As a designer I have a mission to create empathic design. To create spaces that serve the well-being of people. I hope my designs help individuals feel connected, safe, and inspired. Spaces that reflect the needs of diverse cultures, children, and communities, crafting environments that foster growth, inclusion, and comfort to its maximum potential.
THE SANCTUARY STUDENT
RESIDENCE
Embodying Sim Van der Ryn’s principles of empathic design, this student housing project places the inhabitant at the center of every design element. From the panel façade that adapts to sun exposure, to thoughtfully crafted balconies, common areas, landscape, and terraces, the design prioritizes student well-being. The existing building’s form adapts to the existing landscape, and the design creates a natural haven from the stressful university atmosphere.
Six elements of design that focused on the user’s needs to create a natural atmosphere to counteract the stressful university campus
APRIL 2024| UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO, YEAR 3 INSTRUCTOR MAURICIO QUIROS
The design derives from the verb “shift.” Every element from the building form—from its volume to the floor plates and façade—is inspired by the concept of shifting, where a simple cuboid transforms into dynamic forms.
Situated beside UofT’s Goldring Centre, the structure subtly guides individuals to their destinations, showcasing the architect’s ability to shape landscape.
This cuboid analysis is a complete study of all forms transformed from a shift in a cube by moving its 6 faces, 12 vertices and 8 edges. It was used to generate the building form .
The following analysis (next page) shows all directional movements from each point in the diagram, inspiring the design of stairs and façade.
A hydrological analysis of a segment in the Don River Watershed at three different scales to evaluate how topography can improve drainage patterns. The study included a watershed plan at 1:10,000 with 10-meter contours, a regional watershed plan at 1:5,000 with 1-meter contours, and a local plan at 1:500 with 0.5-meter contours, which were used to inform the new grading plan.
Based on the findings, a grading plan was developed to optimize drainage patterns for the new development and roads by extending the steep incline toward the watershed, incorporating two levels of retaining ponds, and designing two terraces within the first level near the development. This approach effectively slows water flow towards the river and away from the development, prevents soil erosion, and enhances the visual appeal of the surrounding landscape.
Designed graphics, plans and renders for newly planned homes in central Tel Aviv and Tzfat, assisting the architects in refining ideas and adjusting structures, including the placement of the backyard pergola and outdoor lounge.
While collaborating with Henkin Shavit Design Studios, I gained a deep understanding of the architectural process, appreciating its complexities, patience, and creative rewards.
Ground Floor Plan: Variation 1
Ground Floor Plan: Variation 2
HENKIN SHAVIT DESIGN STUDIOS
AutoCad, Rhino 7, Enscape, Illustrator, Photoshop
CULTURAL CROSSROADS
ANALYSIS + DESIGN INTERVENTION
Parkdale, a vibrant multicultural hub in Toronto, often serves as a landing point for new immigrants. This research explores the cultural beacons within the community, highlighting its diversity and multiple ethnicities.
The study of Masaryk Park led to a design intervention that expands its use, revitalizing the local farmer’s market. An alternative pathway and a newly designed cart were introduced to support the market’s growth.
The cart’s modular components and slide-in design allow for flexible configurations based on specific needs, helping maintain the sense of community and multi-culturalism in this public space.
Analyzed “Tower House” by Atelier BowWow to understand their design strategies for addressing limited space. Made a 1:10 scale model to study the decision-making process behind the floor and stair positioning , aiming to maximize spatial efficiency and explore alternative options with its modular components.
The conceptual analysis of “Tower House,” inspired the housing project below within Kensington Market in Downtown Toronto. It is a residential space designed for a small family within a compact 150 m² Gross Floor Area. A key concept was “a space within a space,” where elements interconnect through volume, programming, and fixtures. Notably shown with the stairs where they have a dual purpose, functioning as a table or bookshelf in addition to a staircase, adding to the initial concept.
2023 NOVEMBER| UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO, YEAR 3 INSTRUCTOR CAROL MOUKHEIBER
