Portfolio 2023

HOUSE OF GOURMET

Fall 2019 Architecture Studio III

SUGDEN HOUSE CASE STUDY

Fall 2019 Architecture Studio III

CHROMOSOME TOWER Winter 2019 Modelling and Fabrication in Design

HONEYCOMB STUDENT CENTRE

Fall 2019 Design Studio II

VORONOI CELL HOUSING Winter 2020 Architecture Studio IV

ECO-GROVE

Winter 2021 Senior Seminar in Design (Thesis)

STUCK TOGETHER

Fall 2021

Architectural Design Studio I

RIVER BANK

Winter 2022

Architectural Design Studio II

HOUSE OF GOURMET

A House For Two Inhabitants

YEAR: FALL 2019 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: ONE MONTH

Located on the corner of Rathnelly and Macpherson Avenue, the site occupies the intersection of a commercial and residential road. The house is inhabited by two residents: a chef who requires a large 12 person dining table, and an urban farm entrepreneur, who requires lots of green space and light access. Both sharing a passion for locally grown organic foods, these characters are united with a private dining business. The house is divided into two, public and private, in which the division is apparent in the overall structure. The front half consists of the restaurant on the lower level and greenhouse on the upper level. The transparency of the frontal portion creates an inviting atmosphere with the application of large windows, whereas privacy at the rear of the house is required for the residents’ everyday living spaces. As a mediating factor, these two halves are connected with a shared kitchen that gives access to both the restaurant and the residential home. As the main selling point of the business, the organically grown crops and green spaces within the house are emphasized.

COURSE: ARCHITECTURE STUDIO III

SUPERVISOR: ANNE-MARIE ARMSTRONG

OFFICE/BEDROOM

LIVING/DINING ROOM

OFFICE/BEDROOM

LIVING/DINING ROOM RESTAURANT

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

GROUND FLOOR PLAN FIRST FLOOR PLAN ROOF PLAN MODEL ON SITE Plywood, Plexi Glass, Basswood, Dowels

FIRST FLOOR DETACHED

ROOF DETACHED

MODEL ON SITE Plywood, Plexi Glass, Basswood, Dowels

SUGDEN HOUSE CASE STUDY Precedent House Study

YEAR: FALL 2019 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: ONE MONTH

Designed in the post war period of New Brutalism, the Sugden House offers exemplifies the lack of style-related features often seen in architecture during this period. New Brutalism advocated the functionalist principles in services, materials, and structure rather than aesthetics. As a way to steer away from the elegance and formal appearance of the building, the structural elements of the house, such as wooden beams and concrete slabs, are left visible to the inhabitants. The limitations imposed by expensive construction and building regulations led the Smithsons to create a design that determined the spatial quality of the living space through structure and materiality, which became the focal point of my analysis. To further explore the use of materiality as a mechanism of division for interior living spaces, I created an abstract model that highlights this approach. My goal was to imitate the materials and textures found in the house and make them easily visible by also deconstructing the structure. Using 6 different types of materials, I was able to represent the patterns and conceal the insignificant features.

COURSE: ARCHITECTURE STUDIO III

SUPERVISOR: ANNE-MARIE ARMSTRONG

PHYSICAL MODEL

Plywood, Basswood, Black/White/Clear Plexi Glass, Concrete, Felt, Dowels

ROOF TILES

COLUMBIAN MATCHBOARD

METAL CASEMENT

WHITE DRYWALL

BEIGE CARPET CERAMIC TILES

LOLIONDO TEAK STRIP FLOORS

PINE JOISTS

CONCRETE LINTEL

GLASS WINDOWS

SECONDHAND BRICK

TIMBER STAIRCASE

POLYVINYL TILES

MATERIALITY ANALYSIS

VIEW OF EXTERIOR BRICK WALLS VIEW OF INTERIOR MATERIALITY

INTERIOR DETAILS

CHROMOSOME TOWER Parametric Tower Design

YEAR: WINTER 2019 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: ONE SEMESTER

Challenging the structure of contemporary skyscrapers, this project demonstrates the capacity of parametric design and modelling. This forty storey parametric tower and its facade were created using Grasshopper and Rhinoceros. Inspired by the structure of a chromosome or a thread of DNA, the design of the tower is composed of two joined hexagonal shapes that gradually separate and join back together, creating two curved bodies. To further explore the theme of biological forms, the facade demonstrates an abstract take on the unique pattern of nerves and neurons. The model was built from laser-cut plywood floors that are supported by a central column and two acrylic rods on either side of the tower. By creating a sectional model, we were able to experience with different materials for the facade, such as laser cut millboard, thread, and 3D printed starch.

