I’m Cristina Valverde, an architectural designer with a Master’s degree from Drury University, driven by a passion for creating spaces that truly serve their users. My design philosophy centers around the belief that architecture should be more than just visually compelling; it should be responsive to the needs and experiences of the people who interact with it. My experiences throughout school have not only honed my technical skills but also reinforced my commitment to designing spaces that enhance and enrich lives. One of the most rewarding aspects of architecture for me is witnessing my designs come to life and be enjoyed by their users. This process, from conceptualization to realization, is what fuels my passion for the feld. My ultimate aspiration is to see a project I’ve designed take shape in the real world, becoming a functional and cherished part of its community.
THESIS DESIGN
This architectural thesis proposes a humane redesign of correctional facilities to promote rehabilitation and ease reintegration. The model provides inmates with personal rooms and bathrooms, fostering dignity, along with shared communal spaces that encourage social skills. A viewing deck allows family and friends to support inmates by attending their basketball games, strengthening bonds. Additionally, a community market enables inmates to sell handmade products, gaining income and practical experience. This reimagined facility shifts the focus from confnement to growth and community reintegration.
THESIS DESIGN
DESIGN PROGRESS
LEBANON NGO
The NGO-Art Hub serves as a symbol of hope and unity for Lebanon, established in response to the urgent need for recovery after the August 4th, 2020, port explosion. This innovative design combines NGO offces with essential medical, research, and educational facilities, along with inviting apartments, a café, and an art exhibition space. It aims to create a welcoming community for refugees, transforming aid into a vibrant center of resilience and creativity.
MOTHER’S TAPROOM
The Mother’s Taproom, a new chapter for Mother’s Brewing Company, will be a vibrant hub in Springfeld, Missouri. Designed to connect with the local community, its striking glass box structure on the second foor draws attention from the street, while offering a glimpse inside. The warm, homey frst foor, with a low-hanging ceiling crafted from repurposed beer barrels, creates a cozy, memorable space that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
CHICAGO RESIDENCES
The Chicago Residences rise beside the Chicago River, blending modern urban living with vibrant community spaces. This apartment complex includes three mixed-use buildings with retail, dining, and recreational areas alongside stylish residences. Inviting outdoor seating and gathering spaces connect the riverfront to the development, creating a dynamic social hub where residents and visitors can enjoy the river’s scenic beauty and a lively mix of activities.`
JUBILEE THEATER
Rising from the historic site of the former Ozark Jubilee, this project commands attention in downtown Springfeld, Missouri—a hub of both vehicular and pedestrian activity. The design masterfully captures the gaze of passersby with its enigmatic facade, wrapped in channel glass that hints at the wonders within while preserving an air of mystery. As visitors step inside, they are greeted by a stunningly circular interior, where the design’s fuid, circular layout guides their experience, creating a mesmerizing journey through the space. The combination of an intriguing exterior and a breathtakingly unique interior ensures that the theater leaves an unforgettable impression on all who encounter it.
