Portfolio - Alex Zapata

ALEX ZAPATA SELECTED WORKS - 2024

M.Arch Student California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

PERSONAL STATEMENT Greetings. My name is Alex Zapata

I’m a MArch student at Cal Poly Pomona in the second year of the program with a bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning.

My interest in architecture and design came from growing up with my grandmother and seeing home much care she put into her home.

Although she never got an education past the 4th grade, I like to say she’s the first true designer/architect in the family. She designed her home with extreme attention to detail, always keeping the needs of her children in mind, ensuring that the home would be ideal for her to raise her family for generations to come. This passion for design, construction, and planning has been passed down to me, motivating me to pursue a career in architecture. Like my grandmother, I strive to create spaces and buildings with the same level of care and attention to detail that she had for her home. By keeping the needs of the people I design for in mind, I aspire to create structures that will endure for generations, just like my grandmother’s home.

I believe that architecture has the power to significantly impact people’s lives, as the urban landscape is something that every individual interacts with on a daily basis. Therefore, it is essential that the spaces we design are not merely utilitarian but enriching environments that can enhance people’s day-to-day experiences.

Furthermore, architecture can play a significant role in addressing urgent issues such as homelessness, housing demand, accessibility, gender and sexuality, and sustainability. These are all elements of life that affect us all, and as architects, we have a responsibility to use our expertise to help solve them. Although we cannot solve all of the world’s problems on our own, we can use our skills to shape the future, and contribute to a better world for all.

ALEX ZAPATA EXPERIENCE

azapata@cpp.edu 951-412-7220

Architectural Graphic Designer CPP Architecture Department: September 2023 - Present • •

Utilize desktop design software to space plan graphics of instructional and support spaces, campus map and title graphics for use in Department accreditation videos Use critical thinking to solve problems related to flyer creation, design, and printing

Architecture Intern Opal / Alimo Architects: June 2022 - August 2022 • • •

Worked close with architects, real estate agents, contractors, and software programmers to create Revit floor plans and models of existing homes Tasked with calling and organizing contractors and engineers In charge of plan checks, wavers, and permits from LADBS

Zoning Assistant City of Pomona: May 2021 • • •

EDUCATION

Porposed new and innovative zoning for the City of Pomona Zoning would introduce a new type of higher density housing Presented to the City of Pomona staff through oral presentation and writen staff report

CALIFORNIA STATE POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY, POMONA M.Arch: In Progress 2021 - Present 3.78 GPA B.S. Urban and Regional Planning: Earned 2021 2017 - 2021 3.65 GPA / Magna Cum Laude

HONORS & AWARDS

Interim Student Exhibit - Fall 22, Spring 23, Fall 23, Spring 24 LT Shanks Scholarship Winner - Summer 2023 Helmle Fellowship Workshop - Spring 2023 Housing Award Nominee - Spring 2023

SKILLS

Adobe Illustrator

Grasshopper

Adobe Photoshop

Hand Drafting

Adobe Indesign

Microsoft Word

AutoCAD

Revit

Bilingual (Spanish)

Rhino

Excel

CONTENTS

Santa Ana Multi-Family Housing

01

Cantilever

02

The Bridge House

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Hand Drafting

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Model Building

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Design Development Project / Spring 2023

Design Exercise / Fall 2022

Case Study / Fall 2019

Construction Assignment / Fall 2021

SANTA ANA MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING

SANTA ANA MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING CAL POLY POMONA: SPRING 2023

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Ana, this multi-family, mixed-use housing project stands adjacent to the Santa Ana train station within a proposed, transit-oriented master plan for the city. Its purpose is to cater to the burgeoning artist community in the vicinity while providing a space where commuters and residents alike can converge and immerse themselves in a creative atmosphere.

At a grand scale, the building’s form wraps around, forming a curved shape that gently guides pedestrians toward the central promenade.