COURSE: MODELLING AND FABRICATION IN DESIGN

SUPERVISOR: NICHOLAS HOBAN

PHYSICAL MODEL

Plywood, Millboard, Plexi Tubes, Dowel

3D PRINT SPLITTING DETAIL

SECTIONAL MODEL

LASERCUT THREAD

HONEYCOMB STUDY CENTRE

A Student Learning Space

YEAR: WINTER 2019 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: ONE MONTH

Throughout the course, we created projects that responded to the theme of one chosen verb, which in my case was “Biomorphic” - a free form or design suggestive in the shape of a living organism. This word structured the rationale, geometry and procedure of my designs. The biomorphic pattern that I chose for this project was honeycomb, which is apparent in both the building’s plan and ornamentation. Composed of various indoor and outdoor spaces, this student centre is subdivided into public and private areas of study, including a rooftop terrace and a back courtyard. The buidling consists of large glass walls that is wrapped with a patterned facade, in which acts as windows for plenty of natural light access. The size of the windows correspond to the level of privacy within various areas of the building. Rooms for smaller group study spaces contain a more private environment with smaller windows whereas other public areas consist of larger windows. With a total of three levels, the building becomes more private towards the top floor. Additionally, the building allows for easy human access and circulation with 3 entrances and 2 sets of staircases.

COURSE: DESIGN STUDIO II SUPERVISOR: ANNE-MARIE ARMSTRONG

BIOMORPHISM

PREVIOUS EXERCISES

EXERCISE I CELLS

The first project of the biomorphic series was to design a series of spaces, on a given grid, using only vertical surfaces and openings in which are subdivided into 7 spaces. The plan of this design was inspired by a cellular pattern which is often seen in nature. By cutting and gluing straws of different lengths I created a series of vertical walls and archways to provide a unique spatial experience and smooth circulation.

EXERCISE II TOPOGRAPHY

I further explored the theme of biomorphism by representing the contours of earth’s surface, also known as topography. For this project, we were asked to design a series of levels using only horizontal surfaces and links such as stairs and/or ramps. Each floor contains a different topographical form that is created through the stacking of plates which also act as stairs that link the next floor. Within each level, various social and physical activities are considered such as sitting areas and plateaus for gatherings. Since the structure requires heavy exercise, it would be most suitable as a playground for younger children.

“modelling the artistic design elements found on naturally occuring patterns or forms reminiscent of nature and living organisms.”

EXERCISE

EXERCISE II MODEL Plywood, Dowels

I MODEL Straws, Foamcore, Dowels

CONCEPT MODELS

PHYSICAL MODEL Plywood, Plexi Glass, Museum Board

HONEYCOMB REMOVE DISTORT EXTRUDE BUILDING FACADE DESIGN PROCESS

GREEN SPACES: The relationship between students and the campus environment is important in their overall academic experience. By designing a series of green spaces, students are able to enjoy a change in scenery and socially engage with one another. The green roof and back courtyard offers additional areas of congregation, while smaller gathering spaces can be found under the cantilevered hexagonal chambers for a more intimate setting.

FRONT FACADE

ROOF TERRACE

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

LEVELS OF PRIVACY: The building was designed to accommodate student needs in regards to the level of privacy that they desire. This is reflected in both the facade and the hexagonal floor plan of each floor level. The ground floor plan offers a public gathering area with large open spaces and informal seating arrangements, The first floor would be an ideal space for a group setting, with an open and intimate meeting spaces. The top floor is divided into smaller rooms to accommodate students who prefer a private study environment, where each student can occupy an individual cubicle.

