Issuu

INTERIOR DESIGN / ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR DESIGN

PORTFOLIO

Selected works from 2021-2024

Ruiyu Xu (Rae)

RUIYU XU

Phone

Address

Portfolio

+44 7536340592

xuruiyu0220@gmail.com

West Kensington, London

https://issuu.com/raemaslowruiyuxu/docs/ruiyu_xu_interior_portfolio?fr=sYjMyYjg2OTExMjQ

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 9/2022 - 12/2023

Camberwell College of Arts, ual, London, UK

Interior and Spatial Design, Graduated with Distinction

Graduate Diploma 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

5/2025 - Present Shift Leader

Caffe Nero London, UK

Managed and coordinated team operations, fostering collaboration and efficiency.

Communicated effectively with staff and management, resolving issues promptly.

Oversaw inventory and supply replenishment—skills transferable to studio materials management.

Maintained high standards in service and coffee preparation.

Scheduled shifts and delegated tasks to meet operational needs.

7/2021- 12/2021 Freelance Residential Project

Guiyang, China

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)

Design，China

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

Volunteer Experience

2019

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.

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

01 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.

Site Analysis

The project is located at Madeira Terrace in Brighton — an iconic seafront walkway facing the ocean and backed by chalk cliffs. With its distinctive white cliffs and stunning coastline, Brighton has long been a major tourist destination. However, the terrace near the Brighton Pier has fallen into disrepair and is currently closed to the public. The area in front of it has been converted into a car park, blocking views of the sea and making visitors feel as though the promenade ends there.

This project seeks to revitalise the terrace by transforming the disused structure into a series of interconnected spaces, each arch accommodating different commercial and recreational functions.

Moodboard

Inspired by the red brick and cast-iron structure of the seaside terrace, the design draws from the site’s bright coastal light and colours.

It captures a dialogue between energy and stillness, where soothing and warm qualities arise from tactile materials and diffused light, creating comfort and ease. Here, colour becomes both memory and renewal, transforming the space into one that feels vibrant, warm, and serene, yet fully adapted to modern function.

Zellige

Microcement

Brighton Station

Brighton Palace Pier Sea View

Madeira Terrace

Rendering from the Floatation

Concept Evolution -

Circulation Based on the Temperature of Water

Based on research into the range of water temperatures comfortable for the human body, I identified four distinct temperature zones, each represented by a specific color.

Tepidarium

Approx.40°C

Caldarium

Approx. 37°C ~39 °C

Natatio

Approx.25.5°C

Frigidarium

Approx.0°C ~18°C

Following the natural thermal transitions, I reorganized the functional sequence accordingly.

Each temperature range supports different types of activities.

Natatio Lounge, Changing Room

Natatio

Adaption Pool, Bubble Pool

Tepidarium Sauna

Caldarium

Salt Therapy, Fitness Room

Frigidarium Cold Pool, Floatation Pool 2.

Finally, by considering the separation between wet and dry areas, I further developed the layout to form the final spatial circulation.

Rendering of Kneipp Journey

Rendering of Warm Plunge

Thermal Pools and Spatial Typologies

Wet-Dry Circulation

The dry zone accommodates all visitors and includes the lounge and reception areas, providing a welcoming space for relaxation and gathering. The wet zone, organised across two levels, it creates a continuous journey through water, allowing visitors to move seamlessly through a complete cycle of bathing and relaxation.

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.

The layout is informed by a series of spatial and experiential studies. Using 1:50 physical models, I tested pool scale and zoning strategies.

Through its elevation and section, the project reinterprets the heritage structure as a living space — breathing light, water, and movement into its arches to restore both openness and a sense of belonging.

Facade

Section

Proposal Overview

Soft pink tiles echo the green bones of Madeira Terrace — a quiet balance between calm and vitality, where light, material, and the body gently prepare for immersion. The experience unfolds into silence, carrying the warmth of water and the memory of light within Brighton’s historic arches.

Rendering of Adaption Pool

02 DRIPPING WOVEN BRIDGE

Installation Project Year: 2023

Location : London, UK

MA Project in 22/23 Ual with Distinction Grade

Tutor: Colin Priest

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.

