Architecture Portfolio - Dhriti Pangasa

port·fo·lio

d h r i t i p a n g a s a

www.linkedin.com/in/dhriti-pangasa-8b6b1b145

Los Angeles, CA

pangasa@usc.edu

(303) 385-3508

dhritipangasa

DESIGNER

Dhriti Pangasa epitomizes a seamless blend of cultural heritage and contemporary architectural innovation. Graduating from CU Denver in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a minor in Studio Arts, her journey from New Delhi, India, to the United States profoundly influenced her design philosophy. Inspired by India's rich architectural traditions and the dynamic landscapes of her American experience since 2015, Dhriti channels these influences into her work, infusing it with a unique cultural perspective and a deep appreciation for diverse urban environments.

Currently pursuing a Master of Architecture and a Landscape Architecture certificate at USC in Los Angeles, Dhriti expands traditional architectural boundaries. She integrates landscape elements thoughtfully into her designs, crafting spaces that harmonize aesthetics with sustainability and functionality. Proficient in advanced 3D design software, Dhriti translates conceptual ideas into detailed, practical solutions that captivate and inspire.

With nearly three years at Farnsworth Group as an architectural designer, Dhriti has honed her skills across all phases of design, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams and utilizing her expertise in Autodesk Revit to produce comprehensive construction drawings. Beyond her professional pursuits, Dhriti finds inspiration in abstract art, painting, photography, and outdoor exploration, influencing her holistic approach to architecture that prioritizes community and sustainability. Dhriti Pangasa emerges as a visionary architect poised to shape the future of the built environment with creativity, ingenuity, and a steadfast commitment to sustainable design principles.

EDUCATION

• University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA — Master of Architecture, Advanced Standing + Certificate in Landscape Architecture (2025)

• University of Colorado, Denver Denver, CO — Bachelor of Science in Architecture + Minor in Studio Arts (2020)

WORK EXPERIENCE

K-Works Studio

Project Designer - Independent Contractor June 2024

• Lead conceptual and schematic design phases for residential projects, aligning designs with client needs and firm aesthetics, under the guidance of Directors.

• Develop preliminary floor plans and design schemes, optimizing spatial layout and functionality.

• Collaborate closely with clients to integrate their preferences and lifestyle considerations into design solutions.

• Utilize Rhino and Adobe Creative Suite for 3D modeling and visualization, enhancing design communication.

• Prepare and present schematic design packages, supporting client meetings and design reviews.

• Maintain high standards of design quality, meeting project timelines.

• Introduce innovative design solutions that enhance project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Farnsworth

Group Inc

Architectural Associate 2, Bloomington, IL - Remote August 2021 - June 2024

Architectural Designer I, Denver, CO

• Assisted licensed Architects in architectural design phases, such as Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents and Construction Administration for buildings up to 60,000 sq ft. Utilized Autodesk Revit and other design softwares to create detailed construction drawings.

• Prepared presentations to communicate design concepts effectively to clients.

• Conducted research on materials, building codes, occupancy loads, egress calculations and construction techniques to inform design decisions.

• Collaborated with clients to understand their needs and preferences, and incorporated feedback into design iterations. Regularly engaged with multidisciplinary teams, including structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, civil and other project specific specialists, to ensure comprehensive and integrated design solutions.

• Designed architectural concepts and plans for various projects in commercial, retail, municipal and recreational sectors. Experienced in pre-engineered metal buildings, retrofits, core and shell construction.

• Stayed updated on industry trends and best practices to continuously improve design skills and approaches.

• Executed routine design tasks and project administrative duties such as writing reports and taking meeting minutes.

• Began to develop client relations and worked closely with project teams to ensure design met budgetary, regulatory and timeline requirements.

West Direct Oil, LLC

Accounts Payable Specialist - Lead, Denver, CO

Accounts Receivable Specialist

Accounts Payable Assistant

January 2019 - July 2021

• Assisted manager in processing payments and vouchers for West Direct Oil Operations as an Accounts Payable Assistant.

• Managed payment processing, customer accounts, and client relations for Southwest Branches of West Direct Oil and Equipment Savers as an Accounts Receivable Specialist.