Along this lively thoroughfare, commercial spaces and live-work units face the communal area, fashioning a retail space that empowers artists to showcase their work, exchange ideas, and engage with one another.

The exterior facade of the project harmoniously integrates with the surrounding architecture, employing colors and materials that reflect the existing context. Rich hues of red and soft yellow, coupled with a textured wooden louver system, establish visual connections to the train station across the street while asserting a distinct aesthetic identity. The louver system not only provides sun protection for the living spaces but also ensures privacy for the residents, shielding their homes from prying eyes. Additionally, at night, the louver system transforms into a luminous lantern, emanating gentle light from within the apartments.

Upon entering the project, residents are greeted by a central courtyard, a natural extension of the units that serves as both a communal gathering space and an artist’s haven. Regardless of whether it’s a studio, work-live unit, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom apartment, each space is meticulously designed to prioritize creativity and privacy. Notably, the units feature expansive deck spaces that transcend the traditional porch concept. These versatile outdoor areas are intended to accommodate various activities, from extending one’s creative workspace to serving as a sleeping porch, or a place for social gatherings.

From the podium level brimming with commercial spaces to the individual units on the upper floors, every facet of this project is imbued with a spirit of creativity. Each space is crafted with the artist in mind, resulting in a housing development that not only celebrates creativity but also nurtures its artist residents, with the aspiration of extending this enriching experience to the surrounding community.

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Level 7 67' - 8" Level 6 56' - 3" Level 5 44' - 10" Level 7 67' - 8" Level 4 33' - 5" Level 6 56' - 3" Level 3 22' - 0" Level 5 44' - 10" Level 2 11' - 0" Level 4 33' - 5" Level 1 0' - 0" Level 3 22' - 0" Level 2 11' - 0" Level 1 0' - 0"

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Level 7 67' - 8" Level 6 56' - 3" Level 5 44' - 10" Level 7 67' - 8" Level 4 33' - 5" Level 6 56' - 3" Level 3 22' - 0" Level 5 44' - 10" Level 2 11' - 0" Level 4 33' - 5" Level 1 0' - 0" Level 3 22' - 0" Level 2 11' - 0" Level 1 0' - 0"

TOP North Elevation BOTTOM East Elevation

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TOP Section 1 BOTTOM Section 2

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Level 7 67' - 8"

Level 6 56' - 3"

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LEFT Partial Elevation RIGHT Wall Section

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TOP Window Detail / 3D Chunk BOTTOM Louver Detail / 3D Chunk

LEFT Exploded Structure Axon RIGHT Structure Axon

CANTILEVER

CANTILEVER

CAL POLY POMONA: FALL 2022

The Cantilever project stands as the culminating assignment in a trilogy of design challenges, comprising of the tower, bridge, and finally, the cantilever. Beyond merely testing our creative prowess, this series of assignments aimed to stretch our problem-solving abilities, especially in the realm of structural considerations. Progressing in complexity, the cantilever emerged as the ultimate test, compelling us to think innovatively in both design and structural aspects.

Perched on the edge of a dried-up ravine, the cantilever project incorporates two primary programming elements: the work studio, a dedicated space for environmental scientists to immerse themselves in their work, and the lookout, a pathway strategically designed to capture the breathtaking scenic views.

Approaching the cantilever, one encounters two imposing structural towers, integral to supporting the cantilever itself. Upon crossing the threshold, a fleeting glimpse into the studio is afforded through a generously proportioned open window, teasing the observer before concealing the view once more. Ascending the ramp, the visitor gradually unveils the expansive ravine, peering over its precipice. It is only after diverting attention from these captivating views that the entrance to the studio space becomes apparent.

Contrary to expectations, the studio, conceived as a haven for focus, reflection, and study, deliberately steers clear of the panoramic views. Instead, it is oriented away, offering a contemplative space that gazes towards the desert landscape and approaching pathways, emphasizing a deliberate detachment from the awe-inspiring vistas for an atmosphere conducive to concentration and scholarly pursuits.

