VALERIE TORO

ARCHITECTURE PORTFOLIO

ABOUT

Valerie Toro

email: valerietorodesign@gmail.com

phone: 954 859 8853

Master of Architecture student candidate passionate about seamlessly merging architecture, neuroscience, sustainability, and well-being to create innovative and human-centric built environments.

EDUCATION

Master of Architecture Professional Degree

Florida International University - Miami, FL

Architecture in Japan | SOA Study Abroad

Florida International University - Tokyo, Japan

Architecture in Barcelona | SOA Study Abroad

Florida International University - Barcelona, Spain

Associates of Arts in Architecture

Broward College - Fort Lauderdale, FL

EXPERIENCE

Architectural Drafter

Ventura Architecture Development - Davie, FL

Fall 2021 - Expected Spring 2024

Summer 2023

Summer 2022

Fall 2019 - Spring 2021

April 2023 - Current

• I work on commercial projects and am in charge of the schematic design phase of each project.

• Prepare construction documents for building department permitting.

Architectural Drafter

E&K Engineering - Miami, FL

October 2022 - April 2023

• Collaborated with architects and electrical engineers to integrate electrical systems into building structures, producing detailed technical drawings.

• Conducted site visits to gather accurate data about the existing conditions of the site.

July 2022 - October 2022

Purchasing Coordinator

Sire Design - Miami, FL

• Responsible for efficiently managing the procurement process, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring timely and cost-effective acquisition of materials and furnishings to meet project specifications and design requirements.

January 2022 - July 2022

Virtual Interior Design Assistant

4Dbiz - Remote

• Proficient at sourcing FF&E, creating design presentations, and facilitating efficient communication, providing crucial support to the interior designer in executing projects seamlessly from a virtual setting.

December 2020 - October 2021

Interior Design Assistant

Dunagan Diverio Design Group - Miami, FL

• Skilled in sourcing materials for the Interior Architecture department, creating design presentations, and facilitating effective communication, providing essential support to ensure the seamless execution of projects.

SKILLS

Revit, AutoCAD, Enscape, Twinmotion, Rhinoceros 3D, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Lightroom, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) Studio Designer, DALL-E, MidJourney AI, Fusion 360, Model Making, Laser Cutting, 3D Printing

LANGUAGES

English, Spanish, Dutch, Papiamento

SELECTED WORKS

AIA Miami 2023 Design Awards Participant

- Student Work Category

HYBRID ISLAND DESIGN LEMON CITY NATATORIUM APPLE STORE LA RAMBLA

HYBRID ISLAND DESIGN

In the year 2100, Biscayne Bay is projected to experience a sea level rise of approximately 2.15 meters. The primary goal of this project is to design a carbon-neutral highrise on stilts at Bird Key Island, Miami, considering factors such as sea level rise, overall environmental impact, island growth, sedimentation, fauna, and weather conditions.

The design approach involves establishing an off-grid network system to ensure the building’s self-sustainability. Key design decisions include optimizing the building’s orientation for maximum solar energy exposure, cultivating materials on the facade, and leveraging natural resources available on the island for energy, cooling, storage, and food production. The highrise is envisioned as a multipurpose structure, featuring residential and commercial/retail areas, health and education zones, food and recycling production facilities, and community services.

A unique aspect of the design is the intention to mimic the network system of mangrove roots found on the site, incorporating it as a structural element for growth and protection against sun and wind exposure.

LOCATION: Bird Key Island, Miami, FL 33138 YEAR:

Spring 2023 - Design Studio 9 | Sustainable Design Studio

The project site is situated on Bird Key Island in Biscayne Bay, Miami, Florida. The approximate area of the work site is 450 square meters.

Presently, Bird Key Island is home to diverse flora and fauna, facing continuous challenges from sea level rise, pollution, and various climatic conditions, including hurricanes, extreme heat, and tropical storms. The island currently features three main mangrove tree species, with a current height of 12 meters.

The site is surrounded by notable features such as a canal, serving as the primary aquatic transportation path, the Biscayne Bay River, and the Pelican Harbour Marina.

SITE

Pelican Harbour Marina Bird Key Island Bird Key Island SITE Legion Picnic Islands Biscayne Bay River Canal

GENERATIVE DESIGN REFINERY

Fig. 01 Fig. 02 Fig. 0 4 Fig. 05

Fig. 01: Massing model inserted from Revit into Fusion360. Loads are added.