• Supervised inventory team, vendor relations, and communication with operation managers as an Accounts Payable Specialist - Lead, ensuring efficient processes and maintaining company credit.

MEMBERSHIPS, REGISTRATIONS & CERTIFICATIONS

• American Institute of Architects, 2021

• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, 2020

• OSHA 10 Hours Construction Safety and Health Training, 2022

• National Organization of Minority Architects, 2023

SOFTWARES

• Autodesk REVIT

• Bluebeam

• COMcheck

• Rhinoceros 7

• Adobe InDesign

• Adobe Illustrator

• Adobe Photoshop

• Adobe Suite

• Basics of AutoCAD

• SketchUp

• Enscape

• Microsoft Office

ARTISTIC SKILLS

• Acrylic Painting

• Photography

• Sketching

• Sculpting

• Spatial Art

• Model Making SKILLS

• Design

• Creativity

• Critical thinking

• Problem solving

• Project Management

• Collaboration

• Presentation

• Detail oriented

• Communication

• Construction drawings

F A R N S W O R T H

G R O U P I N C

Y E A R S O F

E X P E R I E N C E

R O L E

WORK EXPERIENCE

2 Years 10 Months

P R O J E C T T Y P E S

Architectural Associate 2, Bloomington, IL - Remote

Architectural Designer I, Denver, CO

Commercial

Recreation

Municipal

Retail

Site Planing

P R O J E C T

L O C A T I O N S

Colorado Utah

Nebraska Illinois Texas

D E S I G N

P H A S E S

S O F T W A R E S U S E D

Schematic Design

Design Development

Construction Documents

Construction Administration

Autodesk Revit

Enscape

Bluebeam

COMCheck

AutoCAD

Sketchup

VASA Fitness Center, Lehi, CO

FLOOR PLAN

POINTE DRIVE

VASA FITNESS CENTERSFGI

• Assisted in creating Project Prototype

• Contributed in All Design Phases

• Collaborated with Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Structural and Civil teams.

• Coordinated with Pool Designers.

• Researched Code, Occupancy loads and Egress Calculations

• Project type: Recreation

• Locations: Colorado, Utah, Nebraska, Illinois

WALL DETAILS

DEPOT HILL - FGI

• Pre-engineered metal building

• Three buildings in one parcel

• Site planning involved

• Contributed in All Design Phases (various revisions)

• Collaborated with Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Structural and Civil teams.

• Researched Code, Occupancy loads and Egress Calculations

• Project type: Commercial, Flex offices

• Location: Colorado

MATERIAL RECOMMENDATION

FLEX OFFICEPROPOSAL

• Assisted in curating the presentation and elevations for client meetings (SD+DD)

• Project type: Commercial, Flex offices

• Location: Colorado

D R I V E - T H R U

SITE PLAN PROPOSAL

Site planning exercise to convert an existing gas station to a Coffee Drive-thru.

Project type: Site planning

Location: Colorado

G R A D U A T E

U N D E R G R A D U A T E

ACADEMIA

O N T E N T

STUDIO PROJECTS

Corita Kent Art Foundation - 2024

HexaHaven Co-dividual Housing - 2023

Sculpting the Cityscape - 2023

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESIGN BUILD

Allensworth Ecotourism & Planning - 2023

San Gabriel River Alluvial Fan Revitalization Project - 2023

Full Resolution Studies - 2022

IgnitEvolution Greenhouse - 2019

INTERIOR RENDERING FROM CO-LIVING HOUSING PROJECT

B E A C O N

CORITA KENT ART FOUNDATION

• Location: Los Angeles, CA

• Type: Art Foundation, Concrete and Timber Construction

• Instructor: Gesa Buttner Dias

• Softwares used: Rhinoceros, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign

• Concept statement: Beacon is a transformative project inspired by the concept of guidance and illumination. Through its blend of timber and concrete construction, it creates a harmonious space for community engagement and artistic expression. A bridge with large gallery space sits on top of the concrete mass which archives Corita Kent’s work. Similar to her work, this building is a guiding light that beckons individuals to pause, reflect, and connect with one another. The ground floor is meant for large community gatherings and the journey of Corita’s life begins on the third floor. It also has a cafe which opens to a terrace. The third floor gallery breaks the underlying grid of the project and the site. It follows the historic DTLA grid and leads the visitors to the fourth floor. The sunlight seeps through multiple roof membranes to light up all the gallery spaces.

