Architectural Portfolio

DHWANI DESAI

Architectural Portfolio

Selected works from Undergraduate, Graduate program and competitions

DHWANI DESAI

Email:

Contact:

English:

Languages:

dtdesai@asu.edu

(623)759-9910

Proficient English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati

Professional Experience :

Job Captain and Designer at Kobra Design Group, Califonia, USA

May 2023 to Present

I have adeptly familiarized myself with AutoCAD 2023 and later versions, SketchUp 2023 Pro and later, Enscape 3.5 and later, as well as Lumion 2023 and later, leveraging their capabilities to streamline our workflow and produce high-quality outputs. Worked on various stages of project development, including schematic floor plan and ceiling plan design, progressing seamlessly into design development once schematics gain approval. Utilizing Revit, I have crafted 3D models, transitioning from wireframes to intricate renderings that vividly bring our designs to life. Additionally, I have worked on curating Exterior and Interior Adobe InDesign-based 3D Design Development packages, incorporating color and material boards to articulate design concepts effectively. As part of our comprehensive services, I have worked on producing construction documents and record drawings, ensuring precision and accuracy in every detail. My work extends beyond design into early project due diligence and research, facilitating seamless coordination with relevant authorities having jurisdiction through phone calls and emails. I have also worked on site planning and documentation, conducting site surveys, walks, and engaging in productive meetings with general contractors to ensure alignment with project objectives. My expertise encompasses the creation and documentation of floor plans, exterior elevations, egress plans, building sections, wall sections, as well as intricate details such as wall type details, door and window schedules, and occupant load calculations. Through a meticulous and comprehensive approach, I consistently deliver exceptional architectural solutions tailored to our clients’ needs and aspirations.

Vivek Bhole Architects Private Limited (Architectural Internship), Mumbai, India

January 2021 to June 2021

Worked with softwares like AutoCAD 2023, SketchUp 2023 Pro, Enscape 3.5, and Lumion 2023 and Revit to streamline our design process. Using Revit, I create detailed 3D models and renderings, transitioning seamlessly from schematics to approved designs. I specialize in crafting comprehensive Adobe InDesign-based 3D Design Development packages and producing precise construction documents. Additionally, I conduct thorough due diligence, engage with authorities, and excel in site planning and documentation. With expertise in floor plans, elevations, and detailed schedules, I bring efficiency and precision to every project.

Orange Blossom (Architectural Internship), Mumbai, India

March 2020 to December 2020

Worked with softwares like AutoCAD 2023, SketchUp 2023 Pro, Enscape 3.5, and Lumion 2023 and Revit to streamline our design process. Using Revit, I create detailed 3D models and renderings, transitioning seamlessly from schematics to approved designs. I specialize in crafting comprehensive Adobe InDesign-based 3D Design Development packages and producing precise construction documents. Additionally, I conduct thorough due diligence, engage with authorities, and excel in site planning and documentation. With expertise in floor plans, elevations, and detailed schedules, I bring efficiency and precision to every project.

Teaching Assistant at Arizona State University, Arizona USA

ARC 112, Architecture of Architecture (December 2023 - Present)

Teaching assistant under Professor Marc Neveu for about 300 students. Organized classes both online as well as offline, graded assignments, prepared lectures of Architecture of Architecture which is basically introduction to architecture, helped in recording lectures, presentations, quizes, and quaries regarding the assignments.

Teaching Assistant at Arizona State University, Arizona USA

ALA 102, Landscape and Sustainability (August 2023 - December 2023)

Teaching assistant under Professor Allyce Hargrove for about 200 students. Organised classes, prepared lectures about fundamental understanding of Landscape architecture and sustainability, Garded assignments and discussions.

Teaching Assistant at Arizona State University, Arizona USA

INT 121- Introduction to CAD and BIM, INT 123 Intro Cmptr Modl-Interior Dsgn (January 2023 - May 2023)

Teaching assistant under Professor Anam Kaleem for about 200 students, my main work was th teach softwares to students who were introduced to architectural softwares such as Revit, ArchiCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign,AutoCAD, Rhino and SketchUP. Grade assignments and conduct lectures.

Treasurer for Design Build Institute of America Student chapter at ASU (August 2023 - Present)

Awards and Competitions:

Participation

The Habitat: 2.0 – Rethinking Student Housing in India, 2022.

