For Bachelor of Interior Design graduate Stacy-Ann Matthews, sneaker culture is more than a fashion statement – it’s a global community and a movement rich in history, creativity, and cultural influence.
That’s why, when it came to deciding on her Yorkville University thesis project, Matthews chose to reimagine what it means to experience that culture in a physical space – The Collective Sample X Sneaker Hub.
A Space That Celebrates Sneaker Culture’s Many Dimensions
Located conceptually in Toronto’s fashion district at 462 Wellington St. W., the Sneaker Hub offers a dynamic environment where visitors can explore sneaker culture’s commercial, cultural, and educational dimensions in a space that celebrates the social, political, and environmental layers of sneaker design while also fostering inclusivity and dialogue.
Through thoughtful spatial storytelling, Matthews’ design bridges the industry’s fragmented identities, connecting people through shared passion and purpose, she said.
“Sneaker culture has become increasingly involved in social initiatives and environmental practices,” Matthews explained. “But there hasn’t been a permanent physical space to connect those critical aspects with the consumer experience. The Hub creates that space – a place for community, education, and meaningful interaction.”
Her design features flexible exhibition areas, digital storytelling elements, and a Customization Lab where patrons can co-design sneakers under the guidance of local artists. A Sustainable Edit section highlights recycling methods and material innovation, while a central feature stairway encourages fluid movement between floors, symbolizing connection and flow.
Finding Support at Yorkville University
For Matthews, the project represents a full-circle moment. Having previously worked as a senior designer in an architectural firm, she enrolled in Yorkville’s Bachelor of Interior Design (BID) program to expand her creative horizons and explore design’s narrative potential.
At Yorkville, she found the support she needed to bring her vision to life, she said.
“I want to highlight how impactful, informative, and supportive the Yorkville University professors were when I proposed and carried out my thesis idea,” Matthews said, singling out professors Hazim Rashid Al-Nijaidi, Taghreed Alz, Allyse Li, and Moby Chaudry for their support.
“I initially thought that what I had proposed would not be taken seriously because once someone heard about sneakers, I assumed they would immediately feel that my topic didn’t connect with vital issues in society. Once I cemented the societal need for The Collective Sample, I got nothing but acknowledgment and support from those faculty members. All four were highly encouraging, and I want to ensure they receive my utmost praise for pushing me to see my thesis idea through until the end.”
Matthews also credited some of her fellow BID classmates-turned-friends for giving her the “backbone” she needed to be proud of her creativity.
“Heather Chappell and Tara Hunt, both excellent designers (and Yorkville alumni), are some of the many friends who have always been supportive of my ‘sometimes’ out-of-order design styles, pushing me to be confident in my ideas,” she said.
Flexibility That Fuels Creativity
Having the ability to study online, Matthews said, is what allowed her to balance her professional career with her education – a flexibility she credits as pivotal to her success.
“I could work and study at the same time without feeling constrained by commuting or scheduling,” she said. “That flexibility really helped me focus on my creative process.”
Design as Social Responsibility
Matthews’ design philosophy is rooted in social responsibility – a principle she believes lies at the heart of interior design.
“Whether you’re doing interior design, architecture, or wayfinding, you have a responsibility to engage the human experience,” Matthews said. “Aesthetics come after solving the problem. Good design ensures people can function and thrive in a space.”
At Yorkville University’s recent Graduate Showcase, where Matthews presented her work alongside other soon-to-be graduates from both the BID and the Bachelor of Creative Arts (BCA) programs, faculty and leadership were quick to praise the ambition and originality on display.
“This is one of my favourite events of the year,” said Reem Habib, BID Program Chair. “It fills us with enormous pride to see our students reaching these milestones and achieving such success.”
Added Angela Antohi-Kominek, Principal and Vice President Academic, Yorkville Ontario: “The joint Graduate Showcase today boldly embraces ambition, curiosity and the spirit of creative exploration.”