Ual Online Showcase: https://ualshowcase.arts.ac.uk/project/516352/cover=

Background - Remains of the Surrey Canal between Camberwell and Peckham

Drawn to the remains of the Surrey Canal, I began exploring the history of the area and its long-lost relationship with water. This research inspired the creation of an installation that reconnects environment, nature, and water resources, transforming them into a living part of the site. The project explores how water, light, and wind can be translated into a shared sensory dialogue between people and the environment.

Concept

Inspired by the Warka Water approach, the project began with experiments using wire mesh and fibre fabric to test water collection in London’s climate. While the material successfully gathered rain, it revealed a local specificity — collecting only rainfall, not mist or dew.

This led to the creation of a textilebased rainwater collector — an experimental space that highlights natural forces.

The end of Surrey Canal in Burgess Park

Remains Present

It aims to create dialogues between materials, people, and the environment through simple, visible interactions with water. The woven components are arranged at different heights, allowing water to drip at various speeds and directions. Rainwater is collected in small containers or falls directly onto the ground, where it reflects the surroundings and people passing by.

Tunnel

Old Canal Bridge

Albany Rd/ Camberwell Rd

Wells Way Burgess Park

Surrey Linear Canal Park

Hill Street Bridge

Commercial Way Bridge

Willowbrook Rd

Commercial Way Peckham Library

Surrey Linear Canal Park

The end of Surrey Canal in Peckham

Water Collection Mesh / Fabric

Concept Sketch Handmade Model — Reflection of Water

I started by mapping the space with threads—testing different line directions, densities, and how they interact with light and movement.

Inspired by stitching and suspension, I explored how shadow patterns shift when the lines are fixed, loose, or layered.

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.

Sketch Model Testing

How can a system of materials communicate its logic to the viewer without words?

I realised that system-based thinking should not be limited to textile language — it can also shape spatial experience. To explore the idea, I first created a small handmade model. Strips of coloured paper represented different layers and functions, helping me visualise how they could work together as one system.

strips embedded in the structure; glow softly at night.

Full Spatial Sketch

I explored how the sound of falling water could become part of the installation.

Instead of using the stairs, which would be unsafe when wet, I introduced metal buckets to collect water.

Positioned at varying heights, they produce different tones as raindrops fall, and can be freely rearranged by visitors to create an ever-changing rhythm of sound and interaction.

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.

Photos of Sketch Model 1:100

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

Dripping Woven Bridge transforms everyday rain into a shared sensory experience, weaving together water, sound, light, and movement to reconnect people with their environment.

The installation exists as both structure and performance — an ever-changing dialogue between nature and human presence.

A short video documenting its operation and sound can be viewed via the link below.

03 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

Sape plis as molorest eatius diae eum harumqui asperum reritis aut vellatur?

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

04 LIGHT & BLOOM

Interior Design, Year: 2021

Location : Guiyang, China

Category: Hospitality Project

Building Area: 600 m2

Collaborated with Yangzi Studio as a freelance designer on the design of a versatile wedding and banquet hall. The project aimed to create a flexible, elegant space where lighting, floral arrangements, and circulation work together to support a variety of event themes. The design balanced aesthetic appeal with functional adaptability, ensuring the hall could accommodate diverse ceremonies and banquets while maintaining a cohesive, immersive atmosphere. The project was successfully completed and is now in active use.

View of the completed hall — a calm composition of light, flowers, and reflective materials.

Design Approach:

The design focused on creating a flexible wedding and banquet hall where flowers, lighting, and spatial flow work together to shape the overall form. The layout and atmosphere were conceived to adapt seamlessly to different wedding themes and event styles. Concepts were iterated through both digital and physical models to ensure the space is both functional and visually engaging.

Responsibilities & Contributions:

Primarily responsible for producing CAD drawings and technical documentation to translate conceptual designs into buildable plans. Assisted in material and FF&E research to support the design intent.

Developed presentation materials in Adobe InDesign to communicate technical aspects and layouts effectively. Supported project coordination tasks, including tracking orders and documentation, ensuring smooth workflow and timely delivery.

Wedding event in use — stage and seating layout adapted for ceremony setting.

Interior visualisation — illustrating the proposed lighting, material palette, and spatial ambience.

Event photograph — the hall adapted for a wedding setup

05 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

This is a picture taken from the cooking area, looking towards the grain section.

Interview Assignment Project (1 week)

Powder Room Design for a Luxury Apartment in Berlin

Year: 2025

Category : Interior Design

This conceptual powder room was designed for the final stage of an interview with a high-end 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.