H E X A - H A V E N

TRANSFORMATIVE COLIVING FOR RACIAL EQUITY

• Location: Los Angeles, CA

• Type: Co-living Housing

• Instructor: Rayne Laborde Ruiz

• Softwares used: Rhinoceros, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign

• Concept statement: Hexa-Haven is an innovative housing project in Santa Monica, CA, designed to tackle racial inequities within the housing crisis. It utilizes hexa-angular architecture to accommodate 100-120 residents along a central spine, integrating seamlessly with the community near the Obama Center and local institutions. Emphasizing collaboration and inclusivity, the design features shared facilities and flexible residential clusters for 4-8 people per unit, promoting community spirit and individual growth. Outdoor engagement spaces like courtyards and an amphitheater complement existing amenities, enhancing communal life and fostering a sense of belonging and independence among residents.

THIRD FLOOR

PROXIMITY TO CULTURAL LANDMARKS

1. CHINESE AMERICAN MUSEUM

2. THIEN HAU TEMPLE

3. CHUNG KING ROAD

4. UNION STATION

5. LOS ANGELES STATE HISTORIC PARK

6. BRADBURY BUILDING

ACCESSIBLE LOCATION

1. CHINATOWN GOLD LINE METRO STATION

2. ACCESIBILITY TO FREEWAYS

3. PEDESTRIAN FRIENDSLY STREETS

4. BIKING INFRASTRUCTURE

5. PARKING AVAILABILITY

EXISTING ART COMMUNITY

1. CHNG KING ROAD

2. CHINATOWN ARTIST LOFTS

3. 356 MISSION, NON-PROFIT ART SPACE BY LINCOLN HEIGHTS

4. LOS ANGELES CONTEMPORARY ARCHIVE (LACA)

5. ARTS DISTRICT

TOURIST ATTRACTION

1. THIEN HAU TEMPLE

2. CHINESE AMERCIAN MUSEUM

3. CHINATOWN CENTRAL PLAZA

4. HOP LOUIE

5. ART GALLERIES AND STUDIOS

6. LOCAL AND STREET VENDORS FOR TRADITIONAL CHINESE CUISINE

POTENTIAL FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

1. ECONOMIC GROWTH OPPORTUNITY FOR HOMEBOY INDUSTRIES - HOMEGIRL CAFE

2. ATTRACT TOURISTS

3. JOB CREATION FOR MAINTAINING THE CENTER

4. CREATIVE INDUSTRY GROWTH FOR THE SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND LOCAL ARTISTS

ART MUSEUMS & GALLERIES PARKS

S C U L P T I N G T H E

C I T Y S C A P E

LANDFORM BUILDING

• Location: Chinatown, Los Angeles

• Type: Art Community Center

• Instructor: Amanda Ortland

• Softwares used: Rhinoceros, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign

• Concept statement: Sculpting the Cityscape" embodies the vision of the Landform Building, an art community center nestled in the heart of Chinatown. With its innovative design featuring rooftop gardens, a hydraulic elevator, and dual-level gallery spaces, the center aims to redefine urban landscapes by fostering creativity, cultural dialogue, and community engagement. Embracing the rich cultural tapestry of Chinatown, this landmark project aspires to shape a vibrant hub where art, culture, and community converge, enriching the cityscape and nurturing artistic expression for all.

INDUSTRIES

PLACEMENT FUTURE HOMEBOY DEVELOPMENT

A L L E N S W O R T H

ECOTOURISM PLANNING - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN

• Location: Allensworth, CA

• Type: Community Development Plan

• Instructor: Alison B. Hirsch

• Teammate: Luis Mota

• Softwares used: GIS, Rhino, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign

• Allensworth, in California's San Joaquin Valley, has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Surrounded by large-scale agriculture (e.g., cotton, pistachios), it faces habitat loss from development. Drought and flooding risk are heightened by intensive irrigation and changing land use. Efforts include ecological revitalization and green infrastructure like regenerative farming and community gardens.

