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MDes Interior Design School of Design

Huiqin Zhou (She/Her)

作为一名热衷于探索室内设计的可持续性和创造鼓舞人心的空间的室内设计师，我在来格拉斯哥学习之前曾从事住宅室内设计工作。在格拉斯哥艺术学院学习的一年里，我对结合可重复使用的天然材料和整合现有的建筑元素有了新的认识。这些经历让我对定义生活空间有了全新的理解。在我看来，室内设计应该大胆创新，同时与周围的自然环境和谐融合。我坚信，空间设计不仅要考虑实用因素和可持续性，还要增强居住者与空间本身的情感联系。

Contact
qqhao3126668754@gmail.com
H.Zhou1@student.gsa.ac.uk
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            [post_content] => Background

This project originated from my interest in the phenomenon of whale falls. A whale fall refers to the process where, after a whale's death, its carcass sinks, attracting fish for feeding, followed by decomposition that draws scavengers and gradually takes the carcass deeper due to water pressure. Marine decomposers then clean the remains. Over time, the carcass breaks apart, involving drifting organisms in the cycle. Eventually, the carcass becomes a skeleton on the ocean floor, marking the end of life and the beginning of a new cycle. Through research, I discovered that whale falls are a part of the biogeochemical cycles within natural ecosystems.
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            [post_content] => In this chapter, we have determined the site for the project and leveraged prior research along with the benefits of the chosen location. A concentrated investigation into the art of weaving willow has been undertaken, encompassing its growth, trimming, and eventual weaving techniques. This comprehensive exploration has culminated in the identification of the core material for our endeavor.

Furthermore, the inception of the Material Intelligence Experience Center concept has been unveiled. This establishment aims to synergize the insights of material intelligence and offer an immersive encounter for visitors.
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            [post_content] => In this chapter, I have developed a screen that is intricately designed to align with the unique attributes of glass structures. This innovation is geared towards enhancing the working conditions within the confines of the greenhouse. The primary objective of this screen is to effectively mitigate excessive temperatures and minimize the intrusion of direct sunlight that might cause discomfort to individuals working inside.

Moreover, my creative endeavors have extended to the conception of an interactive recycling installation. Within this setup, participants are provided with the opportunity to not only fashion their own handmade creations during studio sessions but also to make a choice between retaining these items or placing them within the confines of the "Memory Cage." This dual-purpose installation seeks to seamlessly blend artistic expression with sustainable practices.

Lastly, a pivotal aspect of this chapter encompasses the development of functional intent diagrams for the Material Intelligence Experience Center. These diagrams serve as a comprehensive guide, illustrating the overarching purposes and functionalities of the center. Through these efforts, I aim to successfully integrate design, material intelligence, and sustainability into a cohesive and purposeful environment.

 
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            [post_content] => In the final chapter, I present the culmination of my designs, aiming to effectively communicate the core principles: sustainable development, conveying the essence of material intelligence, and highlighting the significance of environmental considerations. My ultimate achievement is to underscore the interconnectedness between human progress and the environment.

I envision a future where our well-intentioned efforts pave the way for a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. Despite the challenges faced during this journey, I remain hopeful that the scars left behind will serve as a reminder of our responsibility towards the natural world. I believe that through our collective endeavors, we can aspire to witness the rejuvenation of the environment, ultimately leading to a renewed vitality.
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            [post_content] => In this chapter, I have compiled insights garnered from theoretical research encompassing localized design and material intelligence. Expanding upon these foundational principles, I have pinpointed a range of examples that effectively demonstrate the latent capabilities of natural, recyclable materials. Through this thorough exploration, a profound comprehension of the potentials inherent within these materials has been achieved. Moreover, I have extracted invaluable guidance for judiciously selecting suitable project locations and materials.
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Works
Reborn
Site analysis
Design Strategy
Final Outcome
Theorical research & Case study

Reborn

Background

This project originated from my interest in the phenomenon of whale falls. A whale fall refers to the process where, after a whale’s death, its carcass sinks, attracting fish for feeding, followed by decomposition that draws scavengers and gradually takes the carcass deeper due to water pressure. Marine decomposers then clean the remains. Over time, the carcass breaks apart, involving drifting organisms in the cycle. Eventually, the carcass becomes a skeleton on the ocean floor, marking the end of life and the beginning of a new cycle. Through research, I discovered that whale falls are a part of the biogeochemical cycles within natural ecosystems.