FACADE: Serving as windows, the facade imitates the honeycomb pattern to indicate the level of privacy in certain areas of the building. The size of the hexagonal openings on the facade correspond to the privacy of each floor as it gradually increases and decreases both vertically and horizontally. With the largest openings towards the main entrance on the ground floor, the pattern shrinks as it moves upwards where the private study rooms are located.

MODEL WEST ELEVATION

VORONOI CELL HOUSING

Residential Housing

YEAR:WINTER 2020 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: TWO MONTHS

In our cities today, collective dwelling often consists of the simple stacking of layers in order to prioritize efficiency and capacity. However, the repetition of identical units results in the loss of uniqueness and diversity. Using the 3D Voronoi cell structure, this social housing project aims to provide unique individual domains that is targeted towards both university students and families with children. This algorithmic system translates points into interfaces that divides a volume into individual cells. These cells are then used to create solid and void spaces throughout the building, where cells are removed for various areas of congregation and the remaining solid forms become living spaces. These void spaces provide public facilities for the residents to have collective activities, such as gyms, gardens, and a cafeteria. While still satisfying the needs of both students and families, the geometric structure of this building steers away from the conventional stacked condo buildings in Toronto and provides a unique living experience for its inhabitants.

COURSE: ARCHITECTURE STUDIO IV SUPERVISOR:

VICTOR PEREZ-AMADO

PRECEDENT ROOM STUDY: The first precedent study of designing a residential housing project was my own room and how I personally inhabit the space. Living in a studio apartment in Toronto, I am able to experience how an average apartment unit accommodates a university student like myself, while providing comfort and necessities. This gave me the opportunity to capture and analyze the habitual organization of my living space and understand the ordinariness of student life. My evaluation of this study was later translated into the final design of both family and student apartment units.

OVERDRAWING: By reproducing the part of my room where I spend the most time in through a detailed line drawing, I was able to clearly distinguish the objects significant to me. This drawing studies the spatial arrangement of the space by highlighting its elemental simplicity and how it is occupied by objects, furniture, and my belongings. This idea was further explored on a larger scale by representing the floor plan of my entire apartment unit through an illustrative and animated plan drawing.

DESIGN PROCESS

SITE & AREA VERTICAL EXTRUSION RANDOM POINTS 3D VORONOI UNITS UNIT REMOVAL

GYM (STUDENT/FAMILY) STUDENT RESIDENCE FAMILY RESIDENCE CIRCULATION PROGRAMMING DIAGRAMS

MASSING MODEL Museum Board, Plexi Glass, Foamcore

LOBBY (STUDENT/FAMILY) COURTYARDS LIBRARY/STUDENT LOUNGE CAFETERIA

CONCEPT: This residential housing building was designed to accommodate both university students and families with children. The structure is sectioned into various programs for student housing, family housing, and public spaces shared by both demographics. The ground floor contains two sets of entrances with separate lobbies, conjoined by a central courtyard and bike storage. Each lobby provides different amenities for the corresponding user, including cafes, stores, mailrooms, and a daycare. Additionally, two sets of circulation paths run throughout the building, each designated to one demographic but still accessible by both.

FAMILY RESIDENCE FLOOR PLAN

STUDENT RESIDENCE FLOOR PLAN

DINING FLOOR PLAN

FAMILY RESIDENCE FLOOR PLAN

FAMILY RESIDENCE: Family residence floors consist of a total of eight two-storey apartment units of varying sizes, depending on the number of residents per family. These units were designed to provide the same comfort and essentials of a typical apartment unit found in Toronto without erasing the individuality of the space through mass repetition. Each unit contains a living room, kitchen, laundry room, bathrooms, and bedrooms of varying quantities. No units are identical and are shaped by their neighbouring cells. By grouping multiple cells together, the square footage is maximized and the division of living spaces are determined by the walls of the Voronoi structure.

