Crystal Zhou

Interior designer with both Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Interior Design from Toronto Metropolitan University. Focused on the relationship between materiality, atmosphere, and human experience, with the ability to translate design concepts into spatial proposals that balance expressive intent and tectonic clarity. Experienced in space planning, technical documentation, 3D modeling and rendering, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Currently preparing for the NCIDQ Certification to further advance professional practice.

Interior Designer - Reno Mumu Inc/Sun Sea Sky - Toronto, ON

(2025-10 - 2026-03)

• Contributed to multiple interior design projects, including retail spaces and visual merchandising, by developing conceptual design proposals and creating 3D models and renderings for client projects, including in-store products and materials.
• Led space planning for Global Building Supplies, optimizing layout and circulation.
• Created design-focused marketing and social media visuals to elevate brand presentation.

Freelance Interior Designer - Freelance - Toronto, ON

(2025-07 - 2025-11)

• Collaborated as a two-person design team on multiple residential renovation projects, contributing to different areas across several homes.
• Developed CAD drawings from precise site measurements.
• Transformed and redesigned residential spaces, including basement, kitchen, living room, and bathrooms. Optimizing layout, functionality, material coordination, and designing key elements such as a fireplace to enhance comfort, usability, and overall aesthetic.
• Researched and sourced FF&E to support material and furnishing selections.
• Produced 3D renderings to visualize design proposals.

Interior Designer, Design Center Department - Besso Floor & Décor - Markham, ON

(2024-05 - 2025-01)

• Collaborated with both clients and renovation contractors, quickly translated photos or hand-drawn sketches into 3D bathroom models using SketchUp, applied real-time material rendering in D5, and guided clients through immersive 3D walkthroughs on site.
• Assisted clients in calculating required tile quantities and provided expert material recommendations based on spatial needs, ensuring accurate procurement and design coherence.
• Coordinated with multiple departments to create promotional posters and visual renderings; managed media content and produced promotional videos for internal and external communication.
• Co-led the interior design of a new branch store with another designer, independently handling core spaces including the showroom, public washroom, owner's office, and meeting room; conducted on-site measurements to ensure a cohesive style aligned with the brand identity.
• Led onboarding and training of new employees, enhancing their client communication skills and proficiency in design software to improve overall team performance.

Interior Design Intern - Cherub Project Inc. - Toronto, ON

(2023-09 - 2023-12)

• Produced detailed floor plans, elevations, 3D models, and high-quality renderings primarily for commercial projects, with some residential projects running concurrently, using AutoCAD, SketchUp, and 3ds Max; performed timely design revisions and urgent modifications as required.
• Ensured strict compliance with building codes and regulations to maintain design safety and quality.
• Conducted precise on-site measurements and inspections, actively participating in project meetings to provide professional input and effective communication.
• Managed FF&E inventory, independently researched materials, and delivered clear and persuasive presentations to clients, facilitating informed decision-making.

Interior Design Intern - EnoLight Ltd. - Toronto, ON

(2023-09 - 2023-12)

• Assisted in designing a showroom, transforming an office into a dynamic display of lighting products.
• Utilized 3D modeling using SketchUp to ensure the representation of the brand's distinctive characteristics and uphold high-quality standards.
• Engaged in collaborative design ideation to develop an immersive and visually compelling environment that effectively demonstrated the transformative potential of the lighting product.

Study Abroad Project in Italy, Design Project - Toronto Metropolitan University - Cortona, Italy

(2023-06 - 2023-07)

• Selected to participate in a study abroad program in Cortona, Italy, focusing on designing a new house in harmonizing with the local topography and cultural context.
• Utilized Revit for 3D modeling and Enscape for real-time rendering to enhance design visualization and development, improving clarity and presentation quality.
• Achieved an A grade on the final project, with the design recognized as the most feasible among the team's proposals, demonstrating a successful integration of design concepts with site-specific environmental and cultural factors while balancing innovation and practical implementation.

Master of Interior Design - Interior Design (MID) - Toronto Metropolitan University (2024-09 - 2025-10)

Bachelor of Interior Design w/Distinction - Interior Design (BID) with Minor in Geography - Toronto Metropolitan University (2020-09 - 2024-04)

Advanced Diploma w/Honours - Interior Design - George Brown College (2020-04)