Nikola Asojana Portfolio 001

portfolio.

of content.

WHAT WASTE?

community hub and re-purposing workshops

The project aims to create a community hub at Bridge Farm located in Bristol that encompasses residential, commercial, and recreational aspects, fostering a vibrant society that values land and agriculture.

Taking into account the principles of One Planet Living (OPL) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the objective was to analyse the site, identifying its challenges, opportunities, and gaps, to develop a comprehensive proposal that promotes health, happiness, and equity to the community.

The site presented two main challenges: a steep slope and noise pollution from the nearby highway. To address these challenges, a zoning strategy was implemented to group spaces and ensure improved access and the creation of healthy and efficient areas.

what waste?

In order to kick-start the local economy, the decision was made to employ sustainable materials and products, reduce waste, and implement energy-efficient solutions. This was achieved by establishing on-site re-purposing workshops and CHP unit powered by the small anaerobic digestive power plant fed by the waste collected from the local schools, residents and a farm itself.

The advantages offered by the south-facing slope were harnessed to install solar photovoltaic panels. The roof design was carefully considered to incorporate concealed water collection systems, facilitating further reuse

The project incorporates two distinct structures: cargo containers and an oak frame. This deliberate choice aligns with the project’s commitment to minimizing the environmental impact through lowcarbon manufacturing processes and the reuse of containers, adding a distinct character to the community. Furthermore, the utilization of these structures allows for efficient and rapid assembly, while also providing the flexibility of post-use disassembly, catering to the needs of a dynamic and growing community.

Section: SketchUp, Illustrator, Photoshop

Structure breakdown: SketchUp, V-Ray

Structure: SketchUp, V-Ray

main entrance

For the construction of the 6 terraced houses, a decision was made to utilize CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber) prefabricated construction, commencing from the first floor. However, for the ground floor, a Rubble Wall construction method was selected. This choice was influenced by the contextual surroundings, specifically the presence of the Jewish Burial Ground Wall and the existing residential blocks that emulate its aesthetic. The Rubble Wall consists of a stone mass with a brick backing, harmonizing the new development with its immediate environment.

Site Plan: SketchUp, Illustrator, Photoshop South Elevation: SketchUp, Illustrator, Photoshop

Detail: Hand drawn

emergency dwellings, seamless integration

Close work alongside Architcture and Planning students allowed to establish the key drivers behind this project, that were rooted in extensive research and analysis of the local area and community. The goal was not only to develop new residential units but also to establish a vibrant hub that caters to the needs and aspirations of all residents in the vicinity. A central focus of the project involved the creation of a promenade that seamlessly connects with the existing one, extending all the way to the Temple Meads train station. This design element ensures convenient and secure pedestrian access between the residential spaces throughout the area. The hub itself, situated

East Elevation: SketchUp, V-Ray, Photoshop

West Elevation: SketchUp, V-Ray, Photoshop

enjoyable to use, easy to understand

The east and west facades of the building are intentionally designed to visually distinguish between private spaces and public communal areas. The west facade draws inspiration from the historic Victorian terraced houses that were previously present, creating a sense of continuity and familiarity. On the other hand, the east facade faces a local pub and a road, reflecting a more contemporary and vibrant appearance that aligns with the dynamic and modern community of the Dings area. This deliberate contrast in design aims to capture the essence of both tradition and progress in the architectural expression of the building.

Taking inspiration from the elegant form of a shell, this project invites visitors on a captivating journey. The path guides them through an intriguing, enclosed entrance, to the outer layer of the shell, evoking the sparkling reflection of sunlight on water. Moving further, they reach the central core of the shell and ascend a dark, spiral staircase to the outer layer on the first floor. This design creates a unique spatial experience, offering a sense of mystery and discovery within the shell’s architecture.

Ground floor plan: Hand drawn, Photoshop, Illustrator

First floor plan: Hand drawn, Photoshop, Illustrator

Entrance: Hand made model, Photoshop, Illustrator

model-making and crafts

During the pandemic, model-making became crucial for conveying the tactile and spatial aspects of my architectural designs. Despite limited materials, I explored mass, gaps, light, and shadow. Engaging with the physical models deepened my connection to the design and allowed for reflective time, facilitating iterative adjustments and enhancements. I also value hands-on craftsmanship and prefer reusing available materials in university workshops, as demonstrated by my recent personal project of crafting an easel.

