INTERIOR DESIGN PORTFOLIO 2024

PORTFOLIO

Savannah College of Art and Design

Graduation: Winter 2024

namaste

“ ”

Art exists in everything and everyone. It appears to others in the ways in which people express themselves in unique form. This is how I relate to the world around me.

My name is Neha Isaac, and I was born and raised in Bangalore, India. I believe that there is always art in design, however there is not always design in art. The fundamental distinction is the ability for art to create questions, while design finds answers. And I was always full of questions. Creative curiosity steered me to the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) in Singapore, where I was introduced to the world of Interior and Exhibition Design. NAFA helped me gain a fresh perspective and appreciation for cultural diversity with empathy, and here I discovered my passion for storytelling. In the meantime, my internship work propelled me towards collaborative and interdisciplinary design, in which competence and an eye for detail were a given.

During my last four months in Singapore, I led a project for persons with dementia. It was a zero-waste collaborative space of sensory immersion. Somewhere between doing research and connecting with caregivers and representatives for persons with disabilities, I fell in love with design all over again. It became even clearer to me how empathy and good design could improve human life and at the same time, reimagine how dignity shapes experience. I was finding answers to questions I didn’t know I had. What initially began as an explorative journey to feel closer to my ailing grandpa during the pandemic now became fuel for my desire to include sustainability, strategy, and universal design into my designs in greater detail. I hope one day to make my mark in these fields.

As a March 2024 graduate in Interior Design from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), I am deeply interested in how the built environment can cultivate a sense of community, inclusivity, and excitement. During my Senior Capstone, I explored the concept of an incubator for sport success for black women in sports. I recognized how profound an impact thoughtful design can have on enhancing the sports experience for athletes and spectators alike.

For me, design is about improving life. In my opinion, art meets design when the two are able to effectively communicate a space through the lens of storytelling, strategy, and establishing a sense of identity and belonging.

education

SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN (SCAD) | Savannah, Georgia

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design

Minor: Architecture, GPA: 4.0

September 2021 - March 2024

NANYANG ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS (NAFA) | Singapore

Diploma in Design (Interior and Exhibition)

August 2018 – April 2021

Revit

Rhino SketchUp AutoCAD

Adobe InDesign

Adobe Illustrator

NEHAISAAC SPATIAL DESIGN

925.308.5001 | neha.elizabeth@icloud.com | nehaisaac.myportfolio

professional experience

Intern, June 2023 - August 2023

GENSLER | Baltimore, MD

•Assisted the workplace design team on three corporate design projects located in Baltimore, Maryland.

•Involvement on the projects included preparing client presentations on InDesign and Bluebeam, rendering elevations in Photoshop, space planning on Revit, ordering samples, attending site visits, and communicating with vendors.

•Collaborated with other interns and the research team to investigate the future of holistic healthcare in Baltimore.

Intern, April 2020 - Dec 2020

Schematic Design

Hand Drafting

Hand Rendering

Research & Analysis

Concept Development

Site Analysis

Adobe Photoshop skills

honors & awards

SCAD Academic Honors Scholarship | 2021-2024

SCAD Achievement Honors Scholarship | 2021-2024

SCAD Dean’s List | Fall 2021-Fall 2022

NAFA Most Improved GPA Award | 2021

SIDFest Generation Next Panelist | 2021

NAFA Grad Show Spokesperson for 3D

Design School | 2021

NAFA Dean’s List Recipient | 2019

volunteering

KONG STUDIO | Singapore

•Collaborated with spatial and graphic designers on cultural research and development of concepts for exhibition capabilities of a global Fintech firm for corporate exhibition spaces in Dubai, London, and Shanghai.

•Involvement on the projects included preparing documentation sets on SketchUp and AutoCAD, selecting materials and creating FF&E catalogs, and rendering perspectives on V-Ray and Photoshop.

Model Making involvement

SINGAPORE CANCER SOCIETY

April 2021 – November 2021

Befriender, Tutor

BEYOND SOCIAL SERVICES

April 2020 - November 2021

English and Math tutor for children with disabilities from low income households

project experience

BETA | Jan 2020 - May 2020

NANYANG ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS (NAFA) | Singapore

•Developed concepts and designed space plans for a collaborative garden for persons with dementia in Wessex Estate, Singapore.

•Provided accessible design solutions to better accommodate persons with disabilities and to promote dignity through design.

•Prepared documentation for rendering and construction using SketchUp and AutoCAD.

•Delivered high quality renderings using V-Ray and Photoshop.

•Conducted research and frequent site visits.

