Portfolio_Ruiling Lu by RUILING_LU

Portfolio.

Ruiling Lu

Selected Works

2021 - 2025

Ruiling Lu

+1 (785)-491-8131

ruiling0209@gmail.com

EDUCATION

University of Kansas

School of Architecture & Design

Expected graduation May 2026

Cumulative GPA: 3.77/4.0

SKILLS

3D Modeling: SketchUp, Rhino, Autodesk Revit

Rendering: Enscape

Graphics: InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop AI Tools: Midjourney

Other: Sketching, Model Making, Photography

REFERENCES

Nils Gore

Professor of Architecture

University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design +1 (785)-864-4102 (cell) ngore@ku.edu

Marie-Alice L’Heureux

Professor of Architecture

University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design +1 (785)-864-1144 (work) +1 (785)-917-0826 (cell) malheur@ku.edu

Thom Allen

Associate Director, University Honors Program University of Kansas +1 (620)-212-4112 (cell) t273a306@ku.edu

PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE

Guest Curator For Shanghai Architecture Model Museum Shanghai, China | December 2024 – January 2025

Design Director For TEDxKU Executive Board Lawrence, Kansas | April 2024 – present

Poster Designer For University of Kansas Spring 2024 Identity Intersection Lecture Lawrence, Kansas | February 2024 – March 2024

PROJECT ACTIVITIES

University of Kansas Open AI Competition Lawrence, Kansas | January 2024

International Career Preparation Study Abroad London, Britain | March 2023

HONORS

University of Kansas Architecture Student Portfolio Honorable Mention Spring 2024

2020 – 2024 University of Kansas Academic Excellence Scholarship

Arts District Assembly House Grandview Park Presbyterian Church Renew

Lawrence Q*Bert House

Haskell Indian Nations

Rhode Island

Works

01 | LAWRENCE Q*BERT HOUSE

Field:

Mixed Use Housing Project

Type:

Individual Work

Location:

Lawrence, Kansas, United States

Time:

Fall 2024 [Fourth Year]

Instructor:

Steve Padget

This residential building, located at the prominent intersection of 6th Street and Massachusetts Street in downtown Lawrence, reflects a visionary approach to sustainable urban living. The project embraces the integration of natural resources, where water and greenery become essential elements of the architecture. The design incorporates a thoughtful system that collects stormwater underground, filtering and repurposing it for irrigation and rooftop greenery, forming a sustainable water circulation system that reduces waste and promotes ecological balance.

A key feature of the building is the central atrium garden, an inviting green space that provides residents with opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction. This open, communal area not only enhances the sense of community but also introduces nature into the heart of the building, allowing residents to reconnect with the environment in an urban setting.

Privacy and comfort are also at the heart of the project’s design. Vertical louvers on the building facade provide residents with protection from prying eyes while still allowing ample natural light and ventilation. This architectural strategy manages heat and light to improve energy efficiency while ensuring a sense of personal space for each resident. Every tenant has the freedom to control the vertical louvers on their balconies, adjusting the angle to regulate the amount of natural light entering the interior. For a better open view, they can also slide the louvers to the side of the balcony. This flexibility not only adds a unique and dynamic visual element to the building’s façade but also offers a distinctive and adaptable streetscape in downtown Lawrence.

To blend in with the surrounding streets, the ground floor is designed as a commercial area. Above the ground floor are residential apartments.

Two public entrances are strategically placed on the ground floor to balance pedestrian flow, while a central public corridor connects the various shops.

Starting on the second floor, central atrium enhances natural light throughout the building, ensuring that each unit is bathed in plenty of sunlight.

To ensure that natural light from the atrium reaches the second floor, the walls of each residential unit are strategically recessed or extended.

The top floor of the building features a public garden and a community activity space designed for shared use and social engagement.

As the building is located in lawrence downtown, the project uses a movable facade to protect the privacy of each residential unit.

