Portfolio 2021-2022

CHARLOTTE MCGRAW

Interior Design Portfolio

Virginia Tech

2021-2022

hello !

My name is Charlotte McGraw, and I am a recent 2022 graduate of the Virginia Tech Interior Design program. I am passionate about design, drawing, photography, and cooking…or really anything that allows me to be creative. I feel inspired and captivated by the purpose behind design decisions, the ability to solve problems with unique solutions, and creating memorable spaces that enhance occupant well-being. My creativity and curiosity propel me to address design challenges through an innovative lens that cultivates functionality and forward-thinking. Thank you for taking a moment to view my selected works.

CHARLOTTE MCGRAW

charlotte_mcgraw@gensler.com

1515 O Street NW Apt 208 Washington, DC 20005

EDUCATION

B.S. Interior Design Degree

Graduation Spring 2022

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, Virginia

Dean’s List

INVOLVEMENT

ASID

Allied member

IIDA

NEWH

Student member

Interior Designers for Education and Sustainability (IDEAS)

ASID Chapter

Student member 2018-2022

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Adobe Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)

Revit

Sketchup

Enscape

AutoCAD

Marker Rendering

Hand Sketching

Bluebeam

RECOGNITION

Metropolis Future 100

2022 Recipient

ASID Student Portfolio Competition

Winner 2022

NEXT Steelcase Competition

Fall 2021

Studio finalist

Bienenstock Competition

Fall 2021

Studio finalist

EXPERIENCE

Gensler

(804) 399 2328

/charlottemcgraw

/charlottemcgraw

July 2022 - Present / Designer / Washington, DC

+ Focus in Workplace Design

Ionic Dezign Studios

Summer 2021 / Internship / Virginia Beach, VA

+ Drafted construction documents and permit sets for 6+ projects

+ Built 3D models in Revit

+ Drafted plans and elevations in Revit and AutoCAD

+ Managed two projects and helped with space planning, design solutions, models, and construction documents on 6+ projects

+ Corresponded with MEP, manufacturer reps, and clients

+ Created material boards

Virginia Tech Creativity + Innovation District Design Committee

Fall 2020 / Blacksburg, VA

+ Selected by second year Interior Design studio professor to help conceptualize, design, and provide FF&E package for Virginia Tech faculty apartment in new Creativity & Innovation District Building

+ Created design concepts, established design solutions, selected FF&E, and drafted digital renders

+ Communicated with the client to understand needs and vision

Virginia Tech ITDS Field Study

Summer 2020 / Internship / Virtual

+ Conceptualized innovative design solutions and assembled FF&E packages and specifications for two commercial projects

+ Created digital renders + construction document sets

+ Met daily with industry professionals & bi-weekly with mentor

KLOP Properties LLC

Summer 2019 / Richmond, VA

+ Hand-drafted floorplans for three residential apartments, facilitating visual communication and clarity between client and property manager

O’Brien and Muse Interiors

Summer 2018 / Internship / Richmond, VA

+ Corresponded with clients and manufacturers on product selections

+ Hand-drafted floorplans for residential projects

+ Assisted, produced, and managed administrative work

+ Organized materials and files

+ Created material boards

+ Photographed interior spaces for firm marketing

VISUALNARRATIONS

Isbre Holistic Day Spa

Multiple Sclerosis Day Spa + Residential Unit

Fall 2021 Individual Work

7 Weeks

Submission Finalist ASID Bienenstock Competition

Revit Enscape Photoshop

NEXT Natural Cosmetics

Vegan Makeup Company Headquarters

Fall 2021 Individual Work

6 Weeks

Submission Finalist NEXT Steelcase Competition

Revit Enscape Photoshop

The Alzheimer’s Association

Non-Profit Organization Regional Office

Fall 2020 Individual Work

Revit Enscape Photoshop

Hotel Syncopate

5 Weeks

Senior Thesis Sustainable Boutique Hotel

Spring 2022 Individual Work

Revit Enscape Photoshop

Marker Rendering

HOLISTIC DAY SPA

7 Weeks Individual Work Fall 2021

Submission Finalist Bienenstock Competition

The Isbre Holistic Day Spa for patients with Multiple Sclerosis draws inspiration from a local glacier found near the site in the small town of Odda, Norway. The connection to the natural world is essential for the healing and restorative experience of these patients within the spa.

Glaciers are large bodies of dense ice with two distinct zones The accumulation zone is where snow falls and solidifies into ice, building upon the previous layer. This is where the dense mass remains persistent. Towards the bottom, exposed ice melts and releases into a body of water in the ablation zone

The spa mirrors these two zones, divided by a central corridor that reflects a glacier crevasse. A light, open and “airy” corridor and reception space welcome guests in with clear wayfinding and a spacious lobby. The surrounding zones offer contrast paying homage to the heavy, dense mass of glaciers through varied ceiling heights, darker materials, and solid furniture selections. This creates more intimate spaces amidst the void, offering a sense of protection and security for therapeutic restoration and relaxation. Throughout Isbre, the space supports wellness and sustainable practices to enhance overall well-being and healing.

