu.ed

T: 1(415)-680-7203 Page 1

Ta b l e o f c o n t e n t Saint Francis Childcare - Page 3

Grammar Elementary School - Page 9

Melvin Residence - Page 16

Accessory Dwelling Unit - Page 20

Heart Shaped Off-grid Home (Renders) - page 24

Additional Cad Drawing - Page 27

A series of Lego houses - Page 30

Modern Beijing - Page 31

Garden And House - Page 33

Vertical Black Home - Page 35

Vertical White Home - Page 37

Page 2

Saint Francis Childcare

The proposed remodeling of a church’s second-floor space aims to create a childcare center for 8-16 children (ages 3-5) with 3 adult staff. Inspired by Noz Nozawa’s fun dining room design, the space uses extensive timber finishes to create an enclosed, welcoming environment, complemented by dynamic, sharp-fixed windows. An expanded mezzanine features an open office overlooking the main area, while a multifunctional space serves as both a play and nap area. The design emphasizes versatility, selfsufficiency, and a playful, colorful atmosphere for the children.

Autocad, Sketchup, Enscape

Page 3

Material Board

The material selection is centered around the idea of incorporating natural elements that create a warm, inviting, and playful atmosphere. To keep costs low and maintain a sense of familiarity, furniture pieces are inspired by Ikea’s back catalog, bringing a minimalist aesthetic that resonates with children.

Design Concept

By making use of the vertical space in a two-story layout and expanding the concept of a multifunctional mezzanine, the area was able to incorporate various activity zones along with essential spaces for learning, playing, napping, cleaning, and cooking.

Page 4

From the main entrance, the design incorporates circular windows and a large, dynamic window on the second floor, extending the motif of sharp-edged windows throughout the childcare space.

The childcare space is designed without a single focal point, allowing both children and adults to be drawn to the various activities happening throughout, offering a dynamic experience from different perspectives.

Page 5

The other side of the learning area stands out with its multifunctional design, including a sink, and is characterized by varying shades of blue. This color scheme helps define the space as one dedicated to cleaning, while also promoting a calm and soothing atmosphere.

A playful aspect of this project is the use of vibrant colors. This section of the learning area features a uniquely colored storage system, emphasizing fun and excitement. Timber accents are paired with pull-out bins in varying shades of yellow, orange, pink, red, and green, adding energy and visual interest to the space.

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Grammar Elementary school

The proposed redesign of Grammar Elementary School replaces the traditional modular layout with a more integrated, communityfocused space. Inspired by Asian courtyards, the design creates a private, nature-driven environment that fosters learning and social interaction, helping children connect with each other and the broader community.

Autocad, Sketchup, Enscape

Page 9

The roof structure overlaps the main building, following the same shape but enlarged to feature overhangs supported by columns. This design provides adequate shading and protection from various weather conditions.

The size of the courtyard offers various opportunities for activities, divided by paths into five main sections, each designed for different forms of play, learning, and gardening.

The main structure includes the entrance, lobby, cafeteria, library, offices, and classrooms, all essential to the space. Additionally, several large atriums are incorporated to break up the repetition and draw attention to different areas.

Material Board

The materials combine natural wood textures with neutral paints, creating a backdrop that emphasizes the growth and beauty of plants and greenery.

Design Concept

The concept for the school is centered around bringing children closer together under one unified structure. A singular mono-structure was introduced, where all interactions and activities take place beneath the same roof. The building is divided into three main parts: a block that houses the school’s activities, a block representing the courtyard surrounded by the surrounding structures, and a block representing the roof, which provides overhangs at every walkway.

This project features custom furniture designed for a young classroom environment, inspired by the simple shapes of the English alphabet. The result includes the B-chair, O-K-table, and O-chair.

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For 1st to 3rd-grade classrooms, a shared backyard creates a home-like green space where activities flow between teachers. The open design also encourages interactions between different groups of children, with no walls separating the classrooms' backyards.

CLASSROOM CONCEPT

Separated into 2 rows of compartment and divided by an enclosed atrium in the hallway. The way of learning is repurposed to bring out the interest of learning and nature.

Each classroom is designed different from one another is some

The hallways are divided by multiple segments

form or another but kept the motif of using timber and wood

of atriums that are protected by durable f loor

throughout the design to bring whimsical shapes and curious

to ceiling fiberglass win dows. The idea of an

storage into a learn ing environment

atrium in the hallway helps bring visual appeal for different textures and colors while also

The usage of wooden materials is also backed by studies that

allowing seams of sunlight during the day.

explain the association of wood and the state of mind which helps reduce strains, stress, and increase in concentrations in school.

The exposed 4th-5th grade classrooms, open to the courtyard, are airy and exciting, with engaging visuals of activities. The unique environment fosters excitement for both learning and play.

