Hi! I’m Daniel, an architect with nine years of experience in Chile, Uruguay, and Italy.
Originally from Valdivia, south of Chile, my passion for architecture led me to study at the University of Chile in Santiago, where I also earned a master’s degree in urbanism. Throughout my career, I’ve worked on a diverse range of projects, including public spaces, residential homes, industrial buildings, and hospitals. My expertise covers everything from conceptual design to construction documentation, always with a strong focus on how architecture enhances daily life.
1. ABOUT ME
For the past three years, I have specialized in BIM, working extensively with Revit to develop and coordinate complex projects. I also produce detailed construction documents in AutoCAD and create high-quality renders withTwinmotion, refining them through post-production in Photoshop.
Since 2022, I’ve been based in Italy, working as a freelancer while expanding my expertise in the local architectural field. Fluent in Spanish, English, and German, I am also continuously improving my Italian
I considered my self punctual, proactive, and highly collaborative, I really like working in dynamic environments where design and technical precision come together to shape meaningful spaces.
2. MY WORK
For me, it’s crucial to study and understand the context in which a project will be. I like to begin with a historical examination followed by an urban analysis from the macro to the micro scale.
I find joy in collaborative brainstorming exchanges, where everyone contributes their ideas freely, often sketching by hand on a piece of paper. Afteer that, I start creating initial digital sketches using AutoCAD or, if is possible Revit. Additionally, I enjoy a lot producing renders with Twinmotion and refining them through post-production in Photoshop.
In compiling this portfolio, I have selected projects that I believe showcase my expertise and experience. This selection is based on various topics, including project type, scale, and the digital tools employed.
I am passionate about the city. Considering that it is within it where the vast majority of opportunities emerge.
Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to collaborate on different projects and in different countries. I always worked with the same enthusiasm.
3. URBANISM EXPERIENCE
I hope to be able to contribute with my experience and tools towards more fair, inclusive and green cities.
VALDIVIA 2020: URBAN REGENERATION
ON THE SOUTH
BANK
OF THE CALLE-CALLE RIVER “towards sustainable urban development”
Final thesis presentation 6th year Architecture (2015)
After conducting a historical analysis of Valdivia’s urban expansion, I discovered several vacant sites with significant potential within the city’s pericenter. Consequently, my proposal aimed to revitalize the city’s railway connection and breathe new life into the long-abandoned train station.
My vision also entailed the creation of new pedestrian neighborhoods and the establishment of a river-based public transport system powered by solar energy vessels. Additionally, I envisioned a vibrant waterfront featuring bike lanes, recreational sports facilities, and playgrounds for children. The proposal emphasized the importance of planting trees and reintroducing native flora characteristic of the region’s lush rainforest.
Furthermore, the project included plans for a new interconnected urban mobility system, aimed at restructuring the main thoroughfares and avenues to shift away from automobile dominance. This involved the introduction of bus rapid transit corridors (BRT) and the implementation of extensive bike lane networks spanning many kilometers.
Current situation: the city disconnected from the riverside
Work exposed in a congress: Espinoza, D., Zumelzu, A., (2015) “Valdivia and its evolution post-earthquake 1960: approaches, factors and determining factors”.
Link to the paper: https://revistas.ubiobio.cl/index.php/RU/article/view/2303
URBAN EXPANSION OF VALDIVIA (1794 - 2014)
South bank masterplan: new pedestrian neighborhoods and transport hub
Final thesis presentation 6th year architecture (2015)
New access to the museum O’Brien, Naval Submarine Museum
Final thesis presentation
6th year architecture (2015)
Night render of the waterfront during the carnival Final thesis presentation 6th year architecture (2015)
PARQUE PAJONAL INTERCOMMUNAL PARK IN THE CAPITAL
Santiago de Chile stands as one of the largest cities in Latin America, with approximately 8 million residents inhabiting its metropolitan area. However, it is also recognized as one of the most unequal cities in the region.
In 2020, I had the opportunity to collaborate with PAN Estudio on a significant project. It corresponds to the design of an 17.5 hectare area to be transformed into an Intercommunal Park. The design principles were founded upon three key strategies: Environmental restoration, Reconnection of the urban network, and Enhancement of local Identity.
With these principles in mind, the park was conceptualized to bear an environmental seal, encompassing a variety of ecosystems within its boundaries.
Throughout the year, we engaged in regular meetings with local residents to ensure a participatory design process that aligned with their needs and aspirations.
It was imperative for the renderings to convey the park’s role as a communal gathering space suitable for individuals of all ages. Additionally, universal accessibility standards were integrated into the design. Furthermore, meticulous attention was paid to ensure that the colors, shapes, and sizes of trees adhered to the landscaping plan
The Commune of Maipú (before the intervention)
PAN Estudio
Santiago de Chile (2020)
Conceptual scheme for the design and initial layout of the Park.