WAYFINDING OPPORTUNITIES AROUND TOWN

Landmarks

- Existing landmarks around the Historic Landscape Signage

- Informational signs

- Regulatory signs

- Business signs

- Event signs

- Traffic signs

Maps

- Ecological maps

- Street maps

- Topographic maps

- Trail maps

- Historical maps

- Tourist maps

Technology

- Mobile apps, online maps and GPS

navigation

Personal Assistance

- Asking a local resident for directions or hiring a tour guide

PROCESS FOR DESIGNATING A STATE HISTORIC PARK AS A NATIONAL

1

2

3 4 5

FEDERAL DESIGNATION

PUBLIC REVIEW

FORMAL PRESIDENTIAL PROPOSAL

PRESIDENTIAL DESIGNATION

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE MANAGEMENT

The first step is for a site to be considered for designation by the National Park Service or another federal agency. The site must meet certain criteria, including being of national significance and possessing unique resources or features that would benefit form protection as a National Monument.

Once a site has been identified as a potential National Monument, a public review process is initiated to gather input from stakeholders, including local communities, elected officials, and interested organizations.

If there is support for the designation, a formal proposal is submitted to the President, who has the authority to designate National Monuments under the Antiquities Act of 1906. The proposal must include a detailed description of the site, its historical, cultural, or natural significance, and a justification for why it should be designated as a National Monument.

The President then reviews the proposal and decides whether to designate the site as a National Monument. This decision is typically made in consultation with the National Park Service and other federal agencies, as well as state and local officials.

Once a site has been designated as a National Monument, it is managed by the National Park Service or another federal agency, and may be subject to additional regulations and restrictions to ensure its protection and preservation.

01. CENTER FOR UNDERSTANDING

02. CATERING / KITCHEN

03. DISPLAY / FLEX SPACE

04. RECEPTION / MERCHANDISE

05. OFFICE

06. STAFF WORK ROOM

07. RESTROOM MEN

08. RESTROOM WOMEN

09. STORAGE, JANITOR’S CLOSET

10. STATE PARK MAINTENANCE CENTER

OVERARCHING BENEFITS FOR RECREATION

• Urban gateway to San Gabriel National Monument

• Alleviate regional park space deficit

• Provide camping, kayaking, and water access

• Save consumers time and money to commute to outdoor recreation opportunities

• Reduce carbon emissions by offering recreation opportunities like camping and kayaking closer to home.

• Proximity to major freeways and metro train line.

• Indigenous recognition through incorporating art and architecture.

S A N G A B R I E L R I V E R

ALLUVIAL FAN REVITALIZATION PROJECT

• Location: Azusa, CA

• Type: Community Development Plan

• Instructor: Dr. Isaac Brown

• Teammates: Whitney Weisberg & Shuyi Zhang

• Softwares used: GIS, Rhino, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign

• Big Ideas:

- Diversify Recreation: Expand the current human recreation opportunities of the area beyond biking.

- Restore Natural Ecology: Create a more ecologically sound system that enhances viability of native plant and animal life.

- Cultivate Intentional Access: Provide local and regional access to the site through hubs that connect to preexisting pathways.

A collage showing human activity by the river

The grid pattern from Watt Hall overhang blends with the ‘L’ shaped bench assembly

Yellow ceiling from the Library below

EXTRACTING ELEMENTS FROM

THE SITE

The leaning tower reflects the exiting structure on site

Vertical Elements (Mullions) to build the frame.

• Location: USC CAMPUS

• Type: Community Development Plan

• Instructor: Ryan Tyler Martinez & Jimenez Lai

DESIGN

BUILD

•

•

•

Location: CU Denver Housing

Type: Greenhouse

Instructor: Jo VandenBurg & Maria Delgado

Repetitve

Approach for structure

“Architecture is the thoughtful making of spaces. It is the creating of spaces that evoke a feeling of appropriate use.”

Louis I. Kahn