MDes Interior Design School of Design
Yan Hu
As a student with a background in industrial design, I have a deep passion and interest in interior design. In my work, I always put human needs at the centre of my design philosophy, aiming to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing and functional, but also resonate deeply with their users. I firmly believe that interior design is more than just the arrangement and decoration of physical spaces; it expresses emotions and reflects lifestyles. Every space has the potential to tell a story, and it is the designer’s responsibility to translate this potential into reality through a thoughtful design language. I aspire to create designs that help people find a sense of belonging in their environments and make them feel warm and cared for. In addition, I want to combine aesthetics and practicality to not only fulfil the functional needs of the user, but also to enhance their quality of life in an intangible way.
Stage 2 Host – Plant Bank
According to my interpretation of HOST, I believe it can represent a mutually beneficial relationship. So, I began pondering: in the relationship between humans and nature, what can humans contribute to nature?
In China, there’s an ancient saying, “All things are diverse and contribute to harmony and growth; each receives its nourishment and flourishes.” This phrase highlights the importance of biodiversity to the Earth. However, due to ongoing industrial activities, more and more species are becoming endangered, greatly harming biodiversity. With this in mind, I hope to use a technology-driven botanical garden to showcase nature’s wonders to people. Through scientific intervention, we can protect and cultivate plants, thus safeguarding ecological diversity.
At the same time, I noticed a striking similarity between the industrial history of the site and the life cycle of plant seeds. Despite being the starting point of plant life, seeds are often overlooked by people. Therefore, I aim to introduce a seed museum into the space, providing a place for people to learn and explore the plant world. This will enhance their understanding of natural science, raise ecological awareness, and inspire them to care for and protect the environment.
Imagine, 100 years from now, as Earth’s resources dwindle and ecological conditions worsen, this technology-driven botanical garden becomes a genetic hub for plants. Through the plants it protects and cultivates, as well as the seeds it preserves, it offers new hope for humanity.
Stage 1 Slice – Blind box pub
When I think of entertainment, I’m reminded of the street performers I encounter almost daily on the streets of Glasgow. I never know who I’ll see or what kind of performance they’ll put on, so each encounter is a delightful surprise. This experience brings to mind a popular toy in China—the blind box. The anticipation and excitement brought by the unknown is, in its own way, a form of entertainment, isn’t it?
Stage 3 – The Third Space
Philosopher Philip reed, in his article, argues that deathbedism is an unjustified discrimination against the dying. They should have the same rights and values as human beings. People tend to ignore the dying because they find it difficult or are afraid to face it. It is as if these dying people are living in the gap between society and the “going away”, gradually becoming “invisible” from life. Therefore, I would like to use the space to help these dying people to spend their last days in a better quality.
Film and book analysis
Project concept
Model experiment