FIFTH FLOOR: GREEN GARDEN COMMUNITY ACTIVITY SPACE COMMUNITY LIBRARY

FOURTH FLOOR: YOUNG SINGLE UNIT

ADA YOUNG SINGLE UNIT

THIRD FLOOR: FAMILY UNIT

ADA FAMILY UNIT

SECOND FLOOR:

ADA ELDERLY UNIT

ADA EMPTY NESTER UNIT

FIRST FLOOR: PUBLIC GYM RESATRANT BOOKSHELF COFFEE SHOP GREEN GROCERY APARTMENT LOBBY

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY

SINGLE UNIT

ADA SINGLE UNIT

FAMILY UNIT

ADA FAMILY UNIT

ADA ELDERLY UNIT

ADA EMPTY NESTER UNIT

COMMERICAL AREA

ENTRY FOR RESIDENCE

EGRESS

MECHANICAL

STRUCTURE

Families Unit [3 Bedroom]

Scale: 1/16” = 1’ - 0”

ADA Families Unit [3 Bedroom]

Scale: 1/16” = 1’ - 0”

Young Singles Unit [1 Bedroom]

Scale: 1/16” = 1’ - 0”

ADA Young Singles Unit [1 Bedroom]

Scale: 1/16” = 1’ -

Bedroom]

ADA Empty Nesters Unit [1 Bedroom]

Scale: 1/16” = 1’ - 0”

ADA Elderly Unit [2 Bedroom]

Scale: 1/16” = 1’ - 0”

Trash Load

Gym

Apt. Lobby

Apt. Entry

Egress

SECOND FLOOR PLAN [ADA EMPTY NESTER UNIT & ELDERLY UNIT/8 UNIT]

THIRD FLOOR PLAN [FAMILY UNIT/6 UNIT]

1.ADA ELDERLY UNIT

ADA EMPTY NESTER UNIT 3. EGRESS 4. CENTRAL ATRIUM

FOURTH

FLOOR PLAN [SINGLE UNIT/10 UNIT]

FIFTH FLOOR PLAN [COMMUNITY ACTIVITY]

1. Single Unit 2. ADA Single Unit 3. EGRESS

1. ACTIVITY 1 2. LIBRARY 3. ACTIVITY 2

EGRESS 5. GREEN GARDEN

02 | ARTS DISTRICT ASSEMBLY HOUSE

Field:

Commercial Projects

Type:

Individual Work

Location:

Dallas, Texas, United States

Time:

Spring 2024 [Third Year]

Instructor: Eddy Tavio

Dallas is a vibrant city located in the heart of Texas, renowned for its rich cultural tapestry, diverse geography, and dynamic blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Situated in North Texas, Dallas boasts a unique blend of bustling city life and serene natural landscapes. The city’s cultural scene is thriving, with world-class museums, theaters, and galleries showcasing art, history, and performing arts.

Geographically, Dallas is characterized by gently rolling prairies and expansive green spaces that invite outdoor recreation. Central to the city’s landscape is the Trinity River, which flows through Dallas, offering water resources, recreational opportunities, and ecological diversity. Its meandering course provides scenic vistas and serves as a natural oasis, offering both residents and visitors a tranquil escape from the urban environment.

Moreover, the Trinity River plays a crucial role in Dallas’s environmental sustainability efforts, serving as a focal point for conservation initiatives and urban revitalization projects. Its importance extends beyond mere aesthetics, as efforts to preserve and enhance the river’s health contribute to the overall well-being and quality of life for Dallas residents. In essence, the Trinity River is not just a geographical feature but a cultural and ecological cornerstone of the city, embodying the spirit of Dallas’s commitment to balancing urban development with environmental stewardship.

Drawing inspiration from the Trinity River’s integral role in Dallas, the proposed art assembly house in the Dallas Arts District seeks to mirror the river’s harmonious blend of nature and urban life. The design will evoke the fluidity and connectivity of the Trinity River, creating a dynamic environment where art, community, and nature intersect. Just as the river provides a natural refuge within the city’s landscape, this art assembly house will offer a serene yet vibrant space, fostering creativity and reflection within the bustling urban fabric of Dallas.

At the intersection of Routh Street and San Jacinto Street, two well-equipped car parks offer ample parking space for visitors and serve as convenient loading zones.

LONG SECTION

Facing Leonard Street, an outdoor pool serves as a distinctive feature, complemented by different walkway providing access to the building. The architectural design incorporates a flowing “river” concept, where the water enters the interior through the outdoor pool.

