Jiacheng Zhang

1. A spacious cafe area with modern and minimalist design elements. There are blue cushioned bench seats with small wooden tables attached, arranged along concrete seating platforms. An elderly man sits with a white poodle nearby, while a tan dog lies on the floor. Large open windows reveal a surreal, collage-style landscape with palm trees and mountains. A counter area in the background features a wooden ceiling with hanging lights, where two people are engaged in conversation. The space has an inviting, w

A cozy and pet-friendly cafe space where visitors can relax, enjoy a drink, and socialize with their dogs. The design features warm wood tones, concrete seating with blue cushions, and an open view to a surreal landscape, blending indoor and outdoor experiences.

2. A pet grooming and care area designed with a modern, natural aesthetic. A woman is inside a small, enclosed room with large glass windows, grooming a dog on a table. The room has a warm plywood and OSB (oriented strand board) finish, creating a cozy yet functional atmosphere. A woman with a ponytail is walking a small brown dog on a leash past the room, while another person sits on a bench nearby. Large open windows on the left side reveal a collage-style natural landscape with trees, a parked vintage ca

A modern pet grooming area enclosed in a warm plywood and OSB structure, offering visibility and connection between spaces. Visitors walk by with their dogs, creating an active, community-oriented atmosphere that integrates pet care seamlessly into daily life.

3. A bright and open indoor space with various wooden structures resembling small house-shaped rooms. The ceiling features exposed white beams with industrial-style pendant lights. A red brick structure with a sloping roof is prominent in the foreground, contrasting with the surrounding wooden and glass enclosures. Several people interact with dogs, including a woman training a small dog inside a transparent room. Another person walks a black dog along the corridor. The space has a contemporary, pet-friendl

A dynamic, multi-functional interior space with house-like enclosures for various activities. The combination of exposed brick, glass partitions, and wooden structures creates a welcoming and interactive environment where people and pets can engage, train, and relax together.

Pawsitivity

Pawsitivity aims to boost East Franklinton’s economic and social vitality by creating a vibrant, pet-centric space that fosters connection, inclusivity, and well-being. Located near the Pilot Dogs facility, this multi-functional hub brings together a dog park, café, grooming services, and educational classes, leveraging local assets to enhance neighborhood engagement. By blending the playful energy of dogs with the creative spirit of East Franklinton, Pawsitivity aligns with urban trends that emphasize dynamic public spaces designed for social interaction and community enrichment.

At its core, Pawsitivity highlights the emotional and physical benefits of human-animal connections, recognizing the role of companion animals in mental health, therapy, and overall well-being. Designed to be welcoming to pet owners and non-pet owners alike, the space seamlessly integrates pet culture into everyday life, creating an inclusive environment where people can connect, explore, and enjoy a shared community experience.

Danny Zhang is a designer exploring the intersections of art, design, and space. His practice is driven by the belief that habit is the greatest enemy of design, leading him to question assumptions and explore new possibilities. Through his practice, he aims to push boundaries while remaining grounded in purposeful exploration and impactful design.

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Filters: 2025, Undergraduate Studies, Interior Design, Undergraduate Capstone Project