Interior PortfolioDesign
Zachary Ferrauolo Interior Design Portfolio
“
The essence of interior design will always be about people and how they live. It is about the realities of what makes for an attractive, civilized, meaningful environment, and not about what is in or out.” – Albert Hadley
Hello,
As interior designers, we are responsible for creating the spaces that people will grow and connect in.
I believe in communicating openly and effectively with clients to understand, outline, and meet their needs for their project.
I want to work amongst like-minded collaboratives, moving toward an end-goal that puts the user needs and function of the space first.
Designing to improve lives is designingforpeople.
- Zachary FerrauoloIndex
An adaptive reuse, sustainable, mixed-use project with an emphasis on building community.
Cafe
A research-based approach to designing a cafe to support a local community.
Mixed-Use Education
A center for independent learning addressing universal design.
Workplace
A sustainable office building focusing on brand identity and location based design.
Millwork &


Mixed-Use
The client wants to adapt an existing building and create a mixed-use living community that will enhance people’s lives through the lens of sustainability. Green Grove works against toxic consumerism by providing tenants with alternate living methods that take the environment and society into consideration. Green Grove attracts a younger, more environmentally conscious audience, and the space must have the means to support their mission.
Green Grove
Location Milford, Connecticut Work Type Individual Building Type Adaptive Reuse Softwares AutoCAD, Revit, Enscape, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign

Design Concept
The design is centered around a regenerative, urban agriculture system, a market that sells produce collected from the site, and a second-hand furniture and clothing store that collects goods from the surrounding community. Outdoor space is centered around humans and not vehicles, taking advantage of the expansive site for tenants to view the property and the Milford Harbor beyond. The design meets strategies of the Living Building Challenge, focusing specifically on Regenerative Urban Agriculture, Alternative Transportation Methods, and Red-List Free Materials. Earthy materials throughout the design reflect the mission of the company.
Phase I: Sustainability
After researching the city of Milford with a sustainability lens, specific imperatives from the Living Building Challenge were chosen to highlight in the design, ones that could be supported by the city and design of Green Grove.




All seven petals of the Living Building Challenge are addressed in the design, but a focus on Regenerative/Urban Agriculture, Alternative Transportation Methods, and Red-List Free Materials were selected to emphasize throughout.


Phase I: Research
The beginning stages of Green Grove began in researching the city of Milford. Learning the culture, lifestyle, ecology, demographics etc. allowed for a deeper understanding of the community. During this process, a green map of the city was created, outlining features of the city that could support a sustainable lifestyle.
Markets, restaurants, bars, schools, doctors, banks, parks, shops, public transportation etc. within walking distance of the site are on the map.

Exploded Axonometric Planning Diagram Activity Nodes
The following diagrams assisted during the programming phase in order to create a cohesive building layout where all parts of the design are coordinated appropriately.

Circulation needs, tenant vs. public access, and access to the loading bay were focused on in addition to the sustainable attributes selected during Phase I.

Phase III: Schematic Design
After troubleshooting layouts for the design during the programming phase, it was time to solidify a floor plan that best fit the design. The following layout for the main floor plan allowed for an even divide of the floor between tenant and retail space, keeping the areas separate.


An additional elevator was added to the central stack of the building for transporting freight from the rooftop garden to the loading bay. A key-carded pass-through connects the tenant lobby to the public lobby.
Adequate space was given to the three businesses operating out of the building.
Main Level Codes Review
Scan to view larger

In an effort to inform the community of food insecurity as well as the importance of fresh food, the Urban Farming Education program at Green Grove will offer community members a chance to learn about the concept of urban agriculture, while giving back to the community.

Serving as a center for community members to give unwanted belongings a chance to find a second home instead of ending up in a landfill, The 2nd Hand Store will accept and sell donations of furniture, clothing items, household goods, etc.