Green area planning and landscaping
Parque Pajonal (PAN Estudio) Santiago de Chile, 2020
Atmosphere diagrams Shade areas with children’s play and wetland edge (PAN Estudio)
Redering with Twinmotion and Photoshop
Parque Pajonal (PAN Estudio)
Santiago de Chile, 2020
PLAZA LOS FOLKLORISTAS
SMALL NEIGHBORHOOD SQUARE ON THE OUTSKIRTS
In a small town called Los Andes, once again alongside PAN Estudio, we had the opportunity to propose and design this project aimed at strengthening and consolidating the Los Copihue neighborhood.
This is a low-income neighborhood comprised of housing blocks. With funding from the central government, the main idea is to revitalize a deteriorated plaza.
The design includes a new layout that consolidates a wide perimeter as a space capable of hosting activities under a new shade cover, and the construction of winding paths with soft pavement amidst areas where program activities take place and most of the urban equipment is installed.
The project has been developed with the main focus on generating shade for the various market stalls on market days, the walking paths within the plaza, and the sports and children’s play areas for the community.
Photomontages as collage: Objective image of the Plaza
PAN Estudio
Santiago de Chile (2021)
Masterplan for Los Copihues neighborhood Neighborhood Recovery Program “Quiero Mi Barrio” of the Ministry of Housing and Urbanism (MINVU) – Los Andes, Chile (2020)
MASTERPLAN JACKSONVILLE MIXEED USED AND MEDIUM DENSITY
Estrategias
In a sector located on the outskirts of Montevideo, but easily accessible via highways, a new residential project is proposed. Centered around a small chapel and existing old plaza, a new hub with small shops and restaurants is being created.
The project also includes the incorporation of buildings with active ground floors and a maximum of four floors of offices. Further out from the intervention area, the project features residential buildings of various densities, including single-family homes at the edges.
Taking advantage of the surrounding landscape and the streams that run through the area, the masterplan includes buffer zones equipped with parks and green areas
The aim provides a detailed master plan for the environmental improvement of the existing buildings. It aims to improve pedestrian access and enjoyment of the area while enhancing the settings of its buildings, monuments and spaces. As part of a comprehensive program of detailed improvements and enlargements.
Urbanas Montevideo (2020)
Existing old plaza
Masterplan Jacksonville - Montevideo
Estrategias Urbanass Montevideo Uruguay (2020)
4. RECENT WORK IN ITALY
For almost two years, I have been living in Italy. From the city of Bologna, I have had the opportunity to collaborate, both in person and remotely, with various architecture studios.
During this time, I have had the chance to design houses, villas, and buildings, including some demolition and reconstruction projects, as well as new constructions from scratch.
I have also participated in commercial projects such as supermarkets, as well as industrial projects, like a factory spanning 5,000 square meters.
TORRE DI AVVISTAMENTO
CENTRO VISITE SALINE DI CERVIA
Thea aim of this object is focuses on proposing an integrated project for upgrade the tourist attractiveness of the Po Delta area.
Considering the great biodiversity and the large number of birds in the surroundings of that tower in the Cervia salt pans For this purpose, it is proposed to reuse an existing water tower as a new watchtower and support for the installation six telecameras for projection on a multimedia room.
The colors of the Cervia salt pans and also its geometry were taken from an ortofoto, for creating a design for the new structure installed on the tank to mitigate the mobile phone antennas. The tank covering texture consists of a light steel structure and pre-painted PVC panels screen-printed with the image of the Saline.
The 3D visualization for this project was a great challenge, because since it was located outside the urban area, it was necessary to focus on modeling the landscape and vegetation.
In order to do that, I was able to compile a first base with information from Google Earth, where some objects are available: such as the houses, the road and most importantly: the topographical levels of the salt flats.
With the help of a software called Blender I was able to download this information. Then with the help of Twinmotion I add water, which filled the spaces in the ground, then the sky, the fog and the trees.
Case Falavino
Cervia (2023)
Water tower (curren situation)
Torre di avvistamento
Studio Falavino
Centro visite Salina di Cervia (2023)
Torre di avvistamento
Studio Falavino
Centro visite Salina di Cervia (2023)
VICOLO BIANCO RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
The project involves the demolition of an existing building in Bologna and the subsequent reconstruction of a new project.
For this purpose, a preliminary volume study was necessary to understand the maximum height that needed to be respected. Then the project will become defined by an exchange of in and outs, considering the relation with the greenery.
Furthermore, it was necessary to respect the areas where the old building was adhered to neighboring lots.
The final proposal is a 5-story building, with single-family apartments equipped with terraces and green roofs.
GBa Studio
Bologna (2022)
Render of the building, Revit 3D modell and Twinmotion
TEXTILE FACTORY
Biophilia hypothesis
The project emerged from the need to expand an existing factory onto the land across the street.
Since it’s a textile factory, a good lighting is crucial for the workers to accurately perceive the colors of the materials they’re producing.
