INTERIOR DESIGN / ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR DESIGN
PORTFOLIO
Selected works from 2021-2024
Ruiyu Xu (Rae)
RUIYU XU
Phone
Address
Portfolio
+44 7536340592
xuruiyu0220@gmail.com
South Kensington, SW10, London
https://issuu.com/raemaslowruiyuxu/docs/interior_portfolio_ruiyuxu
Personal Highlights
Trained in interior design through academic and independent programs in the UK and China, with a Distinction-level MA focused on spatial storytelling and the relationship between nature and people.
Experienced in developing strong design proposals using mood boards, spatial layouts, mappings, and visual storytelling.
Proficient in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and hand-drawing techniques to express ideas clearly and creatively.
Completed freelance residential and hospitality projects with detailed technical drawings, and participated in retail space design through event coordination.
A collaborative, goal-oriented designer who thrives in fast-paced environments, quickly adapts to new tools, and successfully delivered a shortlisted competition project within 10 days.
Education
Master's Degree
Graduate Diploma
9/2022 - 12/2023
Camberwell College of Arts, ual, London, UK
Interior and Spatial Design, Graduated with Distinction
9/2021 - 6/2022
Chelsea College of Arts, ual, London UK
Interior and Spatial Design, Graduated with Distinction
Awards and Exhibitions
12/ 2023
Ual Online Showcase: https://ualshowcase.arts.ac.uk/project/516352/cover Ual Final Show
02/ 2024
Buildner International Architecture Competitions: https:// architecturecompetitions.com/icelandbeerspa/ Shortlisted Project
07/ 2024
Exhibition
Certificate
"Woven Bridge With Dripping Water" Drawing series (2022-2023)
Parallax Art Fair, London, UK
Autodesk Revit Professional level I Certificate Basic DBS Certificate Issued 2025
Software Skill
AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Revit (level 1), Enscape, D5, Lumion, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
Language
English, Chinese (Mandarin)
Work Experience
7/2021- 12/2021
Guiyang, China
Freelance Residential Project
Redesigned a 140 sqm family home, preserving load-bearing walls while optimizing space.
Developed the concept design, technical drawings, and selected furniture. Supervised the preliminary construction process to ensure design quality and vision.
Creating three functional garden spaces for drying clothes, meditation, and expanding the living room, while ensuring natural light and ventilation throughout the home.
4/2021- 7/2021 Junior Interior Designer (Freelance)
Contributing to construction drawings with AutoCAD and supporting presentation layouts.
Developed concept by hand-drawn storyboards and supported site analysis, concept sketches, mood boards, and material selection. Project link: https:// www.shejiben.com/sjs/1114778/case-3997715-1.html
Took an actice part in the conceptual and tender design for the Shougang Underground Mall in Guiyang, including conducting research, creating storyboards, and designing sculptures
3/2018 - 4/2018 Student Intern
Huaneng Nanjing Jinling Power Limited Company, Design Department, Zhejiang, China
Measured site and drafted the power plant's office floor plans, visualising the project with AutoCAD.
Drawing conceptual sketches, as a part of the original documentation of the project.
6/2018 - 12/2019 Event Coordination and Intern
Rosso Fashion and Arts Education, Collaborated with Nike, Huaihai Rd Store Shanghai, China
Volunteer Experience
2019
Assisted with spatial arrangement and event setup to ensure a cohesive brand experience. Created art installations using store materials (e.g., shoelaces), and handled materials manually within a retail environment.
Supported over 10 in-store events and product displays by introducing products to customers and guiding visitor flow.
Gained hands-on experience in retail space design and physical tasks such as installation setup, furniture movement, packing, and cleaning.
Marine Turtle Conservation Project, Sri Lanka
2020 Xiaojudeng Rural Education Program, Planned Teaching Project, China
Reference
Colin Priest c.e.priest@chelsea.arts.ac.uk
Lisa Donoghue lisadonoghue@nhs.net
YangZi Design，China
ARCHWAY SPA
Renovation Project
Year: 2022
Location : Brighton, UK
Category : Hospitality
Building Area: 405m2
Distinction in Unit 2, Interior Design, University of the Arts London (UAL).