Although 50% of the properties agricultural yield will be distributed to the community, the other 50% will help fuel Top-Floor Foods. This marketplace/ farm fresh cafe will serve as a quick-stop for produce that is actively produced at Green Grove.
Main Level Floor Plan

Phase IV: Design Development











Phase IV: Design Development
THE ROOF is where it all begins for the urban agriculture system at Green Grove. The majority of the growth takes placed in the garden, which inly tenants and workers have access to. By researching the fundamentals of regenerative farming, which crops cultivate best on rooftops, the area will provide the maximum yield between the roof and the site combined. Compost and water reclamation will occur on this level. Tools and supplies provided by the Urban Agriculture Education center allow for them to contribute to the process during their off-time.
Sustainable Living Building Section

The building section to the right highlights different aspects of the design of Green Grove that promote the sustainable lifestyle that the client wants to create. Having access to amenities in a living community like Green Grove creates convenience for those that live in and around the building. Seeing as they are easiest to access, it is important that these amenities are not harmful to the community or environment, but rather supportive.

Thrifting second hand clothing & furniture from The 2nd Hand Store
Local fitness center eliminates unnecessary travel Stairway to green roof for access to urban agriculture and tenant lounge space


Skywalk for views of the Milford Harbor and beyond
Grabbing site-grown produce from Top-Floor Foods, eliminating unnecessary travel
Community room for Urban Agriculture Education
Salvaged, non-emitting RedList Free materials used for entire building construction






Bicycle racks & service to promote alternative transportation
Electric vehicle charging on site for tenants and visitors

Phase IV: Design Development


THE PENTHOUSE was created to give the client an example of the look and feel intended for the apartments at Green Grove. High ceilings, functional living spaces, and ample access to natural light and views is important for each apartment in the development. While a variation of 1-2 bedroom apartments exist in the building, a penthouse with private roof access is also available for rent. Each apartment will have its own unique flair between materials and layout, but all will promote a sustainable lifestyle.
Apartments

CLOSET





Cafe
The client wants to create an authentic, Italian cafe in the historic district of Prato, Italy. Using Third Place Theory to create a go-to neighborhood cafe and retail space, The Nook is an environment where all are welcome, the community is supported, and patrons can have a personalized experience while indulging in the richness of Italian culture.

The Nook
Location Prato, Italy
Work Type Individual - Study Abroad Building Type Adaptive Reuse Softwares AutoCAD, SketchUp, V-Ray, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
Design Concept








Embracing creativity, expression, and locality, The Nook has a curated retail space offering books, stationery, plants, and fresh, local, handmade food. A flexible space will support community events like live music and creative classes, with a full service, locally sourced café and contactless service option, rooted in local history. Highlighting original elements of the existing space, The Nook will authentically represent the city of Prato, while being a comfortable, yet lively environment.
Phase I: Research
Third Place Theory
Sociologist Ray Oldenburg introduced the concept of third places in 1977. He referred to home as the first place, work as the second place, and the public places that serve as host to “regular, voluntary, informal, and happily anticipated gatherings of individuals beyond home and work, as the Third Place.
Cafe Characteristics
Trends identified from several case studies of cafes and other third places.
Home
Cafes that feel like home are frequented regularly. A comfortable environment is inviting for a brief or leisurely stay. Location
Goods and services geared to a specific population based off of location and culture to attract and engage the community.
Identity
Employees that relate to the mission of the company, creating a branded experience. Supporting local artists, musicians, & vendors. Health
A biophilic design that supports the environment, can serve a range of dietary needs, and is adaptable to pandemic function.
Flexibility
Non-trendy design that will stand the test of time, as well as furniture that can be rearranged and moved for different events.
Function
Purposeful furniture selection allowing for a variety of solo or group activity, as well as dine-in and takeout usage.
Materiality
Mixing old & new materials creates a lived-in look that feels like home. Local, salvaged, vintage, and re-purposed furniture + decor.



