Top Projects from My Personal Portfolio Experience
- Ziyi Zhou
- Nov 18, 2025
- 4 min read
In the world of creative work, showcasing your best projects is essential. It not only highlights your skills but also tells potential clients and employers what you can achieve. In this blog post, I will take you through some of the standout projects from my personal portfolio experience. Each project reflects my growth, creativity, and the diverse skills I have developed over the years.
Project 1: The Eco-Friendly Home Design
One of my most fulfilling projects was designing an eco-friendly home for a family looking to minimize their carbon footprint. The challenge was to create a space that was both aesthetically pleasing and sustainable.
Key Features
Sustainable Materials: I used reclaimed wood and recycled materials for construction, which not only reduced waste but also added character to the home.
Energy Efficiency: The design included solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, significantly lowering the family's energy bills.
Natural Landscaping: I incorporated native plants in the landscaping, which required less water and provided a habitat for local wildlife.
This project taught me the importance of integrating sustainability into design and how it can enhance the quality of life for residents.

Project 2: The Community Art Mural
Another memorable project was collaborating with local artists to create a large mural in a community park. The goal was to beautify the space and foster community spirit.
Process and Execution
Community Involvement: We organized workshops where community members could contribute ideas and designs, ensuring the mural reflected the local culture.
Artistic Collaboration: I worked closely with artists to blend different styles and techniques, resulting in a vibrant and cohesive piece.
Installation: The mural was painted over a weekend, with volunteers helping to bring the vision to life.
This project not only enhanced the park's aesthetic but also strengthened community bonds, demonstrating the power of art in public spaces.
Project 3: The Interactive Website for a Non-Profit
Creating an interactive website for a non-profit organization was another highlight of my portfolio. The aim was to increase engagement and donations through a user-friendly platform.
Features of the Website
User-Centric Design: I focused on creating an intuitive navigation system that made it easy for visitors to find information and donate.
Interactive Elements: The website included features like a donation tracker and event calendar, encouraging user interaction.
Responsive Design: Ensuring the website was mobile-friendly was crucial, as many users accessed it via their smartphones.
The project was a success, resulting in a 40% increase in online donations within the first three months of launch. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of user experience in web design.
Project 4: The Brand Identity for a Local Coffee Shop
Developing a brand identity for a local coffee shop was a project that allowed me to explore my creative side. The owner wanted a unique identity that reflected the shop's cozy atmosphere and commitment to quality.
Elements of the Brand Identity
Logo Design: I created a logo that combined elements of coffee culture with a modern twist, making it memorable and appealing.
Color Palette: The warm color palette was chosen to evoke feelings of comfort and relaxation, aligning with the shop's ambiance.
Marketing Materials: I designed business cards, menus, and promotional materials that maintained a consistent brand voice.
This project was not only about design but also about understanding the essence of the business and how to communicate it visually.
Project 5: The Photography Series on Urban Life
As a personal passion project, I embarked on a photography series that captured the essence of urban life. This project allowed me to experiment with different styles and techniques.
Highlights of the Series
Diverse Perspectives: I focused on various aspects of urban life, from bustling markets to quiet parks, showcasing the city's vibrancy.
Technical Skills: This project helped me improve my photography skills, particularly in composition and lighting.
Exhibition: The series culminated in a small exhibition, where I received positive feedback from the community.
This project was a reminder of the beauty in everyday life and the stories that can be told through photography.
Project 6: The Mobile App for Fitness Tracking
Developing a mobile app aimed at helping users track their fitness goals was a challenging yet rewarding experience. The app needed to be user-friendly and motivating.
Key Features of the App
Goal Setting: Users could set personal fitness goals and track their progress over time.
Social Sharing: The app included features that allowed users to share achievements with friends, fostering a sense of community.
Custom Workouts: I incorporated a library of workouts that users could customize based on their fitness levels.
The app received positive reviews for its intuitive design and functionality, proving that technology can play a significant role in promoting health and wellness.
Project 7: The Short Film on Mental Health Awareness
Creating a short film focused on mental health awareness was one of the most impactful projects I have worked on. The goal was to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage open conversations.
Production Process
Script Development: I collaborated with mental health professionals to ensure the content was accurate and sensitive.
Filming: The film was shot in various locations, capturing real stories from individuals willing to share their experiences.
Screening and Discussion: After the film's release, we organized screenings followed by discussions, allowing viewers to engage with the topic.
This project highlighted the importance of storytelling in raising awareness and fostering understanding around mental health.
Conclusion
Each project in my portfolio has contributed to my growth as a creative professional. From sustainable design to community art, every experience has taught me valuable lessons about collaboration, creativity, and the impact of design on people's lives.
As you consider your own projects, think about how you can showcase your unique skills and experiences. Whether through a portfolio, social media, or community engagement, sharing your work can open doors to new opportunities and connections.
Remember, your projects are not just a reflection of your skills; they are a testament to your journey and the impact you can make in the world.


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