CONCEPTUAL DIAGRAM

Close proximity

Direct proximity

Relative in proximity

Natural light

Natural views

PROCESS ZONING DIAGRAM

Void introduced through mass Glacier crevasse creating circulation channel “release”

Surrounding zones offer spaces for healing, therapy, and residential unit Glacier layering of dense ice and mass “compression”

PARTI DIAGRAM

RECEPTION + CENTRAL PATHWAY

The central corridor that divides the overall space creates a channel that symbolizes a glacier “crevasse.” The walls are tilted on an angle to simulate the concept of compression and release. It opens up the space, allowing natural light to pour in through a thread of skylights. Access to daylight helps regulate circadian rhythms and enhances overall health and well-being. The lobby and central corridor invite guests in through an open, welcoming space. A soft, neutral color palette opens up the space and contrasts the surrounding zones.

RECEPTION AXONOMETRIC NTS

The furniture chosen for the spa speaks to the density and organic forms found within a glacier. All seating pieces are cushioned and upholstered to provide texture and softness, which is beneficial for MS patients to easily grab, touch, and feel. Sustainability was also a driving factor when selecting pieces, to create a holistic, sustainable environment that benefits the occupant, building, and brand’s ecological footprint.

The massage rooms offer a more quiet and private space compared to the circulation channel. The natural materials are inspired by the various elements found within a glacier; exposed bedrock, blue tinted ice, and snow. Together, they create a tranquil environment while reflecting the surrounding landscape. The teal accent wall color is carried through a lowered ceiling plane, drawing the occupants eye around the space, while simulating a feeling of “compression.” The repetition of colors and materials creates a layering effect, honoring the many, dense layers found within glaciers. In additional to the large window for natural views with shading control options, green plants are incorporated to help purify the air and connect the occupant to nature.

1 . . . Norstone - Aksent Grey Basalt Series Stone

2 . . . 3form Chisel - Crystal White Wood MDF Panels

3 . . . Neolith - Blanco Carrara BC02 Stone

100% Natural Materials (clays, feldspar, silica, natural mineral oxide)

4 . . . Cosentino - Dekton Soke Stone

5 . . . Fireclay Tile - Amalfi Coast Ceramic Tile - 50% Recycled

6 . . . Maharam - Lull Textile - Mint

7 . . . Kvadrat/Raf Simons

Sonar Textile - 734

8 . . . TerraMai - MC Walnut

Engineered - Oyster Wash Wood Flooring

Sustainable Materials

9 . . . Porcelanosa - Contour

Ceramic Tile - Natural

Branding on the mirror in the yoga + exercise space visually portrays the concept of compression and release through a blue gradient. Many MS patients often struggle with mobility and movement, experiencing frustration and exhaustion. This graphic reminds the patients to slow down, take a deep breath, and relax as they utilize this space. This will help them calm down, center themselves, and focus on the task at hand.

RELAXATION + RESTORATION SPACE

The yoga + exercise space, therapy pool, and relaxation space are all combined into one main area. The spaces are divided with teal stone walls that have been slanted to echo the central void walls. By the pool, the teal wall continues over the ceiling plane to create a more intimate space for the occupant lounging in the corner. The idea of compression is re-emphasized through the wall angles, ultimately creating an environment that evokes feelings of security and protection.

This space maximizes the outdoor views, as the occupant is able to see windows from any point in the room. This creates a stronger connection to nature for the user and helps to release stress. Skylights are incorporated to draw in more natural light, creating pockets of sunlight beaming down. Solid walls and furniture selections speak to the dense weight and large scale of glaciers. A water feature is included in the therapy pool, assisting with acoustical control and enhancing overall well-being. It emulates the release of the glacier ice flowing into a body of water during the ablation zone.

EXERCISE + STORAGE SPACE ELEVATION NTS

RESIDENTIAL APARTMENT

UNIVERSALLY DESIGNED

KITCHEN ELEVATION NTS

KITCHEN FEATURES

Pull out dish-washers

Varied counter top heights 30” + 36”

Lever pulls on all handles and sink

Side by side refridgerator + freezer

Wall mounted microwave + oven

The stove hood has built in shelving, integrated LED lighting and activated carbon filters to transform the kitchen experience where functionality meets beauty. It creates space for storage, indoor plants, and growing herbs, allowing the residents to have natural ingredients at their fingertips

INSPIRATION

NATURAL COSMETICS

6 Weeks Individual Work Fall 2021

Submission Finalist NEXT Steelcase Student Design Competition

NEXT Natural Cosmetics, based in Manhattan, New York, is inspired by the High Line, a local rail line system transformed into an elevated outdoor park. Just as NEXT re-envisions traditional makeup by using clean, vegan products, the High Line re-imagines the out-dated rail line into a sustainable, forward-thinking, and inclusive community park. This shift in principle inspired NEXT to create an innovative, modernized space that re-imagines traditional perspectives.

