Interior Design Commons^™

Strata: Portraits Of The Alvarado & The Southwest, Kayla R. Duncan

Masters Theses

History isn't the past; it is a continuing unfolding of the moment, yet we cannot feel time. We see traces of age through patina on copper, the wrinkles on a face from decades of laughter, or the holes in your favorite shirt. Similarly within architecture, what remains: ruins and fragments serve as layers that indicate the passage of time. In what ways are these layers exposed? Hidden? Erased? How do we determine what layers are worthy to be erased, maintained, or glorified as use of a structure or place continues to evolve through time?

The history of Albuquerque spans the …

Sustainable Materials And Emotional Durability Correlation In Interior Design, T.A. Hana El-Etr, Prof. Dr. Ola Hashem, Prof. Dr. Dalia M. Ezzat

Journal of Art, Design and Music

This paper studies the relationship between sustainable materials and emotional durability in interior design, within the Egyptian context through the case study: Galleria 40 complex. The concept of sustainability often focuses on ecological responsibility; the emotional impact to how the interior spaces affect long-term users, as well as reducing the consumption of unnecessary materials. Egypt has developed environmental rating systems such as the Green Pyramid and participated in international certifications like LEED, yet the incorporation of cultural identity with user experience in sustainable design remains limited. By tackling a mixed-method approach, involving a public survey and observational study of Galleria …

Cultural Implications In Global Hospitality: New Orleans To Al-Balad, Madeleine C. Helgren

All Graduate Reports and Creative Projects, Fall 2023 to Present

There is a growing trend in the hospitality industry toward a more accurate cultural representation within hotel properties. Cultural accuracy within hospitality not only allows for a more exciting and unique travel experience for guests, but helps to preserve and sustain local communities and traditions.

Building upon research gained through first hand observation, interviews, and academic sources, this thesis aims to explore the integration of global hospitality brands within regionally specific cultures. The resulting conceptual projects integrate a fictional hospitality brand named Josephine into boutique hotel experiences in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the old town of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Al-Balad. …

Mementos, Zixuan Guo

Theses and Dissertations

Relevance:

Personal Relevance: This project merges my passion for film photography and modern technology, aiming to create a design that bridges traditional and modern practices.

Local Relevance: Richmond’s rich historical context provides an ideal setting to illystrate that traditional arts like analog photography can be preserved while integrating modern digital technology.

Global Relevance: Globally, there is an increasing trend toward combining traditional and modern design approaches, particularly in architecture and interior design. Synthesizing analog and digital means is used to meet the balance between materiality and modern technology (Rose, 2014; Pelizzari & Scrivano, 2011). Designers balance tactile materials like wood …

Coarse-Work: An Investigation Into The Impact Of Materiality In The Interior Educational Setting, Isabel G. Robb

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

Education design in modern suburban America curates learning environments that are cold and impersonal, being used more as a place to keep youth during the day than as a place where they can truly learn about and understand the world around them. This learning environment does not suit all students, especially those with learning disabilities, and it leaves little room for flexibility in classroom usage.

Focusing on creating a learning environment where all students feel welcome and are able to effectively learn, this projective design research project aims to provide a comprehensive intervention through the built environment and interior design, …

Biophilic Design And Its Effects On Mental And Physical Health, Alexandria Lahman

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

The design of interior spaces can greatly impact one’s mental health. Because people are spending more time indoors, the importance of well- designed interior spaces has increased dramatically. Using biophilic design in architecture can increase productivity and creativity and positively impact mental health. Biophilic design involves incorporating organic materials, patterns, colors, textures, and plants into the built environment. This project aims to highlight the importance of biophilic design in architecture and how it can be incorporated into interior architecture.

