SKINNER_PORTFOLIO_2026 by snskinner

SAMMIE

INTERIOR DESIGN PORTFOLIO SKINNER

DESIGN STATEMENT

My name is Sammie Skinner. I am from Overland Park, KS, and I have been drawn to the built environment since before I can remember. Interior design has always been a passion of mine, driven by the belief that well thought out spaces can transform how people feel. Spaces can have an impact not only physically, but also emotionally, and have the power to enhance users’ daily life.

I am captivated by the relationship between form and function, where aesthetic principles meet practical solutions to create spaces that are not only visually inspiring, but also deeply personal and functional. My passion stems from a meticulous attention to detail, a strong appreciation for diverse design styles, and a dedication to learning the nuances that make interiors both timeless and innovative.

I am eager to immerse myself in the professional world of design, collaborating with experienced teams to further refine my skills and contribute fresh perspectives. I am constantly striving to grow as a designer as the learning will never come to an end when it comes to the world of interior design. I always bring a detail oriented, conscientious and creative mindset to every project I undertake. I am deeply committed to excellence and value using design as a tool to create meaningful, positive impact in people’s lives.

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ILLUMINATING WHAT’S NEXT Workplace Design

NEUROINCLUSIVE K-5 SCHOOL

Education Design

BAKED EARTH

Retail and Hospitality Design

FLOURISH PEDIATRICS

Healthcare Design

INTERNSHIP + CREATIVE OUTLETS

Residential Design + Painting

WORK EXPERIENCE

KBID - Winter Intern December 2025 - January 2026

SAMMIE SKINNER

sammie_skinner@outlook.com 913.274.6906

EDUCATION

Kansas State University Manhattan, KS

Expected Graduation: May 2026

College of Architecture, Planning, and Design

Bachelor of Science in Interior Design

Cumulative GPA: 3.905

Dean’s List

AWARDS + ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Metropolis Future 100 | January 2026

Recognized as one of 100 top emerging designers nationwide for excellence and innovation in design.

Angelo Donghia Scholarship | June 2025

One of 15 interior design students nationwide awarded $30,000 for design excellence and creativity.

IIDA Mid-America Scholarship | June 2025

Selected as the first-ever recipient of the IIDA Mid-America Scholarship in recognition of academic distinction and impactful design work.

Made in Manhattan Competition | May 2025

One of five projects from Kansas State Interior Design chosen for the Made in Manhattan Gallery.

ASID Portfolio Competition - Top 10 Finalist | April 2025

Top 10 Finalist for the ASID Portfolio Competition.

Steelcase NEXT Competition - Top 1.75% | December 2024

CERTIFICATIONS

NCIDQ - In Progress

IDFX - Passed October 2025

INVOLVEMENT

IDesign Club | August 2025 - Present Co-president

DIM Club | August 2024 - Present

Digital Information and Media Team for APDesign Graphics Team

ASID & IIDA | December 2024 - Present

Student Member

• Picked up redlines on drawings and documents, prepared material boards for design presentations, and assisted with furniture procurement.

Hufft - Interior Design Intern June 2025 - July 2025

• Assisted on residential and commercial projects using Revit and SketchUp.

• Supported client presentations and progress reports.

• Worked on a studio-style project with an architecture intern to create an affordable housing prototype.

Modern Business - Interior Design Intern May 2024 - July 2024

• Shadowed an interior designer at a commercial furniture dealership.

• Created floor plans and reference drawings of existing spaces using AutoCAD.

• Developed furniture specifications and budgets using CET and CAP.

Kansas State - Interior Design Teaching Assistant August 2024 - Present

• Worked alongside Studio 1, 2, and 3 professors to support first-year students by teaching introductory techniques and assisting with project grading.

Varsity Tutors - Design Tutor January 2025 - May 2025

• Tutoring students online in design programs such as Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite, enhancing their skills and knowledge.

One of two projects from Kansas State Interior Design submitted to Nationals for the Steelcase NEXT competition and was recognized as part of the top 1.75% of submissions.

