Interior Portfolio_RuiyuXu by Raeex

INTERIOR DESIGN / ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR DESIGN

PORTFOLIO

Selected works from 2021-2024

Ruiyu Xu (Rae)

RUIYU XU

Phone

Address

Portfolio

+44 7536340592

xuruiyu0220@gmail.com

South Kensington, SW10, London

https://issuu.com/raemaslowruiyuxu/docs/interior_portfolio_ruiyuxu

Personal Highlights

Trained in interior design through academic and independent programs in the UK and China, with a Distinction-level MA focused on spatial storytelling and the relationship between nature and people.

Experienced in developing strong design proposals using mood boards, spatial layouts, mappings, and visual storytelling.

Proficient in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and hand-drawing techniques to express ideas clearly and creatively.

Completed freelance residential and hospitality projects with detailed technical drawings, and participated in retail space design through event coordination.

A collaborative, goal-oriented designer who thrives in fast-paced environments, quickly adapts to new tools, and successfully delivered a shortlisted competition project within 10 days.

Education

Master's Degree 9/2022 - 12/2023

Camberwell College of Arts, ual, London, UK

Interior and Spatial Design, Graduated with Distinction

Graduate Diploma 9/2021 - 6/2022

Chelsea College of Arts, ual, London UK

Interior and Spatial Design, Graduated with Distinction

Awards and Exhibitions

12/ 2023

Ual Final Show

02/ 2024

Shortlisted Project

07/ 2024

Exhibition

Certificate

Ual Online Showcase: https://ualshowcase.arts.ac.uk/project/516352/cover

Buildner International Architecture Competitions: https:// architecturecompetitions.com/icelandbeerspa/

"Woven Bridge With Dripping Water" Drawing series (2022-2023)

Parallax Art Fair, London, UK

Autodesk Revit Professional level I Certificate

Basic DBS Certificate Issued 2025

Software Skill

AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Revit (level 1), Enscape, D5, Lumion, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign

Language

English, Chinese (Mandarin)

Work Experience

7/2021- 12/2021 Freelance Residential Project

Guiyang, China

Redesigned a 140 sqm family home, preserving load-bearing walls while optimizing space.

Developed the concept design, technical drawings, and selected furniture. Supervised the preliminary construction process to ensure design quality and vision.

Creating three functional garden spaces for drying clothes, meditation, and expanding the living room, while ensuring natural light and ventilation throughout the home.

4/2021- 7/2021 Freelance

Assisted in the renovation of a 600 sqm hospitality and dining space, supporting visualisation with AutoCAD and contributing to construction drawings and presentation layouts.

Helped prepare hand-drawn tender storyboards and supported site analysis, concept sketches, mood boards, and material selection.

Actively involved throughout the design and planning phases, with the project successfully completed. Project link: https://www.shejiben.com/sjs/1114778/ case-3997715-1.html

3/2018 - 4/2018 Student Intern

Huaneng Nanjing Jinling Power Limited Company, Design Department, Zhejiang, China

Measured site and drafted the power plant's office floor plans, visualising the project with AutoCAD.

Drawing conceptual sketches, as a part of the original documentation of the project.

6/2018 - 12/2019 Event Coordination and Intern

Rosso Fashion and Arts Education, Collaborated with Nike, Huaihai Rd Store Shanghai, China

Volunteer Experience

2019

2020

Reference

Assisted with spatial arrangement and event setup to ensure a cohesive brand experience. Created art installations using store materials (e.g., shoelaces), and handled materials manually within a retail environment.

Supported over 10 in-store events and product displays by introducing products to customers and guiding visitor flow.

Gained hands-on experience in retail space design and physical tasks such as installation setup, furniture movement, packing, and cleaning.