INTERIOR DESIGN ORGANIZATION (IDO)

Student Member | September 2021 – March 2024

THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS (AIAS)

Student Member | September 2021 – March 2024

SOCIETY OF INTERIOR DESIGNERS SINGAPORE (SIDS)

Student Member | May 2020 – June 2021

the flip Incubator for Sport Success

LOCATION

200 E. Pratt Street, Suite 4100, Baltimore, MD 21202

PURPOSE

“The Flip” is an incubator for sport success for black women in sports. Amplifying celebration, it increases awareness towards racisim, otherness, and intersectionalities within sports.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The lack of a platform for black female athletes to voice and control nuanced narratives is a pressing issue in today's sports industry. There is a pronounced gap when it comes to offering these athletes the opportunity to share their experiences authentically.

By creating a space where these athletes can freely express themselves, important stories that have long been marginalized can be brought to the forefront. This incubator would not only empower these athletes, it would act also as a catalyst for change.

the site & user

[the site]

[the gaps]

[user groups]

nuanced coverage “otherness” caused by

3

2

that extends beyond a “part-time citizenship.”

1 awareness intersectionalities within

4

A means to equity in access and opportunities dismantle systemic and unconscious biases.

BLACK WOMEN IN SPORTS

MEDIA CREW AND SPORTS JOURNALISTS

LOCAL SMALL BLACK BUSINESSES FANS AND GENERAL PUBLIC

concept

[concept moodboard]

[the concept]

Powerful conversations wield the capacity to dismantle pre-conceived perspectives. This moment of transformation reveals a duality that is propelled by a common ground and embraces insight and exploration.

This middle ground is designed to amplify empowerment and celebration to reflect the nuanced spaces that embrace intersectionality and otherness. A rhythmic curation of layering, bold contrasting forms, and a vibrant pop of colors embodies a dynamic tactility that seeks unrestricted curiosity. Through the motivated exploration of self and identity, these moments of duality through storytelling uplifts growth and shifting perspectives.

contrasting geometries to symbolize an atmosphere of curiosity and conversation 1

use of contrast and layering to showcase a balanced duality and middle ground

monumental forms that emphasize scale and echo the message of celebration

[concept models]

schematic development

[sports bar]

The sports bar features live collegiate and professional women’s sports and media.

[hall of fame]

This gallery celebrates the continued history and legacy of black women around the world in sports.

[press room]

“The Press Room” is an interactive talk show format where the audience takes the role of the press.

1 A sports bar that features collegiate and professional women’s sports. The design of the space encourages further conversation and dialogue through a range of seating options.

2 Multiple screens to showcase sports content that is made in the media spaces of the “Press Room” and Podcast spaces.

3 A ceiling with linear curved lighting that reflects the linework from sports track fields to aid circulation and wayfinding.

4 Celebrating local artscapes through collaborating with local Baltimore graffiti artists to create wall murals.

A universally design bar counter to encourage a range of diverse connections and conversations surrounding women in sports.

[preliminary sketch]

[sports bar counter]

1 Contrasting geometries and the use of layering to showcase a duality and create an atmosphere of curiosity and conversation.

2 A ceiling with linear curved lighting that reflects the linework from sports track fields to aid circulation and wayfinding.

3 Multiple screens to showcase sports highlight reels and other sports data to aid the visual content for the recording space.

4 Multiple seating options that allow the public to partake in the content for the recording space.

6

5 Celebrating local artscapes through collaborating with local Baltimore graffiti artists to create wall murals. Highliting areas of interest with pops of contrast that complement the graffiti murals.

[preliminary sketch]

[recording space display wall]

1 Contrasting geometries and the use of layering to showcase a duality and create an atmosphere of curiosity and conversation.

2 A ceiling with linear curved lighting that reflects the linework from sports track fields to aid circulation and wayfinding.

3 Celebrating local artscapes through collaborating with local Baltimore graffiti artists to create wall murals.

4 Highliting areas of interest with pops of contrast that complement the graffiti murals.

5 Multiple screens to showcase sports content that is made in the media spaces of the “Press Room” and

[preliminary sketch]

1 The “Hall of Fame” is a gallery that features memorabilia, information, highlight reels, and so much more, celebrating the continued history and legacy of black women around the world in sports. There is also a section dedicated to the celebrated Baltimore athletes.

2 This custom gallery display features a lightbox with information on internation athletes. Contained in the lightbox is small display of memorabilia. In the back is an attached seating with a small screen displaying information.

3 A ceiling with linear curved lighting that reflects the linework from sports track fields to aid circulation and wayfinding.

