Shaping the Future of Outdoor Coastal Design

Laura was selected for a 4-week design challenge in collaboration with SCAD, Veranda Magazine, and Hearst’s new Design U initiative. As co-lead of a team of five diverse designers, she explored the theme "How can nature save our lives?" through the lens of coastal living spaces. The project merged ethical design practices to create a nature-inspired solutions that promote wellbeing in everyday living.

In collaboration with Interior Designers Brittney Arrington and Emily Burris; Textile Designer Shannah Imbruglia; and Furniture Designers Archana Menon and Erica Stine.

Supported by Industry Mentors Christina Gonano and Scott Shrader.


  • Intercultural Collaboration

  • Project Management

  • Storytelling and Narrative Building

  • Trend Forecasting

  • Textile Sourcing

  • Sustainable Material Selection

Cross-Functional Skills

Thematic Area

  • Design – Interiors and Textiles

Recognition

  • Featured in Veranda magazine. Find out more here.

Project Overview

This Coastal Living backyard is thoughtfully designed to reflect Zuri’s passions and aspirations as a local gallery owner, ceramicist, and advocate for ethical design. Her backyard serves as a haven for growth, connection, and creativity, seamlessly integrating her values and lifestyle. Meandering paths lead to intimate spaces where cozy furniture, soft lighting, and natural materials harmonize with the cliffside’s beauty. Inspired by her love for fresh, local ingredients, a small garden offers a space to nurture her baking and culinary pursuits. Areas for dining and gathering provide the perfect backdrop for sharing meals and memories with her family and friends.

The space also features a lounge and yoga platform with a “butterfly” roof, designed to harvest rainwater and provide passive cooling and heating. The tranquil retreat for mindfulness and physical well-being aligns perfectly with Zuri’s dedication to intentional and mindful living.

Zuri’s deep appreciation for responsible design is evident throughout the backyard, with the thoughtful use of circular materials. Surrounded by her children and friends, Zuri watches the sunset and reflects on the backyard design—a space that captures her vision of connection, creativity, and mindful living.

Project Outcomes

Zuri’s Big Sur backyard evolves into a welcoming retreat that connects seamlessly with its natural surroundings. A dining terrace under the shade of a Monterey cypress, a yoga platform with a butterfly roof for water harvesting, and drought-resistant landscaping balance functionality with thoughtful design. Recognized for its innovation, the project was featured in Veranda magazine and presented to industry professionals.

Other Selected Work

  • Redesigning Early Childhood Education

  • Prioritizing User Needs to Accelerate Contraceptive Innovation