Marine Turtle Conservation Project, Sri Lanka

Xiaojudeng Rural Education Program, Planned Teaching Project, China

Colin Priest c.e.priest@chelsea.arts.ac.uk

Lisa Donoghue lisadonoghue@nhs.net

YangZi Design，China

01 Archway Spa

A Water Fitness and Therapy Centre at Madeira Terrace in Brighton, UK

02 Sel Skála

Architecture and Hospitality Design - Combination of the spa and restaurant at the Sel Hotel on Lake Myvtan in Iceland

03 Star House

Renovation and Residential Design -Converting a Water Tower into an Artist's Residence in Matadero Art Centre, Spain

04 Neighbourhood Pantry

Create a multi-functional food market integrating shopping, cooking and eating in an old estate in Shanghai, China

05 Dripping Woven Bridge

A Rainwater Collector

To create a series of ecological dialogues for students in Camberwell, UK

ARCHWAY SPA

Renovation Project

Year: 2022

Location : Brighton, UK

Category : Hospitality

Building Area: 405m2

Distinction in Unit 2, Interior Design, University of the Arts London (UAL).

Tutor: Josef Huber

The renovated Madeira Terrace in Brighton is a walkway facing south toward the sea and standing against the cliff behind. The project revitalises this stretch of coastline by renovating the elegant historic space with a modern water fitness and therapy centre.

Concept

The project breathes new life into a historic structure, transforming it into a contemporary spa experience. Bright colors, sunset-pink tones, and dynamic furniture energize the space.The design creates a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere with water-inspired elements.The project respects and enhances the historic Madeira Terrace, integrating it with Brighton’s coastal identity.

Revitalization Vibrancy Relaxation

Seaside Heritage

The interior materials are mainly considered to be waterproof and non-slip to suit both wet and dry areas. The project would use microcement, which is more suitable for use in interior spaces of modest size than traditional stone. In addition, the sea stone knobs as the first connection to bring people from the sea in Brighton to this modern spa space.

Site Analysis

151 arches in total, 865 metres long

This project is located at Madeira Terrace in Brighton, a pedestrian walkway facing the sea and backed by a cliff. Originally a car park, the project aims to revitalize this historic space by renovating it with commercial functions, preserving its elegant design and color scheme.

Madeira Terrace

1km

Brighton Station

Brighton Palace Pier

1km

Sea View Cliffs

Rendering of Floatation

Rendering of Kneipp Journey

Physical Model Testings

1:50 Scale Pools Testing Model

2.28m*2.36m

2.28m*2.28m

4.87m*10.97m

4.87m*9.75m

Using a 1:50 scale model, I analyzed optimal pool dimensions and spatial integration. Further studies explored placement strategies to determine the most effective installation approach.

Circulation Based on the Temperature of Water

Tepidarium

Approx.25.5°C

The Sightline Analysis

The sightline analysis informed the decision to elevate the pool above ground, ensuring indoor views align with those of pedestrians outside. A recessed pool would limit visibility to ground level. An exception is the heated pool, where condensation on the glass obscures the view regardless of its placement.

Rendering of the Stairs

Rendering of Warm Pool

Material and Colour Palette

Inspired by Madeira Terrace’s red brick and cast iron, and the textures of Bath Spa, the design uses carbon ceramics and therapeutic salt bricks. A balanced palette draws from color therapy: light blue echoes the sea, soft pink warms the space while referencing local brick, and blue-green deepens the connection to nature. Muted pink flooring contrasts cooler tones, adding gentle energy.

Sea Stone Knob

Changing Room

Zellige Tiles Floor Microcement

Wall

Stairs

Cafe bar 3. Resting area 4. Floatation pool 5. Stairs

6. Cold pool

7. Salt therapy room

8. Kneipp journey 9. Warm pool

10. Steam room

11. Bubble pool

12. Adaption pool

13. Toliet

14. Storage (for towels)

15.Bath

16. Changing room (for male)

17. Changing room (for female)

18. Stairs

19. Reception 20. Cafe bar

Facade Section

Soft pink tiles echo the green bones of Madeira Terrace — a quiet tension between calm and vitality, where the body gently prepares to enter.

Rendering from the Adaption Pool

02 SEL SKÁLA

Architecture and Hospitality Design

Year: 2023

Location : Myvtan, Iceland

Building Area: 396m2

Team: Chengyi Zhou, Ruiyu Xu

Role in Team: Preliminary site research in Myvtan, Iceland, Conceptual Design, Technical Drawings and Architectural Representation, Physical Model

The project was also shortlisted in the Buildner Architectural Competition.