Shortlisted Entry

Best Thesis Award 2022

Council of Architecture India/ Vowels India

Shortlisted Entry

The Tiny Library Architectural Competition 2021. Volume Zero competitions.

Shortlisted Entry

Council Of Architecture: Student’s Awards for Excellence in Documentation of Architectural Heritage 2020.

Education :

2022 - Present : Masters of Architecture

Arizona State University

2017-2022 :

Bachelor’s of Architecture

Kamla Raheja Vidhyanidhi Institute for Architecture and Environmental Studies (K.R.V.I.A), Juhu, Andheri (west).

Extra courses:

UI/UX Designing

Product Designing

Arizona State University

Softwares skills:

Autodesk AutoCAD (2D drafting)

Autodesk AutoCAD (3D drafting)

Autodesk Revit (BIM)

ArchiCAD (BIM)

AutoDesk Maya

Adobe Photoshop (Post-Production)

Adobe Illustrator (Post-Production)

Adobe InDesign (Post-Production)

Adobe Lightroom (Post-production)

Adobe After Effects (Post-production)

Rhinoceros (3D Modeling)

SketchUp (3D Modeling)

BlueBeam

SolidWorks

Figma

QGIS (GIS)

ArcGIS (GIS)

Vray (Rendering)

Lumion (Rendering)

Enscape (Rendering)

Climate Consultant (Energy Design)

Microsoft Office (Management)

Exhibitions/ Publications:

Part of KRVIA 25TH year exhibition (2017)

Part of Wai Exhibition (2017)

Part of Siddhpur Exhibition (2018)

Part of KRVIA Semester End Exhibition (2019).

Part of KOHIMA Exhibition. Objects. Institutions. Identities (2020)

Part of CEPT, KOHIMA VIRTUAL EXHIBTIONObjects. Institutions. Identities. (2020)

Book – KOHIMA, Objects. Institutions. Identities (2020)

Book - Siddhpur, Heritage study (2018)

Electives : The Cinematograph - Constructing the Real, Devdutt Trivedi.

Familiar Strangers - Justin Ponmany

Parametric Thinking : modular systems - Dimple Mehta

Fundamentals of Digital photography - Kunal Bhatia

Digital Tools and Methods – Chentur Raghaav

Introduction to Sociological Thought - Shinzani Jain

Bim with ARCHICAD - Vistasp Mehta

Making Meaning- Mediums and Messages, Rohan Shivkumar

Workshops : Photograhy workshop - A photo walk through the city. Fluid Art Workshop

Urban Food Trails : An exploration of different food places in the city.

Flim Making and Video Editing : Mamta Murthy

Architectural photography : Sebastian Zachariah

Parametric Architecture : palak Jhunjhunwala

Advance UI/UX design

Extra Curricular :

Graphic design head at KRVIA

Volleyball team Captain from (2009-2015)

Participated in State Level volleyball selection (2015)

Bachelors of Dance - BHARAT NATYAM (2003 - 2012)

Vocal Training from Ghandharva UniversitY

Siddhpur study trip Committe Member

Kohima Study Trip Committe Member

“Architecture is a process which enforces the built environment around us, shapes identities, facilitates function and informs the ethereal. It manifolds the character of things in a way which often goes unnoticed. It’s a meticulous process of going back and forth and with this leaning, now I am crafting into a professional realm which is enthralled indeed. In seven years of studying architecture, I have realized that architecture is a multi-layered experience between human life and environment. The intense expression comes from the site and its context, it always plays an important role in giving you clues as to how it wants the design intervention weaving into the fabric of the space. Architecture is an experiment which is an amalgamation of various aspects which is fulfilling the pragmatic requirements of the user.”

01.

ECO-TECHNO-POLIS: A THREE-DIMENSIONAL URBANISM

Adaptive Urban Design Strategies for Sustainable Development in Eco-Techno-Polis.

(Page 1 to Page 6)

02.

CANVAS CATALUNYA

A cultural mosaic

(Page 7 to Page 18)

03.

DECONSTRUCTED FESTIVALS

Architectural Innovation and Spatial Exploration in the Deconstructed Festival Experience

(Page 19 to Page 26)

04.