Lighting
Creating different areas with warm lighting, avoiding high contrast and paying attention to sun path.
Inspiration
18 - Zachary FerrauoloPhase II: Observation & Culture
Cafe Observation

Using the “Physical Traces” and “Fly on the Wall” methods of user observation studied and tested by Steelcase, I was able to observe a local cafe for two hours, in addition to frequenting the cafe consistently for three months. At Bottega,in Prato, Italy, I observed activity that truly represented Italian “aperitivo” culture. It is all about socialization. Having an environment that supports flexibility for different levels of conversation is key. Observing what was manipulated by the users of the environment represents their needs.
Bottega - Prato, Italy

Physical Traces Observation Method
A. Stools are moved to different arrangements to accommodate groups.
B. Two small group tables are moved to create one large table.
E. Two tables are blocked by cars, the chairs are taken elsewhere.
D. Chairs are brought from inside to outside to accommodate a group.
E. Ash trays are moved from table to table for groups.
F. A table for ten is occupied by only two guests.
G. A new area is created by guests.
Users, Values, and Needs
Fly on the Wall Observation Method
-A variety of seating allows for an easily manipulated environment.
-The outdoor area is sheltered well from the parking lot and street with a wall of plants and umbrellas.

-Full of couples, families small groups, occasional individuals, it is all about the conversation.
-The area is off of the main drag, kids can roam and play
It is a neighborhood spot where the owner of the Cafe recognizes, welcomes, and connects guests.

*
After observing Italian culture in and around Prato, Italy, I was able to better understand the values and needs of the future patrons of The Nook. Designing with the user in mind was crucial to the final design.
Students Workers
A place to work, socialize, study, and be productive.
Away from stress, a place for decompression and regeneration.
A place of their own, where they belong. A place to see and observe.
Somewhere for conversation, drinks, and love.
Away from home, a spot where kids can roam, memories can be made.
A meeting point, a place to catch up and grow.
A hangout spot where they can be seen.
Somewhere to explore, to enhance a visit to the city of Prato.
Phase II: Site & Building Analysis
Building Analysis


Being able to access and measure the site of the project was particularly important for developing the design. Experiencing the layout and flow of the space, as well as the way light interacts with the existing architecture. Daylighting and circulation were obvious constraints after observing the space, ones that would be addressed through programming and layout.
materiality directly influenced design decisions to preserve and accent these features.
Daylighting
Existing Materials


Opportunity to carry light into spaces where natural light does not reach

Circulation
Circulation to desirable areas possibly constrained by narrow corridors

Exterior finish Slab flooring Wood planks


Phase III: Programming
















Main Cafe
Flexible space used mainly for food service. Also used for local music, art showcasing, and community events.


Courtyard
Enclosed courtyard used as an extension of the plant sale, as well as other seating options for cafe guests.
Daytime coffee bar, and nighttime wine bar. The bar serves locally sourced food to cafe guests inside, and through a fold-up window as a contactless option.
Local Goods
Fresh food, wine, and other locally sourced items from the Prato and the surrounding areas being sold.
Books & Stationery
Curation of books, cards, artwork & knick-knacks for sale from local artists. Books can be borrowed and enjoyed during a visit, or purchased and brought home.
Sunken Lounge
Secluded seating for those who want to enjoy a quiet corner with their coffee & book.
Plant Sale
Sale of local plants, pots, vases, and other garden items supporting the concept of biophilia and its importance to Italian urban culture.
Food storage for cafe and local goods being sold. Basement storage for furniture and event equipment
Phase IV: Design Development









The Nooks




In the sunken reading lounge in the farthest point back of the cafe, the nooks are a comfortable space where one can bring a coffee, a book, and prop their feet up, surrounded by foliage, and have a view of the courtyard beyond. This area functions as an individual or one-on-one conversation, reading, and working space. The materials preserved and chosen for this area create the “at-home” feeling intended for The Nook. “Creating spaces that offer stimulation while at the same time offering control over the environment can serve the cafedesignwell”- Lisa Waxman, Designing Coffee Shops and Cafes for Community. The adjustable lighting fixture in the sunken lounge seating areas allow users to have a small piece of control or personalization over their environment. Sensory experiences are strongly tied to emotional responses. Often, regulars at their favorite cafe can be territorial, they like to have their own space, manipulate it, and return to it time after time. Designing a space where patrons can do this allows for a deeper connection and senseofbelonging to the cafe.

