FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION:
INTERIOR DESIGN VISION
By Sarah Alghazali


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By Sarah Alghazali


Arabic and English speaker
Phone: +1(619)836-4689
Email: alghazali.sara@yahoo.com
LinkedIn: @sara-alghazali
Business IG Profile: @sghazalidecor Website: www.s-ghazali.com
Freedom, to me, is having my own space and doing things in my way Growing up in Iraq - especially after the war - meant living in constant uncertainty, frequently moving in search of safety, and never having a true place to call “home”. This transient lifestyle made me deeply appreciate the rare moments when I could decorate my room and add my personality to the space wherever I lived as a teenager These moments marked the beginning of my passion for interior design, as I realized my desire to help others create meaningful, personal environments that reflect their stories and identities
My adaptability allows me to embrace the present while using past experiences as motivation to build my future. I am goal-oriented yet flexible, adjusting to challenges with resilience and determination Exposure to diverse cultures has further shaped my design aesthetic and broadened my creative perspective, enabling me to develop unique and innovative ideas
While perfection may not exist my strong sense of responsibility and ethical standards drive me to deliver excellence. I take ownership of my work, ensuring team clarity and cohesion to prevent conflicts and maintain high standards This leadership quality allows me to foster collaboration while challenging others to be transparent and committed to shared goals
In addition, I am dedicated to creating eco-friendly products through my small business, "S.G Home Decor," which goes beyond aesthetics by promoting sustainable and healthier living environments This aligns with my ultimate goal as an interior designer, to incorporate sustainability into my future work and make a lasting impact through thoughtful, environmentally conscious design.
Junior Designer:
Focus Design Interiors - (2022-2023)
I contributed to commercial interior design projects, including hospitality and multi-family spaces, by creating mood boards, selecting paint colors, preparing presentations, handling FF&E, and working on CDs using Revit and AutoCAD I also managed material orders and pickups from vendors This role helped me enhance my design skills and build industry connections during my senior year at SCAD
Self Employed Artist :
S GHAZALI “S G” Home Decor - (2020-Present)
My small business creates beautiful handmade home decor using eco-friendly materials like clay and ceramics
As a designer, I aim to contribute to environmental healing while offering customizable options that let clients add their personal touch to each piece making their spaces unique and sustainable
Paint and Customer Service Associate Home Depot - (2019-2020)
I helped customers choose the right color, created it for them and provided them with painting methods to help them add a modest, beautiful, and professional touch to their projects This experience introduced me to the paint industry which helped me later with my interior design significance and my knowledge of the different uses and techniques of interior and exterior painting
- Microsoft Office Programs (Excel PowerPoint, Teams Outlook, Word)
- Adobe Programs (Photoshop, InDesign)
- AutoCAD, - Revit Enscape.
- Sketchup.
- Building Models.
- Construction documentation (CD)
- Hand drafting/sketching, Procreate
- Space Planning
- Great communication skills
- Mood boards and FF&E
- Verbal and graphic presentation skills
- Critical Thinking and problem-solving
Cuyamaca College San Diego CA - (2017-2019) :
Associate degree in Fine Arts and humanities
SCAD, Atlanta - (2020-2024) :
B F A in Interior Design
SCADamp - (2024)
SCADamp certificate for completing all 18 professional workshop series on developing presentation and communication skills at Savannah College of Art and Design. These workshops are focused on verbal, visual and interpersonal communication and presentation techniques.
SCAD Dean’s List - (2022)
Achievement Scholarship of dean s list honors for 2021-2022 in SCAD for achieving a grade-point average of 3.5 GPA or higher and a determination of solid work ethic
Franya Wade Antiques - (2021-2022)
During my early years at SCAD, I volunteered and interned with FW Antiques for four months, gaining experience in furniture sales, renovation, and developing industry relationships
Focus Design Interiors - (2022-2023)
During my senior year, I completed a three-month internship which led to securing a junior designer part-time position with the company
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
Practitioner Allied Membership: 2024 - Present
Having a powerful enough WHY, will provide you with the necessary HOW.
-Tony
Robbins
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Project Description:
Assisted living facility designed to merge aesthetics with functionality, ensuring spaces that cater to the diverse needs of elderly individuals. By applying design theories, the project prioritizes comfort, accessibility, and safety while fostering a sense of nature and well-being for the residents.
Non-profit organization for the elderly, located in Atlanta, GA.
Type: Commercial, Assisted Living.
Area: 5,000 SQFT.
Media: Revit, Hand-sketch, Procreate.