To enhance efficiency circulation, two intersecting nades have been meticulously throughout the entirety

efficiency of the building’s intersecting promemeticulously integrated entirety of the structure.

Careful attention has been given to the design of the loading and storage areas. The architecture incorporates a staggered facade, providing ample space for loading and unloading activities while minimizing disruptions to the visitor experience.

The roof design of the corridor serves a dual purpose: it ensures ample natural lighting within the interior while effectively mitigating the impact of intense direct sunlight.

EGRESS

MECHANICAL

STRUCTURE

03 | PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH RENEW

Field:

Design Build Project

Type:

Studio Group Work

Location:

Kansas City, Kansas, United States

Time:

Fall 2023 [Third Year]

Instructor: Nils Gore

The project, situated in Kansas City, Kansas, is focused on redefining the utilization of the church’s external space. Community events take place on weekends, and during the summer, the church hosts regular camps attended by approximately 40-50 children. To accommodate the growing demand for activities, there is a need to explore additional outdoor areas. Following a visit to the site, several key proposals have emerged.

Firstly, there is a requirement for the design and construction of a new fence. The existing one, worn from years of use, poses an obstacle to the church’s further development. Another consideration is the potential design of a deck—a versatile outdoor space intended for seating, regular events, and a small music stage. Lastly, there is an opportunity to explore the development of a playground. With the demolition of the existing play area, there is a chance to design a structure that aligns with high creative standards and offers technical complexity.

Proposal 1 - Curved Split Deck

The deck is proposed as an outdoor multi-use area. There is a big tree with deep roots outside. To avoid problems caused by tree roots, we decided to divide the deck into two parts and mark the tree as the center of the deck. Splitting the deck to accommodate the existing large tree roots was a practical design decision. It solves the challenges posed by construction and reduces the budget. By marking the tree as the center of the deck not only creates a visually appealing design, it also ensures that the tree remains the focal point of the outdoor space. Incorporating nature into the design not only adds aesthetic value, but also contributes to the harmonious coexistence between the built environment and natural elements. In addition, the strategic split of the deck allows for multiple uses, including seating, outdoor events and music stage space. This versatile functionality enhances the usability and enjoyment of the outdoor space, making it a dynamic and engaging area for a variety of activities.

Fill the area of deck as solid

Hollow out the center of deck to reduce the impact on tree roots

Soften sharp right angles of the deck

Continue to separate decks for use diversity

Leave space for people to walk past the deck

Fill the area of deck as solid

Hollow out the center of deck to reduce the impact on tree roots

Add play facilities to provide leisure space for the community

Continue to separate decks for use diversity

Leave space for people to walk past the deck

Add play facilities to provide leisure space for the community

Soften sharp right angles of the deck

Proposal 2 - Fence

The fence serves as more than a barrier. It fosters interaction between the church and the surrounding community. The neighborhood is surrounded by a largely Latino population, and the fence design is inspired by Latin tiles. This innovative design transforms the fence into an adaptable, decorative element. Additionally, the project incorporates a sustainable children’s program where children engage in creating selfmade Latin tiles. They can paint patterns on square clay provided by the church. Once fired, these clay tiles are hung on the church fence for public display.

To ensure efficiency in construction, the fence’s structure is partially prefabricated. Adapting to the site’s slope, providing room for error, cost-effectiveness, and minimizing waste are key considerations. The project initiates with excavating holes for concrete pours. Pour concrete, set sonotube and anchor bolt jigs. After steel is galvanized, the assembly of the fence steel frame takes place. When the frames are in place, lower horizontal members are attached to complete the frames. Each member is fitted between the panels and cut to its appropriate length on site. When the frames are completed, Hog Mesh Panels are attached to the frames with P-clips and self-tapping screws. Lastly, concrete is sculpted beneath the base plates and piers to fill in gaps created by leveling the frames.

Fence Construction Steps:

• Excavate holes for concrete pours.

• Pour concrete, set sonotube and anchor bolt jigs.

• Steel prefabrication.

• Galvanizing steel.

• Steel installation on site.

• The fence steel frame takes place.

• Lower horizontal members were attached to complete the steel frames.

