Interior Design School of Design
Weiyi Zhang
During my studies at the Glasgow School of Art, my interests gradually shifted from traditional spatial design to the integration of branding and space. I became particularly focused on how environments communicate brand values while addressing real-world needs. My final project, set in a commemorative tourist site, explored the balance between public service and brand operation through the design of a flower shop and reception space that connects visitor experience with community engagement.
Site
The two buildings are located near the entrance of Glasgow Necropolis, forming an important part of the historical and cultural heritage of the area. 50 John Knox Street features Victorian architectural details and a solid foundation, while 52 John Knox Street, originally a residential structure, is compact and sturdy, making it suitable for adaptive reuse as a community space. The nearby garden adds a serene outdoor environment, offering opportunities for activities that complement the buildings’ functions. Existing interest from groups like the “Friends of the Necropolis” indicates strong community and visitor engagement potential.
Site Model
The second model at 1:200 scale is meant to illustrate the site relationship between the visitor center and the flower shop. Since some viewers may be confused about the distance between the two buildings and how to reach the Necropolis, this model helps clarify the pedestrian path and circulation. I will also indicate the direction toward the Glasgow Necropolis and mark thegrassy, open area around it to help situate the project in its larger context.
To better reveal the overall structure and internal relationships of the building, I chose to 3D print the model in separate parts. This made it easier to disassemble and examine each component, and also allowed the internal support structures to be removed more easily without damaging any details.
Visitor Center – Visitor Welcome
The ground floor is organized around a central circulation core, with clearly defined functional zones including reception, exhibition, rest areas, and a souvenir retail space. Multiple entrances respond to visitors arriving from different paths, enhancing the accessibility and openness of the building. As a result, the visitor center not only supports the needs of tourism and memorial visits, but also serves as a key gateway to the cemetery.
Visitor Center – FoGN Office
This floor is designated for the exclusive use of the nonprofit organization Friends of Glasgow Necropolis, serving as a space for daily work and communication, and occasionally hosting partner organizations. Due to the limited area on the top floor, some parts of this level are visually connected to the floor below, enhancing the overall sense of openness and spatial experience.
Visitor Center – Public Function
The layout centers around a screening room where short films about the cemetery and the city’s history are shown, fostering an emotional connection for visitors. A waiting area serves as a calming buffer before entering the main space; the multi-purpose room accommodates community discussions or memorial events; the kitchen and storage area support small gatherings; and accessible facilities ensure inclusivity for all. The design strikes a balance between functionality and atmosphere, allowing the space to serve both remembrance and everyday communal interaction.
Flower Shop – Retail & Operational
The flower checkout and packaging area is located at the entrance and exit of the visitor center, serving the dual functions of welcoming arrivals and facilitating departures after purchases. The space features soft blue walls, natural lighting, and textured brick flooring, creating a bright, welcoming, and calm atmosphere.
The central zone is defined by woven flower baskets, serving as the first visual focal point upon entry. Loose flowers are displayed within the baskets, paired with a simple wooden platform to create a natural and layered presentation. Along the wall, angled flower holders offer pre-wrapped bouquets, allowing visitors to browse and select with ease. Overhead, lightweight bricks are laid with staggered joints and supported by partially prestressed steel frames to form a continuously undulating ceiling structure, with the brick surfaces retaining their natural texture and fine masonry detailing.
Flower Shop- Floral Workshop & Care
This floor includes a planting and storage area for daily floral care, as well as a small workshop where visitors can create their own bouquets. These handmade arrangements can be offered to the deceased in the nearby cemetery, turning a hands-on activity into a personal and meaningful act of remembrance.
