Shpresa Bucaj | Interior Design

SHPRESA BUCAJ

Virginia Tech Interior Design | Selected Works

Welcome!

My name is Shpresa Bucaj, and I am a proud Virginia Tech Interior Design alumna. This booklet is a collection of my favorite projects from my time at Virginia Tech.

I am incredibly grateful for the experiences and opportunities here, which have profoundly shaped my personal design style. I want to extend a special thank you to my professors and classmates. Learning and collaborating with such talented, inspiring people have greatly contributed to my growth as a designer.

Nothing is superfluous. Whether it is a customer in a store, a student in a classroom, or an employee in an office, every design choice serves a purpose: to inspire the individual.

Vector Sports is an exclusive retail destination tailored specifically for running and marathon training enthusiasts. This innovative store redefines the traditional sportswear and sports equipment retail experience, immersing customers in a dynamic space that mirrors the energy and excitement of the running field. Navigating through the store feels like exploring different sections of a sports arena, thanks to a layout featuring dynamic pathways and a vivid, energetic color palette. Interactive displays, specialized sports zones, and cutting-edge technology, including virtual reality simulations, elevate the shopping journey to new heights.

From kinetic merchandising strategies to captivating sports-themed audio-visuals, every aspect of Vector Sports is meticulously designed to encapsulate the true spirit of running. Beyond being a mere store, Vector Sports stands as a haven where the essence of running converges with the excitement of retail, delivering a multisensory adventure that transforms shopping into a uniquely invigorating experience.

There are 5 Virtual Reality features in the program, including a VR fitting room, "Find Your Perfect Fit", Shoe Customization Area, VR Mannequin Display, and VR Treadmil Pods.

Spring 2024 | 12 Weeks | 14000 SF | New York, NY | Senior Thesis

565

Broome Street, Soho

New York, NY

In the heart of SoHo, Vector Sports aligns seamlessly with New York City's active lifestyle. Recognizing the city's preference for walking and hosting numerous races, this store caters to the running community. Whether you're a seasoned runner or new to the scene and want to ease into it, Vector Athletics provides the gear and encouraging, immersive atmosphere you need to embrace the joy of running in this dynamic urban setting.

UX/UI should not be the sole cause of the closure of brick-and-mortar stores, it's essential to recognize that rather than being seen as a threat, UX/UI can serve as a powerful tool to revitalize the in-store shopping experience. By leveraging technology such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), retailers have the opportunity to augment the physical space with digital enhancements, thereby creating immersive and engaging environments for customers.

“Find Your Perfect Fit”

VR Treadmill Pods

Personalized New Arrivals

Grand Entrance

Cash Wrap

“Custom By You”

Self Checkout

BOH Storage

Restrooms

“CUSTOM

BY YOU"

VR shoe customization zone featuring plain white shoes as canvas.

Interactive interface for users to select from various colors and patterns.

Real-time laser projection visually applies selected designs onto shoes for instant preview.

Option to add customized shoes to cart and choose shipping: in-store pickup or delivery to home address.

“FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT”

"Find Your Perfect Fit" features an interactive floor plate that scans customers' feet for size, pressure points, and walking dynamics.

Based on the analysis from the floor plate, the system suggests optimal shoe types tailored to individual foot assessments.

This personalized approach ensures that each customer receives recommendations for shoes that provide the best support and comfort, catering to their specific needs and preferences.

NEW ARRIVALS

The personalized, display is activated through a sensor customer's unique

As the particular past the display, their unique purchase dynamically showcased.

This innovative approach that every customer different display, individual preferences

DISPLAY

personalized, digital mannequin activated for app users that detects each profile upon entry.

customer walks products based on purchase history are showcased. approach ensures customer encounters a tailored to their preferences and needs.

The VR fitting room offers customers the ability to visualize themselves in various environments using an interactive mirror.

Each piece of product is tagged, enabling the fitting room to detect every article of clothing present.

Through this technology, the room suggests popular pairings with the merchandise chosen, enhancing the customer's shopping experience.

Additionally, the room prompts customers if they would like the suggested items to be added to their rooms by a team member, providing personalized assistance and convenience.

VR treadmill pods enable customers to immerse themselves in virtual environments that replicate various terrains and settings.

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Customers can visualize and experience their daily walks or upcoming race routes within the VR room.

The integrated system offers a comprehensive and tailored shoe fitting and testing experience, allowing individuals to test recommended shoes in different conditions.

