PORT F LIOSAWYER SCHOON Interior Design Illinois State University | CIDA Accreditted Sawyerschoon03@gmail.com
About Me Hi! My name is Sawyer Schoon, and I am currently finishing my last year at Illinois State University, where I am earning my Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. Throughout my education, I have grown more passionate about interior design as I have learned how thoughtfully designed spaces can shape the way people experience and interact with their environment. I value thoughtful planning, research, and strong visual storytelling to create spaces that feel intentional and functional. Through my academic and professional experiences, I have developed a detail-oriented design process and a strong appreciation for collaboration and clear communication. As I prepare to enter the professional field, I am excited to continue learning and contribute to meaningful design solutions. 02
CON TENTS 1 2 3 SENIOR CO-HOUSING COMMUNITY - PRIVATE UNIT MILNER LIBRARY REDESIGN DAR RIHLA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
DAR RIHLA BOUTIQUE HOTEL 4 BRAZILIAN APARTMENT Pg. 06 Pg. 18 Pg. 32 Pg. 56 04
Project Type: Residential | Senior Living Square Footage: 800 SF Semester: Fall 2025 | Studio I Duration: 6 Weeks Software Used: Sketchup, Adobe Creative Cloud, Photoshop, Indesign, Enscape, Illustrator Project #1
Golden Grove Gardens 06
Senior Cohousing Community This project focused on the design of a senior cohousing community, a form of communal living that combines private residences with shared amenities to support connection and independence. The design emphasized socialization, accessibility, inclusive design, and aging in place to address the evolving needs of seniors. I was responsible for designing the private residential unit, while my partner, Karissa Robertson, designed the common house. Design Concept This private unit blends farmhouse charm with modern comfort, with a focus on accessibility and effortless living. Wide doorways and a barrier- free bathroom ensure safe, easy movement, while natural materials, soft furnishings, and large windows create a warm, inviting atmosphere connected to the outdoors. Open-plan living and dining areas encourage social interaction, and the master bedroom provides a serene personal retreat with ample storage. The design’s neutral and earthy color palette enhances rustic character while supporting comfort and well-being, creating a home that is both functional and welcoming. Project Overview
Block Diagram KITCHEN AND DINING PATIO BEDROOMBATHROOMLIVING ROOM LAUNDRY Moodboard 08
Private Unit Rendered Floor Plan
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Private Unit Living Room Renderings
• Wide Pathways: The room has wide pathways, which are essential for wheelchair accessibility. • Low-Mounted Television: The television is mounted at a height that’s easily viewable from a seated position, which can be helpful for individuals with mobility issues. • Accessible Seating: The armchair and couch is sturdy and at a comfortable height, making it easier for individuals to transfer in and out of it. 12
Private Unit Kitchen and Dining Renderings
• Lowered Countertops and Sink: The countertops and sink are at a lower height, making them accessible for wheelchair users. 9in toe kick • Open Space: There’s ample floor space for maneuvering a wheelchair around the kitchen. • Accessible Appliances: The appliances, such as the stove and refrigerator, are within easy reach. • Drawer Microwave: Located at an accessible height, making it easier to use for individuals with mobility challenges. 14
Private Unit Bedroom Renderings
• Clear Space: There’s ample room to move around, which is important for wheelchair users. • Accessible Bed Height: The bed is at a height that is accessible for individuals with mobility issues. • Reachable Items: The nightstands, lamps, and other essentials are placed within easy reach for convenience. 16
Project Type: Commercial | Higher Education Design Square Footage: 84000 SF Semester: Spring 2025 | Studio II Duration: 16 Weeks Software Used: Revit, Adobe Creative Cloud, Photoshop, Indesign, Enscape, Illustrator Project #2
Milner Library Redesign 18
Milner Library Redesign This project reimagines the second floor of Milner Library at Illinois State University as an inclusive, student-centered academic environment. Accessibility and universal design served as primary drivers, informing the integration of an Academic Support Hub, a dedicated Sensory Suite, and a variety of flexible spaces for both collaborative group work and focused individual study. Thoughtful spatial planning ensures the space supports diverse learning styles while remaining welcoming and easy to navigate. Overall, the redesign enhances student well-being, promotes academic success, and strengthens the library’s role as a supportive campus resource. Design Concept The redesigned Milner Library is envisioned as a bold academic hub that reflects the energy and identity of Illinois State University. Drawing inspiration from the Redbirds’ design language, the space integrates rich reds, deep greys, crisp whites, and warm wood tones to balance school spirit with modern sophistication. Curved architectural forms, strong color contrasts, and layered materiality shape a dynamic interior, anchored by a statement reception desk. Multi-zoned learning environments and interactive digital displays support collaboration, focus, and innovation, while textured ceiling elements and branded feature walls reinforce ISU’s identity. Prioritizing accessibility, technology integration, and sustainability, the new Milner Library redefines the campus library as a future-forward space for learning, connection, and academic growth. Project Overview