Level 1 Plan 1/4” = 1’-0”

TOP Floor Plan BOTTOM Elevation

South Elevation 1/4” = 1’-0”

2% Slope

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TOP Site Plan BOTTOM Section AA

36 inches (914 mm) minimum.

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Secondary Structure

Standing Seam Roofing

Channel Supports Waterproofing Membrane Stainless Steel Plates

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Concreate Metel Decking Stainless Steel Plates Steel Beam W18 X 50

Building Element Diagram

EXPLODED DIAGRAM

THE BRIDGE HOUSE

THE BRIDGE HOUSE MT. SAN ANTONIO: FALL 2019

The Bridge House, an architectural marvel conceived by Mackey Lyons, became a focal point in our exploration during ARCH 147: Architectural CAD and BIM. Serving as the culminating project of the class, this assignment not only became a testament to our mastery of the Revit software but also offered an intimate encounter with a remarkable piece of architecture.

Nestled harmoniously between two imposing boulders, aligned parallel to the sea, this single-family residence assumes the role of a literal bridge, gracefully spanning over a dried-up creek. The design incorporates exterior common spaces flanking either side of the bridge, providing multiple entry points that invite exploration.

A distinctive feature of the facade is the meticulous use of locally sourced wooden planks, which not only wraps the exterior but also creates semi-enclosed spaces in the outdoor areas, enveloping occupants in the comforting ambiance reminiscent of being cradled in a woven basket.

Internally, the spatial arrangement unfolds laterally, with amenities and storage thoughtfully aligned along one wall. This intentional layout ensures that every room prioritizes panoramic views of the sea, creating a seamless connection between the interior and the breathtaking coastal landscape.

As the sun sets and darkness descends, the seemingly unassuming facade undergoes a magical transformation. The wooden panels that constitute the exterior come to life, orchestrating a captivating lantern effect. These panels allow the radiant light from the interior to permeate through the in-between spaces, casting a warm glow that illuminates the vast expanse of the sea for miles around, turning the nighttime experience into a truly enchanting spectacle. In this nocturnal metamorphosis, the Bridge House transcends its daytime simplicity, evolving into a radiant beacon along the shoreline, inviting admiration and awe.

FIRST FLOOR Entry, Living Room, Kitchen

SECOND FLOOR Bedrooms

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1100 North Grand Avenue | Walnut | California | 91789

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Brdge House Case Study Alex Zapata

A301 Second Floor Plan12:02:32 PM 12/12/2019 11' - 0"

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TOP West Elevation BOTTOM East Elevation

TOP Section 1 BOTTOM Section 2

HAND DRAFTING

TOP Brick Wall to Ground Detail BOTTOM Eave Detail

HAND DRAFTING

CAL POLY POMONA: FALL 2021

In recent times, the age-old practice of creating hand-drafted drawings has gradually waned within the professional realm, giving way to the prevalence of keyboards and screens. While the technological era brings forth numerous advantages, there remains a unique and irreplaceable charm in the act of crafting drawings by hand—a process that involves the tactile use of rulers and pencils.

In the contemporary landscape of academic life, opportunities to immerse oneself in the art of drafting are relatively scarce.

However, when such occasions do arise, the experience is unparalleled, evoking a sense of pleasure and intimacy that transcends the digital realm. The marriage of precision and craftsmanship in hand-drafted drawings stands as a testament to the enduring value of this traditional artistic approach amidst the ever-evolving landscape of technology.

The hand-drafted examples presented here originate from a construction class undertaken during the fall semester of 2021. As an integral component of this course, we were assigned the engaging responsibility of weekly visits to an active construction site. The primary objective was to deepen our comprehension of the intricate process involved in constructing buildings. These site visits not only provided us with invaluable insights but also afforded the opportunity to translate our observations into detailed drawings. Our creations spanned a spectrum, encompassing expansive floor plans to minutely captured details—examples of which are showcased in the accompanying visuals.

MODEL BUILDING