POR TFO LIO...
Selected Projects
Architectural Designer
education
Bachelor of science in Architecture
september of 2020 - april of 2024
Masters degree in Architecture
september of 2024 - april of 2025 * expected *
I
passionate architecture graduate
May 2023- August 2023 - DesignHaus, MI
Architecture Intern
May 2022- Current - Filippas Restaurant
server
work history skills
Cornucopia
H.O.P.E Center 01
At the University of Detroit Mercy, we’re embarking on an exciting architecture project to breathe new life into our campus. Driven by feedback from students, faculty, and neighbors, our focus is on creating a more vibrant, welcoming, and engaging environment that everyone can enjoy.
Many students and community members have voiced concerns about how the campus interacts with its surroundings and the limited food options available. They’re also craving a more active campus life with better spaces for socializing and studying.
Our plans include rejuvenating the campus’s look, ramping up event programming, and introducing 24hour study zones to accommodate all schedules. We also see a strong desire for deeper connections between our students and the local community, prompting us to design spaces that encourage meaningful interactions.
This project is about more than just meeting practical needs—it’s about creating a campus that inspires a lively, connected, and supportive community spirit at UDM.
Collaboration: Fredo Shtjefni | Titus Chub
4001 W MCNICHOLS RD, DETROIT, MI, 48221
Design Drivers 01
Community Engagement
Depicts spaces or initiatives designed to foster social interactions and inclusivity, emphasizing shared public areas and community-oriented layouts.
Design Drivers 02
Walkability / Experience
Highlights pedestrian-friendly design, including accessible pathways, wayfinding systems, and elements that enhance the walking experience, such as shaded areas or green corridors.
Design Drivers 03
Occupant Well-Being
Showcases environments prioritizing physical and mental health through natural light, greenery, calming aesthetics, and wellnessfocused spaces.
H.O.P.E Model
Form Diagram
Proposed site
Occupant Well-Being
BASKETBALL COURT
PING PONG TABLES
MINI-SOCCER FIELD
PAVILION
OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER
TIMBRICA
Innovative Timber Construction
Cornucopia brings a visionary concept to life with a cuttingedge business incubator located in the bustling heart of Eastern Market. This innovative hub is dedicated to fostering the growth of emerging businesses, nurturing partnerships, and supporting innovative breakthroughs. The proposed structure, spanning 48,000 square feet and reaching a height of 65 feet, is set to become a landmark of progress in Detroit.
At the heart of Cornucopia is the mission to foster a vibrant sense of community and connectivity. Strategically positioned, the building connects directly to the Dequindre Cut Greenway, ensuring seamless integration with the neighborhood. The design focuses on enhancing the user experience by maximizing visibility and natural light in workspaces, providing occupants with sweeping views of the Detroit skyline and the Dequindre Cut. This thoughtful layout not only enhances wellness and productivity but also encourages social interaction and collaboration among community members.
Collaboration: Fredo Shtjefni | Mahmoud Eljammali
Site Context
The site’s strategic location in a busy local business district ensures a high volume of foot traffic, amplified by the proximity to Eastern Market. The nearby pedestrian and vehicular pathways, particularly the Dequindre Cut, offer significant opportunities. The slope on our site presents possiblilities for unique experiences, such as rainwater collection. However, challenges include the empty atmosphere caused by surrounding vacant lots and the presence of abandoned buildings.
Design Drivers 01
Illustrates integrated networks that enhance accessibility and connections between main connecting street to Eastern Market and Dequindre Cut Greenway.
Design Drivers 02
A. Daylighting
C. Solar Panels
B. Double Skin
D. Stormwater Management
C D
Design Drivers 03
Occupant Well-Being
The intent is to prioritize the physical, emotional, and mental health of building occupants by supporting productivity, relaxation, and overall satisfaction through intentional design that addresses the modern need for holistic, health-focused environments.
Form Generation
Elevations
03
OASIS DETROIT
Community Center | Campus
The Oasis of Detroit is a purposebuilt facility dedicated to the non-profit organization Greening of Detroit. This organization is committed to enhancing the urban landscape of Detroit by planting trees and transforming vacant spaces into vibrant green areas for the community. The Oasis of Detroit serves as a central hub for these efforts, offering free-of-charge office spaces, training facilities, a greenhouse, and an open community garden.
Within the Greening of Detroit facility, you’ll find not only offices and training spaces but also a fully equipped greenhouse and an inviting community garden. Additionally, the organization operates tree farms and smaller greenhouse areas that produce various products. These products may find their way to the on-campus fruit market or be transported to other locations in Detroit, contributing to the broader mission of fostering a greener and more sustainable urban environment.
Collaboration: Fredo Shtjefni
Site Context
AtwaterSt.
Dubois St.
Aubin St.
Form Diagram
Program Requirement
Mass model of required programs.
Massing Organization Programs are grouped in relation to their function & needs.
Landscape Orientation
Central Garden. Orientation of the greenhouse in front of the site to capture south sunlight.
Encapsulating Site
Connecting the greenhouse to the building as a way of attraction and circulation through the site.
Food Market
Vivid and lively imagery emphasizing vibrant colors, natural materials, and communal spaces, reflecting culinary culture and social engagement.
Outdoor Park
Displays lush, green spaces with walking trails, recreational areas, and shaded spots designed for relaxation, connection with nature, and urban respite.
