Jumana Elayan Portfolio

JUMANA ELAYAN ARCHITECTURE PORTFOLIO 2025

About The

DESIGNER Throughout my architectural education, I have developed a design approach that begins with a point of interest, evolves conceptually, and explores the relationship between form, function, and experience. I am passionate about creating architecture that tells a story, evokes emotion, and fosters meaningful connections. Through materiality, spatial composition, and contextual integration, I strive to design impactful spaces that resonate with users and enhance the built environment. My goal is to continue to craft architecture that not only inspires but also communicates a lasting message to the world.

JUMANA ELAYAN Born and raised in Jordan, I come from a unique cultural background that has profoundly shaped both my perspective on education and my approach to my career. This diverse experience has influenced my personal growth, enriching my understanding of architecture and its role in different contexts.

TELEPHONE

EMAIL

513 800 8826

elayanja@mail.uc.edu

EDUCATION 2020 - 2025 |University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning

Bachelor of Science in Architecture 2025 Graduate

Proficiencies & Languages Revit

Rhinoceros

Adobe Indesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop

Bluebeam

Sketchup

Enscape

Fluent in Arabic

Fluent in English

Intermediate in Spanish

Vray Plugin

Professional

EXPERIENCE 2024 - Current |Discovery & Science Architectural Intern

2024 | Government Architectural Intern

Healthcare & Laboratory Design Assistant

Space Planning Designer

• Performed on-site equipment surveys alongside industry experts, recording and analyzing data for project accuracy.

• Led a team of interns in executing equipment surveys, ensuring efficiency and thorough documentation.

• Assisted in developing construction document sets for lab projects, contributing to design accuracy and timely project completion.

• Worked on equipment layouts and interior elevations to support functional and compliant design solutions.

• Developed space planning strategies to optimize efficiency, flow, and user experience in office environments.

• Collaborated with teammates to develop innovative, client-focused designs that promote healthy, efficient workplaces while aligning with organizational goals and well-being standards.

• Engaged in client meetings to understand goals and gather feedback.

2025 - Current |Government Architectural Intern Design & Visual Communication Assistant • Developed Design Development (DD) sets based on conceptual plans from the early stages of the internship, refining design details and documentation.

• Created graphics for a management playbook, visually communicating change management processes and design strategies.

• BHDP ARCHITECTURE

Visual Graphics Designer • Created detailed design graphics and visual presentations to effectively communicate design concepts to clients, facilitating clear understanding and decision-making.

• Contributed to the development of change management documentation, including layouts and graphic materials, to support client communication.

• BHDP ARCHITECTURE

2023 | Architectural Intern

2023 | Architectural Intern

Project Leader and Design Collaboration

Technical Drawing and Data Collection

• Led a team in a group competition, serving as the Project Manager.

• Organized Schedules, managed tasks, and contributed design ideas.

• Assisted with creating a detailed 3D Model.

Assisted with creating a detailed 3D Model.

• Assisted in 2D and 3D drawing preparations using CAD. • Collected data and gathered information for architectural projects.

Architectural Drafting and Zoning Expertise • Developed conceptual plans for industrial buildings, optimizing functionality and flow.

• Conducted comprehensive zoning research to ensure all designs adhered to local regulations, building codes, and land use requirements.

• ATA BEILHARZ ARCHITECTS

Legal Knowledge and Code Integration • Acquired Familiarity with state and federal laws, regulations, and building codes.

• Adapted codes and standards to integrate seamlessly into projects.

Design and Reporting • Developed architectural elevations from floor plans for various projects, ensuring design consistency and accuracy.

• Created visual presentations to communicate retail design concepts and layouts.

• CESO Inc

Table of

CONTENTS SAULHAUS

Electrical Vehicle experience, Studio led

THE EMBASSY

U.S Embassy in Libya, Studio led by Jos

Designed by Jumana Elayan and Lubna S

CINCINNATI HOUSING

Apartment units in Cincinnati, Studio L

Designed by Jumana Elayan and Gabe W

CONCEPTUAL PROJECTS Small Apartment units in Cincinnati Museum in Cincinnati Body Armature & Stage Set

S

d by Hank Hildebrandt

ss Kiely

Shehata

Led by Pravin Bhiwapurkar

Willard

SAULHAUS Soul Haus is a visionary architectural space dedicated to the electric vehicle—an environment that fosters a deep, personal connection between driver and machine through thoughtful customization and expressive design. It is both a destination and an experience, where EVs are charged, enhanced, and imbued with personality, reflecting the identity of their owners.