Jeanne A. Baldwin FIIDA and James G. Baldwin Scholarship in Interior Design | May 2023 - Present

Recognized for outstanding academic performance and design excellence in interior design for the past 3 years.

SKILLS

Computer Skills:

AutoCAD

Revit

Enscape

SketchUp

Visual Impressions

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe InDesign

Adobe Illustrator

Microsoft Office

CAP

Hand Drawing Skills:

Hand drafting

Perspective drawing

Hand rendering

Diagramming

Alpha Delta Pi | August 2022 - Present Member Archivist Officer from 2023-2024

ILLUMINATING WHAT’S NEXT

Kansas State University

First Semester, Third Year

Individual Work

3 months

Next Competition

NEXT is a competition hosted by Steelcase. Each year, they propose a new building, site and program for students to work with. Students have one semester to complete the project individually. At the end of the project, the professors choose two projects to send to the national Steelcase competition and this project was one of the two chosen.

Program Summary

In 2024, the NEXT office was a global advertising agency with offices worldwide, soon expanding to Chicago at 811 West Fulton Market. The new 16,000 sq ft Chicago office will prioritize collaboration, inclusivity, and employee wellbeing, supported by Steelcase furnishings. NEXT serves Hoka, Perrier, Glossier, and Chipotle. The company promotes a “Being More Human” workplace, creating spaces that inspire creativity, connection, and growth. NEXT’s core values include; ideation, individualization of employees, hybrid work, and enforcing collaboration between employees.

Programs Used: Revit, AutoCAD, Enscape, Photoshop

SITE INSPIRATION

Light is recombined through colored glass at the Art Institute of Chicago

Light is reflected like at Chicago’s iconic Cloud Gate, also known as the “Bean.”

Light is dispersed, like it is seen here at the Crown Fountain.

CONCEPT

6TH FLOOR PLAN

7TH FLOOR PLAN

THE “LIGHTBULB” EFFECT

IDEATION INDIVIDUAL WORK HYBRID WORK COLLABORATIVE WORK DISPERSING AWAY REFLECTING BACK AND FORTH RECOMBINING TOGETHER

LIGHT DISPERSION REFLECTION RECOMBINATION OF LIGHT

The space maximizes natural light through clerestory windows and reflective surfaces, complemented by biocentric lighting. This lighting design fosters ideation and creativity.

Throughout the office many spaces are allotted where “NEXTers” can disperse and work or relax individually.

Throughout the office many flexible spaces are provided where “NEXTers” can “bounce ideas off of each other” virtually Users are able to work seamlessly back and forth from home with those in the office.

Many spaces are provided that foster recombining together after dispersing. Both informal and formal collaboration spaces are provided.

VIEW UPON ENTRY

RECEPTION WELLNESS ROOM

“MELT” PENDANT LIGHTS MIMICKING THE BEAN

LOUNGE SEATING FOR A GUEST WAITING AREA

Upon entering the office, there is a warm and inviting atmosphere. The monumental staircase and ceiling shape create a pull into the space. The light coves help promote circulation into the space and fun pendants suggest a moment of pause at the reception. The reflective ceiling not only brightens and expands the space but also mimics the experience of standing beneath Chicago’s iconic Cloud Gate.

The wellness room offers versatile support spaces designed to enhance employee well-being. Light therapy pods allow users to adjust lighting to match their mood or needs with LED light panels, for example vibrant yellow for uplifting energy or calming blue light for relaxation.

This vibrant color palette fosters socialization through its lively and dynamic colors. The curving metal ceiling and chain walls draw inspiration from the flowing forms of the Pritzker Pavilion, a major gathering space for Chicago.

This wildcard space serves as an ideation illumination space, designed to inspire and rejuvenate employees during moments of stress or creative blocks. Colored glass panels create dynamic interplays of light which helps to stimulate the mind. Modular ottomans provide flexible seating for collaboration or quiet reflection

The stairs are arranged parallel to each other, forming an “X” when viewed head-on. At the center, the art installation Plexus by Gabriel Dawe creates a striking focal point for the space, embodying the concept of the interplay of light. The stadium seating, integrated into the stairs, further encourages interaction, inviting users to engage with the space and fostering connection and socialization among them.