It was built in 1965.
A non-profit organization located in the Northside of Buckhead at 3750 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta, GA, 30319 Atlanta's first Life Plan Community
It began when Frank Player and Margaret Hancock, members of Atlanta’s All Saints’ Episcopal Church and St Luke s Episcopal Church had an idea of creating a community for older retired people
Their vision was to establish a community where older adults could enjoy a vibrant, shared lifestyle supported by a continuum of care that meets their evolving needs.





11% between the age of 63 and 74. 30% are between the age of 75 and 84. 52% are 85 or older. 57% need assistance walking. 85% have a chronic






The sun path analysis will guide the design by strategically positioning spaces and windows to optimize natural light and energy efficiency.
Lenox Marketplace is 0 6 miles from the Canterbury Court, which helps make the design have some luxurious touches to match the whole environment.
Piedmont Park is 6 3 miles away This impacts the design by bringing these green elements to the interior.
Enhancesafetyforolderadultswith durablematerialslikewood,lowVOCcarpet andemergency buttonsintheirrooms

Apply ADAandergonomics to ensure accessibility and comfort, especially for those elderly with wheelchairs or walkers.
Fostering social interaction through lounge,diningarea,and bar, with an open-conceptlayout for a better access and connection.


Promotewell-beingwithayoga centerandnaturalelements,like plantsandsunlighttoreducestress andenhancephysicalhealth
The heart and brain are communicating together consistently to keep the body working and functioning normally through the veins. A two-sided dynamic relationship, each determines the function of the other one, yet each has its functionality to do individually
The Canterbury Court design will include two activity areas. One will represent the brain and will include yoga, a library and a lounge area. The second space will represent the heart and it will include all the fun activities like Movie theater and gaming


























A ceiling-level change occurs in the main area with a veins-shaped lighting design that extends from the reception entrance, connecting it with the bar area all the way to the dining and kitchenette space, reflecting the connection aspect of the design concept








The reception desk design features a half-circular form, symbolizing the heart and mind as integral halves of human balance, inspired by the conceptual thinking and diagrams showed earlier



The bar area, seamlessly connected to the reception, is the first stop for residents, creating an inviting atmosphere. Its design emphasizes a balance between the dropped ceiling and the bar structure, enhancing the welcoming ambiance

Biophilia involves integrating natural elements into spaces to connect people with nature, enhancing mood and productivity. For instance, green walls, and natureprint wallpapers bring the outdoors inside, while wood elements promote relaxation and a sense of nature.

Comfort in design involves considering size proportions and distances, such as meeting ADA requirements This includes adjustable furniture, adequate spacing, safe materials, and easy access to amenities, enhancing daily life and ensuring health and safety especially for those with physical difficulties.
Color selection is crucial in designing spaces for mature adults, as it influences feelings, mood, behavior, and memories Blue promotes healing, calmness, and relaxation, while brown symbolizes maturity, strength, and resilience, and it has earthy, natural connotations









The kneeclearance under the sink should be aminimumof27"fromthefloor and 8" from the front edge of the countertop. Toe clearance must be 19"deepand30" wide, with the sink top at a maximum heightof34", and 40" Max mirror height.













SCALE: 1/8" = 1 - 0"

The corridor design applies color theory through a carefully selected palette
Biophilic elements, including wood, natural plants, and lowVOC carpeting, enhance the connection to nature Comfort theory is integrated with built-in seating, visual elements, and greenery to create a relaxing atmosphere. ADA requirements are met with a minimum 3-foot-wide corridor and continuous handrails for accessibility



Project Description:
A residential project emphasizing customized design, integrating horizontal and vertical planes along with a furniture piece inspired by the design concept. Along with Revit modeling skills, the project follows the complete design process from research and client interviews to concept development and final design creation.
One-Bedroom apartment, with open-concept kitchen. located in Salt Lake, Utah.
Type: Residential, Living space.
Area: 750 SQFT.
Media: Revit, Enscape.







