Selected Works • 2017-2024
Selected Corporate WorksCorporate commercial & Hospitality design + construction administration opportunities self-established company work
Selected Personal WorksSecondary & side experiences outside of the Architecture & Design profession
My name is Vy Truong and I have been an active member of the Interior Design and Architecture industry for 8+ years. As a graduate of the Interior Architecture program from the University of Houston, College of Architecture and Design, I was exposed to a range of talented peers and creatively challenging curriculums, which have profoundly influenced my design language and professional aesthetic to this day.
I began my career as an Interior Design Associate at Ziegler Cooper Architects, primarily focusing on workplace Interior projects. Through this experience, I acquired Architectural and Corporate training and honed my technical skills in design and construction. Due to the aggressively shortened timelines of Workplace projects, I learned to adaquately juggle multiple projects at differing phases of production. I was also appropriately trained in construction documentation, project permitting, and client coordination.
Transitioning to Gin Design Group further enriched my creative prowess. growing my creative and concept building abilities. As the leading hospitality design firm in Houston, TX, GDG provided ample opportunities to explore a variety of creative and unique restaurant & bar projects. Operating within a boutique firm environment meant that designers were expected to juggle many responsibilities at one time with minimal teamwork assistance. Along with honing my creative abilities, GDG allowed me to experience designing and overseeing projects from conception to construction, as well as balancing a variety of responsibilities, such as project management, client coordination, concepting, production work, designing and developments, as well as construction
Building on this foundation, I co-founded Very Handsome Studio in early 2021, where I serve as Creative Director alongside a talented partner. Despite establishing amid the covid pandemic crisis, VHS has overcome obstacles and provided design services for more than 30 projects, and completed construction on more than 25 Restaurants, Corporate offices, Commercial spaces, and residential homes. Our achievements include winning the prestigious HBJ Landmark Award and garnering recognition in esteemed publications such as Architectural Digest, Dwell, Interior Design Magazine, and Forbes Homes.
Thank you for taking the time to explore my collection of work and experiences. I look forward to sharing my expertise with you.
Vy Truong
VERY HANDSOME STUDIO FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
December 2020 / March 2024
Through the experience of running my own firm, I was able to broaden my abilities well beyond designing and production work. In order to ensure VHS thrived and remained profitable, I quickly developed robust business relationships and honed my marketing prowess, all while managing design, production, and brand oversight. Within just 3 years, VHS is award winning and well recognized firm within the industry.
GIN DESIGN GROUP ASSOCIATE DESIGNER
November 2019 / July 2021
Working as an Associate Designer with Gin Design Group, there was an expectation to juggle multiple roles at one time. Balancing high volumn projects with only 3 full-time designers meant that we all designed, managed, coordinated, and presented our own set of projects from conception to construction. This hands-on approach enabled me to gain extensive and diverse experience across all stages of a project development and greatly enhanced my skill set.
ZIEGLER COOPER ARCHITECTS DESIGN PROFESSIONAL
March 2018 / November 2019
At Ziegler Cooper, I received rigorous architectural training with a focus on commercial and workplace interior projects, such as tenant improvements. As projects were fast-paced, I was exposed and trained in construction documentation, field verifications, schematic designing, city permitting, and construction administration at a rapid speed. My skillsets and expertise were also occasionally used for branding and marketing opportunities of firm projects where required.
HAVERTYS
IN-HOME DESIGNER
October 2017 / February 2018
While employed at Havertys as an In-Home Designer, I engaged directly with customers and clients, gaining valueble experiences in sales, retail operations, and client services. This role allowed me to develop strong interpersonal skills through personalized interactions with customers.
A collection of professional design work that includes Workplace Interiors, Corporate Interiors, Commercial Interiors, Restaurants & Bar Interiors, and Residential Interior Design.
selected projects:
• Burger Bodega
• Norigami & Hidden Bar
• Saigon Hustle
• Waygood Coffee - Pearland, TX & Houston, TX
• Ginger Kale
• Treadwell - MKT
• Duchess Bar & Lounge
Client Project: Burger Bodega
Year Completed: 2022
Scope of Work: Full Renovation, Interior Design, Exterior Design, Design Development, Construction Branding Consultation, Construction Administration, FF&A Selection, Procurement
Burger Bodega is a modern smash burger shop and corner-store bodega in Houston, TX. Originally a neighborhood corner building was purchased by Abbas Dhenani, who tasked our firm to reimagine the space into a diner that displayed his identities; New York Bodega & HTown Pride. The final product is a vibrant, modern-industrial take on how Houston display a bodega space, while serving up delicious smash burgers and chopped cheese. I envisioned a mock-display wall of the restaurant to immitate the tight but cozy atmosphere of an actual bodega, and working in tandem with filled these display shelves with Burger Bodega-branded faux merchandises, which became the highlight of the space. display cases to use as spaces dividers while also providing opportunity for a functioning mini-market. I converted space into a New York-esque subway tunnel, while shifting the feeling into a cyber-grunge aesthetic upon entering
Construction Documentation, neighborhood taqueria, this historical displayed characteristics of Houston would proudly shelving on the back a branding company, space. I also included ample the restroom corridor the restrooms itself.