• Hog Mesh Panels were attached to frames with P-clips and self-tapping screws.

• Concrete was sculpted beneath the base plates and piers to fill in gaps created by leveling the frames.

Tiles Fabrication Steps:

• Roll out slab of 3/8” think clay.

• Cut out 5” by 5” squares.

• Drill holes in corners at 3/4” on center from edges.

• Dry and bisque fire.

Leave a set of bisque fired tiles and glaze to be used for the church kids program.

• Apply wax to sides and back. Glaze and fire.

• Hang the finished tiles on the fence.

04 | Haskell Indian Nations University Welcome Center

Field:

Institutional Projects

Type:

Individual Work

Location:

Lawrence, Kansas, United States

Time:

Spring 2023 [Second Year]

Instructor:

Marie-Alice L’Heureux

The primary goal of this project is to establish a welcoming center for Haskell Indian Nations University. Indian culture is rich in traditions, they decorate their traditional costumes with feathers, hold hands in a circle, sing and dance and other cultural customs. In addition, in Indian architecture, both traditional tents and outdoor interactive spaces designed for public participation incorporate many circular elements.

As the design concept evolved, the interplay of concentric circles became a defining feature, adding a dynamic and harmonious element to the architecture. The careful consideration of light integration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a welcoming and well-lit interior.

Throughout the design process, the circular elements remains a constant, symbolizing unity and continuity. This choice not only reflects the cultural elements of the Indian community but also establishes a unique identity for the welcome center, creating a space that is both functional and culturally resonant.

The first floor serves as a vibrant hub of public engagement, with a spacious banquet hall designed for gatherings and events. Adjacent to it, a bookstore provides a space for exploration and learning. Complementing these areas is versatile meeting room, offering a flexible environment for collaborative discussions.

Moving to the second floor, the design transitions into more private spaces, catering to the diverse needs of the university community. Shared offices foster a sense of collaboration, while private offices offer secluded work environments. Classrooms on this floor are designed to inspire learning, creating an atmosphere conducive to both focus and interaction.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Indian tents and costumes, the circle serves as the primary architectural design element.

The central area is left open, allowing natural light to flood into all corners of the building.

Exterior environmental details, including land scaping and walkways, are continuously refined to ensure optimal functionality.

The building is divided into two sections: a larger circle for public classrooms and a smaller circle for private offices.

By freeing the placement of entrances and exits within the circular structure, the building becomes more welcoming and accessible.

Continue to improve the surrounding vegetation environment, to provide people with leisure and activities of green space.

HASKELL FACILITIES & ADMINISTRATIVE

HASKELL ACADEMIC BUILDINGS

ATHLETIC FACILITY & PRACTICE FIELDS

MUSEUM WELCOME

HASKELL RESIDENTIAL HALL

HASKELL BUS STATION

SURROUNDING RESIDENTIAL AREA

8. Conference Room

9. Storage Room

10. Office Room

11. Classroom

12. Shared Office

13. Mail Office

1. Banquet

2. Banquet Kitchen

3. Multi-purpose Room

4. Book Store

5. Bathroom

6. Rest Area

7. Coffee Shop

05 | 1341 RHODE ISLAND

Field:

Residential Projects

Type:

Individual Work

Location:

Lawrence, Kansas, United States

Time:

Fall 2022 [Second Year]

Instructor: Thom Allen

Nestled at 1341 Rhode Island, the aim of this project is to uphold the unique character of the neighborhood by preserving the architectural essence of a late 1800s limestone building. The site is divided into east and west parts. The eastern side is for weekday living and the western side is for weekend recreation. A key fact of the design strategy involves the direct connection of a new small building to the limestone structure to safeguard its historic exterior walls.

In the original layout, the basement had practical features such as a small living room, storage room, cloakroom and bathroom. Given the space constraints of the small new building and the compact size of the limestone house, an efficient layout was essential. Notably, the master bedroom finds its place in the basement. A wall made of tempered glass cleverly acts as a window of the master bedroom. People can see the sky through the pool through this window. This strategy not only solves the problem of dim lighting in the basement, but also brings comfortable physical temperature to the occupants because the basement is warm in winter and cool in summer.