METRO(POLITAN)

Prototyping Transit Hubs to Multi Modal Hubs

(Page 27 to Page 34)

05.

BIOHARMONY

Harnessing Nature’s Power to Foster Productivity and Connection in the Modern Workplace

(Page 35 to Page 42)

06.

Fairytale

From story to architecture

(Page 43 to Page 44)

07.

DIGITAL FABRICATION

(Page 45 to Page 46)

08.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

(Page 47 to Page 50)

ECO-TECHNO-POLIS: A THREE-DIMENSIONAL URBANISM

Adaptive Urban Design Strategies for Sustainable Development in Eco-Techno-Polis.

Project: Undergraduate program - Foreign exchange programme December, 2019.

Team: Dhwani Desai, Dev Patel, Luca Santiago, Isabella Álvarez.

Aim:

The aim of this project is to pioneer the revitalization of core areas within rapidly evolving urban landscapes, bridging the gap between the historical functional layout of these territories and the changing demands of contemporary society.

Concept:

The concept revolves around creating a revolutionary structure that seamlessly integrates with the spatial and environmental context of the area. It involves redefining lifestyle patterns by blending old and new elements while respecting the historical essence of the region. The concept emphasizes repurposing existing buildings and spaces to align them with the needs of today’s urban dwellers.

Project Description:

The project pioneers the revitalization of the core areas within large, swiftly evolving urban landscapes, acknowledging the disconnect between the historical functional layout of these territories and the evolving demands of contemporary society. As cities grow and change, certain urban functions become obsolete, necessitating a reevaluation and transformation of spaces to align with modern societal needs. This includes the demolition of derelict structures and the removal of unused metal barriers, paving the way for a more organized and purposeful use of space.

In response to this urban challenge, we propose a revolutionary structure designed to harmoniously integrate with both the spatial and environmental context of the area. This innovative framework aims to redefine the current lifestyle patterns of the community, seamlessly blending the new with the old. By respecting the historical essence of the area, our approach carefully revisits and repurposes buildings that have lost their original relevance, imbuing them with new functions that resonate with today’s urban dwellers.

Given the specific geographical setting of our initiative, we place a strong emphasis on both environmental sustainability and technological innovation. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, our goal is to honor the environmental and historical heritage of the region while establishing an autonomous zone tailored to its unique characteristics. This strategic fusion of technology and respect for tradition lays the groundwork for a transformed urban area that not only meets the present needs of its inhabitants but also ensures the preservation and enhancement of its historical and environmental assets.

Legend

Swampy Parks

Eco-technological museum

Production

Hydro-electric Power Station

Landscaping

Green Facade

Legend Trade

Educational

Housing

Entertainment:

Restaurants

Clubs and bars

Exhibition halls

Sports, Health Care

Production

Green Areas

Eco-technological Museum

Connections at level 1

Level 2 communications

Ground level communications

Ecological Scheme

CANVAS CATALUNYA

A cultural mosaic

Project: Graduate School

Fall’23, 6th yeat, Travel Studio (Travel to Barcelona).

Team: Individual project

Aim:

To create a dynamic architectural masterpiece that seamlessly integrates with the vibrant essence of Barcelona’s Barceloneta district, serving as a cultural hub and a symbol of community connectivity.

Concept:

Inspired by the pulsating rhythms of Barceloneta and the city’s commitment to innovation and cultural expression, the architectural concept revolves around the idea of harmonizing tradition with modernity. The design aims to embody Barcelona’s identity as a living brand, shaped by its people, history, and dynamic spirit.

Project Description:

Nestled in Barceloneta, this contemporary architectural gem resonates with the lively rhythms of the seaside neighborhood. Its strategic placement near Mercat de la Barceloneta creates a dynamic link between the bustling market and the everevolving cityscape. The facade mirrors the Mediterranean’s undulating waves, blending modern aesthetics with nods to maritime heritage. Public spaces seamlessly integrate with the streets, inviting spontaneous interactions and embedding the building in the community’s daily life. The retail spaces, adorned with an elegant fabric canopy, offer an immersive experience showcasing local artisans, transforming the area into a dynamic marketplace. Additionally, a sophisticated restaurant and café with open doors beckon passersby, contributing to the vibrant streetscape.