in the shadows

The Icelandic landscape, with its stark beauty and vast expanses, resonates with a sense of darkness and solitude. This projects, aims to explore, overcome and embrace difficulties in living and growing in the shadows. Drawing inspiration from the resilience of algae cells, the theme of the station revolves around the investigation of plant growth without reliance on photosynthesis. Meanwhile, comfortable living is to be achieved through the Japanese philosophy “Ma” and “soft modernism” of Aalto and Ando, that invites contemplation through the “negative spaces”, allowing one to perceive the subtle beauty that emerges among the shadows and silence, through considerate use of light, the manipulation of space, or the incorporation of elements that evoke a sense of tranquillity.

free-hand re-imagine

This project is a personal attempt undertaken as part of the technical module of the Design Studio. The objective was to explore and reimagine one of the architectural styles.

My choice has fallen to study an Art Nouveau street of my hometown in Riga, and detailing the building that has at some point in the past arisen my curiosity towards architecture.

nikola asojana

Dedicated and enthusiastic student with a strong passion for learning, art and sports. Possess a keen eye for detail and hold a deep appreciation for nature, people, and the environment as a whole. Strong belief in promoting sustainability in the built environment and strive to create spaces that inspire and foster healthy and happy communities.

education

BEng (Hons) Architecture and Environmental Engineering | 2020 - Present

University of the West of England, Bristol

This course focuses on architectural principles, particularly the integration of passive design strategies and efficient systems. The objective is to develop environmentally and sustainable-driven design proposals both in architecture and engineering.

Design and Engineering Studio 3 | 2022 - Present

Throughout this module, I have acquired the expertise to effectively evaluate clients’ briefs and successfully deliver projects that align with their objectives, requirements, and aspirations. I have developed a thorough understanding of site analysis, enabling me to identify and leverage the advantages offered by passive design strategies. Additionally, I have gained proficiency in creating well-considered architecture that incorporates contemporary sustainable techniques, including adherence to Passivhaus and BREEAM standards and compliance with CIBSE Guide A standards.

Low Carbon Building Services | 2022 - Present

This module has equipped me with the skills to perform quantitative analysis of systems, enabling me to evaluate inputs, outputs, efficiencies, life-cycle costing, carbon intensity, and associated performance criteria. Moreover, I have honed my ability to observe and document technical aspects of energy conversion systems and equipment, and effectively communicate my findings through graphical and written reports.

Design Representation | 2021 - 2022

In this module, our task was to depict an existing building using a range of architecturally significant software tools. Our work-flow involved developing scaled plans in AutoCAD, producing stylized outputs in Illustrator, creating 3D models using SketchUp and Revit, conducting renderings with TwinMotion, V-Ray, and Lumion, and generating refined output images in Photoshop and Illustrator. Ultimately, we aimed to design professional, visually clear, and effectively communicated layouts of our developed designs using InDesign.

General Secondary Education (GCE AAB Level Equivalent) | 2020

Riga Secondary School No. 1, Riga, Latvia

Average of 9.4/10, with grades 9 in Advanced Mathematics and Physics

awards

Deans’s List Recognition | 2021

University of the West of England, Bristol

Highly Commanded (3rd place) | 2020

Totally Modular, House IO Competition, Bristol

Zero Carbon Aware (Gold) | 2020

University of the West of England, Bristol

other activities

Photography (certificate) | 2019 - Present

Yoga and Pilates | 2016 - Present

Competitive volleyball | 2016 - Present

Guitar (acoustic/electric) | 2011 - Present

School committee member | 2018 - 2020

Competitive sprinter | 2009 - 2020

Professional swimmer | 2007 - 2017

Art school | 2009 - 2015

languages references

English, Latvian (native), Russian (fluent), Spanish (basic), Armenian (basic/native)

Available upon request

SketchUp

Implemented the entire project utilizing components and groups, incorporating customized short-cuts and components from the warehouse, and ensuring comprehensive organization and clarity through labelling and tags.

Revit

As part of the Design Representation module, I have developed a comprehensive and highly detailed model of the OCM House. Additionally, I am currently focused on my final year 3 project for the Farm Community.

2D

AutoCad

Developed plans, sections, elevations and details to scale with a use of dynamic blocks.

Adobe Photoshop

Employed rendering techniques to achieve a high level of realism in physical models, as well as rendered plans, sections, elevations. Added final touches to enhance the visual quality of renders, ensuring a polished and refined output. Used along with Illustrator to maximize efficiency.