The Courtyard









The courtyard is a similar space to the sunken reading lounge. In this space, guests can bring a coffee and a book outdoors to be amongst the variety of plants being nurtured and sold by The Nook. Comfortable seating surround a Europeanolivetree planted in an existing well-like structure preserved from the existing site. The courtyard feels like Italy, and allows users to enjoy the Cafe without being indoors, on the street, or in the direct sunlight. The furniture in the space can easily be moved, removed, or rearranged for daytime coffee or nighttime drinks, where lighting plays an important role in creating ambiance.




Phase IV: Design Development

The Bar
The bar is the center of The Nook, both day and night. In Italian culture, a bar serves both coffee in the morning, and drinks in the evening. It is a center for conversation all day long. At the Nook, an indoor-outdoor serving window breaks the barrier between the cafe and the street. Pedestrians strolling by can be a part of the experience. A modern interpretation of a historic Tuscan Wine Window,the concept is rooted in local history. Naturalmaterials,highcontrast lighting, biophilia, and flexibility for functionality all make the bar at The Nook a social hot spot.
A. Tractor Stool - Walnut - DWR


B. Fold-Up Window - Walnut - FoldUp



C. Rattan Pendant Lights - Found Items


D. Cabinet Maker’s Picture Light - Brass Circa Lighting


D.
C.






Wine Window
Buchetta delVino


Historically used in Tuscany during the era of the Bubonic Plague to fill their bottles with local wine from the estates of noble families – paying what they owed through the window, without direct contact with the seller. Some are now used to serve wine, coffee, or to-go food.

B.

Phase IV: Design Development
Local Goods
An important part of Italian cafe and restaurant culture is the interaction between local producers and cafes. Many places use food produced in the region, especially in Tuscany. Many shops or bottegas sell wine, olive oil, homemade pasta, canned goods, fresh fruit and vegetables, or baked goods that are produced locally, therefore fresh. At The Nook, the intention is nothing but the same. To provide access to fresh, healthy, local food from Prato and the surrounding countryside. The local goods area has a market style feel to it, inviting visitors to the back end of the cafe, drawing them through the space The Nook’s Enriching Quality is tied to the history of the city of Prato and the support to the community’s local producers. Shopping for local goods at The Nook is more satisfying than giving money to a big-brand grocery store.
Plant Sale
Especially in a city, humans spend most of their time indoors or in the streets, away from nature. We are drawn to nature, naturally. Our innate emotional affiliation with nature is called Biophilia. Biophilia is a biologically based need, and a universally understood aesthetic. In Italy, you will find the streets, restaurants, and courtyards full of greenery. At The Nook, patrons can purchase plants of all sizes and types to connect back with nature. “Providing outdoor seating, plants, views, sounds, and shapes that feel like nature create a welcoming interior” - Lisa K. Waxman, Designing Coffee shops and Cafes for Community
Heaven Flowers Floristi
Retailer and Florist in Prato, Italy

Occupying a popular street corner, this florist has plants and flowers trailing into the street, and has convinced other businesses in the area to use more greenery.
aTipico





Bottega and Degusteria in Prato, Italy
A local business that specializes in the sale of local goods, wine, and food from Prato and the surrounding areas.


I Libri Dimenticati Book Store in Prato, Italy

Books & Stationery



A common tie to the lingerability of cafes is books. Reading gives guests a reason to stay, an activity to participate in, seriously or leisurely while they visit a cafe.“Patrons value these experiences, incorporating them into the services already offered rather than charging for them can help build loyalty. Creating adestinationwithanexperienceisthegoal.” - Lisa K. Waxman, Designing Coffee Shops and Cafes for Community. At The Nook, guests will be able to do just this. After getting their coffee, wandering through the local goods and plants sections, they will be confronted by a large collection of books, old and new, of all interests. They can grab a book, find a “nook” and stay awhile. Stationery from local artists will also be sold in this area, allowing users to take home a piece of their experience.


“The seller aims to support vulnerable people by offering training opportunities that enrich the social fabric of the neighborhood and city.”