Client Project: Norigami & Hidden Bar
Year Completed: 2023
Scope of Work: Full Renovation, Interior Design, Exterior Design, Design Development, Construction Construction Administration, FF&A Selection, Procurement
Norigami is a specialty handroll and sushi restaurant in Houston, TX. When visiting Norigami, it’s a two-in-one treat speakeasy bar to be discovered by curious patrons. Our client had two simple request, create a dining space that would hidden bar that would attract women. Centralizing around the theme of Alice in Wonderland meets Harajuku, the on lighting bouncing off intricate, textural surfaces to encourage an out of country experience. The dining hall is grounded sushi counter where all courses are served and a shallow bookshelf surrounded by wood slats and a hidden door to
Construction Documentation, treat with a hidden would attract men and a space is heavily reliant grounded by a central one side.
Client Project: Saigon Hustle
Year Completed: 2023
Scope of Work: Full Renovation, Interior Design, Exterior Design, Design Development, Construction Construction Administration, FF&A Selection, Procurement
Saigon Hustle, located in Houston, TX, is a fast-casual Vietnamese restaurant with a drive-thru, ingeniously housed in station space comprising a shipping container and a small CMU brick extension. Despite the tight square footage, Saigon ambitiously met the demands of a bustling dining experience. As the inaugural site of a burgeoning franchise, the client street visibility and versatile dining options for both daytime foot traffic and late-night patrons. To achieve this, we expanded architectural confines, creating an inviting exterior "patio" conducive to dining comfort. Drawing from my Vietnamese to introduce Houston to the eclectic and grungy charm of Vietnam’s aesthetic. Raw materials such as bronze, wood, and brought character and vibrant energy to the space without stripping it from it’s cultural identity.
Construction Documentation, in a redeveloped gas Saigon Hustle client sought prominent expanded beyond ietnamese heritage, I wanted and painted CMUs
Client Project: Waygood Coffee - Pearland, TX
Year Completed: 2023
Scope of Work: Exterior Design, Construction Documentation, Branding
Waygood Coffee is a fresh drive-thru coffee concept nestled in Pearland, Charged with transforming the building into a standout attraction while tones prevalent in the neighborhood, we strategically introduced neutral patterns for the rear drive-thru and seating area. These lively accents Waygood's delicious coffees and pastries. Understanding the critical integrated with the company’s logo and overall aesthetic, enhancing
Pearland, TX, repurposing a former Checkers location to capitalize on its prominent corner positioning. while maintaining an inviting atmosphere, our team embraced the challenge. Amidst the subdued neutral elements at the building's front, while reserving bursts of youthful, vibrant colors and modern accents not only caught the eye of passersby but also drew locals and city dwellers alike to indulge in need for clear navigation in a drive-thru setup, we meticulously designed signage that seamlessly enhancing the brand experience from approach to departure.
4.1
Client Project: Waygood Coffee - Houston, TX
Status: In Construction
Scope of Work: Full Renovation, Interior Design, Exterior Design, Design Development, Construction
Waygood Coffee has introduced its second location in Houston's Kirby/River Oaks district, embracing industrial framework of the space provided a foundation from which we could seamlessly transition challenges like limited parking and a poorly designed drive-thru layout, the client's preference to discourage interior with touches of grounding wood accents. Given the project's tight 60-day timeline for design requirements. Vertical installation of finishes and strategic color blocking were employed to enhance
embracing a fast-casual coffee concept tailored to fit within the upscale neighborhood. The existing into a modern aesthetic, perfectly complementing Waygood's vibrant color palette. Despite discourage prolonged stays guided our choice of lounge-style seating and a cool, semi-industrial design and construction, we prioritized finishes with short lead times and straightforward installation enhance spatial definition and avoid the cavernous feel often associated with lofty ceilings.
Client Project: Ginger Kale
Year Completed: 2020
Scope of Work: Full Renovation, Interior Design, Exterior Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation, Construction Administration, FF&A Selection, Procurement
Within a swift 30-day timeframe, the "fine fast" spot adjacent to McGovern Lake underwent a remarkable transformation into Ginger Kale. Rapidly establishing itself as a local favorite for coffee, cold-pressed juices, and delectable salads, the restaurant capitalizes on its proximity to the glass box and serene lake views. Embracing the surrounding natural beauty, our team envisioned an interior that seamlessly blends with its environment. To achieve this, we intentionally limited the palette to five elemental materials—concrete, wood, rope, leather, and brick—allowing the park's picturesque setting to take center stage. Key interior features include concrete booths, bespoke chairs and barstools, and a striking macramé wall-art installation by renowned artist Nancy McElligott, all contributing to a harmonious fusion of nature-inspired design and culinary excellence.