Nestled by Iceland's scenic Myvatn Lake, famed for its volcanic landscapes, Sel Hotel is beloved for its craft beer. To meet growing visitor demand, the hotel plans to expand its restaurant and brewery. This project integrates the brewery with a spa, offering guests a unique blend of stunning natural views and local traditions.

Climate Analysis Functions and Capacity

Changes in Average Daylight Hours/h

Monthly Average Temperature/ 0C Number of Tourists

Best Month to Observe the Aurora Birds Viewing and Hiking Months Month of Local Activities

Considering the location of the Sel Hotel and the car park, two entrances would be more convenient for visitors and people who live in the hotel.

Two Entrances Sight

Based on the location of nearby buildings and volcano complex, the better view will be concentrated in the area of the yellow line.

Wet and Dry Areas

The brewery and restaurant sections combine to offer hotel guests and local visitors to accommodate daily meals, afternoon tea and parties and buffets. There is a separate bar in the spa area.

Raising the bottom floor allows people in the restaurant to stagger their eyes and get a better view. It also provides more seating for the restaurant.

Separate

Raised Floor for A Better View

Hotel Car Park

Myvatn Lake

Area

Area Raised Floor

Main Entry

Toilet

Buffet Bar

Staircase

Reception

Toilet

Towel Racks

Buffet Bar

Bath Tub

Beer Tub

Sauna

Activity Room

Room

Spa Area

Lounge

The material palette highlights Myvatn’s volcanic landscape and local craftsmanship. Canyon Birch Panels bring warmth, while Oak Ceiling Beams add structure and character. Volcanic Ash Bricks echo the surrounding terrain, seamlessly connecting the interior with the dramatic outdoor scenery.

Volcanic Ash Brick Canyon Birch Panel Oak Ceiling Beam

The restaurant’s material palette balances natural warmth with a modern edge. Greyish Green Granite introduces a subtle vibrancy, while Stainless Steel adds a sleek contrast, creating a dynamic interplay of textures. Pine Wood softens the space, bringing warmth and a welcoming atmosphere.

Greyish Green Granite Stainless Steels Pine Wood

03 STAR HOUSE

Renovation Project

Year: 2021

Location : Matadero, Spain

Category : Residential Building Area : 304 m2

Distinction in Unit 2, Interior Design, University of the Arts London (UAL).

Tutor: Emma Hunter

Converting a Water Tower into an Artist's Residence in Matadero Art Centre, converting the water tower into the memory and record of a place and a moment.

Concept

This project repurposes the water tower into a distinctive art space inspired by the night sky, offering artists a place to live, create, and exhibit their work.

The layout is based on the arrangement of stars in the solar system, with colors used to define different functional areas. The tower’s height and location make it a striking landmark, glowing at night like a beacon. Inspired by the idea of a star, the design connects living, working, and exhibition spaces in a smooth flow, encouraging creativity and cultural exchange.

Day and Night

The rooftop lighthouse shifts with time — glowing like a star at night, it becomes a quiet beacon above the art center. By day, it turns into a viewing point, offering expansive views of the landscape. The spiral staircase leading up is dotted with circular openings, letting light filter through. As sunlight moves, it casts scattered patterns inside, making the rooms below sparkle like starlight caught in the daytime.

This space blends living and creative functions. Instead of fully enclosed rooms, it features open areas with subtle gaps, allowing light to flow and fostering connection. These openings encourage artistic exchange, creating a dynamic environment where ideas can move freely, even as each artist retains their privacy. The space is flexible, adaptable to both rest and creativity, reflecting the collaborative nature of artistic life.

The Collage of Living Space

The living space is a calm, cozy retreat — soft and still, in contrast to the vibrant studio and art centre. It’s a flexible place for rest, creation, or quiet display. During the day, light reflects off the display shelves, scattering gentle glimmers across the room, like starlight drifting indoors.

04 NEIGHBOURHOOD PANTRY

Architectural and Interior Project

Year: 2021

Location : Shanghai, China

Category : Hospitality

This project envisions a multifunctional food market that seamlessly integrates shopping, cooking, and dining within a community-focused environment. Designed to foster a sense of neighborhood connection, the market offers a more efficient and engaging way for people to access fresh, healthy food amidst a fast-paced urban lifestyle.