Inspiring A Ripple: A Case For Evidence-Based, Biophilic Design For Affordable Housing, Chelcey A. Dunham

Theses and Dissertations

ABSTRACT

RELEVANCE

Currently in the US, 4 million families in need of affordable housing are not housed in affordable units and are spending 30-50% of their monthly income toward rent (Aurand, 2023.) Due to this shortage of affordable housing and the trajectory of its growth, advocacy groups and policy makers are making a push to fund more affordable housing projects. What if the designs of these projects were informed in such a way that individual and community mental health and wellness could be addressed in addition to meeting the demand for affordable, safe shelter? In this way, the return on …

Traumas Effect On Children’S Development, Spatial Design As Intervention: The Role Of Interior Design In Supporting Children With Trauma, Brooke Slater

Capstone Projects

After facing trauma, young children react emotionally, physically, and mentally in efforts to protect themselves from past or present trauma that they have faced. Young children may not always be able to recognize that the dangers they once went through are roots of trauma that have not been correctly addressed within their life. These roots may now be the result of uncontrollable behaviors, emotions, and reactions. After analyzing the lack of resources some families and children may have, a space that is uniquely catered to the children who are facing or have faced trauma that provides balanced schedules, particularly focused …

Rachel Stover: Senior Art Exhibition, Rachel Stover

Senior Art Portfolios

Here is my design installation created for my Senior Art Exhibition.

An Exploration Of Home Office Design And Its Effect On Stress Reduction, Happiness, And Productivity For Working Mothers’ Well-Being During Covid-19, Janay Brown

Honors College Theses

This study explores how the home working environment can help reduce stress, increase productivity, and support happiness for remote working mothers within a home office environment aiding in their overall well-being. In response to COVID-19, many workers have transitioned to working from home to maintain safety. This study aims to help examine the impacts of home office design on working mothers with respect to stress reduction, happiness, and productivity. The researcher conducted face-to-face virtual interviews and the results were analyzed by creating categories and themes out of the rich descriptions to understand working mothers’ experiences in their home office environment …

Mélange De Motifs: Custom Pattern Designs Inspired By The Interiors, Architecture, And Gardens Of Vaux-Le-Vicomte, Jill Christine Harmon

All Graduate Plan B and other Reports, Spring 1920 to Spring 2023

How can a historic precedent be successfully employed to inform modern design? History will always provide a degree of influence in contemporary design. In design, a historic precedent can be the backbone of a creative concept and stands as a relevant and informative aspect throughout the project. The precedent acts as a basis in developing designs with substance and meaning and is a fundamental practice in architecture, landscape architecture, and interior design. Delving into the history of Vaux-le-Vicomte, often referred to as Vaux, provided three relevant aspects which compose the historic precedent for this MFA project. First, the creative initiative …

Candlestick, Caitlin Mclean

Object Analysis Projects

Caitlin McLean, VCU Interior Design MFA 2023, selected the Candlestick for the 2021 Colonialism And The Americas, Object Analysis Project.

Candlesticks were a physical representation of wealth and status, so it’s very likely these were regularly kept on display during meals or in the bedroom. Candles themselves were expensive - given the prosperity of the Schuylers [owners], it’s probable that these were used fairly regularly, as they could afford to maintain a supply of candles. Because they were originally made in a set of four with a snuffer stand, I believe these were made for display purposes, likely in a …

Haven: Support For Mothers, Sarah Kincaid

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis explores how a nonmedical interior environment can provide support and care for mothers during the perinatal period in order to prevent maternal mental health (MMH) issues such as anxiety and postpartum depression.

Covid-10, Healthcare Interior Design + Provider Experience - How Does Your Space Work For You?, Ruth E.P. Deibler

Graduate Research Posters

The lack of research on healthcare staff experience and interior design of the spaces they work in is evident. A focus on staff perspective is needed, particularly staff who navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. This research seeks to capture those stories to develop further research in order to improve staff experience. The initial phase of this mixed-methods approach is a survey. Hypothetically, by placing providers at the center of qualitative research related to healthcare interior design, we can better understand existing healthcare spaces. Ideally, we can develop additional evidence-based, human-centered solutions to transform interior environments in healthcare.