Fig. 02: Starting shape is shown and selected into generative design. Fig. 03: Generative design starts to show.

04: Results of generative design study. Chosen result is the recommended outcome study 1.

05: Generative design model inserted into BIM to view.

06: Generative design being manipulated in Fusion360 in order to achieve desired facade.

Fig. Fig. Fig. Fig. 03 Fig. 06

CARBON NEUTRAL NETWORK SYSTEMS

RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS CHARGE CONTROLLER ENERGY STORAGE INVERTER/ CHARGER MAIN ELECTRICAL PANEL GENERATOR ALL LOADS RAIN AND STORM WATER COLLECTION WATER FILTER PURIFIED WATER FRESH WATER STORAGE TANK DRINK WATER GARDENING LAUNDRY TOILET SHOWER / SINK SOLAR ENERGY SUPPLY APPLIANCES HVAC FABRICATION LAB ALGAE & COMPOST BIOMASS BIOMASS ENERGY BIOGAS ENERGY VENTILATION SYSTEM COOLING SYSTEM LIVING MACHINE BLACK WATER FERTILIZER VERTICAL FARMING FOOD PRODUCTION VEGETATION RAIN THERMAL HEAT STORAGE HOT WATER STORAGE ABSORPTION CHILER COLD PRODUCTION COLD WATER STORAGE

PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS

MATERIALS

ELECTROCHROMIC GLASS IS A TYPE OF GLASS THAT CAN CHANGE ITS REFLECTIVE PROPERTIES TO PREVENT SUNLIGHT & HEAT FROM ENTERING A BUILDING & TO ALSO PROVIDE PRIVACY. THIS INTENDS FOR AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT BUILDING BY REDUCING THE AMOUNT OF SOLAR HEAT THAT PASSES THROUGH GLASS WINDOWS.

ALGAE FUEL, ALGAL BIOFUEL, IS AN ALTERNATIVE TO LIQUID FOSSIL FUELS THAT USES ALGAE AS ITS SOURCE OF ENERGY-RICH OILS. THIS BIOMASS IS PRODUCED WITHIN TRANSPARENT OUTER PANELS THAT ARE ATTACHED ONTO THE SIDES OF THE BUILDING ACTING AS RAILINGS & SUPPLY THE BUILDING WITH ELECTRICITY. THESE BIOREACTORS ARE FILLED WITH WATER & PUMPED WITH LIQUID NUTRIENTS & CARBON DIOXIDE FOR THE ALGAE TO GROW, AS WELL AS TO PREVENT THEM FROM ROTTING.

SECTION TIMELINE

0m 10 m 20 m 5 m 15 m 25 m

RESIDENTIAL PUBLIC AREAS COMMERCIAL HEALTH LOBBY L O B B Y P U B L I C A REAS RES I D E N T I A L C O M M E R T IAL E D U C A T I O N H E A LT H L A B S TAWREDNU E R 12 am 6 am 12 pm 6 pm PROGRAM TIME SCHEDULE EDUCATION FARMING LABS (HYDROPONICS & RECYCLING) UNDERWATER FARMING

PROGRAM

LAB FARMING

VERTICAL FARMING

Vertical farming is the practice of growing crops in vertically stacked layers, which incorporates controlled-environment agriculture, which aims to optimize plant growth, and soilless farming techniques such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics.

ADVANTAGES:

Increased crop yield, ability to cultivate a larger variety of crops at once, crops are resistant to weather disruptions because of their placement indoors, meaning fewer crops are lost to extreme or unexpected weather occurrences, less disruptive to the native plants and animals, leading to further conservation of the local flora and fauna.

HYDROPONICS

Technique of growing plants without dirt. The roots of plants are submerged in liquid solutions containing macronutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, as well as trace elements, including iron, chlorine, manganese, boron, zinc, copper, and molybdenum. Also gravel, sand, and sawdust are used as soil substitutes to provide support for the roots.

ADVANTAGES:

Aability to increase yield per area and reduce water usage.

SYNTHETIC GROWTH MATERIAL

FILTERED AIR FILTERED AIR IS DRAWN INTO THE BUILDING’S AIR CIRCULATION SYSTEM OR CIRCULATED USING ONBOARD FANS

FAN DRAWS DIRTY AIR THROUGH PLANTS AND INTO THE GROWTH MATERIAL WHERE MICROBES EAT THE POLLUTANTS AS A FOOD SOURCE.