Block Diagram Moodboard 20
FLOOR FINISH LEGEND RUBBER 1 NORA SYSTEMS APPLE PICKING RUBBER 2 NORA SYSTEMS CHAMPAGNE TOAST ENGINEERED WOOD SHAW CONTRACT CAMARET OAK CARPET SHAW CONTRACT FLAME CARPET SHAW CONTRACT GRAFFITI NOT IN CONTRACT Milner Library Redesign Rendered Floor Plan
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Milner Library Redesign Rendered Ceiling Plan LEGEND NOT IN CONTRACT CEILING BAFFLES ARKTURA - SURF Apple METAL PANEL CEILING ARKTURA - DELTA DROP Silver Grey CONCRETE COFFERS CONCRETE STEEL PANEL CEILING ARKTURA - PULSE (SOFT SOUND) White ACOUSTICAL CEILING PANELS ARMSTRONG - FELT Apple 2X2 ACOUSTICAL CEIL- ING TILE Acoustical Ceiling Tile HYPHEN RECESSED LIGHTING FLUXWERX White Powdercoat CEILING CLOUD - RO- SETTE ARKTURA - SOFT GRID Apple PENDANT LIGHT 1 FLUXWERX White Powdercoat PENDANT LIGHT 2 FLUXWERX White Powdercoat RECESSED LIGHTING FLUXWERX White Powdercoat
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Reference Desk Legend Material Collage 1 Rubber Flooring: Nora Systems Environcare Champagne Toast 2 Metal: Armstrong Metalworks Silverlume 3 Engineered Hardwood: Shaw Contract Camaret Oak 4 Acrylic: 3Form Chroma Dragon Fruit 5 Ceiling Material: Armstrong Feltworks Apple 6 Wall Covering: Maharam Bolt Emberglow 1 2 3 4 5 6 Miller Knoll Generation Office Reference Desk Perspe
ll fice Chair ective Key Plan 632 SF ENTRY STAIRS STAIRS STAIRS 26
Reading Lounge Legend Material Collage 1 Carpet: ShawContract Flame 2 P.E.T Felt: Armstrong Ceiling Feltworks Wheat 3 P.E.T Felt: Armstrong Ceiling Feltworks Cinnamon 4 Furniture Upholstery: Maharam Brush Barre 5 Furniture Upholstery: Maharam Brush Affogato 6 Metal: Armstrong Metalworks Silverlume 7 Metal: Armstrong Metalworks Whitelume 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Herman Miller Luva Modular Sofa Group Reference Desk Perspe
ective Key Plan 632 SF ENTRY STAIRS STAIRS STAIRS 28
Event Space Legend Material Collage 1 FURNITURE UPHOLSTERY: Maharam Brindle Torch 2 FURNITURE UPHOLSTERY: Maharam Brindle Barn 3 ENGINEERED HARDWOOD: Shaw Contract Camaret Oak 4 FURNITURE UPHOLSTERY: Maharam Brush Affogato 5 METAL: Armstrong Metalworks Silverlume 1 2 3 4 5 EVENT SPACE 1 Bingo Night Herman Miller Everywhere Round Table Event Book Meetin
Key Plan 632 SF ENTRY STAIRS STAIRS STAIRS EVENT SPACE 2 Team Meeting t Space 3 eting Herman Miller Caper Stacking Chair 30
Project #3 Project Type: Hospitality Design | Boutique Hotel Location: AlUla, Saudi Arabia Group Member: Sydney M. Square Footage: 31761 SF Semester: Spring 2026 | Studio III Duration: 10 Weeks Software Used: Revit, Adobe Creative Cloud, Photoshop, Indesign, Enscape, Illustrator, D5 Render
Dar Rihla AlUla 32
Dar Rihla AlUla This boutique hotel project focuses on creating a unique and immersive guest experience through cohesive design and thoughtful spatial planning. The design emphasizes comfort, functionality, and a strong aesthetic identity, with carefully curated public and private spaces that support both relaxation and social interaction. Material selection, lighting, and furnishings work together to enhance the overall atmosphere while meeting the demands of a high-traffic hospitality environment. The result is a visually engaging and functional space that offers guests a memorable stay. Design Concept Dar Rihla, meaning “House of journey,” shapes the hotel as a spatial narrative inspired by the nomadic tribes of the AlUla region. The design unfolds as a sequence of experiences that reflect movement, gathering, rest, and reflection echoing the rhythms of nomadic life and traditions of hospitality. Communal spaces draw from the majlis to encourage connection, while quieter areas offer retreat and restoration. Natural materials, desert- inspired tones, and woven textures ground the environment in place and heritage, while contemporary forms keep the experience relevant and refined. Guided by human-centered and inclusive design principles, the hotel prioritizes comfort, flexibility, and meaningful cultural engagement, creating a stay that feels like a journey through landscape, culture, and connection. Project Overview
Moodboard Block Diagram 34
Branding Logo Dar Rihla AlUla Slogan Dar Rihla AlUla “Woven Through Heri
Color Scheme Ab Cormorant SC REGULAR a ritage” Typography 36
Rendered Floor Plan Scale: 1/32” = 1’0”
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Reflected Ceiling Plan Scale: 1/32” = 1’0” Rendered by: Sydney M.