Whale fall

This project originated from my interest in the phenomenon of whale falls. A whale fall refers to the process where, after a whale's death, its carcass sinks, attracting fish for feeding, followed by decomposition that draws scavengers and gradually takes the carcass deeper due to water pressure. Marine decomposers then clean the remains. Over time, the carcass breaks apart, involving drifting organisms in the cycle. Eventually, the carcass becomes a skeleton on the ocean floor, marking the end of life and the beginning of a new cycle. Through research, I discovered that whale falls are a part of the biogeochemical cycles within natural ecosystems.
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The process of whale falls is crucial for marine food chains and biodiversity. However, due to human activities such as excessive hunting and the degradation of the marine environment, very few whales are able to die of natural causes and complete the whale fall process. Additionally, in recent years, a series of destructive events like deforestation, burning of fossil fuels, and excessive use of fertilizers seem to be increasing, suggesting that humanity is gradually disconnecting from biogeochemical cycles.
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It's evident that people are progressively drifting away from the natural rhythms. As humanity continues to exploit the environment without restraint, certain natural calamities have become unavoidable. Despite some efforts to promote environmental awareness, the voice conveying such consciousness remains faint. The truth is, the majority of people turn a blind eye to environmental conservation and resource preservation. On one hand, they perceive their individual efforts as too feeble to achieve significant outcomes. On the other hand, they consider the depletion of planetary resources a distant issue, given that their lifespans are destined not to extend into that period. To prevent such a scenario, I believe it's essential to elevate public awareness regarding environmental issues, as well as the pressing need for responsible lifestyles and consumption habits. In response to this challenge, I have undertaken theoretical research on the matter.
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Site analysis

In this chapter, we have determined the site for the project and leveraged prior research along with the benefits of the chosen location. A concentrated investigation into the art of weaving willow has been undertaken, encompassing its growth, trimming, and eventual weaving techniques. This comprehensive exploration has culminated in the identification of the core material for our endeavor.

Furthermore, the inception of the Material Intelligence Experience Center concept has been unveiled. This establishment aims to synergize the insights of material intelligence and offer an immersive encounter for visitors.

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Close
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Close

Design Strategy

In this chapter, I have developed a screen that is intricately designed to align with the unique attributes of glass structures. This innovation is geared towards enhancing the working conditions within the confines of the greenhouse. The primary objective of this screen is to effectively mitigate excessive temperatures and minimize the intrusion of direct sunlight that might cause discomfort to individuals working inside.

Moreover, my creative endeavors have extended to the conception of an interactive recycling installation. Within this setup, participants are provided with the opportunity to not only fashion their own handmade creations during studio sessions but also to make a choice between retaining these items or placing them within the confines of the “Memory Cage.” This dual-purpose installation seeks to seamlessly blend artistic expression with sustainable practices.

Lastly, a pivotal aspect of this chapter encompasses the development of functional intent diagrams for the Material Intelligence Experience Center. These diagrams serve as a comprehensive guide, illustrating the overarching purposes and functionalities of the center. Through these efforts, I aim to successfully integrate design, material intelligence, and sustainability into a cohesive and purposeful environment.

 

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DESIGN GENERATION

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Final Outcome

In the final chapter, I present the culmination of my designs, aiming to effectively communicate the core principles: sustainable development, conveying the essence of material intelligence, and highlighting the significance of environmental considerations. My ultimate achievement is to underscore the interconnectedness between human progress and the environment.

I envision a future where our well-intentioned efforts pave the way for a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. Despite the challenges faced during this journey, I remain hopeful that the scars left behind will serve as a reminder of our responsibility towards the natural world. I believe that through our collective endeavors, we can aspire to witness the rejuvenation of the environment, ultimately leading to a renewed vitality.

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Theorical research & Case study

In this chapter, I have compiled insights garnered from theoretical research encompassing localized design and material intelligence. Expanding upon these foundational principles, I have pinpointed a range of examples that effectively demonstrate the latent capabilities of natural, recyclable materials. Through this thorough exploration, a profound comprehension of the potentials inherent within these materials has been achieved. Moreover, I have extracted invaluable guidance for judiciously selecting suitable project locations and materials.

LO-TEK

The book explores the integration of traditional knowledge and modern design to seek sustainable solutions and environmental preservation. The book aims to provide an emerging design concept based on indigenous wisdom, promoting sustainable development and harmonious coexistence with nature, through research and introduction of these traditional design methods.
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Fewer, Better Things: The Hidden Wisdom of Objects

The close relationship between humans and materials largely shapes our lifestyle on Earth. However, the author suggests that modern humans seem to be losing their connection with the materials that have nurtured human development for thousands of years. While these objects still surround us, we appear to be less attentive to their presence, and our understanding of them is diminishing. The author firmly believes that our proximity to materials significantly influences our way of life on this planet. Without a solid understanding of how things are made, it becomes challenging to maintain a meaningful connection with the world around us. In fact, many of the items produced today seem unworthy of the valuable resources, effort, and space we invest in them. The book is replete with examples and stories about objects and their creators, reflecting the author's lifelong exploration of material intelligence. It calls for a fundamental reevaluation of our reasons for immersing ourselves in the midst of these surrounding objects. The concept of "Material intelligence" emphasizes the inherent intelligence and characteristics of materials, underscoring our capacity to understand and reshape the world around us through a deeper comprehension and application of material properties, driving innovation and optimization.
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