Zak Hardy

Name

Zak Hardy

Course

Interior Design, BA (Hons)

Contact

About

As an interior design student I have a strong interest in immersive spatial design, visual storytelling, and the relationship between atmosphere and user experience within interior environments. My work combines technical planning with creative visualisation, focusing on the development of spaces that encourage interaction, inclusivity, and emotional connection. Throughout my studies, I have developed skills across CAD development, spatial planning, rendering, material selection, and physical model making. Alongside university, I have also undertaken freelance work producing zoning, helping to strengthen my understanding of real-world design practice and technical communication. My design approach is heavily influenced by narrative-driven environments, cinematic atmosphere, and contemporary interpretations of historic and social spaces. Through both technical and conceptual work, my aims are to create interiors that feel engaging, functional, and visually distinctive.

Project overview

The Garrick

The Garrick is reimagined as a vibrant, community-led destination that brings together independent shops, local clubs, and a restored Art Deco theatre, honouring its 1920s heritage while responding to the ongoing decline of Southport's Lord Street. The project seeks to create opportunities for local businesses to grow and prosper through collaboration and shared identity, offering an alternative to traditional council-led regeneration, which has contributed to the area’s retail challenges. At its core, The Garrick is designed to foster a strong sense of community, encouraging social connection and inclusivity. By welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, the space aims to support improved mental health, well-being, and a renewed sense of belonging within the town. A key feature within the building is The Green Room, a juice bar located above the grand staircase at the main entrance. Drawing inspiration from the building’s Art Deco heritage, the design includes geometric patterns, while also carefully balanced with a soft, minimal palette to create a calm and inviting atmosphere. The space is intentionally inclusive, offering a comfortable environment that is accessible and considerate of all users, including neurodivergent individuals to further support local creativity, a competition was held for emerging artists to design a vibrant mural within The Green Room. Celebrating health and well-being, the mural provides a platform for new talent within the community while introducing a dynamic visual element.

Project tags

  • Interior design
  • community
  • Art Deco
  • regeneration
UCLan Degree Show artwork submission by Zak Hardy named The Garrick

A full visual of The Green Room.

UCLan Degree Show artwork submission by Zak Hardy named The Garrick

Respite for families whilst out shopping, The Green Room makes for an ideal retreat.

UCLan Degree Show artwork submission by Zak Hardy named The Garrick

The Elevated space of The Green Room is accessible via the ramp. The Green Room is an area where the community come together in anticipation for the evening theartics.

UCLan Degree Show artwork submission by Zak Hardy named The Garrick

Entering The Garrick, the grand staircase welcomes you, leading up to The Green Room, highlighted with soft lighting to guide visitors through the space.

UCLan Degree Show artwork submission by Zak Hardy named The Garrick

The front elevation view of The Garrick.

UCLan Degree Show artwork submission by Zak Hardy named The Garrick

A section cut of The Garrick.