Adobe Illustrator

Generated stylized outputs that incorporated intricate details and compelling graphics, resulting in the creation of visually engaging and effectively communicated images and diagrams. Used along with Photoshop, drawing pad and short-cuts to maximize efficiency.

Adobe InDesign

Consistently crafted professional, clear, and effectively communicated layouts for all presentations and projects throughout the course.

Rendering

Lumion

Recently started the software, currently developing full renders for my year 3 projects.

V-Ray

Has created clean realistic renders for the projects using wide range of effects and post-processing options.

TwinMotion

Straightforward, easy to use software used for quick and efficient renders delivering a high quality.

Engineering

IES VE

Developed a comprehensive building model to simulate energy and efficiency performance, allowing for the identification of weaknesses.

ReLux

Developed a detailed model to simulate both daylight and artificial lighting, enabling accurate calculations and generating informative graphs.

skills

Strategical Thinking

Through my involvement in the school committee and serving as a class peer leader, I developed the ability to analyse situations from diverse perspectives, comprehend motivations, incentives, and constraints, think strategically, foster creativity and innovation, and actively seek feedback and collaboration.

Design Skills

Cultivated my artistic abilities through art school, mastering diverse forms of visual communication. My preferred mediums, pencil and charcoal, allowed me to create both sketchy and detailed drawings, which ultimately steered me towards architecture. I exhibited my work in several hometown exhibitions in Riga. Moreover, I delved into digital print design for clothing. During my university studies, I acquired expertise in physical model-making, laser cutting, technical drawing, and website design and development.

Day Childcare and Mentoring | 2019

ALBB, “Alianse Latvija bez bāreņiem”, Latvia

Engaged in meaningful volunteer work at an orphanage and kid’s crisis centre alongside my mother. Together, we provided day care services to several children in need. This experience significantly enhanced my communication skills, enabling me to effectively engage and entertain individuals facing challenging circumstances or trauma. I learned to share my knowledge and guide them in finding joy in simple things, cultivating inspiration, and discovering their own hobbies and interests. These invaluable skills continue to serve me today, facilitating seamless communication with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

work

Photographer and Digital Restoration

June 2023 - present

Catch the Moment, 285A Gloucester Rd

Professional photo-shoots for individuals, families, kids and events in the studio and outside. Digital restauration from prints and digital files, photo print and film development.

Barista | October 2022 - present

Costa Coffee at UWE Frenchay Campus

The role of the committee member has involved constant cooperation with other team members to organize and run different projects and events. Additionally, my role as a volleyball team member demands strong teamwork skills, given the significant emotional dynamics involved.

Organization and Time Management

With 4 years of catering experience, I have honed multitasking abilities and a proactive mindset. This work experience, professional sports and travelling in a combination with continuous studies taught me to organize and plan my time to maintain efficiency and great performance across all areas.

Team Work Adaptability

Demonstrated adaptability across various environments through participation in academic team competitions, sports societies, and diverse roles in the hospitality industry (including bar, waiting, and retail), as well as commenced a professional and personal career abroad.

Communication

Frequent architecture project presentations have honed my skills in effective verbal communication. Additionally, my role as a class peer leader necessitated confidence, conciseness, and assertiveness in speaking. Through various university modules, I have developed robust written communication skills encompassing visual representation and analytical reports. As a multilingual international student, my passion for experiencing new cultures has instilled a strong inclination towards open and effective interpersonal communication.

Serving great coffee, food and other drinks to customers to make their mornings a bit better.

Waiter | May 2022 - September 2023

PeppeNero, Cheswick Village, Bristol, UK

Served food, as well as prepared fresh coffee and various drinks. Had to multi-task and be efficient due to the small business, helped in the kitchen, with deliveries and web/social promotion.

Barista | October 2021 - May 2022

SSP Starbucks at Bristol Airport

Served great coffee, food and other drinks to departing customers, as well as had security and first aid trainings. Had to work consistently through the unstable workload due to the rush hours.

Pilates Coach | May 2021 - July 2021

F1 Club, Riga, Latvia

From a young age, I have undergone numerous rehabilitations to address my back problems, successfully improving my condition without the need for surgery. This experience ignited my passion for fitness and Pilates, which has remained alongside my professional sports career. I have actively pursued professional Pilates training and have gained valuable experience as a coach at a local club. Parallel to my architecture career, my objective is to establish myself as a certified Pilates coach, establish my own studio, and pay forward the assistance I once received by helping others achieve their goals.