4 Celebrating local artscapes through collaborating with local Baltimore graffiti artists to create wall murals.

6

5 Contrasting geometries and the use of layering to showcase a duality and create an atmosphere of curiosity and conversation.

Multiple screens to showcase sports content that is made in the media spaces of the “Press Room” and Podcast spaces.

[preliminary sketches]

1 The Podcast Room becomes a conversation platform that allows for audio and video formats for [key

[preliminary sketch]

[logo

wall]

BACKLIT LOGO

GRAFFITI MURAL

1 “The Press Room” utilizes an interactive talk show format, where the audience takes the role of the press. Together, the athletes and the audience, through conversation, flips perspectives, finds middle ground, and raises awareness.

2 A ceiling with linear curved lighting that reflects the linework from sports track fields to aid circulation and wayfinding.

3 A stage for sports media content to be recorded for multiple viewing platforms. The seating in the space mimics bleachers.

4 Contrasting geometries and layering to showcase a duality and create an atmosphere of curiosity.

6

5 Use of recalaimed and recycled materials sourced from the Baltimore Harbor. Celebrating local artscapes through collaborating with local Baltimore graffiti artists to create wall murals.

[preliminary sketch]

[press room seating]

ACOUSTIC PANEL FLOOR SEATS ELEVATED BLEACHER SEATING CONTROL ROOM

the maze

Experimental Hostel & Community Center

LOCATION

81, Sukhumvit Road (Soi 2), Khlong Toey, Bangkok, Thailand

PURPOSE

To stimulate mindful conversation between the tourists and residents of Khlong Toey in an effort to better understand the experiences and art of the largest slum in Bangkok, ‘the canal of pandan.’

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

An experiential hostel in Khlong Toei, Thailand, 'The Maze,’ embodies the unexpected layers that the slums of Khlong Toei have to offer as well as the labyrinthine urban setting of Bangkok.

This was a collaborative project with Grace Wiley and Yiwei Zhang. My role in this team was that of Technology Manager. While I was mostly in charge of 3D modelling and perspective renders, I was collaboratively involved also in the concept and schematic development stages.

the site & user

[the site]

“Canal of Pandan”

Hotels Restaurants

[user groups]

BACKPACKERS KHLONG TOEY ARTISTS

NEIGHBOURING TOURISTS INFLUENCERS

COVID-19 “Straight Outta Khlong Toey”

Chao Phraya River

Land Rent System Slums Khlong Toey Market

Redevelopment of Khlong Toey

[history of site]

The city is full of color and pattern, incorporated into nature. Yet, this distinction is also calls for divide. There are the 2 Klong Toey’s - one a story of redevelopment, and the other a story of community.

concept

[moodboard]

[the concept]

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery is a universal desire. Whether it be through travel, education, or experiences, the road to self-discovery can be winding and I confusing. The journey may require unpredictable turns and detours that ultimately lead to a deeper understanding about the world around us. An experiential hostel in Khlong Toei, Thailand, 'The Maze,’ embodies the unexpected layers that Khlong Toei has to offer as well as the labyrinthine urban setting of Bangkok.

The design reflects the maze that is self discovery. Through the use of personalized choice points, unsuspecting materiality and form, and a meandering design, the space will inspire users to retrace their steps and take unexpected turns I with a sense of perseverance and exploration in order to reach their individual destination.

[concept diagrams]

schematic development

[level 1 | furniture plan] [level

[level 2 | furniture plan]

[performance area pods]

[suspended QR code]

[storage room]

schematic development

[level 3 | furniture plan]

[n.t.s]

[n.t.s]

[level 4 | furniture plan] double

[level 3 sleeping pods]

[single private room]

[level 5 | furniture plan]

[n.t.s]

double private room single private room laundry room

[double private room]

schematic development

[level 6 | furniture plan]

[n.t.s]

[roof jungle gym interactive maze

[n.t.s]

isometric view plan view

elevation view

[private roof pod]

[schematic sketch of suspended garden]

[jungle gym]

[roof | furniture plan]

suspended garden restroom outdoor shower private roof pod seating area elevator 6

1 The performance area features a stage with a height-adjustable platform for the local artists off Kholng Toey to showcase their art.

2 The stairways leading into the viewing pods are encased in semi-transparent acrylics to reveal a hint of movement.

3 Viewing pods have smart screens to layer information about the artists.

4 The blue tint of the walls combined with blue cove lighting immitates the wayfinding of Khlong Toey.

5 The pods along with the staircases create a maze-like situation that wraps along the double volume walls of level 1 and leads the user up to the Reception area in level 2.