The 20-year Women’s Health …

Kaleidoscope Wellness | Destigmatizing Mental Health For Teens By Design, Rhode L. Baptiste

Theses and Dissertations

Motivation

Mental health is a global public health crisis. (Marcus et. al, 2012; WHO, 2020). Although there is a growing acceptance of the complexities surrounding mental illness, care delivery for adolescents with mental health concerns remains highly stigmatized, which contributes to delays in care (Hoisington et. al, 2019; Burns & Birrell, 2014). Half of all mental illnesses can be detected prior to the age of 14 (National Alliance for Mental Health, 2020). While research exploring how the physical health care environment impacts health and well-being for patients has evolved immensely over the past two decades, research on how facility design …

Waterfall, Boen Dober, Lauren Mccraw, Damaris Brown, Anna Greenwood

Theory In Action 2020

In order to realize our concept, in the programming phase, we chose a wooden material as our stabilizing structure and a clear container to incapsulate the water and accurately reflect natural elements of a waterfall. Additionally we gathered faux greenery and rocks to create a lush setting for our focal point. During the schematic and design development phase, we sketched and proposed models for the overall construction. We then assembled the wooden structure with nails to provide a stable structure to support our continuation of floating wood stairs. Finally, a water pump inside the clear container of water ushered the …

Pinwheel, Caroline Berry, Mateo Umana, Erin Hodges, Grace Hubler

Theory In Action 2020

Once the movement portion of our project was determined, our team moved to the design development stage where we began to research and sketch out our ideas on paper until we came up with our final design. We decided to create a piece of work that would contain a considerable amount of different colored pinwheels made of construction paper that would attach to fishing wire hanging from a hula-hoop. Since the piece itself would take up a decent amount of space, we knew that we needed to have it in a space where there would be room to walk around …

Pop-Up Book, Rachel Eshbaugh, Nate Fisher, Grace Hansen, Samantha Carranza

Theory In Action 2020

For this project, we decided to implement the law of symmetry and continuity. We showed symmetry by choosing to have a book as our project, as a book has symmetry by opening and closing evenly on both sides. Another way we showed symmetry is by having a 3D symmetrical tree in the middle of the book when you open it. For continuity, we added handing yarn to the tree branches to show aligned elements perceived as grouped together.

Flower Bouquet, Ashley Powell, Krista Oskam, Sara Rye, Cassie Vangorder

Theory In Action 2020

When we started working with flower shapes, we realized we could work with Gestalt's principles of closure, continuation, and proximity. Starting with the concept of a flower vase this demonstrates Gestalt's principle of proximity. Starting with the concept of a flower vase this demonstrates Gestalt's principle of proximity. People group things together when they are close to each other and a flower bouquet is the perfect example of this. The second principle you see in our work is continuation. Continuation is the way our minds sees segments of a line as a continuous line. This is most commonly demonstrated in …

Dominoes, Morgan Rimmer, Amanda Mcnally, Alyssa Bausbacher, Jaedyn Werner

Theory In Action 2020

This project is inspired by the design of dominoes in the way they fall when they are knocked over. While this project is similar in the way they fall, we were able to make it in a more creative and fun way. First, the law of continuation is seen in the way the blocks are layered and continue in a straight path. Next, the law of proximity is important for our design to function correctly. Without close proximity with one another the blocks would not be able to fall as easily, nor would they be able to be pulled back …

Bell Tower, Jarod Sankar, Kathryn Crowder, Isabel Rivera, Zanna Trotter

Theory In Action 2020

In our project, we decided to focus and corner in on the laws of symmetry and figure-ground. We felt that these laws best fit our idea and look we had desired for our project based on our mind-map created at the beginning. The law of symmetry is the idea that we are compelled to group items together to create a symmetrically balanced design. The fascia and body of the tower is all symmetrical but has diffused light inside the glass tower that are not placed symmetrically. Our mind automatically sees the tower as symmetrical and disperses the unfocused light throughout …

United Families Through Interior Design, Marissa Heintz

Honors Theses

This thesis examines the current problems and support systems within the foster care system and how it could be improved upon. It studies the removal process of children from a hurtful home, the common reasons for placement within foster care, what some of the major problems within foster care are based surveys and existing research. Furthermore, this study seeks to understand the different perspectives of those involved in foster care including; biological parents, foster parents, children and social care workers. In order to better understand what would be best for all of the people involved, research also explores the effects …