VR FITTING ROOM

VR TREADMILL ROOMS

Self Check-out

Cash Wrap + Shoe Customization Area

“Find Your Perfect Fit” and Shoe Racks

VR Treadmill Rooms

Personalized New Arrivals Display

VR Fitting Room

STEELCASE NEXT COMPETITION WINNER

Dallas, Texas is known for its vibrant energy, cultural diversity, and artistic spirit. Just like a kaleidoscope transforms ordinary elements into mesmerizing patterns, Dallas is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. NEXT Architects incorporates this concept into their design firm that reflects the city’s rich tapestry of influences.

Dallas is known for its modern architecture and urban sophistication, which can be mirrored in the design through the use of geometric patterns and bold colors. The kaleidoscope concept can infuse spaces with dynamic, shifting patterns, tying back to the city’s constantly changing skyline and cultural scene.

Dallas has a thriving arts and music scene, reflected in its numerous museums and galleries. Incorporating artistic elements inspired by the kaleidoscope, illuminating color panels, colorful dichroic glass installations, or playful light fixtures, can pay homage to Dallas’ artistic heritage.

Fall 2023 | 6 Weeks | 11000 SF | Dallas, TX

Revit and Enscape

2601 Victory Ave

NEXT Architects is home to an inclusive design that uses participatory methods that creates new ways for traditionally excluded users to participate in activities of their choice. These diverse lived experiences and perspectives enhance experience and empower participation.

SPACE PLANNING

The “Stacked and Shifted Boxes” concept redefines spatial design by challenging traditional layouts and encouraging a dynamic interaction between occupants and their environment. This innovative approach not only maximizes functionality but also creates a visually stimulating and inspiring atmosphere, making the space an engaging hub for creativity, collaboration, and relaxation.

FLOORPLAN KEY

Client Presentation Room ft. 3-Dimensional Presentation Screen

Porcelain Tile Cloud Cover Acoustical Felt LED Screen Cloud Cover Oak Wood

Steelcase Sterling Chair

Steelcase Convene Table

OCL Una Pendant

Interface Gray

Interface Blue

Elevator Lobby

Longitudinal Cross Section NTS

Orangebox Phonebooth

OCL Illusion Sconce

Arktura Vapor Solid

6 Visitor Workstations

Reception

Design concept: Rhapsody Records is a Rock and Roll record label that is home to this luxury skybox that goes beyond just aesthetics; it encapsulates the very essence of the striking cultural change catalyzed by rock and roll. This design concept delves deep into the spirit of rock music, joining its rebellious energy with contemporary design sensibilities. The skybox serves as an immersive space inviting visitors to feel the heart of rock in a blend of memories and new ideas

The space plan itself challenges convention, mirroring the nonconformist attitude that defines rock and roll. Unconventional shapes and layouts are deliberately employed to disrupt the traditional design narrative. The furniture and fixtures are arranged in a way that encourages free movement, inviting visitors to explore and engage with the space in a manner that mirrors the improvisational nature of rock music performances. This skybox is more than just a physical space; it’s a testament to the enduring impact of rock and roll on culture and creativity. It encapsulates the essence of a genre that defied norms, challenged the status quo, and gave voice to generations seeking change.

Fall 2023 | 6 Weeks | 4200 SF

SPACE PLANNING

The space plan defies conventional norms, reflecting the rebellious spirit synonymous with rock and roll. Deliberately utilizing unconventional shapes and layouts, it disrupts the traditional design narrative. The furniture and fixtures are arranged in a way that encourages free movement, inviting visitors to explore and engage with the space in a manner that mirrors the improvisational nature of rock music performances.

FLOORPLAN KEY

Kitchen

Coat Closet

Conference Room

Stage

Restroom

Master Closet

Main Seating

Conversation Pits

Master Bathroom

Storage

Viewing Platform

Studio Apartment Level

Custom Triangular Fixture

Arktura Alluvia Panels equipped with acoustical backing

The interplay of LED lighting serves as a powerful metaphor for the electric atmosphere of a rock concert. The LED lights are strategically positioned to emulate the vivid, dynamic lighting schemes seen at rock shows.

The color-changing hues cascade across the room, creating a dance of colors on monochrome surfaces. This pays homage to the visual extravagance of a rock concert and symbolizes the vibrant, new expressive culture and ideas that rock music unleashed upon the world during its emergence.