Architecturally, Soul Haus is conceived as a sculptural form—its folded roof structure envelops the building like a protective shell, symbolizing the bond between human and vehicle. Beneath the fold lies a refined, high-end facility comprising specialized programs tailored to the electric vehicle lifestyle. The spatial design supports functional needs and evokes a sense of emotional connection, seamlessly integrating technology, luxury, and identity.

MASSING

PLAN

THE GALLERY The Gallery is an immersive, narrative space celebrating the evolution and future of EVs. • Inspired by EV interiors, the design evokes motion, precision, and innovation.

• Roof apertures introduce filtered natural light, simulating ambient in-car lighting.

• Interactive wall displays are embedded seamlessly into the architecture for dynamic storytelling.

OPEN COLLAB Open Collaboration Space designed for hands-on interaction between EV users and experts to strengthen the emotional connection between user and vehicle through active participation.

• Facilitates real-time exploration of vehicle features, functions, and capabilities.

• Supports personalized vehicle customization through guided design sessions.

• Advanced visualization tools enable users to preview configurations and options.

• Curated displays offer tactile access to finishes, trims, and colorways.

SHOWROOM Customization Reveal Showroom showcasing completed, personalized EVs in a premium setting.

• Vehicles presented with high-detail emphasis on craftsmanship, materials, and finish.

• Designed to celebrate the final handover moment between user and vehicle.

• On-site specialists assist with final adjustments, enhancements, or accessories.

• Boutique-style shop offers curated products and last-mile personalization.

SECTION

EMBASSY The proposed U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, Libya, is strategically located near other embassies to enhance security while offering a prominent waterfront presence. Collaborating with Lubna, we carefully selected the site to balance safety, accessibility, and cultural integration.

Our design prioritizes a unique and functional workspace for embassy employees while fostering a connection with the people of Libya. Security is seamlessly integrated into the architecture, featuring a perimeter gate and a patterned gate wall inspired by traditional Islamic motifs. This design element not only reinforces safety but also harmonizes with Libya’s architectural heritage, symbolizing a cultural bridge between Libya and the U.S. The embassy’s interlocking building form is centered around a courtyard, which features an olive tree—a powerful symbol of peace and a nod to Libya’s cultural identity. The program includes diverse amenities such as a community center, residential spaces, outdoor seating areas, and an amphitheater, creating a dynamic and welcoming environment within a secure setting.

EXTERIOR PRESPECTIVE Jumana E. & Lubna S.

The history of diplomatic relations between Libya and the United States has been complex, shaped by various conflicts and evolving circumstances within Libya. The embassy plays a pivotal role in these relations, serving as a foundational step toward restoration and support for the country. Our design prioritizes safety and security, embodying the core mission of the embassy as a symbol of stability and diplomacy.

Diplomatic Relations History

Site Border This site border design is inspired by traditional Islamic patterns, serving as both a protective gateway and a harmonious architectural element. It seamlessly integrates with the city’s cultural and architectural landscape, fostering a meaningful connection between the United States and Libya.

FORM

Two Masses in Representation of Two Nations

100 Foot Setback

Overlapping and Raising One Mass

Building as Site Division Guide

Indenting Mass to Create Courtyard Space

Building Edge as Site Spine

Sloping of Top Mass Roo

Site Divison By Program

of

SITE DIVISON

Stair Tower For Circulation

The site is strategically divided into distinct sections to accommodate the full program while also creating additional functional spaces. The massing of the form is designed to symbolize the unity of two nations coming together, reflecting their connection through architecture.