The High Line serves as a long pathway filled with diverse plants, artwork, sites, and cultures that cuts through a sea of skyscrapers. NEXT echoes this by creating an interactive experience for the employees to embark on a journey. A circulation path is established that is inclusive to all usergroups and cohesively travels from one zone to the next, connecting coworkers across different teams. The story of NEXT unfolds as employees are immersed in the space, discovering new solutions, possibilities, and connections.

The strong angle found in the entrance of the space creates a dramatic shift within the grid system, symbolizing the transformations found within the High Line, the makeup industry, and the post-pandemic workplace. It serves as an integrated community space that also draws the occupant up the stairs onto the 8th floor.

The space engages users and maximizes productivity through the variety of workstation choices, user-controllable spaces, modular and ergonomic furniture, and the emphasis on movement. Employees are encouraged to walk along the path to explore different zones, boosting their productivity levels while enhancing overall well-being.

The parti diagram is informed by the column grid and creates a pathway similar to the High Line. The two diagonal lines create a void in which the central path moves through and continues to circulate throughout the space. The angle speaks to the “shift” in perspectives, as the High Line, vision of NEXT, and post-pandemic workplace all transform traditional values.

BENDING BARRIERS PROGRESSION FLEXIBILITY INNOVATION

Five space typologies workers need to be productive and successful

RECEPTION REFLECTED CEILING PLAN

SCALE 1/8” = 1’- 0”

RECEPTION

As employees exit the elevators, they are met with an inviting reception space and the circulation path. The angled reception wall paired with the green carpet that runs towards the stairs creates visual enclosure to define the space. The brand of NEXT is immediately portrayed through linear, angled, and grid-like line weights combined with a color palette inspired by vegetation and common shades found in many makeup products.

WEST ELM METAL FRAME CHAIR

TURNSTONE BASSLINE TABLE

COALESSE TREES TABLE

BLU DOT LAIKA PENDANT MEDIUM

FEATURE PIECE

The feature piece creates built in nooks for employees to work, lounge, or socialize in while offering diverse seating options. It reflects the High Line’s various “break off” spaces along the path for reflection, connection, socialization, and collaboration.

The ceiling feature that echoes the floor path uses a LED strip to establish clear wayfinding and draw the user around the space. NEXT uses the idea of a journey through movement and exploration.

CAMPFIRE SLIM TABLE

VICCARBE ALETA BAR STOOL

BOLIO PEBBLE SOFA

WEST ELM LINEAR C TABLE

The space pulls characteristics and features from the path itself and the surrounding landscape for the materiality and furniture selections. The color palette, materials and inclusion of plants creates a dialogue between industrialized society and our innate connection to nature, as well as reflects the company’s mission of vegan, clean beauty. Linear and angled line weights are paired with soft, organic forms speaking to the path and the abundance of gardens and vegetation found within. Plants are incorporated throughout the entire office to connect the employees to nature and act as acoustical barriers The office space design is centered around wellness, including elements that enhance the employees user experience and overall well-being

OPEN OFFICE + MEDIUM MEETING SPACE

NEXT creates a blend of exposed, semi-private, and fully private work station options amongst lounge seating, small enclaves, and meeting rooms. This allows the employees to feel connected across multiple teams and immersed within the space. The flexibility of options allows occupants to choose where they focus best at any given time, enhancing productivity and overall employee satisfaction.

DesignTex “Bixby Macro” Upholstery

Steelcase Acacia Wood Veneer

Maharam - Score “Tangent” Wallcovering

Steelcase - Alchemy “Grass” Upholstery

Nemo - Cadence Ceramic Tile

PRIVATE PHONEBOOTHS

PRIVATE OFFICES (8)

Each private office is unique and offers a different layout to create diverse options and meet the needs of different working styles

Each office includes a white board, a TV monitor, a height adjustable desk, an adjustable, ergonomic task chair, storage, and lounge seating

Offices include dimmable overhead lighting as well as task lighting to enhance productivity and offer user control

All offices are placed along windows to mazimize natural light. A glass partition wall is used to allow light to penetrate into the main space and curate visually transparent spaces, an important value to the brand

MONUMENTAL STAIRCASE + LOUNGE

The monumental staircase draws the occupant up to the next level through a change in carpet material from the reception space, creating a green path ascending from the green wall. Beneath the stairs, a community space is created for socializing, collaborating, meeting, and connecting. The celebration and monitor wall are made out of a cork material, allowing occupants to easily pin up announcements, information, and work. The cork, carpet, upholstery, and plants all help balance acoustical control amongst the hard surfaces.