OCL Glowball

Carefully selected materials such as porcelain and wood are incorporated into the design to provide a durable, long-lasting, sustainable design.

Incorporating polished and refined materials, the skybox captures the refined essence of Rock’s raw and diverse nature.

Mannington Dark Walnut

Porcelanosa Leim Black

Ollin Stone Neolith Carrara

Porcelanosa Carrara Blanco

Mirrored Surfaces Custom Illuminating Wall

ENTERTAINMENT AREA PERSPECTIVE | The ceiling and wall panels take inspiration from the cascade of suspended from

of phone flashlights at rock concerts. Along the wall are Arktura Frequency Panels, with Arktura

Panels from the ceiling.

Alluvia

ENTERTAINMENT AREA PERSPECTIVE | Unconventional shapes and layouts are deliberately employed ment, inviting visitors to exploreand engage with the space in a manner

employed to disrupt the traditional design narrative. The furniture and fixtures are arranged to encourage free movemanner that mirrors the improvisational nature of rock music performances.

Design concept: The spatial design is inspired by the organic shapes found in the desert landscape, particularly the canyon plateaus and the undulating rock formations. This design concept is realized through a “plateau” half-level and a waved ceiling formation that mimics the ridges and perforations of canyon rocks. The plateau half-level creates a dramatic transition from enclosed private spaces to open public areas, drawing inspiration from the natural forms of the desert. The waved ceiling formation, with its wave-like perforations, serves as a visual element that guides patrons through the open space, reminiscent of the patterns found in desert rock formations, and adds to the overall material and aesthetic of the design.

Spring 2023 | 6 Weeks | 13000 SF | Phoenix, AZ

Revit and Enscape

Phoenix, AZ

Located in Phoenix, Arizona, this 13000 sqft Academic Library encompasses diverse programs and amenities. These include a media production studio, Makerspace, classroom, virtual environment Lab, a substantial collection of periodicals, individual study spaces, a cafe, as well as public and private group study areas.

SPACE PLANNING

The spatial plan of this academic library takes inspiration from the natural forms found in the desert environment, specifically the canyon plateaus. This design concept is manifested through the use of a “plateau” half level, which creates a striking shift from enclosed private spaces to open public areas, emulating the dramatic transitions seen in the desert landscape.

Level 1 NTS

FLOORPLAN KEY

1. Information/Check-out

2. Cafe

3. Half-Level Study Area

4. Small Study Spaces

5. Media Recording Room

6. Custodial Closet

7. Telecom Room

8. Virtual Reality Room

9. Communications Lab

10. Makerspace

11. Classroom

12. Branch Manager Office

13. Staff Lobby/Lounge

14. Staff Workroom

15. Large Study Spaces

Half-Level Perspective Showcasing Stacks

Chalkboard Concrete

Blue Carpet Grey Carpet White Tile Oak Wood

Davis Circo Chair

Davis Occasional Side Table

OCL

Bamboo Pendant

Individual Study Spaces & Classroom Perspective ft. Custom “READ” Light Fixture

Longitudinal Cross Section NTS

Spacestor Railway Carriage

Coalesse Bindu Chair

OCL Una Fixture

CAFE PERSPECTIVE | The ceiling takes inspiration from natural geographical surroundings, specifically serving as a means for wayfinding. Custom waved wood beams are interspersed with OCL Una lighting

specifically from the ridges found in canyon rocks. The ceiling design spans from the front to the back of the space, lighting fixtures, providing ample overhead illumination and creating a striking contrast between each beam.

PLATEAU HALF-LEVEL INTERIOR ELEVATION NTS

PLATEAU HALF-LEVEL CONCEPT

The plateau half-level is strategically positioned within the space, serving as a raised platform that breaks the conventional spatial hierarchy. It provides an intermediate level that bridges the gap between private and public spaces, offering a unique vantage point for occupants to engage with the surrounding environment. This plateau acts as a threshold, signaling a shift in the spatial experience and inviting exploration and interaction. The concept is realized through the careful consideration of form and materiality, resulting in a unique and engaging spatial experience

Design concept: My tech startup company is Fitbit. Fitbit is a physical fitness monitor that tracks the heart via the pulse in the wrist. The heart is the center of the body’s circulation system, pumping blood all around the body. In this coworking space, Fitbit is at the heart of the building, with all of the activity pulsating around the Tech startup. Since it is metaphorically considered the heart, it is also the basis of all circulation in the space. Every designated space is designed around the startup, with easy, open access to every other space, representing the blood flow circulating through the heart.