DIRTY AIR CATCH BASIN PUMP vertical hydroponic tower on the water biscayne bay miami (NightCafe AI image generator)

UNDERWATER FARMING

Biscayne Bay, Florida, is home to several oyster beds that are critical to the health of the bay’s ecosystem. Oysters are filter feeders that can help improve water quality by removing excess nutrients from the water. They also provide habitat for other species, such as fish, crabs, and shrimp.

Oyster farming: Oyster farming, also known as aquaculture, is a sustainable way to harvest oysters. This practice involves growing oysters in a controlled environment, such as a farm or hatchery, which reduces the need for wild harvesting. Oyster farms can also improve water quality by filtering pollutants and excess nutrients from the water.

Underwater farming, involves growing crops or cultivating marine organisms in underwater environments such as oceans, seas, or lakes. This technique has several potential benefits, such as increased food production, reduced land use, and lower water requirements compared to traditional farming.

Types of underwater farming:

Seaweed farming: a promising new industry in Florida, with the potential to provide a sustainable source of food, fuel, and other products. Seaweed is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and is used in a variety of products including food, cosmetics, and fertilizers.

Shellfish farming: This includes growing different types of shellfish, such as oysters, clams, and mussels, for food and pearl production.

Fish farming: This involves raising different species of fish in underwater pens or cages for food production.

RECYCLING

The Biscayne Bay ecosystem is being threatened by nutrient pollution from storm-water runoff, sewage pipe breaks, septic tanks, fertilizers, plastic pollution and other contaminants. This is killing hundreds of flora and fauna species as well as water quality. Plastic is being drawn towards the surrounding island getting those plastics stuck and contaminating the island. Because of these gases and fuels being emitted, seagrass is being threatened. With up to 90% of seagrasses gone in parts of the northern basin, there is little to no oxygen produced on the bottom of the bay.

Recycled plastic can be used to create:

Clothing: Recycled plastic can be turned into polyester fabric, which is used in clothing, shoes, and other textile products.

Furniture: Recycled plastic can be used to make outdoor furniture, such as chairs, tables, and benches.

Building materials: Recycled plastic can be used to make durable and long-lasting building materials, such as roofing tiles, insulation, and flooring.

Landscaping products: Recycled plastic can be used to create landscaping products, such as garden edging, decking, and mulch.

Electronic components: Recycled plastic can be used to make a variety of electronic components, including computer cases and housings for televisions and other appliances.

small floating ocean trash collector robot recycling minimal machine modern that creates and recycles compost powered by solar panels located in Biscayne Bay, Miami in year 2100 (NightCafe AI image generator prompt)

small floating ocean trash collector robot recycling minimal machine modern that creates and recycles compost located in Biscayne Bay, Miami in year 2100 (NightCafe AI image generator prompt)

LEMON CITY NATATORIUM

The Lemon City Natatorium Community & Athletic Center, Work, and Retail concept redefine the traditional community center by offering a multifaceted space that caters to the physical, social, and professional needs of the Lemon City residents. Through the integration of olympic level amenities, collaborative workspaces, retail experiences, and a biophilic environment, the Lemon City Natatorium aims to create a thriving hub that nurtures a healthy, connected, and sustainable community for generations to come.

LOCATION: 373 N.E. 70th Street Miami, FL 33138

YEAR: Fall 2023 - Integrated Comprehensive Design Studio

ADJACENCY MATRIX

APPLE STORE LA RAMBLA

The design concept is intricately connected to a matrix derived from the site and its surroundings, drawing inspiration from renowned Barcelona architects such as Gaudi and Miralles. Utilizing various access points and angles identified in the matrix, the ground floor is transformed into a dynamic plaza that not only serves as a communal space but offers a unique experiential journey to different spots within the area. The influence of Gaudi is evident in the deconstructivism of trencadis observed at the entrance and skylights, mirroring the organic forms’ mutation. Furthermore, Gaudi’s geometric aesthetic, akin to technology giants like Apple, is incorporated into the design. The structural integration reminiscent of Miralles is evident in the entrance and esplanades, strategically providing shade in the plaza. The Apple Store’s program unfolds seamlessly, beginning at the entrance, descending through glass stairs into the main retail space, leading towards the Forum and Genius Bar. Behind the Genius Bar lies the service area, housing essential functions such as storage, call center, meeting room, machine room, and repair shop for Apple Store employees.

LOCATION: La Rambla, Barcelona, Spain

YEAR: Summer 2022

Studio 7 | Architecture in Barcelona SOA Study Abroad

Design