ABBIE BUSCH ASID PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION

ABBIE BUSCH

UNIVERSITY OF

Expected Graduation 05/04/25 FLORIDA

ABOUT ME

Design, to me, is about creating spaces that evoke emotion, reflect identity, and enhance human experiences. I approach every project with a blend of creativity, functionality, and a deep understanding of how people interact with their environments. My background in interior design, combined with hands-on experience in commercial projects, has shaped my perspective on crafting spaces that are aesthetically compelling and practical.

My journey as a student has been challenging but rewarding. As I started my college education career, I was a biochemistry major, but I soon realized that my true passion lay in interior design. The shift in my academic path was driven by my deep love for creating solutions that not only serve a purpose but also evoke a sense of belonging and inspiration. This transition was not without its difficulties, but it ultimately reinforced my determination, adaptability, and commitment to pursuing a field that truly excites me.

My education at the University of Florida has been instrumental in shaping me as a student and a future great designer. The rigorous curriculum, exposure to diverse design methodologies, and mentorship from experienced faculty have strengthened my ability to think critically, experiment boldly, and push creative boundaries. Through various projects and collaborative experiences in different classes and studios, I have developed a strong foundation in both technical skills and conceptual thinking, which continue to influence my design approach and problem-solving strategies.

During my time as an interior design intern at AECOM in Chicago, I was immersed in large-scale commercial projects, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, and architects, to bring complex visions to life. This experience refined my ability to conceptualize spaces holistically, considering everything from materials and lighting to user flow and sustainability. Working in a fast-paced, collaborative setting strengthened my ability to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and balance creative vision with real-world constraints.

My design philosophy is rooted in a keen sensitivity to context, culture, and user experience. I believe that good design is intuitive, as it should not only be visually striking but also seamlessly enhance the way people interact with a space. More importantly, I strive to create spaces that solve problems, whether by improving functionality, increasing accessibility, or fostering a specific emotional response. I am drawn to designs that prioritize innovation, sustainability, and thoughtful storytelling in their projects.

I am eager to bring my passion, adaptability, and commitment to highquality design to a forward-thinking firm. I look forward to the possibility of joining a team where I can continue learning, contribute meaningful ideas, and create spaces that inspire and connect people. I am excited to share my student portfolio and some of my favorite projects from over the years, hope you enjoy!

Sincerely,

Abbie Busch

ABBIE BUSCH

SKILLS

MODELING

Revit, Enscape, SketchUp, AutoCAD, & hand modeling

GRAPHICS

Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, & Bluebeam

OTHER Microsoft Office, construction documents, detailing, space planning, & hand drafting

EDUCATION

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Graduation date: May 2025

Bachelor of Design | Major: Interior Design

GPA: 3.8

Deans List

Active Member of Gator Interior Design Club

Active member of ASID

Active member of IIDA

Alumni of Alpha Chi Omega, Gamma Iota

Chapter

PROFFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

AECOM

Interior Design Intern | Chicago, IL

May- August 2024

Worked closely with the workplace interiors team on multiple projects at a time creating test fits, space plans, and furniture plans with Revit and AutoCAD for construction documents and client presentations. Specified furniture and hand-selected materials for high-level projects working closely with furniture and material representatives to find the perfect match for each project. Conducted a multidisciplinary research study with inhouse engineers for the future of Chicago's Lake Shore Drive and presented our findings to colleagues. Managed the Materials library by contacting reps and setting up appointments for the team. Created concepts and mood boards for client presentations.

AOS INTERIOR ENVIRONMENTS

Design and Construction Intern | New Orleans, LA

May- August 2023

Assisted the MIC (manufactured interior construction) team of DIRTT projects. Created space plans and premanufactured wall designs for clients using DIRTT products and ICE software. Became a quick learner by using new to me software (ICE) to Draft millwork drawings and renderings for clients. Created material and budget proposals for clients using excel. Kickstarted a research project for stakeholders associated with AOS and DIRTT. Worked along with the marketing and furniture teams to conduct a summer showcase hosting over 100 different companies in our office. Created brand standards for fortune 500 companies using PowerPoint, InDesign, and scout and presented each packet to the client.

GARCIA STROMBERG ARCHITECTURE FIRM

Interior Design Intern | West Palm, FL

June 2021

Collaborated closely with a team of interior designers and architects, gaining hands-on experience in the field. Developed proficiency in design programs, rendering software, and creating detailed floor plans. Participated in client and representative meetings, enhancing communication and presentation skills. Built a comprehensive SketchUp library from scratch, organizing hundreds of furniture and fixture models for efficient team access. Supported designers by sourcing and ordering material samples tailored to client needs.

URBAN HARVEST

COMMUNITY MAGNET

TIME | SPRING 2024

SQUARE FOOTAGE | 3,000 SQFT

LOCATION | GAINESVILLE, FL

SOFTWARE | REVIT, ENSCAPE, PHOTOSHOP

A vibrant community hub where people gather to connect and enjoy Gainesville's agricultural heritage. Featuring locally sourced ingredients and partnerships with farmers and restaurateurs, the space fosters a sense of belonging

ADAPTIVE REUSE

Originally built in the 1920s as a Firestone Tire building, this historic structure is located in the heart of Gainesville, nestled between the University of Florida campus and downtown Gainesville. Given its placement in a food desert, where fresh produce is scarce, Urban Harvest was envisioned as a solution to provide fresh, locally sourced food and a vibrant community space accessible for all users, addressing a vital need in the area.