MONUMENTAL STAIR SECTION NTS

MDC Interior Solutions

Amadia - Cork Wallcovering

WEST ELM BELLE LOUNGE

MASSAUD LOUNGE CHAIR

FLOS AIM LIGHT FIXTURE

Custom, hand-drawn wallpaper was created to reflect the brand and incorporate a playful, relaxing aesthetic.

The wellness room creates a space for rejuvenation and relaxation, allowing the NEXT employees to take a break from their busy work day to decompress. A green wall is incorporated to connect the occupant to nature as well as purify the air and control acoustics. Dimmable lighting allows for user control, creating a relaxing environment that optimizes comfort.

WELLNESS SPACE

HOSU LOUNGE CHAIR EXTREMIS STICKS DIVIDER

HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE WALKSTATION

NEXT offers a variety of seating options to maximize productivity and allow for occupant choice, control, and flexibility. Movement is extremely important in enhancing one’s well-being and is critical in increasing productivity and focus levels. NEXT is designed to encourage movement and exploration throughout the space through a circulating path that connects each zone. Workers are able to get up from their work stations and take a walk around the path, connecting them to co-workers, increasing their movement levels, and generates inspiration as they explore the space.

The Sit, Stand, Walk Philosophy is implemented into NEXT through height-adjustable desk stations, ergonomic task chairs, and low-speed treadmill work stations. Changing postures encourages movement and helps the occupant have a more positive experience during their work day. Treadmill work stations are included to enable one to be active as they are working simultaneously. Height-adjustable tables allow the user to control their environment and change postures throughout the day.

BRODY WORK LOUNGE

WORK STATIONS + MAIN PATHWAY

Inspired by the iconic High Line integrated benches, a custom feature piece on the 8th floor was created to serve as both a bench and bar stool table seating. This encourages connection amongst coworkers as well as allows for individual focus. The piece follows along the main circulation path, leading the occupant out onto the terrace.

REGIONAL OFFICE

5 Weeks Individual Work Fall 2020

Potomac Avenue & Half Street SW Washington, DC 20024

The Alzheimer’s Association is a non-profit organization that works to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementias through support, care, advocacy, and research. This regional office located in downtown Washington, D.C., is a unique space that promotes collaboration, connection, and productivity to elevate the user’s experience.

Alzheimer’s disease progressively damages the neural connections found within the brain. The regional office is inspired by these neuron connections, as they form a large network of pathways that communicate and interact with one another to transfer information. Through repititon, the neurons learn significant patterns and circuits over time. The space is centered around a “nucleus” which symbolizes two neurons establishing a connection. Two custom-built curvilinear pieces are integrated into the space allowing each zone to branch off. This central core creates an engaging community space encouraging employees to connect, collaborate, and network.

The space creates clear wayfinding through distinct circulation “pathways” inspired by the neuron circuits. A sense of unity is established through the repetition of elements and forms to create an environment that promotes connection, inclusion, and interaction.

This zone includes private offices, a counseling center, and a wellness space to promote quiet, focused work. This zone enhances personal growth, productivity, and restoration.

This zone encourages interaction and connection through the inviting, central lounge and break room space. It fosters inclusion and socialization across the office as it is visible and in close proximity to each zone.

This zone allows for collaborative working environments and meeting spaces for employees to engage with one another. It meets the needs of all user-groups through a variety of workstation choices, ergonomic chairs, and control over one’s immediate environment.

The floorplan is inspired by the unique U-shaped forms that surround the cell body of a neuron. The branching paths create a perimeter of quiet, focus-oriented spaces that surround a collaborative and social center. Occupants are able to engage and connect with others as they travel to different zones, enhancing company network and performance. Clear circulation is used to help with easy wayfinding and navigation for Alzheimer patients and employees.

Natural Light +Circulation + Egress

Parti Development

“NUCLEUS” LOUNGE AXONOMETRIC NTS

Collaboration, communication, and team-work are important values to the Alzheimer’s Association. A large conference room allows employees to host meetings and events or collaborate with teams. Natural light and sound absorbing materials help enhance productivity.

The central lounge aims to connect employees in separate zones together through an inviting common space. It combines a kitchenette break room with built-in lounge seating to create an engaging space that invites occupants to collaborate, socialize, and relax. Different seating options are offered to provide choice and variety. The core is designed to enable easy circulation around and through the space.

marker rendering