A dramatic kitchen that features custom cabinetry and ceilings inspired by the surrounding mountains Sunlight filters through large windows, balancing the deep tones with warmth. The interplay of light and dark colors with wooden elements.


A custom wall-mounted bench that serves as both seating and desk space is crucial for maximizing functionality in the bedroom, using the same style that complements the overall modern vibe of the apartment.







A warm, inviting living space centers around a custom fireplace highlighted by ambient lighting, reflecting the client’s unique style Complementing the cold climate, a small, cozy sofa enhances the intimate atmosphere. The fireplace serves as both, functional and aesthetic focal point.
The concept embodies the notion of freshstarts following conclusions, the interplayoflightandshadow, the upsanddowns, and the cleanslates of hope It serves as a reminder that even in darkness, the potential for illumination does exist A minimalist yet profoundly evocative design, sleek and elegant in ebony, that evokes the feeling of hope and success.
The objective of this project is to utilize the Revit program to construct models, including a furniture piece, a customized horizontal plane (ceiling), a full kitchen, and an integrated vertical plane (wall).






MATERIALS














Design a warm, elegant and functional space that balances texture, lighting, and materials. The aesthetic embraces modern minimalism, creating depth and coziness through dark tones, ambient lighting, and natural elements. Maintain an open-plan concept while defining each area through strategic furniture placement Customized design to meet client needs, incorporating ceiling details and accent lighting to enhance depth The goal is to achieve a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends aesthetics with functionality.







A custom-designed coffee table standing at 1 3" high, inspired by the project’s design concept. Two overlapping pieces create varying heights, symbolizing the interplay of ups and downs and the idea of intersection, adding both functional and conceptual depth to the space
The fireplace design reflects the same concept through the repetition of wood panels at varying heights. These panels enhance visual interest and add warmth and texture, seamlessly integrating aesthetics with functionality
The kitchen embraces an open-plan design, seamlessly integrating wood elements for warmth and texture A suspended wooden ceiling feature connects visually to the island accent, enhancing cohesion. Ambient lighting adds depth, while undercabinet lights improve functionality and task visibility.
The ceiling design creates a rhythmic flow that naturally draws the eye toward the kitchen island This design element enhances spatial continuity, reinforcing a cohesive connection between the ceiling and the island while complementing the overall aesthetic of the space.
















A custom wall-mounted seating area serves as a man cave, seamlessly integrating the same rich wood materials used throughout the apartment Positioned beside a large window it floods the space with natural light while framing breathtaking mountain views Accent lighting enhances both ambiance and functionality, creating a cozy yet refined retreat that complements the overall design


Project Description:
This group project focused on the Construction Documents (CD) phase for an office design created by my SCAD classmate, Christine Kei. My role primarily involved contributing to the CD phase, with a specific emphasis on developing the Reflected Ceiling Plan (RCP)
Type: Construction Documents.
Non-profit organization for women, located in Big Bend area, FL . Area: 3,380 SQFT.
Media: Revit, AutoCAD.


RCPGENERALNOTES


LIGHTINGSELECTONNOTES


Project Description:
This project involved identifying a problem and developing a design solution using appropriate methods, theories, and planning strategies The process ranged from in-depth research to conceptual development and ultimately translating the design into reality.
A cabins-hotel with multiple structures, located in the Sothern Marshes of Iraq.
Type: Commercial, Hospitality.
Area: 20,000 SQFT.
Media: Procreate, Hand-Sketch, Revit.
The2003IraqWar,alsoknownasOperationIraqiFreedom,had lastingimpacts Itcausedlossoflife,infrastructuredestruction, displacementofmillions,worsenedethnictensions,and harmedtheenvironment.Additionally,itdamagedhistorical sitesandheritage
Moreover,mediacoveragefrequentlyportrayedIraqnegatively, focusingonviolenceandconflictwhileneglectingitsrichhistory andculturaldiversity,thusreinforcingstereotypesand misconceptionsaboutitspeople