Tutor: Josef Huber
The renovated Madeira Terrace in Brighton is a walkway facing south toward the sea and standing against the cliff behind. The project revitalises this stretch of coastline by renovating the elegant historic space with a modern water fitness and therapy centre.
This academic project focused on RIBA Stage 2 (Concept Design), involving site analysis, spatial concepts, moodboards, visualisations, and technical drawings for interior design development.
Site Analysis
Moodboard
Brighton Station
Madeira Terrace
Brighton Palace Pier
Sea View Cliffs
This project revitalises Madeira Terrace in Brighton—an iconic seafront walkway facing the ocean and backed by cliffs—by transforming a disused car park into a contemporary water therapy and fitness centre. The design breathes new life into the historic structure, weaving together heritage, materiality, and the sensory qualities of water.
Inspired by the red brick and cast iron of the original terrace, and drawing on the textured calmness of Bath Spa, the interior palette combines carbon ceramics, salt bricks, and microcement flooring.
Revitalization Vibrancy Relaxation
Archway Spa proposes a sensitive, living approach to heritage spaces—transforming them beyond preservation into evolving environments that nurture well-being and community connection.
Seaside Heritage
Rendering of Kneipp Journey
Physical Model Testings
1:50 Scale Pools Testing Model
2.28m*2.36m
2.28m*2.28m
4.87m*10.97m
4.87m*9.75m
The layout is informed by a series of spatial and experiential studies. Using 1:50 physical models, I tested pool scale and zoning strategies.
Circulation Based on the Temperature of Water
1.Four Common Spa Temperatures
Tepidarium
Approx.40°C
Approx.25.5°C
Approx. 37°C ~39 °C Frigidarium
Approx.0°C ~18°C
The Sightline Analysis
Sightline analysis played a key role—raising the main pools above ground allows pedestrians outside to visually connect with the space inside, creating a sense of openness and dialogue. The only exception is the heated pool, where condensation naturally blurs the boundary regardless of elevation.
2.Temperature Changes Circulation Suitable for people to adapt and feel comfortable
3.Function Circulation With Comfortable Temperature Change
4. Wet and Dry Area Based on the Function Circulation
Rendering of the Stairs
Rendering of Warm Pool
Material and Colour Palette
Functional materials such as non-slip microcement were chosen for their practicality in both wet and dry areas. A detail I particularly enjoyed was the incorporation of local “sea stones” as tactile knobs—subtle elements that bring the seaside indoors and anchor the project within its local context.
Sea Stone Knob
Changing Room
Zellige Tiles
Floor
Microcement
Wall
Stairs 2. Cafe bar 3. Resting area 4. Floatation pool 5. Stairs
6. Cold pool
7. Salt therapy room
8. Kneipp journey
9. Warm pool
10. Steam room
11. Bubble pool
12. Adaption pool
13. Toliet
14. Storage (for towels)
15.Bath
16. Changing room (for male)
17. Changing room (for female)
18. Stairs
19. Reception 20. Cafe bar
Facade Section
Warm Pool
Soft pink tiles echo the green bones of Madeira Terrace — a quiet tension between calm and vitality, where the body gently prepares to enter.
Rendering from the Adaption Pool
WITHIN GARDEN
Interior Design, Year: 2021 - 2024
Location : Guiyang, China
Category: Residential Project
Building Area: 140 m2
A freelance interior project for a semi-retired couple and their daughter, reimagining domestic life through the lens of a traditional Chinese garden. The design explores layered transparency and framed views within the home. Due to the pandemic, the project was not realised.
Clients
This home is designed for a semi-retired couple in their 50s, who spend most of their time at home, and their daughter in her 20s, who returns occasionally during holidays. The spatial needs reflect their daily rhythms, shared rituals, and the importance of comfort, privacy, and hospitality.