From Eye Sore To Eye Catching: Improving Function And Appeal Of Campus Spaces, Katherine E. Gorham

Senior Honors Projects

An interior space has a lot of power over an individual. It can dictate one’s mood, efficiency, confidence, and more. Most people can recall a time when a room had a negative effect on their mindset and productivity level due to its lack of color, light, or comfort. A functional, well lit, warm space makes for an uplifting and motivating work environment. Throughout my college career, I have encountered several spaces across the University of Rhode Island campus that aren’t the most visually appealing, comfortable, or inspiring, yet they still have plenty of potential. The goal of my project was …

Pamela Garcia Senior Interior Design Exhibit 2017, Pamela Garcia

Interior Design Senior Projects

Design Philosophy

My, design philosophy is based on the belief that every space should reflect the needs and personality of those in it. A well-designed space should embody a timeless, functional design while having a unique interior that is comfortable, livable, and nurturing. Every space should include natural elements to express the nurturing qualities of the earth and should increase the mental and physical wellness of those occupying it. It is not enough to have a luxurious space; instead a well-designed interior must give the user a sense of comfort and livability along with being aesthetically beautiful. It is of …

Meagan Mcnabb Senior Design Exhibit 2017, Meagan Mcnabb

Interior Design Senior Projects

Interior design is more than meets the eye; It has the power to change the world if done properly. That is why sustainability is such an important aspect to incorporate as much as possible.

My design philosophy is grounded in the idea that the final product should support a safe and healthy environment for whoever inhabits the space. Having a balance of functionality, comfort, and luxury is something I also strive for in all my designs.

Three factors inspire my design choices; The natural beauty of our world, the clients style, and the purpose for the space. These three factors …

Sara Rodriquez Senior Interior Design Exhibit 2017, Sara Rodriquez

Interior Design Senior Projects

Design Philosophy

As an interior designer my main focus is to design an environment that will enhance the quality of life and culture of the occupants and still be aesthetically pleasing. A design philosophy varies from designer to designer but our end goal is all the same; we care about the health, safety, and welfare of the occupants that will inhabit the space as well as the beauty of the space. I am hoping to pursue hospitality design so my personal design philosophy is to create a beautiful yet function environment that has the comfort of home combined with a …

Hayley Breshears Senior Interior Design Exhibit 2017, Hayley Breshears

Interior Design Senior Projects

MY DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

Midway through my college career, I began working as an assistant to an Independent Living Specialist. He is very active in assisting disabled individuals find and receive the resources they need to live independently. He had me drawing floor plans to show his disabled clients how to follow the concept of "Aging in Place." The concept basically means that a home should function for the length of a life, childhood to old age. By incorporating simple elements such as 3-foot doors, walls enforced for handrails, and at least one entrance without a step you can eliminate some …

Zoe Foster Senior Interior Design Exhibit 2017, Zoe Foster

Interior Design Senior Projects

Design Philosophy

I value design as a tool to create spaces that help my client live more comfortable lives. First, I believe that to create a better tomorrow we need to construct sustainably today to preserve our remaining resources. Secondly, I believe that spaces should be designed universally so that they support the client throughout the lifespan. Lastly, I believe that both sustainable and universally designed spaces should reflect imagination and beauty; everyone is entitled to good design.

Abigail Gearld Senior Interior Design Exhibit 2017, Abigail Gearld

Interior Design Senior Projects

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

I believe that every interior should embrace a simple, sophisticated, and refreshing environment. Everything I create should meet the clients style and personal needs. By designing an atmosphere that reflects an individuals personality and enhances the functionality of the space, the user is left with a fun and organized environment that is truly their own unique home.

Haley Gibbert Senior Interior Design Exhibit 2017, Haley Gibbert

Interior Design Senior Projects

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

"Interior Design is not always what we see on TV. The beauty of this career is much more than aesthetics like people think. Design is all about the process behind the results. Great design considers the function and human use. The future and sustainability should always be considered in design because the goal is to create spaces that can be used for years and years to come. To become a great designer, one must consider the wants of the client before the wants of oneself. As a designer, the goal is to design spaces that are livable and …