*In Progress* Enclosed Garden
For the enclosed garden, inspired by a handmade raku bowl and the Japanese tea ceremony, I sought to explore and reflect on the stillness of life. To achieve stillness and truly celebrate life, we must also contemplate something universal to us all: death.
The design features two entrances—one symbolising life and the other death. Between these two doors lies a central space representing life as it is individually experienced: alone, yet not lonely. This is a space that can only be entered alone, encouraging quiet reflection and personal connection.
At the heart of the design, vibrant flowers grow in multiple colours, yet remain hidden from view until entered. These flowers, blooming only for a limited time each year, symbolise the fleeting nature of life. Their cycles of growth and decay delicately embody the profound interconnectedness of life and death.
The circular shape of the space refers to Gaston Bachelard’s sentiment that “being is round,” a form that fosters a sense of wholeness and introspection.
*In progress* Slavante
“Day dream transports the dreamer outside the immediate world to a world that bears the mark of infinity.”
*in progress* Restaurant Vivian Sauvage
VIVIAN is more than just a bar. Combining a natural wine bar, a shop, and a residency programme for chefs and winemakers, it’s a space designed to evolve alongside its visitors. The minimalist design reflects a philosophy of simplicity and adaptability, balancing warmth and functionality through natural materials and soft colours to create an inviting atmosphere.
At its heart is a robust wooden bar, complemented by carefully placed lighting and round lamps that lend a soft, intimate ambiance. Scandinavian-inspired furniture blends comfort with minimalism, enhanced by artisanal touches like linen bags and wooden details. A curated vinyl collection adds a nostalgic rhythm, setting the tone for an organic flow of time in the space.
The menu mirrors the design’s simplicity, featuring local, seasonal ingredients served in a setting that harmonises raw and refined textures. Unfinished walls and glass shelving create a balance between industrial and natural aesthetics, while the green terrace extends the interior, blurring the lines between inside and out. Bathed in natural light, it offers a serene escape in the city.
VIVIAN is a dynamic environment where creativity, connection, and community thrive—a place that continuously evolves to meet its visitors’ needs.
*In progress* Tuinhuis Herengracht
During the summer of 2019, I contributed to the renovation of a garden house situated in the heart of Amsterdam. The objective was to create a tranquil retreat—a versatile space where one could work in peace and unwind throughout the seasons.
The design focused on minimising the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces, aiming to seamlessly blur the boundaries. To achieve this, the chosen colour palette was inspired by the natural hues of the surrounding garden, while the flooring extended from the interior to the exterior, enhancing the sense of continuity.
In anticipation of warm summers, a natural swimming pool was incorporated into the design. To further integrate the house with its surroundings, I designed full-width bi-fold windows. These allow the entire front of the house to open up, providing the experience of basking in the sunlight while remaining indoors.
For the colder months, the emphasis shifted to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. A fireplace was introduced as a central feature, offering both heat and a sense of comfort. Additionally, the roof was partially opened to bring in more natural light, enhancing the brightness and spaciousness of the interior.
Bar design, Restaurant Ijver
Restaurant IJver is located in the heart of the historic NDSM wharf, the former harbor of Amsterdam. This location holds a special meaning for me, as my father worked here on the shipyard during his youth.
The design of IJver draws inspiration from brutalism, creating a connection between the industrial heritage of the shipyard and a modern dining experience. With its raw concrete elements and industrial aesthetic, the space retains the authentic roughness of its surroundings.
The restaurant’s theme is rooted in a celebration of the working class. Personally, I drew inspiration from the underground metro system in Moscow, Russia, which I visited in 2017. The metro stations, often described as “people’s palaces,” were designed to glorify and reinforce Russia’s socialist regime. Their elaborate decorations and monumental dimensions left a lasting impression on me and influenced my approach to design the bar, from the tiles, the colors and even the font.
What I cherish most about my work with an interior construction company is the craftsmanship. Everything we designed, we built ourselves, which gave me a deep appreciation for the art of bringing concepts to life with our own hands.
GRADUATION PROJECT ‘ Like it is’
PreDesign Traderspop Gallery