STUDENT UNITS: While the needs of students are different from the typical apartment unit, the student floor was designed to provide the residents with personal living spaces and maximized communal areas. Dorms are located at the building’s periphery with shared amenities at the centre, including a laundry room, game room, and numerous lounge areas. This essentially encourages students to interact with one another while also maintaining their privacy. Similar to the family residence floors, each student dorm consists of a unique shape that is subdivided following a grid structure. A variety of living spaces are provided with dorms ranging in different types and sizes, including single and double room dorms with either shared or private bathrooms.

STUDENT RESIDENCE FLOOR PLAN

EXPLODED AXOMETRIC

ECO-GROVE

Reimagining the Hooghly River

YEAR:WINTER 2021 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: ONE SEMESTER

The persisting threat of climate change remains a prominent issue in our society as it continues to cause destructive changes to our landscapes and economies. Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal and is one of the most populous cities in India with a population of approximately 14.85 million residents. It is also at high risk to flooding, subsidence and cyclones under climate change projections. The city sits on the banks of the Hooghly River and is close to the Sundarbans, a 4,000-square-mile UNESCO World Heritage site that is both the delta of four rivers and one of the largest tidal mangrove forests in the world. Responding to the current and future socio-ecological conditions of Kolkata, India, this thesis delivers a design approach that is biologically, socially, and culturally integrated. A series of plug-in typologies are introduced in effort to treat water pollution, combat sea level rise, and revitalize the riverfront. Using a biomimetic design method, a proposed resilient floating community responds to the dynamic ecological forces and fluctuating environment of the region by mimicking the form and function of mangrove ecosystems.

COURSE: SENIOR SEMINAR IN DESIGN (THESIS)

SUPERVISOR: JEANNIE KIM

HOOGHLY RIVER RIVERFRONT ACTIVITY

SITE ANALYSIS: The Hooghly River is a main distributary of the Ganges and holds major religious significance for close to a billion people. However, it suffers from many problems, including flooding during the monsoon season and collecting waste material from industrial sites and sewer pipe outlets. Excessive pollution along the river is also the direct result of cultural and religious activities, including idol submersions, giving offerings, performing burial ceremonies, and bathing. Residents are brought into direct contact with the river especially during festival seasons where three major ones take place in October, November, and January. Some of these rituals pollute the river, which has become a major public health issue for Kolkata as they continue to create unsuitable conditions for people to be immersed in the water.

PROPOSAL: This river intervention aims to tackle these issues by introducing a series of typologies that will work together to treat water pollution, mitigate sea level rise, and revitalize the riverfront while also accommodating the social and cultural needs of Kolkata residents using biomimicry. With the mangrove forest of the Sundarbans located in the periphery of Kolkata, mangroves are used as a design model for my proposal. Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees and shrubs that help protect coastal regions from intense tropical storms, waves and erosion. They serve as a flood barrier by absorbing the force of wind and waves, reducing the damage caused by cyclones and other storms. Furthermore, they reduce GHG emissions by capturing and storing waste carbon dioxide while their complex exposed root system nurtures aquatic organisms.

RESILIENT RHIZOMATIC GROWTH

The rhizomatic growth of mangrove roots are used as a design model for its potential for structural expansion. Showing properties of networked growth, interconnection, and resilience, they are used as an adaptive method design for infrastructural development.

INTERCONNECTING NETWORKS ADAPTIVE CONFIGURATIONS

Rhizomatic growth allows for interconnecting networks that are non-hierarchical, heterogeneous, multiplicitous, and acentered. Connections can be made at any point to any other point with multiple entry and exit points.

DISTRIBUTION CONCEPT

The interconnecting networks are then translated into hexagons, which is an ideal shape for easy aggregation and tessellation. The effective connections between modules also maximize potential for expansion and distribution.

STRUCTURAL STRENGTH

The triangular composition of hexagons naturally provides structural strength. The balance between the shape’s centric and linear configuration provides evenly distributed buoyant force on the structure while also allowing efficient edge interactions.

FESTIVAL SEASON

To accomodate residents during the festival seasons of October, November, and January, this configuration consists of pool and boat dock plug-ins. Cultural activities related to the water can take place in a clean environment and prevents from further polluting the Hooghly River.

WET SEASON

During the wet monsoon season, which typically takes place from June to October, the reduced river activity makes it the perfect time to target mangrove cultivation. This configuration includes a mix of greenhouse, wetland, research, and boat dock plug-ins to maximize mangrove growth and rainwater harvesting.