20s daughter who occasionally returns home from art school
Occasionally they go on holiday
It's usually just the couple at home most of the time, with occasional family dinners, but they don't usually live at home.
A couple in their 50s
1-2 People
Usually used by Mum
Max 9-10 people Occasional family dinners
Max 9-10 people Normally up to two people
Only the daughter needs it
Usually used by Dad
Two required
For the couples
For guests or daughter's visit
Moodboard
This project draws inspiration from the spatial philosophy of traditional Chinese gardens, reinterpreting ideas of layering, framing, and borrowed scenery within a domestic interior. Transparency in three directions creates fluid visual connections between rooms, offering moments of openness, pause, and quiet encounter. The design seeks to transform everyday routines into gentle rituals—like walking through a garden, one step at a time.
Style
Contemporary with traditional influences, emphasizing natural materials and clean lines.
Tone
Warm, calm, and natural. A balanced blend of tradition and modern simplicity.
Materials
Tactile, natural finishes to evoke comfort and intimacy
This diagram illustrates the spatial transparency strategy— ensuring clear sightlines along three key axes. Every public space remains visually connected and open, enhancing the sense of flow and shared presence.The layout allows users to see through the entire public zone in three key directions—creating openness, orientation, and moments of connection.
Reception
Inner Garden
Study / Secondary Bedroom
Powder Room
Storage Hallway
Room 7. Main Garden
Living Room
Dining Room
Toilet
1) Diagonal Connection across Garden and Kitchen
2) South–North Corridor Openness
3) Diagonal Connection across Garden and Study
Axonometric Drawing Sight from Different Frames
Each view frames a layered spatial moment—connecting rooms, users, and light.
1) Diagonal Connection across Garden and Kitchen
2) South–North Corridor Openness
3) Diagonal Connection across Garden and Study
Sections
The rendering sections were initially drawn at 1:1 scale, with final adjustments made to suit the portfolio format.
Section B-B
Section C-C
Section A-A
03 DRIPPING WOVEN BRIDGE
Installation Project Year: 2023
Location : London, UK
This is an experimental installation that collects rainwater and reflects the passage of time. Set in the outdoor space of Camberwell College of Arts, it uses textiles, shadows, and light to create an evolving dialogue between people, environment, and space. The project explores how small, responsive structures can foster emotional and ecological connections.
MA Project in 22/23
Ual with Distinction
Grade
Tutor: Colin Priest
Ual Online Showcase: https://ualshowcase. arts.ac.uk/ project/516352/cover=
Process
Sketches
I started by mapping the space with threads—testing different line directions, densities, and how they interact with light and movement.
Model Test
strips embedded in the structure; glow softly at night.
Inspired by stitching and suspension, I explored how shadow patterns shift when the lines are fixed, loose, or layered.
Full Spatial Sketch
As the sketches became denser, I noticed the structure began to block the openness I wanted—so I shifted toward lighter, more transparent compositions.
This led to ideas of weaving light and shadow—creating a breathable system that feels both structured and soft.
Sound variation through stair height was unsafe and ineffective for collecting water.
Yellow Paper Light
Blue Strip Absorbent mesh for catching rainwater.
White Strip Waterproof canopy—shades the sun, guides rainwater.
An Ecological Dialogues
In the sunlight, the woven patterns are reflected in the ground and fabric. As the wind blows, the pattern of the space would move with the sunlight and shadows.
In the rain, woven metal wires can help gather more rainwater. Combined with the sound of the raindrops, the collected rainwater will drip down the middle of the fabric into a bucket on the ground. It can also create an acoustic dialogue in the rain.
In the dark, the light at the end of the structure of the woven bridge will be illuminated. The bright space will be seen more in its structure - which may look like a canopy. It provides a space for people passing by to rest and relax.
Sketch model, Scale 1:300
Model in the dark, Scale 1:100
Model in the wind, Scale 1:100
Model in the rain, Scale 1:100
Handmade Model 1:100
04 STAR HOUSE
Renovation Design
Year: 2021
Location : Matadero, Spain
Category : Residential Project
Building Area : 304 m2
Distinction in Unit 2, Interior Design, University of the Arts London (UAL).