Client Project: Treadwell
Year Completed: 2020
Scope of Work: Full Renovation, Interior Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation, Construction Administration, Custom FF&A Design, Procurement
Nestled in Houston's Heights district, Treadwell offers a distinguished haven tailored for men, seamlessly intertwining grooming and wellness services within a serene and rejuvenating ambiance. Embracing our client's quest for refined privacy, our team crafted a handsome interpretation of Organic Modern design, ensuring a space that feels both inviting and masculine. Central to our vision was the artful use of ambient lighting, striking a delicate balance between brightness and warmth reminiscent of a healthcare facility. Organic curves and arches were thoughtfully integrated, gently embracing the luminous interplay to create a harmonious environment that exudes sophistication.
This project provided abundant opportunities to learn and problem solve organic detailing as well as coordinating carefully crafted detail work during construction to ensure a sculpted and seamless interior designed space.
Status: In Construction
Scope of Work: Interior Design, FF&A Selections
Duchess makes its mark in the heart of Houston's Uptown Park neighborhood, inheriting the legacy of a classic nightclub and lounge. Entrusted with the task of infusing a sense of elevated sophistication, our team embarked on a journey to create what we've coined as the "Flora Noir" concept—a homage to the opulence of “Bridgerton” with a touch of French Noir allure and Victorian botanical charm. In this design narrative, meticulously crafted embellishments are cast under a sepia-toned veil, invoking a mesmerizing blend of vintage nostalgia and enigmatic allure. With a delicate balance of intricate detailing and seamless transitions between materials, our aim was to marry the elegance of yesteryears with the sleekness of contemporary design, effectively transporting the charm of a period film into our present-day timeline.
A collection of professional design work that includes Workplace Interiors, Corporate Interiors, Commercial Interiors, Restaurants & Bar Interiors, and Residential Interior Design.
selected projects:
• The Royalton
• Millennium Tower
• Visa Solutions
Client Project: The Royalton at River Oaks
Status: In Construction
Scope of Work: Client Relations, Project Design, Project Management; Interior Design, Design Development,
Following a devastating water pipe leak, The Royalton Residence Community and their HOA Board enlisted Very damage inflicted by the water has been extensive, affecting the existing Sahara Gold marble flooring, wood paneling, to revitalize the space and bring a modern touch to the previously dated 2008 aesthetic. Recognizing the presence palette and selected finishes that are easy to clean and maintain.
Handsome Studio to provide restoration design services for the entire first floor and all amenities spaces. The paneling, intricate detail work, furniture, and base trims. This unfortunate event, however, presented an opportunity presence of many elderly residents within the luxury condominium tower, we also prioritized a calming, neutral
Client Project: Millennium Tower
Year Completed: 2018
Scope of Work: Project Design, Material Sourcing,
Construction Administration, FF&A Selection
Woodbranch Management was seeking a design solution for visitors and occupants.
A notable aspect of the redesign involved replacing solid landscaped area and pond along Richmond Avenue—a transformative Millennium Tower had remained largely unchanged since
Sourcing, Production Services; Interior Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation,
for Millennium Tower, aimed at revitalizing the lobby and introducing a new tenant lounge to enhance engagement
portions of the building's exterior wall with floor-to-ceiling glass, offering unobstructed views from the lobby to the transformative feature that had not been previously available. Originally erected in the early 1980s, the public areas of since the mid-1990s, necessitating extensive improvements to maintain the building's competitive edge in the market.
Client Project: Visa Solutions
Year Completed: 2023
Scope of Work: Client Relations, Project Design, Project Management, Material Sourcing, Production Services; Interior Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation, FF&A Selection
Visa Solutions, an immigration and relocation agency based in The Woodlands, TX, embarked on an expansion of its services, necessitating additional office space for its growing operations. They entrusted our firm with the task of conceptualizing a more sophisticated aesthetic for their esteemed and globally recognized company, while preserving key elements of their brand identity throughout the workspace. With the acquisition of a new leased space, we were privileged to oversee space planning for their office space, the selection of finishes, customization of built-in solutions, and procurement of furniture tailored to their requirements. Given Visa Solutions' diverse branches, our client sought specialized office designs for each director's office, granting our team the opportunity to craft unique environments that reflect the personality and preferences of each individual.