Environmental Crisis Economic Crisis
Incudesaccesstocean water,polluton energy effciency cleanfood andagricuture
Andbythat,itcanbeassertedthattheconflictinIraq significantlyimpingedupontheoverarchingqualityoflife(QOL) withinthecountry. Focus Areas for Improvement:

Damage
Negatvepsychologcaleffectsofthewar onpeopleincludingemotons behaviors, andwell-being
Unemployment Issue
Manybusinessesclosedandpeople ost theirjobs whichincreasedthecountrys povertycasunglossof ifeforlotsofIraqs
Safety Issues
Masdistructionofcities politicalconflicts andcriticalsecuritysituationsaround thecountry






Environmental Issues
Pollutionandagriculturedeclineddueto confict-relatedactvties andthedisruption ofenergysources
Lost Cultural Heritage
Lootinganddamagetohistorical landmarks,andmisnformationabout thecultureofIraq








Thisprojectprimarilyaimstoenhancetourismandstimulate economicgrowthwithinthecity,withaspecialfocusonboth touristsandthelocals(peopleofIraq) It'safamily-friendly project withadesignthattakesintoconsiderationthewellbeingandengagementofpeople.Furthermore,itisinclusive andconsiderstheneedsofindividualswithspecial requirementsandneeds

Welcome Visitors park outside and enter the building through the main entrance To The Main Building

Users can access the event space on the second f oor and offices on the third by cl mb ng the staircase or using the elevators
Tourists Locals All Ages Employees
The idea is toconnectlocalsandtourists by promoting cultural exchange and communication It is inspired by ancient construction techniques of the reed houses; Reed sticks are woven into two columns, forming a distinctive arch that serves as the framework for the entire structure of the ancient houses





Stepping into the courtyard with ts central water fountain and natura e ements inspired by ancient raqi homes creates a warm invit ng atmosphere for visitors where they can check in and out
The three-story main building features a Mudhif bar for check-in and wa ting offer ng a tradit onal ambiance inspired by ancient home architecture

Visitors can also explore the area with a leisurely wa k through the site enjoying the natural surroundings of reed palm trees and the r ver as they head to their next destination







The final destination offers a private retreat with separate cabins nestled in nature providing guests w th enhanced privacy and the opportunity to fully mmerse themselves in a peaceful secluded env ronment
Using design theories as part of the solution.
Hea ng Through Design enhances we -being by using natural light greenery and calm ng colors to reduce stress
Placemaking preserves culture by incorporat ng local materials and tradit onal elements creat ng spaces that honor heritage and foster a sense of community
For another exper ence users can vis t the restaurant where they can savor traditiona cuisine and enjoy the loca food while s tting in these cozy lowseating traditiona arrangements




Upon leaving the building, v sitors can discover a unique experience at the coffee shop featuring library-style booths where they can enjoy a coffee whi e relaxing with a book about the country’s culture, h story and more



Incorporatingacentralcommunalcourtyard inspiredbytraditionalIraqihouses

A place enhanced by different natural elements for a tranquil ambiance.
By connecting locals and tourists through culture, this project promotes cultural exchange and communication inspired by ancient houses' construction Reed sticks were woven together to create two columns connected to form the distinctive arch shape, which is a key architectural feature in these houses.
The objective of this project was to utilize the knowledge acquired during our years of study on a project we are passionate about and personally connected to. This involved problem identification, research, concept development, finding solutions, and design execution.