China Shanghai Xuhui Distict Xietu Community

Site Analysis Redefining Grocery Market in Xietu Community

This project aims to create a more convenient neighborhood food market for the Xietu area, addressing the lack of a larger-scale, permanent grocery store despite the presence of many high-density residential communities. Research indicates that the area is primarily composed of retail, office spaces, residential buildings, and community facilities, but lack of grocery stores.

Every morning from 8 to 10 a.m , local vendors occupy its fitness area to sell fresh vegetables, attracting residents from nearby neighborhoods to shop during this time.

Considering the local residents' dining habits—they prefer purchasing fresh ingredients for each meal rather than stocking up in bulk—this market is designed to integrate with the cooking process, making food shopping more efficient and accessible.

This project optimizes spatial usage by adapting to different time periods, ensuring a dynamic and efficient food market that caters to the diverse needs of the neighborhood.

Original Activities Timeline Proposed Changes Timeline

During peak hours, the space accommodates fast-paced urban professionals with quick and healthy meal options, while off-peak hours focus on meal preparation and fresh ingredient selection to serve the daily routines of local residents. By integrating flexible programming, the market not only enhances functionality but also fosters social interaction, providing a shared public space that strengthens community connections.

Lingling Community Mall Shop

Fridge Wash Prepare Cook Dine

Dishwash

Handmade Model

This handcrafted model primarily showcases the spatial structure of the market, emphasizing its form and integration within the high-density neighborhood. Rather than detailing specific functional spaces, it focuses on the overall form, scale, and spatial flow, highlighting the relationship between the market and its urban context.

Functions

This diagram illustrates the spatial structure of the market, with the groceries area divided into specific zones: meat, seafood, grains, spices, fruits and vegetables, breakfast stalls, public kitchen, and seating. Each zone is designed with the flow of a kitchen island in mind, enhancing the efficiency of movement and supporting the "neighborhood" concept by fostering a communal, interactive shopping experience.

Meat Area

Reception and Cooking Area

Grain Area

Seafood Area

Fruit and Vegetable Area

Cafe and Dairy Area

Spices Area Breakfast Stalls Seating Area

Standing in the cooking area, facing the meat products section.

Exploded Diagram

This is a picture taken from the cooking area, looking towards the grain section.

05 DRIPPING WOVEN BRIDGE

Installation Project Year: 2023

Location : London, UK

A Rainwater Collector to create a series of ecological dialogues for students in Camberwell. Located in the outdoor space of Camberwell College of Arts, the installation integrates a rainwater harvesting system, creating an evolving ecological dialogue between people, space, and the environment.

MA Project in 22/23 Ual with Distinction Grade Tutor: Colin Priest

Ual Online Showcase: https://ualshowcase.arts. ac.uk/project/516352/cover=

This project explores the quality of time through an experimental rain collector installation, addressing modern water pollution and the textile industry's impact. Through a series of handmade models, this project explores the concept of “a leaky space”—a porous environment where rain, light, and wind interact with materials to shape ever-changing spatial conditions. This approach fosters an ecological conversation, emphasizing the dynamic relationship between space, time, and the natural environment.

A "Leaky" Space

The structure consists of woven wire layers and waterproof fabrics, allowing rain, sunlight, wind, and shadows to pass through. These elements interact with the fabric and floor, forming ephemeral patterns as water drips off the edges. The installation engages with natural forces, capturing moments in time and inviting visitors to experience the transient relationship between materials and the environment.

Sketch model, Scale 1:300

An Ecological Dialogues

In the sunlight, the woven patterns are reflected in the ground and fabric. As the wind blows, the pattern of the space would move with the sunlight and shadows.

In the rain, woven metal wires can help gather more rainwater. Combined with the sound of the raindrops, the collected rainwater will drip down the middle of the fabric into a bucket on the ground. It can also create an acoustic dialogue in the rain.

In the dark, the light at the end of the structure of the woven bridge will be illuminated. The bright space will be seen more in its structure - which may look like a canopy. It provides a space for people passing by to rest and relax.

Sketch model, Scale 1:300

Model in the dark, Scale 1:100