Page 13

1st - 3rd Grade Classroom

4th - 5th Grade Classroom

Studies show that a rounded arrangement fosters togetherness and encourages opportunities, helping

The upper classroom arrangement blends traditional and progressive layouts, with tables facing the

younger children feel closer and more engaged with one another.

teacher's desk to encourage engagement and collaboration.

Page 14

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Melvin residence

This client-focused home design combines modern, mid-century, and classic styles. The exterior features slatted wood veneer with a white overhang, blending warmth and cleanliness. The house is designed in three distinct heights, each serving a unique interior purpose. Inside, the space transitions through different design eras, reflecting the client's vision.

Autocad, Sketchup, Enscape

Page 16

Material Board

The materials are used in their simplest form to create a modern canvas for the building, with primary white as the base color and wooden slatted veneer adding texture and contrast.

Page 17

A modern living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, a sunken conversation pit, modular sofas, a gray rug, and a rounded coffee table. A custom wooden block holds the TV and offers storage.

The space is elevated with guiding lines, live plants, tall draperies, modern golden linear art, and a bar cart, creating a luxurious and captivating atmosphere.

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Accessory Dwelling Unit

The project involves converting a residential garage into an ADU, with a functional interior featuring organic shapes, large archways, and wooden elements inspired by Chinese courtyard design. The design incorporates elevated materials and playful touches, along with greenery, to create a space that encourages stronger connections between children and adults.

Autocad, Sketchup, Enscape

Page 20

Lounge pit

Storage

Rest

Hall

Courtyard

Dining

Kitchen

Restroom

Material Board

The material board follows a biophilic theme, using a mix of wooden materials to create organic shapes and promote a relaxed atmosphere in the space.

The need to pay attention to de

signing a backyard is as important

as designing the inside where activ

ities flow in and out. The entrance

of the backyard features a bi-folding

door for easier accessibility. It also

opens into an arch parabola that is

floor level while the play level is 1

step higher for a greater emphasis.

Page 21

An open storage wall with a circular arch entrance creates a grand, exciting feel, reflecting the Chinese motif of circular shapes, similar to a moon gate.

The feature wall in the sunken pit room provides storage with easy access and display options, including three circular shelves for storing cushions when not in use.

Facing the window offers a view of the outdoor environment, sparking curiosity and excitement.

When needed, draperies and curtains on both sides can cover the window to dim the mood.

The hidden cavity in the wall reveals a wallmounted TV when the two sliding doors are opened. Its design allows the TV to be tucked away seamlessly when not in use, transforming the space into a blank canvas for children to draw on and erase with washable paints.

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Heart Shaped Off-grid Home (Work in progress)

"Touch Your Heart" interior design is inspired by whimsical, bespoke features that make a home unique, reflecting the deep human connections we share. Personally, I found it intriguing to design a heart-shaped home, an idea that even inspired my professor to incorporate it into a class charrette.

Autocad, Sketchup, Enscape

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Additional Cad Drawing

Outside of my studies, I gained hands-on experience as an interior design student, working with professionals on home renovation proposals and applying design principles in real-world projects.

Autocad, Hand Drafting, Site Measurement

Page 27

To maintain confidentiality, this is a single drawing representing a demo and proposed plan for a two-story family housing unit.

These two drawings, created during my studies, use a custom block as a template, serving as a signature of my work.

Page 28

CB2 MOODBOARD APPLICATION

I had the opportunity to work as a CB2 Design Consultant. This mood board, created at their request before receiving an offer letter, showcases my interest in their products and my vision for a space. It reflects my personal style as a Lego designer, combining a play area with an exhibit space for guests.

Page 29

A series of Lego houses

In contrast, designing buildings is my passion, and it seamlessly combines with my hobby of using Lego as a medium.

Modern Beijing

Vertical Black Home

Garden and House

Vertical White Home

Studio.io, Lego, Hand Drafting

Page 30

Modern Beijing

Inspired by China's renovation program, this design represents a modern Beijing house following restoration. It blends traditional elements both inside and out, with modernist touches like large windows and textured interiors.

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Garden and House

Garden & House, Japan, designed by Ryue Nishizawa, is a stunning example of architectural harmony, blending indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. The design features a minimalist aesthetic with an emphasis on natural light, open spaces, and a connection to the surrounding garden. all is replicated in a Lego medium.

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Vertical Black Home

This lot features a confined, narrow space where the house's structure, with its fully black appearance, contrasts sharply with the surrounding buildings, making it stand out. The concept of a smart staircase system aligns with the idea of vertical living, where each flight of steps leads to a different functional area.

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Vertical White Home

Designed to evoke a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic both inside and out, the building features wooden slats that complement the sharp 45-degree angles of its shell. This vertical structure not only creates a striking exterior but also integrates living space, workspace, and a whimsical rooftop atrium into a singular, cohesive design.

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T h a n k Yo u TO U C H YO U R H E A R T S PAC E D E S I G N

Matthew Lu

2022 - present