DRY SEASON

The dry season invites local residents, researchers, students, and tourists to enjoy a vibrant combiantion of all six plug-in typologies. This configuration is ideal for education, observation, and leisure opporutnities where visitors can enjoy a range of acitivies while being in the natural environment.

BAMBOO DECK

TRUSS SYSTEM

RECYCLED PLASTIC/ MYCELLIUM COVERED EPS

INTERLOCKING MECHANISM

VERTICAL SHIFTING: The interlocking pontoon system allows subtle verticle shifts in motion within the connection between platforms. Rising and falling with the water tides, this system adapts and responds to the dynamism of the river. This design provides flexibility when forming large configurations across a vast surface area.

The greenhouse not only functions as a mangrove nursery, but it also harvests rainwater during the wet season and stores it for future needs with the deficit of water during the dry season. When mangrove plants are mature enough, they will be transported to the desired location and placed in bamboo structures. Over time, the artificial roots will decompose and natural mangroves will protect the shoreline.

By mimicking the function of natural wetlands, this floating infrastructure uses bioremediating plants to treat the polluted water while also providing rich habitats for fish and other aquatic organisms.

The pier structure serves as an educational space where visitors can observe the artificial mangroves roots underwater, working to foster community engagement and bring awareness.

STUCK TOGETHER

Connecting Two Buildings: Collective Ciculation

YEAR: FALL 2021 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: ONE MONTH

Located in an urban academic campus in Everytown, the site occupies a space between two landmarked buildings that house the Art and Architecture Schools of Pratt Institute. The project aims to design a connecting structure that acts as a central unified lobby for the two schools. Serving as a collective meeting point for all the students from both schools, the structure creates cohesion between the differentiating floor heights of the two existing buildings through a central circulation system within an open atrium. Staircases, ramps, and other circulational means act as the main organizing principle between public and private programs, collective and discrete spaces, the partition of light and dark zones, and the transitional threshold between the exterior and interior of the building.

COURSE: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO I

SUPERVISOR: ALERIS RODGERS

1 Bounding Box

The site is located between two linked buildings, housing an Art and Architecture school

2 Extend

The misaligned floors from each building is extended inwards

3 Connect

The gap is connected with a primary circulation system and central atrium

4 Facade

The facade reflects the narrative of the design, acting as a sticky substance attaching the two schools

CONCEPT: This design was inspired by the texture of a sticky substance, suggesting that the two adjacent buildings are stuck together both figuratively and literally. To bridge the disconnection between the two schools, a series of staircases and ramps were designed to seamlessly unite the faculties while maintaining the dissonance between the misaligned floor plates.

CONCEPT DIAGRAM

CIRCULATION SYSTEM PHYSICAL MODEL Plywood, Basswood, Plexi Glass, 3D Printed Starch, Dowels

RAMPS STAIRS ELEVATOR

ROOF TERRACE

THIRD FLOOR

CIRCULATION: The primary staircases and ramps at the center of the connecting structure resemble a "sticky" texture that is apparent in both plan and section. Each attached to two floors, the staircases allow for easy circulation on all levels of the building while the ramps provide universal accessibility on every level.

ATRIUM: The staircases form the heart of the building and allows public activity to converge within a brightly lit core, under a central skylight. Additionally, their placement within an open atrium creates a continuous learning space and propells student interaction on multiple levels.

THIRD FLOOR

SECOND FLOOR

SECOND FLOOR

FIRST FLOOR

FIRST FLOOR

GROUND FLOOR

ISOMETRIC

EXPLODED CIRCULATION DIAGRAM

AMPHITHEATRE

COMPUTER LABS GALLERY STUDIOS

PROGRAMS: The amphitheatre is placed in the centre of the building and directly under the network of staircases. Washrooms, egress stairs, and the elevator are tucked in the left side of the building where it is enclosed by the Art school. Computer labs are also placed on the left side to restrict sunlight and prevent glare, while studios occupy the right side to maximize sunlight.

