vista verde
Low-incoming housing
Albuquerque, New Mexico
My senior thesis delves into the re-imagining of American suburbs, with a specific focus on a suburban neighborhood in New Mexico. Assigned individual plots of land, the project involved conceptualizing the inhabitants and their requirements for the new development. I envisioned the resident as an individual seeking safety and affordability, having risen from challenging circumstances. Central to the design philosophy was the concept of nurturing architecture, providing protection, care, and essential resources. My aim was to redefine the visual and functional aspects of Section 8 housing.
Holistic design in Section 8 and low-income housing not only integrates functionality and dignity but also fosters community, well-being, and longterm sustainability. It’s essential for these developments to create nurturing community spaces. By designing clusters within the development, I was able to craft environments that strengthen community ties, ultimately supporting a more resilient and supportive neighborhood.
Each unit is thoughtfully designed to include a range of essential amenities, such as a front + back patio/balcony, a full-sized kitchen, a dining room, a living room, walk-in closets, and in-unit laundry. Incorporating these features are immensely important, particularly given that many section 8 and low-income housing options typically lack such amenities. While these features are typically associated with higher-end, it is crucial to recognize that they should not be exclusive to such properties. By integrating these amenities into low-income housing, we can enhance the quality of living for the residents while ensuring affordability remains attainable.
Community Center
When developing section 8 housing, understanding the needs of the users is crucial. Vista Verde provides an on-site community center which significantly enhances the community by offering outreach programs, providing access to a social worker, and offering computers and workspaces. These resources would support residents and address their needs effectively.
Daycare
Childcare services are also provided in a building on-site for both residents and other community members outside of Vista Verde. By offering these services to the wider community Vista Verde fosters a more interconnected environment. Providing on-site childcare is a vital resource for working parents, contributing to the overall well-being and stability of the area while also strengthening it through shared support.
south section
west section
co-working + the vault
Commercial co-working space and speakeasy
Scottsdale, Arizona
Team | Nicole Swanson + Kelly Quach
Co-working at Canyon Village, located in Scottsdale, Arizona are private offices with a member only lounge in the back - which can be accessed by a vault door. As the lead designer on this project, I had the honor of designing an exclusive experience for the office users.
bar #329
bol’s & brew’s
Smoothie + coffee restaurant
Scottsdale, Arizona
Team | Kelly Quach
Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, Bol’s & Brews is a contemporary smoothie and coffee bar that combines modern design with a welcoming atmosphere. The space features an open layout and sustainable materials.
Commercial Spec Suites (8)
Chandler, Arizona
Team | Kelly Quach
Allred is an ongoing commercial office project located in Chandler, Arizona. It consists of two identical buildings (Buildings 7 and 8) totaling approximately 100,000 square feet, with a total of eight spec suites. As the lead designer for Allred, I am responsible for managing the design team and overseeing the design development and construction documents to ensure that each element meets the client’s requests for aesthetics and functionality, delivering a sophisticated and innovative workspace environment.
Mixed use, multi-family housing Tempe, Arizona
Professor | Rothi Bhattacharyya
Team | Zane Thomas + Anna Sowar Spring 2023
In this studio we explored cross-laminated timber for a sustainable mixed-use complex is Tempe’s arid climate. As lead, I designed an innovative multi-family residential concept integrating public amenities with biophilic principles. Organic forms and living green walls cultivated an urban oasis contrasting the desert sprawl. Constructed entirely of CLT, it showcased engineered wood’s versatility and environmental benefits. Garnering the ASU Design Excellence Award, this project demonstrates my leadership in interdisciplinary teams, championing sustainable strategies, and delivering award-winning designs harmonizing the built + natural environments.
floor
floor
east section
south section
06| ceramic studio
Reclamation
Gilbert, Arizona
Professor | Devan Porter
Fall 2023
For this project, the site was next to the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, Arizona. The focus of this project was the adaptive reuse of an old warehouse to create a free-function community center which would be connected to the preserve. I was inspired to create a pottery studio with a community greenhouse and a deck providing outdoor space overlooking the preserve for the local residents. The intent for the structure was to be as energy efficient as possible and, to that end, a butterfly roof, green roofs, rainwater collection systems and grey-water systems were the ideal choice.
The Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, Arizona, is an oasis amidst urban development. Spread over 110 acres, this nature sanctuary is home to wetlands and several ponds. It serves as an important ecological and recreational haven for Gilbert residents and visitors. Surrounding the preserve, you will find a mixture of industrial buildings that co-exist with the preserve. The preserves juxtaposition with industrial zones highlights the unique balance between urban expansion and environmental conservation
BLACK ANODIZED-ALUMINUM BUTTERFLY ROOF
BLACK ANODIZED-ALUMINUM BUTTERFLY ROOF
PRE-CAST CONCRETE DECK AND STAIRS 01
COPPER ANODIZED PERFERATED FACADE PANELS
PRE-CAST CONCRETE FLOORS AND WALLS
GLAZED CURTAIN WALL WITH STEEL MULLIONS + MUTTONS
STEEL BEAMS
STEEL BEAMS
GREENHOUSE GLASS ROOF
SOLAR PANELS
GREYWATER SYSTEM FOR PLUMBING THROUGHOUT
01
GREEN ROOFS WITH RAIN WATER RUN-OFF COLLECTION SYSTEM
02
RAIN WATER COLLECTION SYSTEM HONEYCOMB FACADE FOR GREENHOUSE
In designing this community center for Gilbert, Arizona, I focused on integrating key elements that reflect the town’s needs and character. The development includes a ceramic studio equipped for diverse artist activities, and a greenhouse designed for sustainability and educational purposes. A deck overlooking the Riparian Preserve provides a scenic space for relaxation and social interaction. The deck also features a cafe and green spaces to enhance the experience. The design aims to foster creativity, environmental engagement, and communal connection
Deck