Fall 2022 | 8 Weeks | 7500 SF | Roanoke, VA

and Enscape

Revit

315 Albemarle Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013

Located in downtown Roanoke, this 7500 sqft remodeled industrial warehouse offers a variety of amenities and work stations. 8 private offices, 20 hot desks, and a community space.

SPACE PLANNING

The spatial planning of this coworking area draws inspiration from the pulsating waves emitted by the human circulatory system. In recognition of the tech startup company, Fitbit, which specializes in physical fitness heart monitoring, it is strategically positioned at the center of the space, with other amenities branching out from it. This design choice serves to accentuate the tech startup as the central “circulatory system” of the entire space.

FLOORPLAN KEY

1. Entrance/Reception Desk

2. Kitchen/Community Space/Lounge

3. Vertical Circulation

4. Entrepreneur Offices 1-4

5. Community Conference Room/Printing

6. Restrooms

7. Tech Startup

8. Hot-Desking

9. Entrepreneur Offices 5-8

10. Small Conference Rooms

11. Phone Booths

12. Administrative Office

Entrepreneur Offices Perspective

Onyx Stainless Steel Black Marble Polished Concrete Oak Wood Marble

OCL GlowRing

OCL Loop Pendant

Lunawood Slats

Phone Booth Perspective

illuminating waves representing the form of a pulse

Design Concept: The design of this space draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands by utilizing native materials, creating a unique and authentic aesthetic. The use of local materials not only pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii, but also promotes sustainability and environmental consciousness. The use of the zig-zag formation enhances the flexibility of the space. This layout allows for different seating arrangements, providing comfort and convenience for people sitting in groups or individually. the space can easily adapt to accommodate various needs and activities. The contrasting textures of wood and concrete create a sense of unity and harmony between the mezzanine and the ground floor. The warmth of the wood complements the cold look of the concrete, creating a balanced and harmonious juxtaposition.

Spring 2022 | 5 Weeks | 4700 SF | Honolulu, HI

Revit and Enscape

Honolulu, HI

Located in the heart of Honolulu, Hawaii, this soup kitchen serves food challeneged communities with an uplifting design that addresses the physical, psychological, and emotional needs of customers affected by food insecurities

SPACE PLANNING

The spatial arrangement of this soup kitchen is thoughtfully designed in a “zig-zag” formation, symbolizing life’s unpredictable paths. It creates a space that serves as a nourishing refuge for individuals during challenging times. The zig-zag layout not only adds visual interest but also caters to varying levels of socialization with strategically placed sections along the path.

FLOORPLAN KEY

1. Entrance/Waiting Area

2. Medium Noise Level

3. High Noise Level

4. Low Noise Level

5. Restrooms

6. Community Space

7. Counselling Offices

8. Private Research Booths 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Quiet Zone Below Mezzanine Perspective

Mango Wood Washed Brick Bamboo Wood Planks Concrete

OCL Armet Sconce

Ole Luna Pendant

OCL Astra Pendant Davis Ginko Chair

Front Entrance Perspective

Davis Veer Table

Royale Pendant

Longitudinal Cross Section NTS

Mezzanine

The mezzanine level of the building is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of the community, providing a versatile space that fosters a sense of belonging and offers a range of services. As you ascend the staircase, you are greeted by an open-concept community space that exudes warmth and comfort.

Camel Leather Couch

Glass Table Top Coffee Table

Main Dining Room

The multifunctional community space offers a welcoming lounge for socialization, a private research area for learning, and confidential 1-on-1 counseling services for support and guidance. It’s a space that fosters community engagement, personal growth, and holistic well-being, catering to the diverse needs of the community it serves.

HENRY COTTON BUILDING REDESIGN, JOHN MOORES UNIVERSITY

Under the Myers-Lawson School of Construction, the Virginia Tech Design Build Group travelled to Liverpool, UK for the ASC Region 8 2023 International Student Competition. Our mission involved presenting a redesign proposal for the Henry Cotton Civil Engineering and Nursing Building at Liverpool John Moores University. I had the privilege of serving as the team’s interior designer, and showcased is my personal proposed redesign of the Henry Cotton Building, completed within the competition’s five-day time frame.

Fall 2023 | 5 Days | 200,000 SF | John Moores University, UK

Revit and Enscape

“Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.”

-Vince Lombardi