Universal Design Designing for ASD

Biophilia
Education
A non-profit organization specializing in training young adults with cognitive disorders is moving to a new storefront space in need of designing. The training center is designed according to universal design principles to make education for those with ASD more accessible. Improving the quality of life for those on the spectrum and their families is the primary goal of the business.
Phase I: Research
“
“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” -
Case Studies
Universal Design vs. Accessibility
Location New Haven, Connecticut Work Type Group
Building Type Adaptive Reuse Softwares AutoCAD, Revit, Enscape, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
Avalon Design
Concept
At the Avalon Center for Independent Learning (CIL), young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are provided a space that encourages growth. Understanding that autism is a spectrum and that every user is different, the design fosters flexibility. Inspired by the coast of New Haven, elements that mimic the calming waves of the ocean are included in the sensory escape room and breakout spaces. Biophilic references to nature, water, and other natural materials create familiarity and ease the mind. Avalon creates a calming feel with the use of colors that are easy on the eyes to minimize distraction or overstimulation. The combination of these elements creates a stress-free, easy-to-navigate, stable interior that allows for a safe environment where learning becomes easy and natural.
- Zachary FerrauoloTime was spent researching ASD to gain a better perspective of what types of environmental triggers may contribute to hindering the learning process of those on the spectrum. Similar CIL’s were studied to gather design solutions and efforts made by similar establishments.
Eden Autism Services
Understanding the principles and applications of universal design was crucial to designing Avalon. Simply designing for ADA or inclusivity does not encompass everyone’s needs, especially those on the spectrum. Universal design is design that is usable by all, to the greatest extent possible.

- Minimal sensory overload
- Flexibility in all spaces
- Training spaces
- Adjustable lighting controls
One of the Kids
Universal Design Principles
Equitable Use– The design is mindful of all potential users without compromise.

Flexibility in Use– Allows for choices to be made by the user without compromising the integrity of the design.
Simple and Intuitive Use– Function of the design is obvious to users no matter their knowledge or ability.
Perceptible Information– Important information is explained clearly regardless of sensory skills or environmental conditions.
Tolerance for Error– The design reduces the chance for accidents or injury, and if such accidents were to occur, the damage would be insignificant.
Low Physical Effort– Design minimizes fatigue and is easily used without compromising function.
- Nature inspired campus
- Breakout spaces


- Sensory wellbeing
- Natural Lighting
Size and Space for Approach and Use– The design provides adequate room for use of the space regardless of body position, size, or mobility.
Dr. Stephen Shore
Phase
II:
Programming
The spaces in the Avalon Center for Independent Learning are all very specific, training based spaces. Among them are multiple training rooms, a commercial kitchen, a mock apartment, and a sensory experience room.
Adjacency & Criteria Matrix

Phase III: Schematic Design
After programming the necessary spaces for Avalon into the existing space, we were able to determine a final floor plan. The plan is centered around the sensory experience room, a space where users can escape to if a sensory overload occurs. Other breakout spaces are included in the main corridor of the space. Curved walls and openings eliminate sharp corners and mysterious hallways. The floor plan below shows the universal design principles incorporated into each space.



Universal Design Key Plan
Relational Planning Block Diagramming
Equitable Use
Flexibility in Use Simple & Intuitive Use Perceptible Information Tolerance for Error Low Physical Effort Size & Space for Approach & Use

Phase IV: Design Development




Rendered Floor Plan

Reception & Lobby
The lobby is the first point of contact for the members of the Avalon community. Entering the space, users are greeted by natural colors and shapes that represent the coastline. Wayfinding floor patterns lead guests to the reception desk, then to the corridor that connects each of the spaces.


Building Section
The building section previews the training rooms, a training kitchen, and a mock apartment for learning daily activities that are essential to independent learning.
Corridor & Breakout Spaces Flex Room


The corridor is a light and airy space that connects each of the spaces to each other. The corridors are wide enough for travel and for breakout areas. Each doorway has preview windows that allow users to peer into a space before entering, eliminating anxiety.


The flex room is a multipurpose space that contains fitness equipment, a crafting area, and lockers for storage. Hi-tech equipment with failsafe features allow for error while learning. Multiple entrances and close proximity to the sensory experience room are important for a space like this.

