ARCHITECTURE.
PORTFOLIO. Krystel Cortez Jacinto
| Undergradute
| Selected Works 2020-2023
WAVE-SIDE AQUARIUM Architectonics II, 2020
For my initial year project, I embarked on the design of a coastal aquarium, drawing inspiration from the organic beauty of the ocean and its rhythmic waves. My ambition was to capture the essence of this biophilic design in my creation. To initiate and delve into the exploration of this fluid concept, I began my design journey by crafting parti models from wire mesh, carefully molding the essential structure. Within the aquarium’s interior, a prominent feature is a substantial globe, which serves as a captivating display space for a diverse range of marine animals, providing them with an environment that mirrors their natural habitat.
LITTLE SAIGON OAKLAND REDEVELOPMENT International Projects, 2023 Partner: Jerome Faustino
This project is centered around urban planning, specifically within a 3-block segment of a 14-block corridor located on International Boulevard, nestled in Oakland’s vibrant Little Saigon neighborhood. Our aim is to cultivate a community plan for Little Saigon/East Lake, extending from 1st Ave to 14th Ave, encompassing both International Blvd and East 12th Street. Collaborating closely with my partner, we were entrusted with the creative challenge of reimagining and revitalizing a local park and community space. Our approach involved a blend of visual and experiential design, delving into the realms of color, form, and community engagement. The overarching goal was to conceptualize a space that would not only be accessible but, more importantly, inclusive and equitable, bringing the diverse individuals of the community together in a harmonious and dynamic environment.
MASS TIMBER CABIN
Intro to Stuctural Engineering, 2023 The aim of this project was to accurately compute the dead and live loads associated with a cabin and subsequently engineer a structural system capable of supporting these loads, taking into account the building type, components, and materials involved. Drawing inspiration from Tadao Ando’s iconic “Church of Light” and the abundant natural light at the project site, I sought to explore the interplay of light within the building, with a focus on how it could cast intriguing shadows and create a luminous atmosphere. For this purpose, I opted to use Mass Timber, a material known for its sustainability and strength. The structural frame was meticulously designed with larger posts and beams to ensure stability while allowing for a raw interior finish, embracing the material’s natural beauty and reinforcing the connection between the built environment and the surrounding nature.
10'-6"
25'
4'
3" 13'-816
24'
36'
origami parti models
TRANSVERSE MUSEUM Architecture Studio, 2022 East Cut, San Francisco As an integral component of a broader urban design initiative, this museum project was envisioned for an expansive lot within San Francisco’s East Cut district. The fundamental structure’s design emanated from my preliminary origami parti studies, adopting a deliberate incorporation of angular and sharp forms as a prominent design element. Situated in the innovative hub of the East Cut, San Francisco, I sought inspiration from the vibrant colors of the Pompidou Center in Paris, integrating bold strips of red and blue to infuse creativity and vitality into the architectural design. Substantial fenestrations, which gracefully hover over the building, bestow an industrialized aesthetic while creating a captivating interplay of views and shadows, seamlessly connecting the interior with the exterior environment.
rendered: sketchup and twinmotion
ETHIOPIA CHILDREN’S HOME PROJECT International Projects, 2023 Partner: Jerome Faustino
In collaboration with a community partner, our mission was to craft a welcoming and nurturing environment for orphans aged 5-10 in the Ethiopian region. My role involved the thoughtful design of courtyards, entryways, and landscape features for this children’s orphanage, with a profound focus on fostering a sense of community and harnessing the cultural significance of bamboo. Collaborating with a partner, our design philosophy incorporated elements of exploration and whimsy. The bamboo “forest” and courtyard, while inspired by the vibrant culture of Ethiopia, were conceived to cultivate an atmosphere of sheer delight and meaningful connections. This carefully designed space was intended to facilitate positive interactions between the children and prospective parents who came to visit, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all. To create an inviting environment for all, I adorned the entryway with whimsical crinkle-crankle walls, making it a welcoming space for both children and adults alike.
ADDITIONAL WORK: 35mm film