Gypsum Ceiling 2x2 ACT Tile Spaced Linear Veneer Wood Panel Wood Veneer Linear Veneer Panels Tent Ceiling Grids 6” Recessed Downlights Large Fisherman Pendant Medium Fisherman Pendant Small Fisherman Pendant Brass Pendant Exit Sign 40
Entrance Corridor Renderings Worked together with Sydney M.
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Reception Desk Renderings Worked together with Sydney M.
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Queen Bedroom Renderings Worked together with Sydney M.
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Queen Bedroom Elevations South Elevation North Elevation Worked together with Sydney M.
West Elevation East Elevation 48
Coffee Shop & Lounge Renderings Worked together with Sydney M.
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Restaurant Renderings Worked together with Sydney M.
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Stargazing Patio Renderings Worked together with Sydney M.
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Project #4 Project Type: Residential Design Location: Pelotas, Brazil Square Footage: 6662 SF Semester: Fall 2024 | Studio I Duration: 8 Weeks Software Used: Sketchup, Adobe Creative Cloud, Photoshop, Indesign, Enscape, and Illustrator
56 Brazilian Apartment
Brazilian Apartment In Studio I, this project focused on designing a Brazilian contemporary apartment for a family of four in Pelotas, Brazil. Working exclusively in the metric system, the design prioritizes functional planning while thoughtfully integrating Brazilian culture and lifestyle. Appliances and the majority of furniture were sourced from Brazilian manufacturers to ensure authenticity and contextual relevance. Extensive cultural and design research, combined with client input, informed decisions related to color palette, material selection, and lighting, resulting in a cohesive interior that balances practicality with cultural expression. Design Concept This apartment design merges Brazilian cultural traditions with a contemporary aesthetic to create a functional, family-centered home. Custom-built furniture maximizes efficiency while maintaining open, flexible spaces that encourage connection. A neutral color palette provides a calm foundation, accented with vibrant orange and green tones that add warmth, energy, and cultural expression. Responding to the local climate, the design incorporates air conditioning and a balcony enclosed with movable glass panels, featuring a built-in churrasqueira that anchors indoor–outdoor living. Together, thoughtful spatial planning, balanced color contrasts, and seamless indoor–outdoor integration reflect a cohesive and modern Brazilian lifestyle. Project Overview
Moodboard Block Diagram 58
Furniture Plan Ideas
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FF&E Illum Wikkelso Ania Wolowska De Sede Ania Wolowska Dis Ov
ishwasher Refrigerator ven/Stove Microwave Washer and Dryer Wall Hood Brastemp Eclipse Collection 62
Brazilian Apartment Rendered Floor Plan
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Rendered Living Room Rendered Kitchen Renderings
Rendered Julia’s Bedroom Rendered Laundry Room 66
Enclosed Balcony Renderings
Churresquierra: A Churresquierra is Brazilian barbeque grill. This grill setup uses skewers over open flames (often wood or coal) to slow cook meats. This is common in Brazilian homes. Its a centerpiece for gatherings and celebrations. 68
SAWYER SCHOON Interior Design Illinois State University | CIDA Accreditted Sawyerschoon03@gmail.com
THA NK YOU!