FLOOR PLANS

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

MATERIALS

The design captures Gainesville's youthful, edgy energy while honoring the building's historic character. It blends existing elements, such as exposed brick and wood floors, with modern touches like corrugated metal and neon accent lighting for a fresh yet balanced aesthetic.

FOSTERING COMMUNITY:

Urban Harvest showcases key spaces designed to connect Gainesville residents with the rich agricultural heritage of their city. Central to this space are three pop-up kitchens, equipped with commercial-grade appliances, serving as a platform for locally owned restaurants to showcase their culinary creations. The integrated farmers’ markets provide residents with easy access to fresh ingredients, supporting local producers. Additionally, the space features both private and public lounge areas that offer a casual meeting environment, and are adaptable for hosting events.

SCULPTED SERENITY HEALTHCARE

TIME | FALL 2024

SQUARE FOOTAGE | 32,000 SQFT

LOCATION | ORLANDO, FL

SOFTWARE | REVIT, ENSCAPE, PHOTOSHOP

TEAM | B. LARKAN, L. ACUNA, S. ESPINOSA, S. BURKE

Situated on the second floor of the Orlando Health Institute, this space is designed specifically for advanced endoscopy outpatient care.

By emphasizing a welcoming and comfortable environment, the design balances efficiency with a streamlined workflow, enhancing the patient experience during short-term visits.

Taking inspiration from Florida’s coastline with the modern sophistication of Orlando, our design strikes a balance between functionality, innovation, and the comfort of hospitality, softening a high-tech facility into a calming experience.

CONCEPT MATERIALS

The materials, inspired by nature's hues—sunsets, coastal waters, and soft woods—are carefully selected to meet top healthcare standards, ensuring durability and easy maintenance.

FLOOR PLAN

Inclusive design principles were prioritized to create a space where all users feel comfortable and supported. Clear, easy-to-read signage is strategically placed throughout public areas for simple wayfinding and a variety of seating options to accommodate diverse mobility needs,

STAFF SUPPORT

Impromptu collab space forcasual meetingsbetweenstaffanddoctors allowingstaffmemberstofeelmore connected totheircolleagues

Accessto daylight promotesphysicaland psychological well-being limitingstaffstressor burnout

Arangeofspacesintheloungedesigned forfocus,groupwork,orteam collaboration,allowsforstafftohave choice + control

STAFF SPACES:

The staff areas are designed to evoke the ambiance of a highend spa, providing a respite space to help reduce burnout, promote staff well-being, and support high retention rates. This thoughtful design ensures the Orlando Health Institute continues to deliver top-tier service.

MARMOT

FLAGSHIP RETAIL

TIME | SPRING 2024

SQUARE FOOTAGE | 20,000 SQFT

LOCATION | ATLANTA, GA

SOFTWARE | REVIT, ENSCAPE, PHOTOSHOP

TEAM | N. MANRIQUE, I.STRYCHARZ, S. CARTEN

Connecting a brand to a customer. This project is a cutting-edge retail space that embodies the brand’s commitment to adventure, community, and innovation. The store aims to provide customers with an immersive shopping experience that reflects Marmot’s ethos and high-quality product range.

BRINGING THE BRAND TO LIFE

Uponenteringthespace,visitorsarewelcomedbythestriking oversizedMarmotlogostairs,designedtoevokethe experienceofclimbingamountain frombasetosummit.

“WELCOME TO THE CLUB”

MarmotoriginatedastheMarmotMountain Club,Theclubwelcomedanyonewhofeltlikea misfitinthemainstreamoutdoorcommunity, embracingdiversityandindividuality. Through thisdesign,Marmot’sbrandstandardsare broughttolifetoimmersethecustomerina uniqueshoppingexperience.

Videowalk-through!

LEVEL 1 RCP + FLOOR PLAN

Level 2 takes customers to the peak of the mountain, featuring winter displays, interactive elements, and the in-house coffee and hot cocoa bar, Alpine Brews. Custom graphics throughout the space highlight Marmot's brand while showcasing their products in an engaging, immersive environment.

WEIMER HALL

HIGHER EDUCATION

TIME | FALL 2023

SQUARE FOOTAGE | 130,000 SQFT

LOCATION | GAINESVILLE, FL

SOFTWARE | REVIT, ENSCAPE, PHOTOSHOP

TEAM | B. LARKAN, R. FERNANDEZ, A. SLOAN

Home to the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications no longer meets the evolving needs of students and faculty. To address this, the CJC board + students enlisted our studio to reimagine the building, exploring innovative redesign possibilities for the college.

CONCEPT

Inspired by a time when journalism was simpler, this design blends the building’s history with modern trends. Playful, retrofuturistic elements, soft curves, and biophilic touches create a warm, human-centered experience. Vibrant colors and bold shapes bring energy to the space, offering an exciting place for students and faculty to come together and embrace the learning environment.

THE ATRIUM

ioined as te heart of the building, this space needed to be impactful. Bright colors and unique shapes are incorporated into this area to match the student body’s energy.

FLOOR PLAN

Weimer Hall is in a prime location on campus. Located directly between Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Reitz Union, the building serves as a passageway for hundreds of people every day.

We decided to create a more interactive and engaging walkway to better represent the CJC. Along the pathway, screens are added that can be used to display announcements or student work. Along the wall is the iconic CJC artwork currently located in the building’s atrium.

AUDITORIUM

Acoustical paneling is used throughout this space to manage the sound of the room.

Traditional built-in lecture hall seating enhanced with modern features, including power outlets and side tables, allowing students to comfortably use their laptops during lectures.

Flexible seating designed to accommodate diverse learning styles and support collaborative group work.