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Absera Kassa - Portfolio

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Adaptive Reuse ]

[ Graphic Design + Self Portait ]

Resilience Hub: Adaptive Reuse

Washington, D.C. F25

This sustainable resilience hub allows residents of Ward 7 to utilize this space for community gatherings and accessing resources to bridge the financial gap that residents experience, all through the notion of hierarchy. Nearly one quarter of Ward 7 residents live below the poverty line, and less than thirty-two percent of Ward 7 has attained a bachelor’s degree or higher. Residents have been disproportionately affected by policies and living conditions that further marginalizes the community. Elevating the community and flipping the script not only pushes the current residents of Ward 7 to grow and better support themselves, but pushes for change in the next generations as well.

ROOFTOP: SUSTAINABILITY

SOLAR PANELS

THIRD FLOOR

SECOND FLOOR

URBAN FARMING

The rooftop of the resilience hub offers not only a large space for community usage, but also offers vital resources such as urban farming courses, solar energy collection, as well as greywater systems. This ensures that at all times, residents of Ward 7 have consistent access to food, water, and energy when in need.

FIRST FLOOR

BASEMENT

PROGRAMMING

COMPUTER LAB

COMMUNICATIONS

STORAGE

RESTROOMS

MULTIPURPOSE SPACE

OUTDOOR ROOFTOP

PROGRAMMING

HOUSING OFFICE

RESTROOMS

OPEN SEATING AREA

FINANCIAL OFFICES

MJLTIPURPOSE ROOMS

RESTROOMS

OUTDOOR ROOFTOP

PROGRAMMING

ADMIN OFFICES

STAFF OFFICES

STORAGE

CONFERENCE ROOMS

KITCHEN

FOOD PANTRY

RESTROOMS

OPEN SEATING AREA

PROGRAMMING

LOADING DOCK

COUNSELING ROOMS

SHOWERS

RESTROOMS

LOBBY

INFORMATION DESK

STORAGE

SECTION B
SECTION A

TOOLS: REVIT | TWINMOTION | PHOTOSHOP

DESIGNED WITH ANIYAH NORMAN & KINAYA SMITH

Heat Adaptive Architecture Design

Washington, D.C.

F25

This project reimagines cities as spaces in motion, where commuting becomes a cared-for experience rather than a burden. Focusing on those who rely on walking and public transit—workers, students, residents, and tourists—it addresses the health and comfort issues caused by prolonged sun exposure. Recognizing that many urban residents lack car access and that cities prioritize vehicles over people, the design proposes shaded, ventilated rest stops along sidewalks, plazas, and transit routes. These structures aim to create healthier, more comfortable commutes and promote walkable cities, reducing car dependency and fostering stronger community engagement in public spaces. Reconsidering ordinary facilities and the way in which people interact with them was our main focus for this design. This design relies on a solar powered clock attached to a gear

STRATEGY MATRIX

Reduce temperatures in and around rest stops compared to adjoining uncovered areas

Provide shaded, ventilated areas that block direct sun exposure

Make each unit serve 4-8 users at a time, including people with limited mobility

To decrease electricity use and carbon footprint

Set up modular units to be built in less than three days with local labor and minimal tools

Allow pedestrians to choose the type of experience at the rest stop with minimal mechanical use

Increase pedestrian foot traffic while reducing sun-related medical emergency calls

FLOOR

PLAN

SECTION A SECTION A B A 5PM

I G H T & W E A T H E R S T U D I E S RAIN

12PM

ARCHIVE 16

TOOLS: REVIT |

TWINMOTION | PHOTOSHOP

The Library of Hip Hop in Shaw

Washington, D.C.

S25

Archive 16 – The Hip Hop Library in Shaw, located at 1900 7th Street NW in Washington D.C., is a 48,414 square foot space dedicated to hip hop history and culture. Blending traditional and modern library features, it fosters creative freedom and expression for all ages. Visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor reading areas, a rooftop garden, and digital galleries that showcase hip hop-inspired art and media. More than just a library, Archive 16 is a vibrant space for learning, storytelling, and cultural celebration.

GALLERY SPACE

FLOOR 4:

*PLUS SPACE - AUDITORIUM

ROOFTOP GARDEN

GREEN ROOF

RESTROOMS

LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM

FLOOR 3:

OPEN PRACTICE + DANCE ROOM

RECORDING STUDIOS

*DIGITAL GALLERY SPACE

COMPUTER LAB

READING AREAS

STAFF AREAS

RESTROOMS

FLOOR 2:

REFERENCES AND PERIODICALS

SMALL CONFERENCE ROOM

READING AREAS

*LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM

PRIVATE SPACES

COLLECTIONS

STAFF AREAS

RESTROOMS

FLOOR 1:

*REFERENCES AND PERIODICALS

COLLECTIONS

READING AREAS

CAFE

PRIVATE SPACES

STAFF AREAS

RESTROOMS

SECTION A
SECTION B

Multi - Family Residence Southwest, Washington, D.C.

F24

Greenleaf Gardens, a neighborhood in Southwest Washington, D.C., is one of the few areas near The Wharf—a prominent tourist destination—that has yet to undergo redevelopment. The goal of this project is to revitalize the neighborhood through a cohesive apartment complex design that enhances the area’s overall aesthetic and functionality. Learning the essence of detailed site analysis, planning and design were all core lessons learned

Museum of Emotions

Washington, D.C. S25

The Reflection of Icarus is a Museum designed to evoke emotions of “pride” and “shame” within the people visiting the space, located in the urban environment of Washington D.C. This museum is centered around story of Icarus, commonly known as the myth of the man who “flew too close to the sun,”. This museum reenacts the very story of falling from grace.

“PRIDE” HALL
“SHAME” HALL

ADDITIONAL WORKS

HAND-DRAWN

As the Public Relations Director for the Ethiopian Eritrean Student Association, I am responsible for creating high-quality promotional materials, including posters, to effectively communicate events, announcements, and important information. These materials are designed for both print and digital platforms, ensuring a strong and engaging presence on social media.

MODEL MAKING

Thank You

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Absera Kassa - Portfolio by Absera K - Issuu