Interior Design Portfolio
2023 Virginia Tech
Fall 2022| 8 weeks | 315 Albemarle Ave SE, Roanoke, VA
Upon researching the surrounding site, it became evident that food accessibility was limited, which could potentially cause issues for the space’s users. Fortunately, a long-standing produce wholesaler named ‘Roanoke Fruit and Produce’ is situated a mere 300 feet away from the location. For over a century, they have been providing the surrounding community with fresh produce, serving various local industries such as restaurants, grocers, healthcare, hospitality, and education.
To bring the community aspect to the workspace through food while also tackling the problem of food accessibility, the space’s design takes inspiration from farmers markets. Throughout the space, one can find woven materials, tent-like elements, and wood, among other design elements synonymous with farmers markets.
The ideal tech startup company for this space is Instacart, renowned for their mission to make food accessible to everyone. Not only will this move enable Instacart to further their mission, but it also presents an opportunity for the company to partner with the family-owned Roanoke Fruit and Produce, further cementing a local aspect in the workspace.
1. Market
2. Reception
3. Food Service
4. Eating Area
5. Kitchen
6. Administrative Office
7. Restroom
1. Instacart Office
2. Restrooms
3. Small Conference
4. Printing
5. Phone Booths
6. Storage
7. Hot Desks
8. Coffee Area
9. Medium Conference
10. Private Offices
Level 2
NTS
Level 1
NTS
The space planning on the first floor is to be food focused. The programs included are for users to come together as a community Public areas are towards the entrance while private areas are towards the back of the building.
The second floor is focused on the workspace. The Instacart tech startup has its own separate office for privacy. In the center holds a beverage station, so users can access the area and use it as a pause from their work.
Section 1
NTS
Section 2
NTS
Axonometric of First Floor
Beverage Station
The restaurant is located in Riverside, Austin, TX 78741, a low income neighborhood populated by a high percentage of minorities. Gentrification is a big problem in Austin. It is the 6th gentrified city in the US, pushing poor communities out of their homes.
The design strategy is based on transition and phasing to represent the change occurring in the city of Austin positively and negatively. It is a reminder that progress occurs in phases, providing community resources and a space for positive change. There will be an element of tranquility to capture the city of Austin while being a safe space for underprivileged communities.
The color scheme is analogous, going along with the transitional element in the design concept. The colors are on the warmer side, making the space inviting. The organizational concept of the space is vertically linear, with curves implemented in the design representing phasing throughout the restaurant. The design strategy ensures that every customer feels comfortable and welcome in the space, making it a positive and inspiring hub for the Riverside community.
Entrance Perspective
Cross Section NTS
BioLime Plaster Duracrl Concrete Flooring
Classic Core Plywood
Travertine Slab Terrazzo Wall Tile
Flute 1” Wide LED Pendant
Mondo LED Pendant
Merano Bentwood Side Chair
Custom Wall Feature made from a local artist that portrays the shape of Riverside
Custom Lighting Fixture in the shape of Riverside streets encased in LED lights
Fall 2022|1 Week | Reynosa, Mexico| Group Project | Riley Manetz, Vanny Vaquerano, Judy Mendrano|
Software Used
The phrase “Hilo de la Vida” means thread of life; it’s representative of the passage to a new life. The thread is symbolic of the migrants’ journey and pays homage to Mayan weaving. The design of the space is an expression of continuity and fluidity, and seeks to meet the need for constant adaptation.
Senda de Vida “path of life” is an organization in Reynosa, Mexico that helps newly expelled migrants apply to seek asylum in the US with the help of immigration lawyers. The site is located on the Rio Grande, where over 1,200 migrants live along the bank in tents. The organization is mostly funded by donations and supports migrants from all over Central America seeking new beginnings. Many migrants flee to escape gang violence and climate degradation and to seek economic opportunity in the United States. Most migrants in Reynosa were expelled under the Title 42 health rule – put in place due to COVID, but for others, Reynosa is seen as a second chance (Bensman).
1. Entry
2. Kitchen
3. Dining Area
Movable lattice screens provide air flow and visual transparency within the space.
Flex/kids
Suyapa is the single mother of a 6-year-old girl and a 2-year-old boy. They fled from their hometown, San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Their goal is to reach the U.S. for a better life. During their journey, they travel through Guatemala and Mexico. They cross the Usumacinta River on a raft made of wooden pallets. As they enter Mexico, Suyapa must risk her and her children’s lives jumping onto the infamous “La Bestia,” also known as “the death train.” They encounter corruption as the Mexican cartel often charges migrants to board. Finally, they attempt to cross the Rio Grande, where 30 bodies have been rescued each month since March 2022 (Gonzalez).
Locally Sourced Clay Mayan Textiles Carrizo Cane Handwoven Rug
Reclaimed Wood Rattan
Paintings
Mediums of arylic and oil. Compilation of owned work and commissions. Work from 2020-2024.
