RUIN LUST

Master of Design in Interior Design, Thesis Work

My Master of Design thesis, Ruin Lust, explores adaptive reuse in interior design, delving into why we are drawn to signs of age and history and how repurposing old structures creates unique and compelling spaces. Comprised of three of books - Ruin Lust, Echo and Relic - the work investigates our intrinsic attraction to repurposed spaces and objects, with a focus on an old train station in Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens in the book Echo. This study is complemented by a collection of decaying objects, which highlights the distinctive beauty and allure of time-worn artifacts.

In the primary book, Ruin Lust, I explore the art of repurposing existing structures, inviting readers to appreciate reimagined interiors that blend historical integrity with modern creativity. This book delves into the enchanting allure of adaptive reuse in interior design, showcasing how it harmonizes the old with the new to create innovative, sustainable designs.

Tracing its history from early architectural experiments to contemporary prominence, I highlight how adaptive reuse has shaped the urban fabric of cities, particularly Glasgow. Known for its rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene, Glasgow has embraced adaptive reuse to preserve its architectural legacy while meeting modern needs. Through detailed case studies and compelling visuals, the book reveals how this approach honors the past and reimagines the potential for unique spaces.

In book 2, Echo, I invite you to explore the beauty of a derelict train station nestled within the overgrown tranquility of the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. The narrative, presented as handwritten text screen-printed on photographs of the station, evokes nostalgia and mystery. It reveals the station’s silent secrets and the botanical wilderness that has slowly reclaimed it. Each page, illuminated with an ethereal glow, invites readers to delve into a world where the past and nature converge, creating a spellbinding blend of desolation and enchantment. This work highlights the space’s potential, and celebrates the juxtaposition of decay and beauty.

Book 3, Relic delves into the evocative power of objects touched by time, revealing the beauty and significance embedded in their decay. Featuring a collection of weathered artifacts found near the Botanic Gardens train station, each item is accompanied by its precise coordinates to anchor its story in a specific place. The book includes my favorite quotes about ruins and decay, inviting readers to explore how this process inspires and enriches narratives about an item or space’s past. The book is accompanied by a shadow box showcasing the featured artifacts, allowing viewers to engage directly with these decayed objects and appreciate their details.

Other Master of Design Projects

Process Journal

Adaptive Reuse Study - Churches

Shadow Study

Layout Design + Photoshop Editing