PLEXUS BY GABRIEL DAWE

TERRAZZO WITH A SLIP-RESISTANT SEAL

PRIVATE OFFICES

PRIVATE OFFICE LAYOUTS

HUDDLE ROOMS

WORKSTATIONS

Each team has their own “neighborhood”, each featuring a unique color for easy identification. The layout provides individual workstations for focused tasks, complemented by collaborative areas and pin up areas close by to facilitate teamwork.

NEUROINCLUSIVE K-5

SCHOOL

Kansas State University

First Semester, Fourth Year Individual Work

1.5 months

Program Summary

This project builds upon human-centered research on a topic of the student’s choosing. First each student will write a research paper over their given topic to gain a better understanding. Then, each student is responsible for developing an entirely original design, created from the ground up, and informed by evidence-based decision-making.

Project Summary

This K–5 school design treats accommodations as supports that benefit all learners. Instead of separating neurodivergent students, the environment is designed to include all neurological profiles within the same classrooms through evidence-based strategies Ultimately, designing for neurodiverse students designs for all. By supporting attention, comfort, movement, and sensory balance, the school fosters equity, wellbeing, and belonging for every learner.

The base plan is inspired by the structure of the human brain, with circulation that mirrors the organic flow of neural pathways. These intuitive curves reduce cognitive load, improve wayfinding, and create predictable transitions that support attention and emotional regulation, principles rooted in Attention Restoration Theory. Likewise, calming sensory zoning, acoustical control, and balanced lighting follow Sensory Integration Theory, helping students regulate sensory input rather than become overwhelmed by it.

Programs Used: Revit, Enscape, Photoshop

• Soft, natural, glare-free lighting

• Good acoustics and reduced background noise

• Predictable, easy-to-read layout

• Clear, intuitive wayfinding

BOTH BENEFIT FROM: NEUROTYPICAL

• Access to calming/retreat space

• Multiple seating + posture options

• Chance for movement during the day

• Reduced cognitive load / sensory balance overall

NEURODIVERSE

BASE PLAN

DESIGN NEEDS

DYSLEXIA DYSPRAXIA

Wider pathways, supportive handrails, and organized furniture layouts help navigation and motor planning.

High-contrast signage, simple wayfinding, and uncluttered visuals reduce cognitive load and support comprehension.

AUTISM

Predictable layouts, softer lighting, and quiet retreat spaces reduce overload and support regulation.

Clear layouts, reduced stimuli, and movement-friendly seating support focus.

EXTRACURRICULAR

Gym, Library, Cafeteria, Music, Art, Support Rooms

Main Office, Staff Breakroom, Nurse, Counselor, Other

Separated Recess Areas for Each Grade

Classrooms, Pods, Sensory Rooms, Restrooms, Testing Room

MAIN OFFICE + STAFF SPACES COURTYARD K-1 WING 2-3 WING 4-5 WING

Classrooms, Pods, Sensory Rooms, Restrooms, Testing Room

MAIN PATHWAY

MAIN CIRCULATION

4-5 WING CIRCULATION

Compression and release provided horizontally through walls and vertically in the ceiling plane

“Sunscape” seating providing a transitional space Clear, easy to understand signage

Recessed railing for coordination issues

Flooring changes signaling a clear path

Linear elements guiding path

Biophilic patterns guided by Attention Restoration Theory

Niche seating providing a transitional space

Recessed railing for coordination issues

MULTI-USE PODS

CLASSROOM CORRIDOR

2-3

4-5

Colors and custom designed acoustical panels work together to create a distinct “story” in every wing. The relationship between hues and shapes reflects the ways K–5 students naturally play at their age, through role-play, storytelling, and adventure, allowing each pod to carry its own identity. These visual cues guide movement and act as a backdrop to signage.