To achieve this, the design utilized skylights, large windows and artificial light.
The core concept is inspired by Biophilia, hence the use of large prefabricated concrete panels for areas not requiring direct natural light. Conversely, sections with tall curtain wall windows allow for ample sunlight and scenic views of the countryside.
Additionally, four interior gardens were integrated, visible throughout the factory, creating a sense of visual continuity from end to end.
NUOVA FABBRICA BENELLI
GBa Studio
Calderara di Reno (2022)
Render of the building
Exploded axonometric view
Revit 3D modell
GBa Studio (Calderara di Reno, 2022)
Interior rendering
Revit 3D modell and Twinmotion GBa Studio (Calderara di Reno, 2022)
Exterior render Studio Falavino (San Lazzaro di Savena) Housing projects (2024)
SINT MAARTEN GENERAL HOSPITAL
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Working remotely from Italy, I contributed to the design of a complex hospital on a Caribbean island, covering multiple medical specialties such as surgery, maternity, and psychiatry.
My involvement spanned from the conceptual phase to the Final Design, later transitioning into the Technical Design stage. Throughout the process, I collaborated with various disciplines to refine the project and ensure its successful development.
Currently, I work as a BIM Specialist, overseeing the integration of architectural, structural, and MEP systems within a shared Revit model. Additionally, I am responsible for landscape design, focusing on key outdoor and courtyard areas. This 25,000 sqm project has been a valuable opportunity to enhance my skills in coordination, technical detailing, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
T.H.E.Ma. SRL
Bologna (2024)
Typical Rooms - Four patients room & Maternity suite
Revit 3D modell
T.H.E.Ma. SRL (Sint Maarten, 2024)
Interior design Rendering with Twinmotion
Section details
Revit & AutoCAD
T.H.E.Ma. SRL (Sint Maarten, 2024)
North Facade
Revit & AutoCAD
T.H.E.Ma. SRL (Sint Maarten, 2024)
This experience has deepened my expertise in BIM workflows. Working with a Revit model, I coordinated multiple disciplines, including Structure, MEP, and Electrical, ensuring seamless integration. Utilizing Autodesk Construction Cloud, we identified interferences and refined details up to the Technical Design stage. Most architectural drawings were generated directly from Revit, including plans for screeds, floor finishes, skirting, doors, windows, medical equipment, and furniture, along with the bill of quantities (BOQ)
5. ARCHITECTURE COMPETITIONS
Apart from my experiences collaborating with various architecture studios, I actively seek opportunities to form new teams and engage in architectural competitions.
I have a genuine passion for participating in architecture competitions, viewing them as invaluable opportunities to refine my skills, explore new horizons, and foster creativity.
Moreover, involvement in such endeavors serves as a refreshing break, stimulating the mind with fresh challenges and inspiring new goals.
Mercado Modelo International ideas competition: thinking the city of the 21st century. Montevideo, Uruguay (2018). TACTO Estudio
TerraViva Competition
International ideas competition.
Rural Housing: the
adaptive reuse of an Italian “Cascina” Cascina Lossano, Italia (2023). TACTO Estudio
- Photography
- Publications in indexed journals
- Recommendation letters
ANNEXES
Photography
1)
2)
3)
Centro Habana. La Habana - Cuba (2016)
Pelourinho, Salvador de Bahía - Brasil (2014)
Cathédrale Notre-Dame. Strasbourg, L’Alsace - France (2013)
Photography
4) Obelisco de Buenos Aires - Argentina (2016)
5) Berliner Dom und Fernsehturm. Berlin - Deutschland (2013)
6) Palacio Salvo. Montevideo - Uruguay (2018)
Photography
10) The Oculus - New York (2019)
11) Museo Soumaya - Ciudad de México (2019)
Both photographs awarded in the City Guide photographic contest Contemporary Architecture Guide from www.archsight.net
VALDIVIA Y SU EVOLUCIÓN POSTTERREMOTO 1960:
ENFOQUES, FACTORES ESCALARES Y CONDICIONANTES
ARTICLES IN INDEXED MAGAZINES
1) Espinoza, D., Zumelzu, A., Burgos, R. y Mawromatis, C. (2016) “Transformaciones espaciales en ciudades intermedias: caso de Valdivia y su evolución post-terremoto”. Revista Arquitectura y Urbanismo, AU 37(3):1-22. (Scielo)
2) Espinoza, D., y Zumelzu, A. (2016) “Valdivia y su evolución post-terremoto 1960: Enfoques, factores escalares y condicionantes”. Revista Urbano 33 (19): 14-29 (LATINDEX)
3) Zumelzu, A. y Espinoza, D. (2019) “Elaboración de una metodología para evaluar la sostenibilidad en barrios de ciudades intermedias”. Revista 180 44 (2): 80-94. (WoS/ISI) Link: https://revista180.udp.cl/index.php/revista180/article/view/474/429