In Barcelona’s dynamic urban landscape, the architectural narrative unfolds in a fusion of convention and innovation. The first-floor conventional center serves as a versatile hub for events, gatherings, and cultural exchanges, bridging tradition with contemporary aspirations. Adjacent rotating panels in the exhibition area redefine the possibilities for showcasing art, culture, and innovation, symbolizing the city’s ever-evolving cultural landscape. Inspired by Barcelona’s rich cultural heritage, the residential blocks boast green spaces, private terraces, and communal areas, enhancing residents’ quality of life. The steel structure draped in an intricate wire mesh shapes the exterior aesthetic, creating innovative terraces on lower floors and private balconies for each residence. This dynamic integration of design elements reflects Barcelona’s dual nature as a brand and a living entity, echoing Marina Garcés’ cultural reflections. The wireframe, born from a previous project, becomes the silent storyteller, weaving tales of innovation, resilience, and cultural continuity into the urban fabric of Barcelona.

LA MERCÈ 2017 SPEECH

MARINA GARCÉ S

With each life taken, with every concrete barrier, with every police control, the city becomes less of a city. Because, precisely, what is a city made of? Of the free coming and going of people. When we say "city," we think of its urban fabric, its buildings and monuments, its facilities, its skyline, its brand... But none of these things are anything without the people who come and go, who arrive and depart, who put down roots and take flight, always anonymous and ever new. What is a city? A place where you can arrive and start your life anew among strangers. A city is not, therefore, a commodity or a space for consumption, not a business or a brand. Barcelona has been turned into just that: a product, a commodity, a brand. Some even take pride in it and enrich themselves from it. But let's make it clear from the start: Barcelona is not its brand. The Barcelona brand neither makes us better nor represents us. For many years, those of us from various city collectives who have organized ourselves and resisted the Barcelona brand have denounced this fact. The brand appropriates and profits from spaces of life, physical and symbolic, urban and emotional. The brand turns the city into a space for circulation (of goods, capital, and people) where it becomes increasingly difficult and expensive to arrive, settle, and build a life.

Line drawing of the wire frame model

Viewing Deck

Ground Patterns

Amphitheater

Layered Bridges

Art Sculptures

Art Walk

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

NAME:

SHEET NAME: D

NAME:

SHEET NAME: D

SHEET TITLE: PLANS AND

SCALE : 1/16” = 1’

DATE : 12/01/2023

SCALE : 1/16” = 1’ DATE : 12/01/2023

GUIDED BY: Prof. Antonio Sanmartin

GUIDED

SECTION BB’

SECTION AA’

Section AA’

Section BB’ Elevation

Visualization/Renders

4 Aluminium mesh 3mm

5 Wall assembly - CLT Walls cladding, breather membrane, battens, 200 mm insulation

Timber studs, 90 mm timber battens, 60 mm service zone,

1 Aluminium tiles 0.6 mm

2 Aluminium tubes (horizontal) 40 mm

6 Metal (aluminium) beams feet dpeth with, sheathing, aluminimum tiles.

3 Aluminium tubes (vertical) 60 mm

4 Aluminium mesh 3mm

7 CLT interior wall assembly

5 Wall assembly - CLT Walls with Timber cladding, breather membrane, fixing battens, 200 mm insulation between studs, Timber studs, 90 mm timber panel, counter battens, 60 mm service zone, lining board.

6 Metal (aluminium) beams (space frame) 1 feet dpeth with, sheathing, air barrier and aluminimum tiles.

8 Floor assembly with wooden Gypsum boards, resiliant supports rails, sound insulation, 3 layer panels, low density fibre board wooden finish.

9 CLT primary beam 600mm

7 CLT interior wall assembly with insulation

10 CLT Columns 600mm x 600

11 False ceiling - gypsum

8 Floor assembly with wooden flooring. Gypsum boards, resiliant supports and rails, sound insulation, 3 layer of CLT panels, low density fibre board 10mm and wooden finish.