Tutor: Emma Hunter
Converting a Water Tower into an Artist's Residence in Matadero Art Centre, converting the water tower into the memory and record of a place and a moment.
Concept
This project repurposes the water tower into a distinctive art space inspired by the night sky, offering artists a place to live, create, and exhibit their work.
The layout is based on the arrangement of stars in the solar system, with colors used to define different functional areas. The tower’s height and location make it a striking landmark, glowing at night like a beacon. Inspired by the idea of a star, the design connects living, working, and exhibition spaces in a smooth flow, encouraging creativity and cultural exchange.
1. 2. 3. 4 5
The spatial arrangement of stars in the solar system is reinterpreted to define functional zones. Geometric alignments are analyzed and refined through color, creating distinct planetary divisions.
Day and Night
The rooftop lighthouse shifts with time — glowing like a star at night, it becomes a quiet beacon above the art center. By day, it turns into a viewing point, offering expansive views of the landscape. The spiral staircase leading up is dotted with circular openings, letting light filter through. As sunlight moves, it casts scattered patterns inside, making the rooms below sparkle like starlight caught in the daytime.
This space blends living and creative functions. Instead of fully enclosed rooms, it features open areas with subtle gaps, allowing light to flow and fostering connection. These openings encourage artistic exchange, creating a dynamic environment where ideas can move freely, even as each artist retains their privacy. The space is flexible, adaptable to both rest and creativity, reflecting the collaborative nature of artistic life.
The Collage of Living Space
The living space is a calm, cozy retreat — soft and still, in contrast to the vibrant studio and art centre. It’s a flexible place for rest, creation, or quiet display. During the day, light reflects off the display shelves, scattering gentle glimmers across the room, like starlight drifting indoors.
06 NEIGHBOURHOOD PANTRY
Architectural and Interior Design
Year: 2021
Location : Shanghai, China
Category : Hospitality Project
This project envisions a multifunctional food market that seamlessly integrates shopping, cooking, and dining within a community-focused environment.
Designed to foster a sense of neighborhood connection, the market offers a more efficient and engaging way for people to access fresh, healthy food amidst a fastpaced urban lifestyle.
China Shanghai Xuhui Distict Xietu Community
Site Analysis
This project aims to create a more convenient neighborhood food market for the Xietu area, addressing the lack of a larger-scale, permanent grocery store despite the presence of many high-density residential communities. Research indicates that the area is primarily composed of retail, office spaces, residential buildings, and community facilities, but lack of grocery stores.
Every morning from 8 to 10 a.m , local vendors occupy its fitness area to sell fresh vegetables, attracting residents from nearby neighborhoods to shop during this time.
Redefining Grocery Market in Xietu Community
Considering the local residents' dining habits—they prefer purchasing fresh ingredients for each meal rather than stocking up in bulk—this market is designed to integrate with the cooking process, making food shopping more efficient and accessible.
This project optimizes spatial usage by adapting to different time periods, ensuring a dynamic and efficient food market that caters to the diverse needs of the neighborhood.
Original Activities Timeline Proposed Changes Timeline
During peak hours, the space accommodates fast-paced urban professionals with quick and healthy meal options, while off-peak hours focus on meal preparation and fresh ingredient selection to serve the daily routines of local residents. By integrating flexible programming, the market not only enhances functionality but also fosters social interaction, providing a shared public space that strengthens community connections.
Shop
Fridge Wash Prepare Cook
Dine
Dishwash
Handmade Model
This handcrafted model primarily showcases the spatial structure of the market, emphasizing its form and integration within the high-density neighborhood. Rather than detailing specific functional spaces, it focuses on the overall form, scale, and spatial flow, highlighting the relationship between the market and its urban context.