Sensory Experience Room






















The sensory experience room is a space where students can come to engage their physical senses when mental tensions get high. Neon lights, a vibracoustic crash pit, and sensory friendly bean bags allow for multiple behavior types that can occur during overstimulation. This kind of area is crucial for those with ASD.


Studio IV - Spring 2022

Workplace
Landor, the world’s largest specialist brand and design group, is opening a new office in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The company needs a variety of different spaces in their new building, and wants to have a style that reflects the location, as they have offices all over the world. Sustainable qualities surrounding the arid climate allow the office to operate efficiently on energy and water consumption.
Landor
Location Santa Fe, New Mexico Work Type Individual Building Type Adaptive Reuse Softwares AutoCAD, Revit, Enscape, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
Design Concept
Taking inspiration from the unique landscape and artistic history of the city, the new Landor Santa Fe office serves as a hotspot for creativity, collaboration, and growth. Employees are provided the necessary spaces to effectively perform their jobs. Private offices for administrative work, functional workspaces for teams, and support spaces for presentations and meetings make the interior about the users. With an emphasis on natural cooling, the design combats the arid climate of Santa Fe, using green building methods and systems to regulate interior temperature, daylighting, and energy consumption. Aesthetically, the office abstractly reflects the diverse architecture style the city of Santa Fe fosters. Using modern methods of design with older materials of the area, the interior renders organic and free flowing.
Phase I: Research
Location
With over 1.5 million tourists per year, Santa Fe is recognized for its rich culture and diverse art community. Museums, performing arts, and over 250 art galleries display the city’s heart. The city’s diverse art community and unique architecture will influence the design for Landor Santa Fe.


Community
Landor Santa Fe will be a part of the Midtown Campus Project, a new development focused on rebuilding the artistic community in Santa Fe.
“The site shall become the most creative location in the U.S. — a place where a wide variety of people interact and collaborate to find their passions, build their skills, live in a thriving, vibrant neighborhood, and create a great future for our community, region and beyond.” – Midtown Campus Project

Solar Diagram
At such a high altitude in such a hot, arid climate, it was important to study the role the sun would play on the site of the project. The ultimate goal when designing in such a climate would be to avoid direct sunlight during the summer months while still absorbing solar heat in the winter months.

Phase II: Programming
Exploring Spatial Concepts


Green Roof


Rainwater Collection
Sustainability
When choosing a sustainability route for Landor Santa Fe, neglecting the extreme climate would be detrimental. Natural cooling would have to be included. Cutting energy costs and reducing the buildings carbon footprint, Landor Santa Fe has an all-natural cooling green roof with a rainwater collection system.
Interlocking Spaces


In addition to addressing a natural cooling solution for the building, the office will have a highly innovative integrated concentrating solar facade that will serve as a barrier to the strength of the Santa Fe sun, but will also collect solar energy for the building. The facade still provides views, but assists with daylighting and solar heat gain.

Phase III: Schematic Design Concept Planning Diagram


















Phase IV: Design Development


The Mezzanine
The mezzanine level is accessed by the staircase in the reception lobby, making it perfect for clients meeting with executives on the upper level. Here, there is an open lounge, and an executive bar surrounded by the executive offices and a conference room.

Systems Furniture by Teknion & StudioTK A. B. C. D.






Phase
IV:



The Office

Design Development

























Summer 2022
Millwork

AutoCAD drawings from my time as an assistant project design manager at a high-end custom kitchen & bath design firm.
Fall 2020
Hand Drafting
Miscellaneous drafting from various projects completed as a student at the University of New Haven.
Millwork
Drawings are property of DEANE Inc.

















Designer Buffy Goodwin Project Design Manager Michael Mccarthy

Drawings at presentation phase

INSTALLATION NOT FOR













































































Hand Drafting
Media Room
A fully detailed, hand drafted, set of construction documents for a media room project. The client wanted a southwestern style with plenty of storage for their CD’s, DVD’s, and AV equipment.