12 Stone claded facade

13 Glazed aluminium curtain

14 Insulation panels

9 CLT primary beam 600mm x 450 mm

10 CLT Columns 600mm x 600 mm

15 Glass railing with aluminium 1200mm

11 False ceiling - gypsum

12 Stone claded facade

16 Carpet tile flooring

13 Glazed aluminium curtain wall

17

14 Insulation panels

CLT secondary beam (joists) mm

15 Glass railing with aluminium frame 1200mm

18 Wooden false ceiling

16 Carpet tile flooring

19

17 CLT secondary beam (joists) 250mm x 200 mm

Wooden stringer staircase support with glass railing

18 Wooden false ceiling

20 Tile flooring

21 Green wall

19 Wooden stringer staircase with I beams for support with glass railing

22 Ceramic flooring

20 Tile flooring

21 Green wall

23 Vinyl flooring

22 Ceramic flooring

24 Raft foundation

23 Vinyl flooring

24 Raft foundation

DECONSTRUCTED FESTIVALS

Architectural Innovation and Spatial Exploration in the Deconstructed Festival Experience

Project: Graduate program, 5th Year, 2023.

Team: Dhwani Desai, Nimisha Bagda

Aim:

The aim of the deconstructed festival concept is to transform our site into a multi-dimensional space that offers diverse and memorable experiences for attendees. By breaking away from the conventions of traditional festivals and focusing on smaller, more curated experiences, the project aims to foster deeper connections between visitors and the festival offerings. Additionally, the concept aims to promote cultural exchange, sustainability, and community engagement by integrating elements that celebrate local culture, promote environmental stewardship, and encourage participation from all attendees.

Concept:

The deconstructed festival concept reimagines the traditional Gilbert festival experience by breaking down its elements into smaller, more intimate experiences. By distilling key features such as food, art, performances, and interactive experiences, the concept aims to create a dynamic and immersive environment that celebrates the culture and vibrancy of the community. Through careful consideration of design elements such as color schemes, shapes, materials, and functionality, each component contributes to an engaging and cohesive festival experience that resonates with visitors on a personal level.

Project Description:

The project brief encompasses the architectural transformation of our site into an immersive and dynamic space inspired by the deconstructed festival concept. Through meticulous spatial planning and innovative design strategies, the project will curate a series of experiential zones including thoughtfully designed food and drink pavilions, gallery-style art exhibits housed within adaptable structures, versatile performance spaces adorned with striking architectural elements, interactive installations seamlessly integrated into the landscape, and themed rooms characterized by expressive architectural forms and material palettes. Emphasis will be placed on architectural elements such as spatial sequencing, circulation dynamics, and sensory engagement to create a cohesive and captivating festival environment. Furthermore, sustainable design principles will guide material selections and construction methodologies, ensuring minimal environmental impact and promoting eco-conscious practices throughout the festival experience. Overall, the project seeks to redefine the architectural language of festivals, celebrating the intersection of culture, design, and community while fostering a sense of wonder and exploration among attendees.

Site Plan

Building Rendering View 1

Building Rendering View 2

METRO(POLITAN)

Prototyping Transit Hubs to Multi Modal Hubs

Project: Undergraduate program - Architectural Thesis, 2021-2022

Team: Individual Project

Aim:

The aim of the project is twofold: firstly, to reimagine traditional office spaces to accommodate the evolving needs of the workforce in a digital age, fostering adaptability, collaboration, and innovation. Secondly, to explore the potential of overstation development as a sustainable solution to urbanization challenges, leveraging public transport infrastructure to create vibrant, integrated urban communities.

Concept:

The project seeks to address the evolving nature of the workplace in the wake of digital transformation and the shift towards remote work during the pandemic. By repurposing surplus office spaces and embracing technological advancements, the aim is to create dynamic, flexible, and hybrid work environments that support business resiliency. Additionally, the project explores the concept of over-station development (OSD) as a solution to the increasing urban population and the demand for integrated and sustainable urban communities. By leveraging the space above transportation hubs, OSD presents an opportunity to stimulate economic growth, reshape urban landscapes, and alleviate pressure on city infrastructure.

Project Description:

The project envisions transforming surplus office spaces into dynamic and flexible work environments that embrace technological advancements and support remote and hybrid work models. By repurposing existing buildings, the project aims to maximize resource efficiency and minimize environmental impact while meeting the evolving needs of businesses and employees.

In addition to reimagining office spaces, the project explores the potential of over-station development as a means to address urbanization challenges and promote sustainable urban growth. By utilizing the space above transportation hubs, OSD presents opportunities for mixed-use development, including commercial, residential, and public spaces, creating vibrant and interconnected urban communities.