The Sustainable Solution:
A pen space w ructures. This de ral airflow, cr d circulate th
Specialty Features:
Primary Areas:







Integrat ng culture nto the design by incorporat ng traditional architectural elements such as Arab an arches and patterns while us ng local mater als like reed and brick throughout the build ng



In add tion to the ow-he ght ce ling in the recept on area the design of the storage door is inspired by tradit onal home entrances, enhanc ng the cultural amb ance and contributing to the welcom ng and cozy atmosphere of the space
Incorporating greenery and a water feature in the courtyard reflects biophi ia theory bringing the natural environment indoors and enhancing the sensory experience Natural textures of stone brick, and earthy-tones color pa ettes complement it













mentalcarvingto the arches as a frame, which was inspired by the mosque doors. Also covered the columns with the same ornaments to match the arches (incorporating culture).
Inadditiontoculturallyinspiredmaterials likestone,reed inlightingfixtures,andbrick walls,theuseofvintagedecorpieces throughout addsatouchthatfurthersthe goalofculturalincorporationinthedesign.




The central floor design is inspired by the traditional Islamic Iraqi star, a symbol often used in Islamic calligraphy, which reflects the art of handwriting and decorative script in Islamic culture. It is adorned with vintage-style Middle Eastern tiles enhancing the courtyard's traditional aesthetic








Incorporatingtraditionaldecorative motifs inthegift-store'swallopenings, inspiredbyIslamicsymbolsandthe reedhouse’sconstructions Thisapproach providesstylishventilationandseclusion whileofferingaviewintothestore, enticingvisitorstoexplorefurther

The lounge ceiling design draws inspiration from an Iraqi monument, with reed materials as decorative elements This design seamlessly complements the bar area ceiling, creating a cohesive and culturally rich atmosphere.








Choosing mid-century furniture with a modern flair to infuse the space with contemporary elements, facilitating locals in connecting and engaging with the modern world.












Option A - This choice offers a space divided into two semi-adjacent areas provid ng pr vacy and flexib ty for users while allowing the hotel to offer mu tiple services simultaneously thereby maxim zing revenue opportunit es

Option B - The space serves as a publ c event venue offering various activ t es such as parties plays concerts and more This option provides an open area that can function as a unified space for different events

Option C - The space can be reserved as a wedding
venue offering an open layout for the ceremony with a provided stage and an adjacent area for the after-party or din ng allow ng users to utilize two dist nct spaces for the r big day


Incorporating culture into the design by using trad tional patterns to create a partit on that separates the office area from the restrooms while a so utilizing loca materia s throughout the office area


Incorporate sound-absorbing materials ike acoustic panels and soft furnishings to create a quieter, more focused environment Also, including large windows that offer views of the courtyard and let in amp e natural light during the day


The restaurant s seating is placed near the kitchen, with windows offering diners a view of traditional cuisine preparation, enhancing both aesthetic and cultural experiences.


Choosing mid-century furniture with a modern flair to infuse the space with contemporary elements facilitates locals connecting and engaging with the modern world.




The restaurants design captures the rich heritage and cultural essence of Iraq by incorporating traditional architectural features like intricate woodwork and tiles inspired by Islamic art. Materials such as brick and stone are used throughout to create a warm, authentic atmosphere that connects to Iraqi history. Ambient lighting and thoughtfully arranged seating add to the cozy, communal feel, reminiscent of an Iraqi home

The booth area is designed to emulate the layout of traditional local houses (Ancient Reed House) fostering a communal atmosphere while ensuring privacy with elegant dividing panels betwee h b th

To capture the essence of traditional Reed Houses, incorporating varying sizes of reedmaterialplates from the wall to the ceiling envelops the booth seating area, mirroring the ambiance of authentic reed houses with an aesthetic touch, offering users a full traditional experience.











The booth area is inspired by traditional vintage low-height seating. However, to ensure accessibility for all users, an additional 10 inches in height has been added, preserving cultural essence while enhancing comfort and inclusivity





The coffee shop area features booth seating designed to resemble stacked library shelves serving as a focal point for the space This intentional design element not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides users with access to books and decorative elements akin to a small library or museum. Its goal is to mirror authentic culture, fostering learning and inspiring users to delve into literature while they enjoy their coffee.