A collection of professional design work that includes Workplace Interiors, Corporate Interiors, Commercial Interiors, Restaurants & Bar Interiors, and Residential Interior Design.
selected projects:
• Casa Azuri
• Dennis Townhouse
• Overcup Residence
• Summer Street Residence
• Brooklake Residence
• The Nguyen Residence
• Arya Residence
Project: Casa Azuri
Date Completed: In construction
Scope of Work: Full Home Renovation & Design; Furniture & Fixture Design & Selection
Houston, TX • Industrial Modern Design Style
Project: Brooklake Residence
Date Completed: In Construction
Houston, TX • Traditional Design Style
Scope of Work: Full Home Renovation & Design; Furniture & Fixture Design & Selection
Project: Summer Street Residence
Date Completed: 2023
Scope of Work: Full Home Renovation & Design; Furniture & Fixture Design & Selection
Houston, TX • Transitional Design Style
Project: Nguyen Residence
Date Completed: 2022
Scope of Work: Minor Home Renovation & Design; Furniture & Fixture Design & Selection
Project: Arya Residence
Date Completed: In Construction
Scope of Work: Full Home Renovation & Design; Furniture & Fixture Selection
Houston, TX • Wabi Sabi Design Style
A collection of Press Features, Mentions, Awards, and Accolades.
Most Notable:
• Architectural Digest; Burger Bodega Mentioned
• Interior Design Magazine; Burger Bodega Mentioned
• Interior Design Magazine; Ginger Kale Mentioned
• Dwell; The Nguyen Residence Mentioned
• Forbes Home; (2) separate publications
• Houston Business Journal Landmark Awards 2023; Burger Bodega Winner of Restaurant Category
• AIA Houston HxD Power Hour Panel; Panelist Participation
“Industrial Interior Design: Everything You Need to Know About the Raw and Commanding Style”
Burger Bodega Featured April 17, 2023
“Burger Bodega in Houston Channels the Grit and Glamour of New York”
Burger Bodega Featured March 16, 2023 Winner in Burger April
“The 10 Best Outdoor Rugs to Instantly Upgrade Your Patio”
Very Handsome Studio Featured April 11, 2024
“Norigami: A Sushi Restaurant with Traditional Elements and A Modern Flair”
Norigami Featured April 4, 2024
Aspire - “Designer Friday: An Aspire Exclusive Interview with Very Handsome Studio” • Better Homes & Gardens - “Millwork & Gardens - “6 Holiday Decor Mistakes to Avoid This Season” • Better Homes & Gardens - “The 25 Best Desks to Maximize “What Are You Looking Forward to in 2023?” • Culture Map - Burger Bodega and Very Handsome Studio Mentions • Good Housekeeping - “28 Striking Staircase Ideas to Make Over Any Space” • HomeCrux - “Top Designers Share Their Studio Design. • National Association of Realtors - “ Designers Predict the Hottest 2023 Home Trends” • Real Simple Room” • The Spruce - “12 Ways to Decorate for Fall Without Spending a Dime” • Unique Homes Magazine - “The Ultimate Conversations with Vy Truong and Han Dang of Very Handsome Studio. • Special mentions or Women’s History Month
Category
Burger Bodega April 21, 2023
“Gin Design Group Outfits Houston’s Ginger Kale with Stadium Seating”
Ginger Kale Featured March 16, 2021
“Rising Design Firm Very Handsome Studio Completes First Residential Project in Houston”
The Nguyen Residence Featured February 28, 2023
Multiple Issues; See Below
Very Handsome Studio Featured From 2023-2024
Multiple Issues; See Below
Very Handsome Studio Featured From 2022-2024
“Millwork is Having a Moment in 2023” • Better Homes & Gardens - “6 Design Trends We’re Leaving in 2022” • Better Homes Maximize Your Home Office Space” • Business of Home - “What are your 2023 achievement and regrets?” • Business of Home• Forbes Home - “How to Design A Room in 7 Steps” • Forbes - “How To Incorporate The Luscious Fall Colors in Your Home” Their Favorite Spring Interior Design Trends 2023” • Houston Chronicle - Alison Cook Mention of Burger Bodega & Very Handsome Simple - “10 Things Interior Designers Always Have in Their Homes” • Real Simple - “How to Choose the Right Rug Size for Every Ultimate Design Inspiration” • US News & World Reports - “10 Interior Design Trends of 2024” • Voyage Houston - “Inspiring
Month by Annie Block, Executive Editor of Interior Design Magazine • AIA Houston HxD Power Hour Panel - Panelist Participation
A collection of Additional Design Experiences Including Logo Design, Rendered Floorplans and Elevation drawings, Photography, and Film Production Design
Selected Samples:
• Graphic Design Work - Rendered Floorplans & Elevations
• Logo Design Work
• Film & Movie Production Design Work
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