Functions
This diagram illustrates the spatial structure of the market, with the groceries area divided into specific zones: meat, seafood, grains, spices, fruits and vegetables, breakfast stalls, public kitchen, and seating. Each zone is designed with the flow of a kitchen island in mind, enhancing the efficiency of movement and supporting the "neighborhood" concept by fostering a communal, interactive shopping experience.
Meat Area
Reception and Cooking Area
Grain Area
Seafood Area
Fruit and Vegetable Area
Cafe and Dairy Area
Spices Area Breakfast Stalls Seating Area
Standing in the cooking area, facing the meat products section.
This is a picture taken from the cooking area, looking towards the grain section.
Interview Project
Year: 2025
Location : Berlin
Powder Room Design for a Luxury Apartment in Berlin
This conceptual powder room was designed for the final stage of an interview with a highend London studio. Merging the studio’s refined aesthetic with Berlin’s bold, rebellious spirit, the space reflects a calm sophistication with an edge — like a record or a cassette tape: elegant with attitude.
Plan and Colour Palettes
The foundational tone of the space is built upon a monochrome palette:
To soften the sharp framework and reconnect with the home’s emotional core, warm colours are layered with intention:
Selection
Elements
Mirror-Finished
Green-Marble Soap Shelf
Wooden Bottle Porceline Knob as Towel Hanger
Textile Painting Plastic Switch Walnut Veneer Door
05 SEL SKÁLA
Architecture and Hospitality Design, Competition
Project
Year: 2023
Location : Myvtan, Iceland
Building Area: 396m2
Team: Chengyi Zhou, Ruiyu Xu
Role in Team: Preliminary site research in Myvtan, Iceland, Conceptual Design, Technical Drawings and Architectural Representation, Physical Model
The project was also shortlisted in the Buildner Architectural Competition.
Nestled by Iceland's scenic Myvatn Lake, famed for its volcanic landscapes, Sel Hotel is beloved for its craft beer. To meet growing visitor demand, the hotel plans to expand its restaurant and brewery. This project integrates the brewery with a spa, offering guests a unique blend of stunning natural views and local traditions.
Climate Analysis Functions and Capacity
Changes in Average Daylight Hours/h Monthly Average Temperature/ 0C Number of Tourists
Best Month to Observe the Aurora Birds Viewing and Hiking Months Month of Local Activities
Considering the location of the Sel Hotel and the car park, two entrances would be more convenient for visitors and people who live in the hotel.
Two Entrances Sight
Based on the location of nearby buildings and volcano complex, the better view will be concentrated in the area of the yellow line.
Wet and Dry Areas
The brewery and restaurant sections combine to offer hotel guests and local visitors to accommodate daily meals, afternoon tea and parties and buffets. There is a separate bar in the spa area.
Raising the bottom floor allows people in the restaurant to stagger their eyes and get a better view. It also provides more seating for the restaurant.
Separate
Raised Floor for A Better View
Hotel
Park
Myvatn Lake
Area Raised Floor
Main Entry
Toilet
Buffet Bar
Staircase
Reception
Toilet
Tub
Sauna
Towel Racks
Buffet Bar
Bath Tub
Beer Tub
Sauna
Activity Room
Lounge
The material palette highlights Myvatn’s volcanic landscape and local craftsmanship. Canyon Birch Panels bring warmth, while Oak Ceiling Beams add structure and character. Volcanic Ash Bricks echo the surrounding terrain, seamlessly connecting the interior with the dramatic outdoor scenery.
Volcanic Ash Brick Canyon Birch Panel Oak Ceiling Beam
The restaurant’s material palette balances natural warmth with a modern edge. Greyish Green Granite introduces a subtle vibrancy, while Stainless Steel adds a sleek contrast, creating a dynamic interplay of textures. Pine Wood softens the space, bringing warmth and a welcoming atmosphere.
Greyish Green Granite Stainless Steels Pine Wood
INTERIOR AND SPATIAL
DESIGN PORTFOLIO
Ruiyu Xu (Rae)
Email: xuruiyu0220@gmail.com
Telphone: +44 7536340592
Address: South Kensington, SW10, London
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/raexuu2009386