GEMINI AI USED TO GENERATE SCALE FIGURES AND SMARTBOARD

FOCUS ROOM

The focus rooms are designed to accommodate every testing accommodation in a single inclusive environment, ensuring no student is separated or singled out based on their needs. Adjustable lighting, acoustic control, varied seating, and semi-enclosed work zones support extended time, reduced distractions, and assistive technology use. By integrating these supports into one unified space, all learners can test comfortably and equitably, reinforcing a culture of belonging while maintaining the integrity of the assessment process.

FOCUS ROOM

HYPOSENSITIVE

GEMINI AI USED TO GENERATE ENTOURAGE

CLASSROOM

CLASSROOM FLEXIBILITY

CLASSROOM

BAKED EARTH

Kansas State University

First Semester, Third Year Group Work

1.5 months

Program Summary

Students were tasked with adapting an existing building in Salina, Kansas, into a mixeduse space. The first floor is programmed to accommodate multiple retail spaces and is primarily space-planned with minimal detail, then documented for “construction” to provide a foundation for developing construction documents. The second floor, which includes a food hall and a restaurant, is fully designed and resolved, allowing students to explore concept development, spatial experience, and detailed interior design decision-making.

Project Summary

The Baked Earth project reimagines 140 S Santa Fe Ave in Salina, KS as a layered community hub reflecting the city’s terracotta heritage while fostering modern social and economic growth. It includes three key components: retail stores, a food hall and The TerraCotta Table, a farm-to-table pizza restaurant. Together, these spaces activate the site throughout the day, providing accessible, inspiring, and engaging environments for Salina residents and visitors.

Skills Used: Revit, AutoCAD, InDesign, Photoshop

Team Member(s): Kate Lennon, Kaylen Johnson and Makayla Beier

SITE CONTEXT

Baked Earth is located within an existing building along Santa Fe Avenue in Salina, Kansas, a corridor defined locally owned restaurants and boutiques that create a distinctly handmade, community-driven character Salina’s material history directly informs the project’s concept, aligning food made by hand and transformed by heat with clay

2ND FLOOR PLAN

RESTAURANT + FOOD HALL DESIGN

RESTAURANT SEATING

PATIO SEATING

CUSTOM PATIO WINDOWS

The patio windows slide upward and latch securely, allowing the space to be fully enclosed against Kansas’s ever-changing weather.

CUSTOM LIGHT SCOOPS

The large food hall will be lit at night through custom light scoops which are powered through the sunlight gathered during the day.

BAR SEATING RESTAURANT SEATING

FOOD HALL SEATING

BEAM LIGHTING

Integrated cove uplighting within the beams in the restaurant provides ambient ceiling illumination appropriate for a lively dining environment while concealing the structural I-beam. Acoustical batting within the beams helps absorb sound and enhance acoustic comfort.

RESTROOM ELEVATIONS STAIR DETAIL

RETAIL STORE ENLARGED FLOOR PLAN

FLOURISH PEDIATRICS

Kansas State University

Second Semester, Second Year

Individual Work

2 months

Program Summary

The second semester of Studio 4 focused on healthcare design, offering an in-depth exploration of this specialized field. The assigned project focused on designing a pediatric clinic in Topeka, KS, with specific programming requirements to guide the process. A key component of the program was the incorporation of an on-stage and off-stage healthcare clinic model.

Project Statement

This clinic incorporates color theory to emotionally and conceptually connect with its users. Soft blues and greens are used to establish a calming, soothing atmosphere that fosters healing, while brighter hues like yellow, orange, and pink add a playful touch to appeal to children. Tree motifs and nature-inspired elements are woven throughout the space, creating a comforting and familiar environment that not only helps children feel at ease, but also inspires them to spend more time in nature. The color palette reflects the vibrant seasonal changes of flourishing trees, reinforcing this connection to nature. Through these intentional design strategies, the clinic creates a nurturing space where children can flourish in every season of life.