The project acknowledges the complexity of urban challenges and emphasizes the role of architects in articulating livable and sustainable urban environments. By integrating public transport infrastructure with built environments, the project aims to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance mobility, and improve quality of life for city residents.

Ultimately, the project advocates for a holistic approach to urban development, combining innovative design solutions with strategic planning and collaboration across disciplines to create resilient, adaptable, and inclusive cities for future generations.

Metrostation - Study

Section AA’

Section BB’

BIOHARMONY

Harnessing Nature’s Power to Foster Productivity and Connection in the Modern Workplace

Project: Undergraduate program, Semester VIII, 2021.

Team: Dhwani Desai, Siddhi Gosalia

Aim:

The aim of this pioneering office design project is to seamlessly integrate biophilic design principles into the traditional workspace, prioritizing the well-being and productivity of its occupants. By fostering a profound connection between employees and the natural world, the project aims to create dynamic, thriving environments that promote health, happiness, and productivity.

Concept:

The concept revolves around the strategic incorporation of biophilic design elements to reimagine the traditional workspace. Indoor plants, optimized natural light, and nature-inspired aesthetics are seamlessly integrated to create a serene and inviting environment that stimulates creativity, concentration, and overall well-being. Beyond mere design choices, the project aims to establish a transformative connection between employees and the natural world, reshaping the perception of the workplace as a balanced and fulfilling part of life.

Project Description:

This pioneering office design project prioritizes the integration of biophilic design principles to create a workspace that prioritizes the well-being and productivity of its occupants. Indoor plants serve a functional role, contributing to air purification, noise reduction, and a revitalizing atmosphere that uplifts mood and focus. Natural light is optimized through well-placed windows and reflective surfaces, fostering a gentle, circadian-friendly glow throughout the day. Nature-inspired aesthetics, including carefully chosen materials, soothing tones, and water features, create a serene and inviting environment that stimulates creativity and concentration.

At its core, the project recognizes the transformative impact of a nature-connected environment on mental well-being and productivity. By seamlessly integrating professional and personal aspects, the initiative serves as a beacon for the future of office spaces, illustrating how intentional design can craft dynamic, thriving environments that promote health, happiness, and a profound connection to the natural world. It advocates for workspaces that inspire and contribute to overall well-being, reshaping the traditional perception of the workplace into a more balanced and fulfilling part of our lives.

First Floor Plan

1. Exisitng Building

2. Demolition

3. Addition/Intervention

4. Cut out

5. Proposal

Fairytale

From story to architecture

Project: Undergraduate program, Semester IV, 2019.

Team: Individual project

Concept:

The story, ‘THE GLITCH’ saw the protagonist breaking the wall down in a methodical, mundane space, setting up in motion a chaotic spiral of events that completely wrap space and geometry, like ‘glitch in cyberspace.’

Story Brief:

In “The Glitch,” the protagonist finds themselves in a methodical and mundane space, perhaps a digital world or a virtual reality environment. Despite the seeming normalcy of their surroundings, the protagonist is driven by a desire for change and exploration. In an act of defiance or curiosity, they break down a wall, symbolizing their desire to disrupt the status quo and break free from the constraints of their environment.

However, this seemingly simple act sets off a chain reaction of chaotic events. The disruption caused by breaking the wall unleashes a glitch in the fabric of their reality, leading to unexpected and unpredictable consequences. Space and geometry warp and distort, creating a surreal and disorienting landscape reminiscent of a glitch in cyberspace.

As the story unfolds, the protagonist must navigate this newfound chaos, confronting challenges and obstacles that test their courage, resourcefulness, and resilience. Along the way, they encounter other characters who may be allies or adversaries, each with their own motivations and agendas.

Through their journey, the protagonist learns important lessons about the nature of reality, the power of choice, and the consequences of their actions. They discover that even in the face of chaos and uncertainty, there is hope for transformation and growth.

“The Glitch” is a compelling and thought-provoking tale that explores themes of rebellion, exploration, and the transformative power of disruption. It invites readers to question the boundaries of their own reality and consider the possibilities that lie beyond.

“Architecture is the poetry of space, where every line whispers the secrets of form and function, weaving tales of human ingenuity into the fabric of our built environment.”

Dhwani Desai