[rappers of Khlong Toey]

[schematic sketch of performance area pods]

1 The walls of the Interactive Maze features hidden peepholes behind the conventional art to reveal the local graffiti art of Khlong Toey.

2 each of the peepholes is indicated with a button and a QR code beside to help the user navigate the touchpoint with ease.

3 The Jungle Gym becomes a semi-opaque resting structure.

4 The ceiling imitates the Choa Phraya River, aiding movement within the Interactive Maze.

5 The flooring is suspensful and exaggerates the vibrance of the maze. Cove light running through the trim of the maze walls further heightens this emotion.

[Khlong Toey street art]

[schematic sketch of jungle gym]

1 The Private Roof Pods are encased in smart glass walls that allows the user to control the opacity and therefore privacy within the space.

2 Cove lighting under each pod is connected to the QR-based app that the user is able to control to help their pod wayfinding.

3 Small seating areas over each pod lets the user enjoy the city views.

4 The Outdoor Shower is encased in a one way glass that ensures the privacy of the user inside.

5 Seating Areas around the pods on the roof become points of interaction that are heigntened by the sensory elements of the roof garden and surrounding views.

[sensory floral elements of Khlong Toey]

[schematic sketches of private roof pod]

the in-between Collaborative Spa & Retail Concept

LOCATION

38 Montgomery Street in Savannah, GA 31401

PURPOSE

To create an escape for the tourists and residents of Savannah to experience a luxury spa & retail concept, to enourage guests to ‘loose themselves and find themselves in the moments of transition.’

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Spavia, a luxury spa franchise, is opening a prototype spa & store for their services and boutique retail line in Savannah, Georgia. The objective of this project is to create a sustainable and healthy wellness environment in a historic building in downtown Savannah’s Landmark Historic District that incorporates the principles of universal design. This luxury spa and retail concept is to incorporate visual merchandising in the user experience, through engaging the five senses.

the client & user

[the client]

Spavia is a luxurious spa franchise that offers a range of services including massages, beaty & waxing, body treatmrnts, skin care, mens treatments. ‘Via’ in many languages means route or pathway, so Spavia is the route or journey to wellness. Each guest begins their own customised journey set in a tranquil environment.

[user groups]

[preliminary

concept

[the concept]

The expanse of in-betweenness is an escape from the seasonal and fleeting spaces we occupy. The atmosphere is designed to stimulate feelings of stillness and contemplation to reflect the healing powers of the spa. A rhythmic curation of lighting, texture, and negative space embodies a tactility and timelessness that seek curiosity and balance. Through the motivated exploration of self and identity, these moments of transition provoke a surrender to the in-between.

[parti diagrams and models]

dichotomy diffusion transition

[moodboard]

schematic development

1 The reception desk incorporates a 9” toe-kick to ensure clear floor space to facilitate unobstructed movement.

2 The wooden trellis above the reception counter rhythmically guides the customer to the retail and spa services on either end.

3 Texured blue paint emulates the feeling of being under water.

4 Herringbone tiles on the floor lead the customer in, aiding the wayfinding.

5 The passageways within the space have a clearance of 5ft or more, incorporating turning circles every few feet to allow for easy circulation within the space.

[custom design elements]

1 Herringbone tiles on the floor creates a sense of directionality within the space.

2 The veined texture reiterates the feeling of being surrounded by water.

3 Texured blue paint emulates the feeling of being just under the surface of the water.

4 Window treatments include blinds that help regulate the amount of light and privacy experienced within the spa and retail spaces.

5 The passageways within the space have a clearance of 5ft or more, incorporating turning circles every few feet to allow for easy circulation within the space.

[custom design elements]

Additional Works

Renderings and Model-Making

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

A collection of renderings and model-making spanning a range of creative mediums in my time at SCAD

renderings

2021

19" × 25"

2021

19" × 25"

2021

18" × 24"

Watercolor [value study]

2021

8" × 10"

2021

8" × 10"

Gouache [monochromatic study]

2021

2736 × 4032 Drawn digitally [spa day]

Pen and Marker on Bristol Paper [walls]

Nupastel on Grey Mi Tienes Paper [the diner]

Nupastel on Grey Mi Tienes Paper [bones and bloom]

2445 × 1713 px

Drawn digitally on Procreate [the arboretum]

model-making

This 1:75 scaled model of Block 3 of the Wessex Estate in Singapore was made mostly from Bristol Board for the furniture, acrylic for the walls, and plywood boards for the flooring. The significance of having three distinctly different materials relates to the space being catered for persons with dementia, a condition which requires clear visual planes for non-restricted spatial navigation. [beta]