Programs Used: Revit, AutoCAD, Enscape, Photoshop

CONCEPT

Colors creating these emotions in children

DESIGN CHOICES

TREE ANALOGS

• “Tree” play area

• Branch like ceiling baffles in corridor

• Leaf references in waiting room

NATURE INSPIRED CHOICES

• Natural light, waiting room and collaboration areas close to windows

• Clerestory windows in each exam room

COLOR THEORY

• Green - soothing and promotes health

• Blue - promotes a tranquil ambience

• Air purification systems, Atmos air and Puro UV Calming Healing Joyful Exciting Intriguing = Winter = Summer = Spring = Fall

• Every exam room references a different season

• Log inspired reception desk

STAFF LOCKERS

STAFF RESTROOM

HEADS DOWN WORKSPACE

BREAK NOOKS

MEDICAL STORAGE

• Yellow and orange - joy and laughter

• Pink - calming atmosphere, lowers heart rate

PATIENT CORRIDOR

PATIENT RESTROOM

MOTHERS’ ROOM

CLOSET

BREAK ROOM

STAFF CORRIDOR

BACK OF HOUSE WORKSTATIONS

HAND WASHING STATION

MEDICAL RECORDS

WAITING ROOM FLEXIBILITY

Research findings indicate that waiting rooms should be designed for flexibility, incorporating easily movable elements that can establish spatial boundaries or be removed as needed. The options above demonstrate this approach.

RECEPTION

Sliding door creates boundary between public areas and reception, door stops at end of track.

The soffit mirrors the shape of the reception desk, establishing a vertical relationship between the two elements.

No floor change underneath ADA compliant counter.

KIDS PLAY AREA

General Note: All colored materials shown here are made from antimicrobial plastics.

Peg board and shelves

Spinning wheels

“Climbing tree” game with interchangeable pieces

Nook space providing an area of refuge

PATIENT CORRIDOR

The patient hallway features ceiling baffles designed to resemble tree branches, creating a natural, calming atmosphere. Above these baffles, Solatube lighting allows sunlight to filter through, emulating the effect of light shining through treetops. Integrated into this system is Puro UV disinfectant lighting, which ensures the cleanliness of the baffles while mirroring nature’s inherent ability to purify. Additionally, the AtmosAir purification system is seamlessly incorporated into the HVAC system, enhancing air quality throughout the clinic. This integration not only prioritizes cleanliness and safety, but also mimics the clean air provided by trees in nature.

TRIAGE STATION

Triage Station includes;

• Medical scale that is also ADA compliant

• Medical scale designed for weighing babies with storage space underneath

• Spot for nurses to write down measurements

• Custom height measurement device

EXAM ROOM CUSTOM WALL MURALS

Mirror for distraction and to aid with exams

Seating for caregiver and siblings

Clerestory windows maintain privacy

TV for positive distraction

Each of the four exam rooms mimic trees flourishing in different seasons These custom wall murals help to enforce this idea while creating a positive distraction for patients.

BREAK NOOKS

OFF-STAGE

Incorporating biophilic-inspired design into the “off-stage” areas of the clinic was equally as important as it was for the “on-stage” areas. Break nooks strategically placed near large windows offer employees a dedicated space to relax and rejuvenate, benefiting from an abundance of natural light.

WORKSTATIONS

BREAK ROOM

HUFFT HOUSING PROTOTYPE

Program Summary

A schematic housing prototype was developed in response to real site conditions, community needs, and efficient construction methods. The prototypes goal was to create an affordable residential model that can be applied anywhere and for anyone.

Project Summary

The prototype emphasizes simple forms, clear circulation, and strong connections to natural light. The plan is adaptable to varying family sizes and site conditions while maintaining construction efficiency. Material selection was guided by durability, life cycle cost, and affordability.

For this project a real site in Kansas City, MO was chosen. The design responds to the adjacent railway, integrating this concept into the building form and architectural detailing. The result is a repeatable housing prototype that is both livable and contextually grounded, balancing thoughtful design with practical construction considerations.

Skills Used: Revit, SketchUp, Enscape

Team Member(s): Noah Kotlinski

Hufft Summer 2025 Partner Work 2 months LIVING ROOM

CONCEPT

“Two trains passing in the night” reflects not only the site and its context, but is a phrase used to describe a chance encounter. Unfortunately, for many people today finding an affordable house that meets their needs is a chance encounter.