Yifan Zhao

Interior Architecture, 2022

My name is Yifan. I am from China and will graduate with a Bachelor of Interior Architecture at the University of Canberra next June. My father is a painter, and because of his influence, I have been interested in art since childhood. Therefore, I chose the degree in interior architecture at university and became more and more passionate about this subject during my study. I am good at creating a sense of space atmosphere, using light and shadow changes and color matching to bring people a comfortable feeling.

I had a few months of internship experience in a Chinese architectural firm and participated in some competition projects. I am good at modeling and rendering software. I look forward to trying more exciting future projects and developing my knowledge and skills.

Yifan Zhao

Selected Portfolio

National Zoo & Aquarium Function Centre & Accommodation

National Zoo & Aquarium Function Centre & Accommodation

In this project, we designed to fix functional space with associated accommodation and a third supplementary program at the National Zoo & Aquarium. My design concept is Back to Nature. The design revolves around nature, function and interaction. People go to the zoo to escape from the city and back to nature. Hence my design revolves around nature, combining indoor functions with outdoor nature. In keeping with my concept, I used wood and glass as the main materials for the building. Wood feels more natural and closer to its surroundings. Large areas of glass can replace lights, save electricity, and allow people to interact better with the external environment. The building is located in the zoo, realizing the harmonious coexistence of humans and animals.

Accommodation

Accommodation

The accommodation is located within the future expansion area of the zoo. The canvas-style roof responds to the client's needs. I designed sliding doors for each room to connect three separate rooms, allowing them to be used individually or combined into a suite. King-size bed and sofa lounge in all rooms. And bedroom 2 has Accessible access. The accommodation has a wide field of vision. Each room has floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor deck that can allow people to walk into nature. Every moment here feels like being in the forest.

Function Center

Function Center

The function center is located within the Rhino enclosure. The building is rectangular and fits very well with the site. 19 x 4.5m overall in size. The building is divided into interior and exterior spaces by a special-shaped roof. Interior space including the storage, two meeting rooms and the reception center. Meeting rooms 1 and 2 can be used through sliding doors, allowing them to be used individually or combined into a suit. The building's interior space accommodates approximately 80 guests. The exterior spaces include the terrace and activity area. The terrace is placed on the roof with one bar survey. The activity area is created by the sunken roof and faces the zoo. Children can use the timber bench for colorful activities. The function center combines indoor functions and outdoor activity through the special-shaped roof. The ingenious spatial concept combines both function and nature. Wood and glass as the main materials for the building to touch nature.

Dining Hall

Dining Hall

My third program is the dining hall, which is located within the future expansion area of the zoo. According to the different needs of different groups of people for space, I have classified the functions of the building. Finally, the third project is designed as a dining hall for people to rest and an informal social gathering. Socializing in such an environment can be relaxing and enjoy. The dining hall included a private dining room, open dining area and a bar. The interior design includes green plants and an atrium, which allow nature to be integrated into the building. The interior walls are curvilinear, making the lines soft and natural. The wavy roof of the dining hall design comes from the varying heights trees. The building is integrated into the forest. The design of the curved roof combines nature and functions. People can walk on the timber roof is like walking in the forest. When people use this space, they also interact and integrate with nature, returning to nature.