Basement

PLANS

EXPLODED MA

ASS LEVELS

Level 00

Level 01

PLANS

EXPLODED MASS

S LEVELS

AXONS

Community center

PLANS

Housing Unit

SECTION

INTERIOR PRESPECTIVES

PRESPECTIVES

PHYSICAL MODEL

M o r e Th a n C o n t e x t

Situated in Cincinnati, Ohio, this apartment complex features over 90 residential units, offering a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Emphasizing sustainability, the development incorporates extensive green spaces and fosters a strong sense of community through thoughtfully curated programs and activities.

The architectural design prioritizes natural light, with each unit strategically positioned to optimize daylight penetration. The building’s angular form is intentionally shaped to follow the sun’s trajectory, enhancing solar exposure. At the core of the complex, a central open-air courtyard provides a dynamic communal space, designed to encourage social interaction and recreational activities while being bathed in natural light. The front facade integrates a carefully designed shading device with openings and privacy screens, balancing weather protection with occupant privacy.

EXTERIOR PRESPECTIVE Jumana E. & Gabe W.

FORM

The concept begins with two parallel rows of buildings facing each ot

ments, and programmed areas designed to serve both residents and th

The overall axonometric view on the left illustrates the arrangement of

activities. It highlights the surrounding views and lush greenery, empha vironment.

ther, separated by a central space featuring greenery, water ele-

he broader community.

f residential units within the broader program, integrating various

asizing the harmonious blend of living spaces with the natural en-

LEVEL 00

PLANS

LEVEL 01

LEVEL 02

Level 04

PLANS

Level 05

UNIT TYPE 4

UNIT TYPE 3

UNIT TYPE 2

UNIT TYPE 1

UNIT SECTION

LONGITUDINAL SECTION

SHORT SECTION

PRESPECTIVES

PRESPECTIVES

A PA R T M E N TS Concept This small apartment complex in Cincinnati is designed to address the challenges of an enclosed urban site, bordered by buildings on all sides. The primary concept revolves around introducing natural light and maintaining privacy within the space. The façade is conceived as a balance of contrasts—appearing both seamless and lightweight while simultaneously expressing a sense of solidity through the massing of the units.

The design strategy involves an interlocking composition of residential units, creating a dynamic interplay between built and open space. Carefully placed voids within the structure allow light to penetrate deep into the interiors, enhancing spatial quality and ensuring a sense of openness despite the density of the site. The result is a thoughtfully crafted urban dwelling that harmonizes privacy, light, and mass in a refined architectural expression.

LEVEL 00

PLANS

LEV

VEL 01

LEVEL 02

LEVEL 04

PLANS

LEVEL 05

LEVEL 06

SECTION PRESPECTIVE

MUSEUM Concept Designed a Museum located in Inwood Park, cincinnati. Integrating construction ethic, atmospheric design, spatial sequencing, and site response. The project began with a diagrammatic examination of the given site, then began to study program of each exihbit spaces. In my design I chose to create a space where an experience is created as you move throughout the space.

COMMUNITY CENTER Concept Designed a Neighborhood community center located in over the rhine. Integrating construction ethic, atmospheric design, spatial sequencing, and site response. The project began with a diagrammatic examination of the given site, then schematic iterations in phases prioritizing a specific architectural projection as a lens for each exploration (model, plan, & section). Throughout the different studies, I concluded to a design that creates interesting views, programs, and design elements that draws visitors to the space.

Conceptual Plans

PRESPECTIVE Conceptual section

B O DY A R M AT U R E & STAG E Concept The Body Armature is an exercise where different styles, concepts, and elements of design were expressed. To restrict the movement of the waist and knees, the design had sacks of rocks wrapped each respective area. I made the choice of using this type of fabric and different patterns to define the area of restriction. Then I added these fabric strips that flow in an ironic way with no restreictions. The Model was an excrise related to the body armature.

To express the movement and style of my body armature, I chose to model a stage set that represents the circular movement that my body would propose. Creating the design, I connected it with the idea that I am tied to these ropes and at the same time I am moving freely in circular motion.

Contact P : +1 513 800 8826 E : Elayanja@mail.uc.edu Jumanaaelayan@gmail.com

JUMANA ELAYAN