PROGRAM DIAGRAM

RIVER BANK Kayanase Seedbank

YEAR: WINTER 2022 | TYPE: ACADEMIC | DURATION: ONE MONTH

Located on a Six Nations Reserve along the bank of the Grand River, this project features a seedbank facility and landscape intervention in partnership with Kayanase Ecological Restoration. The overall building structure stretches from the existing facilities to the canoe landing, acting as a central mode of circulation, a passive water system, and a multipurpose space for research, conservation, restoration, education, and community engagement. With a main goal to embed the building within the landscape, the structure took inspiration from the Grand River shown through its form, materiality, and narrative. Thus, the building becomes a part of Mother Earth through coexistence and provides an interactive journey from land to sea. In pursuit of transparency between the building’s programs, occupants, and natural surroundings, this design proposes an architectural and landscape intervention that is ecologically, culturally, and socially integrated.

COURSE: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO II

SUPERVISOR: ADRIAN PHIFFER

FORM: Taking inspiration from the Grand River, the building’s form mimics the curves and flow of a river with programs located at every node of the curve. The building acts as the primary circulation path from the existing facilities on the site to the canoe landing on the river. Thus visitors are encouraged to engage with every space as they make their way towards the water.

COLUMNS: While providing structural support for the elevated building, the columns are also used as a unique architectural element to enhance the spatial experience of the building. The spacing between the columns gradually increase and decrease at specific areas to direct the view outwards to the landscape or inwards to the programmatic spaces for education purposes.

ROOF: The roof acts as a rain harvesting system through its sloping surface at each bend of the curve where the programs are located. Rainwater is collected with gutters and directed to an underground tank which is then used as irrigation for greenhouse plants or non-potable purposes. Additionally, circular openings in the roof signify a connection to the sky during social gatherings in the open public spaces.

BUILDING MODEL

Plywood, Plexi Glass, Dowels, Card Stock, Sand, Sawdust, Resin

SITE MODEL Plasticine, Sponge, Wire, Card Stock, Plywood, Plexi Glass

LANDSCAPE INTERVENTION: Since the site is prone to flooding, the building is elevated above the ground and a series of wetlands are introduced to productively mitigate the water. The wetlands are shaped by the curvature of the building and also provides habitats for wildlife. Additionally, outdoor gathering spaces are implemented on the site including an intimate gathering circle and a large grass field for outdoor social activities.

PLANTING: Wetland plants are distributed throughout the site according to the needs of the different plant species, such as the soil moisture and their bloom times. Farm crops that are able to tolerate wet soil have been selected for planting, both for seed harvesting for the seed bank as well as growing crops for local communities.

PROGRAMS: Each program features a the significance of the circle in Indigenous unity, strength, and the life cycle, the spaces for gathering, bonding, and learning programs are dispersed throughout the and are connected by a continuous roof

Consisting mainly of glass, the facilities activities inside and allow for continuous expansive natural environment from both spaces. The organization of the programs learn about these activities as they approach towards the river.

ACTIVITY: With the gradually changing human activity levels are created throughout floor spans allow for social gatherings building programs, while thinner hallways disconnect and enjoy the scenic views

circular floor plan to reflect Indigenous culture. Representing the shape creates meaningful learning at the seedbank. The the site in an organized manner roof canopy.

invite visitors to observe the continuous engagement with the both the interior and exterior programs encourage visitors to approach the public programs

changing floor widths, patterns in throughout the building. Wider gatherings and interaction with the hallways encourage visitors to of the landscape.

OUTDOOR MARKET

GREENHOUSE

SEASONAL PAVILION

CONSERVATION ROOM & LABORATORIES

1 OUTDOOR MARKET

A place for selling plants and produce to local communities

1 SEASONAL PAVILION

A place for eating and enjoying the scenery

2 GREENHOUSE

A place for growing plants

5 MULTIPURPOSE

A place for learning

A place for processing and storing seeds GREENHOUSE plants and collecting seeds

3 CONSERVATION ROOM & LABORATORIES

MULTIPURPOSE SPACE and holding events

6

SEMI-OPEN SPACE

A place for gathering and knowledge exchange