Ellison Mathews Interior Design Portfolio by ellie.mathews

PORT FOLIO

ELLISON MATHEWS

INTERIOR DESIGN

PROFILE

Hello, my name is Ellison Mathews. I graduated from Iowa State University in May 2025 with a BFA in Interior Design.

My passion for interior design began at a young age through my love of arts and crafts. Over time, that appreciation for art evolved into a fascination with houses and interior spaces. I often found myself driving around simply to admire beautiful homes, imagining what their interiors might look like. Conversations with my aunt and uncle—who have built and designed nearly every home they’ve lived in—further shaped my interest, as they shared valuable insights on creating designs that are effective, beautiful, and functional.

I believe interior spaces have a powerful impact on emotion and well-being. I find that much of my happiness is influenced by the environments I inhabit and the feelings they evoke. My design aesthetic is drawn to bright colors, funky patterns, and bold textures. I believe that intentional layering of these elements can elevate a space, creating environments that feel dynamic and memorable.

At the core of my work is the belief that the most successful designs balance cohesion, functionality, and playfulness to create spaces that are both original and meaningful.

563 - 210 - 4572

elliemathews19@gmail.com

EDUCATION

Iowa State University, Ames, IA

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Interior Design

May 2025

Graduated Cum Laude

GPA: 3.67 / 4.00

WORK EXPERIENCE

Aleksandra Nova Design Chicago, Illinois

Interior Design Student Intern Summer 2024

REFERENCES

Ian Meisch Design Director and School Alumni

ian@studioijm.com

+1 (563) 726 - 3965

SKILLS

• High-quality sketching, rendering, and digital media abilities

• Creative mindset / problem solving solutions

• Experienced leader and collaborator

• Organized and exceptional work ethic

• Revit, AutoCad, InDesign

Bettplex Bettendorf, Iowa Server Summer 2023

Mio Russo Bettendorf, Iowa Server Summers 2021 and 2022

Yongyeon Cho

Associate Professor of Practice

yongyeon@iastate.edu (515) 294 -1532

Sarah Zenti

Associate Professor of Practice

szenti@iastate.edu (515) 294 - 5676

FEATURED PROJECTS

01 - FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY

02 - CHATEAU DE LA NEIGE

CREATIVE PERSPECTIVES

03 - OTHER RENDERINGS

CREATIVE SKETCHES

03 - SKETCHES / ARTWORK

FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY

Welcome to Fields of Opportunity, a public library that aims to reflect the natural landscape of Iowa with the overall goal of providing fields of opportunities for the local community. The space is designed to help boost community morale by encouraging people to converse with each other. With the addition of textural interest, the atmosphere embodies feelings of growth, creativity, and inspiration. In order to create this grounding ambiance, natural aspects are incorporated throughout to help connect users to nature. The color palette is based off common landscapes and seasonal tones throughout the state of Iowa. Design elements include lots of natural lighting, an open floor concept, clean lines, and ergonomic furniture.

Group Member: Jenna Engeldinger

PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Our group was challenged to reimagine the public library in Ames, Iowa. We focused on understanding the unique needs and desires of local residents, aiming to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that challenges outdated perceptions of libraries. Our goal was to design a space that fosters a strong sense of community, provides opportunities for meaningful interaction, and offers free access to a diverse range of resources.

FF&E SELECTIONS

RECEPTION ELEVATION

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

DETAILS

ZEN ZONE BACK WALL ELEVATION

ZEN ZONE

Chateau De La Neige

“Castle in the Snow”

Welcome to Chateau de la Neige, where a rigid exterior unveils a sanctuary of luxury and tranquility. Our design concept contrasts the urban facade with a serene, sustainable interior that harmonizes natural materials and textures.

Warm, inviting light and ambiance set a soothing tone, while rich wood and stone elements enhance the sense of luxury. Rich color injects energy and personality into the space. We blend relaxation and productivity seamlessly, offering plush lounges and serene rooms for unwinding alongside versatile workstations and high-tech amenities. Chateau de la Neige provides an elegant escape where relaxation meets efficiency, making every stay both restorative and inspiring.

Group Members: Jenna Engeldinger, Annalise Schrang, and Mali McGregor

PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Our project was tasked with designing a workcation hotel nestled in Aspen, Colorado. The primary objective was to establish an environment conducive to both relaxation and productivity with the emphasis on the integration of sustainable materials.

MY FOCUS

I designed the entire second floor including the fitness center, spa, guestrooms, and coworking areas. I also developed the speakeasy on the 4th floor with a glass curtain wall to overlook the sunset each night.