S. MURPHY
Interior Designer
WELCOME! I'M MURPHY.
As an interior designer, my work is rooted in the belief that spaces should be more than mere structures—they should be narratives brought to life. Each project I undertake is an exploration of culture, history, and human connection, woven together through intentional design and aesthetic storytelling.
WORKS
SENIOR LIVING DESIGN
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Elder Adult Community
Undergraduate Thesis
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
ONYX, an LGBTQ+ focused senior living community, is designed to honor identity, encourage connection, and promote well-being. Through intentional design and community-focused planning, it cultivates companionship, engagement, and holistic health for older LGBTQ+ adults. Interior spaces are crafted with inclusivity and accessibility at their core, featuring high-contrast elements for visibility, adaptable layouts for mobility, and welcoming features that reflect diverse identities. Shared spaces and intergenerational programs nurture meaningful connections, while areas like the art studio, performance stage, and gardening courtyard promote creativity and community involvement. Culturally informed health services, memory care, and trauma-informed design provide compassionate, affirming support that acknowledges the unique challenges LGBTQ+ seniors may face. More than just a residence, this community is a safe, healing space where LGBTQ+ seniors can thrive.
RESTAURANT DESIGN
Bistro & Bar
Restaurant: Chloe
Location: Nuuk, Greenland
Reflecting the unique mélange of two distinct cultures, Chloe crafts a space that mirrors the harmonious union of French decadence and Greenlandic heritage. Rich saturations of hues, inspired by the colorful buildings of Greenland, intermingle with lively patterns and pinstripes synonymous with French flair, creating an eccentric atmosphere. The menu combines the bountiful harvest of the local Greenlandic mountains and rivers with the exquisite flavors of French cuisine, offering guests a tantalizing experience that is as culturally rich as it is delicious.
HEALTHCARE DESIGN
Critical Care Burn Unit Simulation Center
Location: Maui, Hawaii
Project Partner: Sydney Branz
Crafting a critical care burn unit simulation hospital within a university, our healthcare design project seamlessly marries cutting-edge functionality with aesthetic refinement. Harnessing the principles of biomimicry, the space elegantly mirrors nature's resilience and regenerative qualities, fostering an environment that aligns with the ethos of healing. Embracing a commitment to hygiene and wellbeing, antimicrobial materials are meticulously integrated, ensuring a sterile and safe atmosphere. The carefully curated earth-toned color palette, selected for its calming and grounding properties creates a sense of serenity essential for both patients and practitioners. Every design element converges to create a holistic learning environment.
HOUSING DESIGN
Student Housing
School: Kyiv Municipal Academy of Circus and Performing Arts
Location: Kyiv, Ukraine
This unique college dorm project homed in on vibrant and culturally rich living space. Drawing inspiration from traditional Ukrainian aesthetics and infusing it with modern eclectic circus elements, the design seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary flair. The primary goal was to create an engaging environment that not only encourages creativity but also fosters a sense of community among the students. The result is a dynamic and aesthetically pleasing living space that reflects the diverse interests and personalities of the individuals residing within.
BAR DESIGN
Speakeasy Bar
Brand: Death & C0
Location: Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport
Concealed within the bustling corridors of MSP Airport, this clandestine speakeasy invites travelers into an atmosphere of timeless elegance and exclusivity. Warm, muted lighting bathes the space in a golden glow, illuminating plush leather banquettes and antique-inspired furnishings that evoke the charm of a bygone era. Spanning two levels, the design incorporates various lounging areas, each offering unique levels of privacy for moments of quiet respite. Hidden away from the chaos of transit, this speakeasy transforms the travel experience, offering a serene escape marked by sophistication and intrigue.
HOTEL DESIGN
Hotel Lobby & Suites
Hotel: Hotel SILA
Location: Nuuk, Greenland
Inspired by the vibrant culture and stunning nature of Nuuk, Greenland, Hotel SILA is named after the Greenlandic concept Sila, an interweaving of the physical atmosphere with the spiritual wisdom of existence. The design draws heavily from the symmetrical aesthetics of Wes Anderson films, bringing a whimsical touch complemented by French Art Deco's geometric patterns and opulent textures that add a layer of timeless design. The result is an immersive experience of the unexpected, a captivating retreat that celebrates Nuuk’s unique heritage and natural beauty while offering guests an enchanting and elegant experience.
