Liwen He
Interior Design
School of Visual Arts SVA
Specialisms: Interior Design / Interior Architecture / Sustainable Design
Location: New York, United States
Liwen He
First Name: Liwen
Last Name: He
Specialisms: Interior Design / Interior Architecture / Sustainable Design
Sectors:
My Location: New York, United States
University / College: School of Visual Arts SVA
Course / Program Title: Interior Design
About
From assembling simple wooden models in my childhood to immersing myself in the creative process through drawing, I have always found joy in making. Over time, I realized that my passion extended beyond artistic expression into designing spaces that bring tangible improvements to people’s lives. This realization led me to pursue interior design at the School of Visual Arts, where I developed a deeper understanding of how design can impact communities.
At SVA, I was introduced to the principles of design for community and adaptive reuse, which profoundly shaped my approach to interior design. I learned how reimagining existing spaces and designing with people at the forefront could breathe new life into environments while respecting their history and context. These lessons instilled in me a commitment to creating spaces that are not only functional but also deeply connected to the communities they serve.
Sustainability has also become a cornerstone of my design philosophy. I believe that every interior project has the potential to harmonize beauty, functionality, and ecological responsibility. By incorporating renewable materials, optimizing resource use, and envisioning adaptable spaces, I aim to create designs that respect the environment while addressing the needs of both present and future generations.
What excites me most about interior design is its interdisciplinary nature. It blends creativity, technical problem-solving, and a deep understanding of human behavior. Whether I’m developing layouts, selecting materials, or considering how light and texture shape the user experience, I approach each challenge as an opportunity to craft thoughtful and impactful solutions.
As a designer, I am passionate about creating spaces that bridge practicality with meaningful narratives. My work often draws inspiration from cultural and social contexts, reflecting my belief that interiors can tell stories and enrich lives. By combining lessons from adaptive reuse and sustainability, I aim to create designs that not only solve functional challenges but also inspire and connect people.
For me, interior design is more than a profession—it is a way of making a difference. It allows me to shape environments that respect history, engage communities, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Each project reaffirms my passion for this field and drives me to push the boundaries of what thoughtful design can achieve.
Octa Nexus is a cultural center located in Xinjiang, a historically significant region in northwest China known for its role on the Silk Road and home to 56 ethnic groups. Reflecting Xinjiang’s multicultural richness, the center promotes education, interaction, and community-building while preserving and celebrating local traditions. This project provides open public spaces for gatherings, fostering dialogue and collaboration among diverse groups, and reinforcing cultural identity. Its design harmonizes with the surroundings, integrating traditional elements to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. By connecting people to their heritage and each other, the center embodies Xinjiang’s vibrant cultural spirit and supports unity in diversity.
Competitions
Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2025
Ethereal Edge: A Papercutting Sanctuary
Ethereal Edge is a museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional art of papercutting in Xuelingwei Village, located in Chengjiao Township, Zherong County, Ningde City. Fujian Province. With over a thousand vears of history. Zherona papercutting is at risk of being lost, as many residents, primarily farmers, have shifted focus to agriculture as a livelihood. This museum aims to revitalize and support this cultural heritage by creating a space where visitors can experience the art firsthand. participate in workshops. and purchase artistic products. Beyond preserving the art form, the project will offer local job opportunities and increase local income through cultural tourism and the sale of creative products, contributing to the village's economic development.
Competitions
Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2025
Nestled on Seattle's coastline, this resort redefines sustainable luxury by centering its design on advanced water circulation systems, ensuring ecological harmony with the marine environment. The architectural highlight is a mid-level "forest" of interspersed irregular columns-some structural, others artistic-evoking a tranquil woodland. This lush garden laver functions as an oxygen-rich retreat, offering guests a serene space to relax and rejuvenate. The interplay of water, greenery, and light creates a seamless integration of nature and architecture, inspiring a deep sense of connection to the coastal landscape.
Competitions
Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2025
The Ainsihar Project, meaning "combination," explores the intersection of health, hygiene, culture, and child development through a design that harmonizes Muslim traditions with African-American cultural influences. The project seeks to foster a shared space that promotes cultural exchange, community integration, and mutual growth. By leveraging the natural environment to support relaxation and holistic development, the design aspires to create a nurturing atmosphere that bridges cultural identities and nurtures the well-being of children and families.
Competitions