Providing three diverse floorplan options for the cabins to accommodate various users, including couples, families, and individuals of all ages This includes two small cabins, each with unique layouts and amenities as well as a larger cabin tailored for families with two bedrooms and increased square footage Additionally, adhering to ADA regulations ensures accessibility for disabled individuals, promoting a more inclusive design approach









ELEVATION

SINK/VANITY ELEVATION






The design goal for the cabins was to create a serene, relaxing space for visitors as part of the overall solution to enhance quality of life through the Healing Through Design theory. This was achieved using warm earthy tones and integrating traditional elements and materials like stone and reed, maintaining consistency with the overall project.
This project involved selecting an existing hotel as a group and fully redesigning it using the best methods, programs, and software, emphasizing teamwork, collaboration, and presentation skills. Each team member was responsible for designing a specific suite based on their research and concept while maintaining the overall design language of the hotel The portfolio highlights this aspect by focusing on the individually designed suite, showcasing the personal design approach within the cohesive vision of the team.
An 8-story boutique hotel, located in Oban, Scottland.
Type: Hospitality.
Area: 2,400 SQFT.
Media: SketchUp, AutoCAD, Procreate, Revit.

This cozy suite on the 6th floor enhances the guest experience by providing a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere It embraces a Scottish stylewithclassicfeatures like wine storage, traditional Scottish furniture and textiles, and a warm color palette.
The suite’s layout embodies the hug concept through its warmand invitingflow An open-conceptplan ensures accessibility and seamlesscirculation. The design wraps around occupants, offering opennessandconnection, just like the reassuring embrace of a hug.












Curvedwallsinthebedroomanddiningarea,inspired bytheconceptdiagram,symbolizetheembraceofa hugthroughtheirfluidandenvelopingform.Seamless floortransitionsfurtherenhancethisconcept,defining spaceswhilemaintaininganopen-planlayout.
Thesunroomfeaturesexpansivewindowsthatinvite naturallight,withawoodornamentalarchmarking theentrancethataddswarmthandelegance,while lushindoorplantsenhancetheconnectiontonature Theseelementscollectivelyreflectthehotel’snatural surroundings,fosteringasereneexperience







Themasterbedroomfeaturesawarm,elegant designwithanarchedheadboardnichethatadds asenseofgrandeur,intricatewallpaneling,anda curvedpartitionforsubtleprivacy Agreenmarble accentaddssophistication,complementedby vintage-inspiredchandeliersandsconces.The seamlesstransitionbetweencarpetandwood flooringenhancesthesuite’shug-inspiredlayout, creatingacohesiveandinvitingatmosphere

Thekitchenettedesignfeatureswarmwoodcabinetry withabuilt-inwinestorageunit,seamlesslyblending functionalitywithelegance,complementingtothe wholeaestheticofthesuit
Acurvedcornercabinetsoftensthespace complementingtheoveralldesignconceptoffluidity andwarmth.Thebacksplashconsistsofasubtle, texturedtile,addingdepthwhilekeepingtheaesthetic lightandrefined Openshelvingprovideseasyaccess toessentials,whilethebrassfaucetenhancesthe classicalluxuriousfeel
Positionedadjacenttoahallwaywithbigwindows,the kitchenetteremainsbrightandinviting,ensuringan openandconnectedatmosphere


Thelibraryinthelivingareaisdesignedasacozy retreat,featuringacustom-builtwoodenbookshelf withamplestorageanddecorativemolding Arolling ladderenhancesaccessibilitytouppershelves, reinforcingasenseofgrandeur.
Integratedlightinghighlightsbookdisplays,creatinga warmambiance Acomfortablearmchairanda patternedrugdefineareadingnook,complemented byasculpturalfloorlampforsoftlighting.
Therichwoodtones combinedwithelegantdetailing, createasophisticatedyetinvitingatmospherethat encouragesrelaxationandintellectualengagement





The project was about finding a solution for those displaced people by building a 12’x12’ living pod (as a physical model) that provides temporary residency for those individuals It provides basic human needs such as security, personal safety privacy, and protection, mentally and physically.
The design approach involved constructing the physical space to better understand spatial planning and scale, allowing for a more accurate and immersive process that included the concept-building phase, programming, and design phase with materials selections and rendering.
*The included part here only shows the skills of building physical models for portfolio purposes.











