portfolio selected works 2021 - 2026
josie holst
E. info@josieholstdesign.com
P. (816) 407 - 7884
W. https://josieholstdesign.com
Hello,
My name is Josie. I aspire to a life filled with adventure and a career that ignites positive change in the world. Currently, I am a student at Kansas State University pursuing a Master’s of Architecture. The profound impact of architecture never ceases to amaze me—it serves as the foundation for creating communities and representing diverse cultures. My ambition is to craft spaces that adapt with societal progression, thereby becoming an architect who composes the poetry of form and space.
Kansas State University - Manhattan, KS
Masters of Architecture - 5 year NAAB Accredited, 3.8 GPA
Professional Experience
Architectural Intern
A3G Architects - 110 N Main St. Liberty, MO
Graduation May 2026
May 2020 - August 2020
• Contributed to the compilation of informational and research materials for presentations, focusing on design options.
• Participated in internal company meetings, client consultations, and on-site evaluations.
• Managed the material library, ensuring inventory was current and the space was well-organized on a consistent basis.
Skills
3D Modeling
Rendering
01 Performing Arts Theater
Theater Design
Semester 6
The performing arts theater situated in New York is designed to showcase how the internal function of a building can shape its overall form. The sloped seating arrangement within the theater plays a significant role in this concept, as it is not only a functional element but also a defining aspect of the building’s external appearance. This architectural feature is deliberately prominent, reflecting the theater’s commitment to blending functionality with visual expression.
The site is situated in New York, enveloped by dense buildings of the Chelsea district, with the towering structures of Hudson Yards in close proximity. To the west of the site lies the added greenery of th High Line.
The form is influenced by the High Line and adjacent streets, with intentional carved voids creating terraces that foster deeper connection from interior to exterior spaces.
The voids are angled inward, light and views deep into also mirroring the interior’s seating, which is inclined influencing the building’s
inward, channeling into the edifice, while interior’s auditorium inclined at 12 degrees, building’s external silhouette.
The architectural design addresses the corner condition by recessing the form at the east-west corner, creating a welcoming entrance to the building.
performing arts theater / selected works
The building’s fenestration complements the zig-zag nature and channels sunlight into the lounge areas. This design choice illuminates these communal spaces, and visually signifies gathering points within the structure.
arts theater / selected works
Occupation of Spaces
All administrative areas are situated at the pinnacle of the building, offering panoramic views of New York’s skyline.
Hovering above the theater, a catwalk and technical booth provide staff with a vantage point to oversee performances and assist with the theater’s operations.
The theater, the building’s most expansive space, includes both entry-level and balcony seating. The room’s slope is designed to enhance acoustics.
The stepped seating serves as a public amenity, fostering a sense of community and gathering. Additionally, this area can be utilized as an informal performance space.
An exterior terrace has been designed to strengthen the visual and spatial link between the street and the building
The exterior public space allows connection to form between the interior of the building and the High Line to the west of the building
The area accommodates all back-ofhouse functions, such as the loading dock, storage, and scene shop. It is designed for efficient vertical transport, ensuring easy accessibility.
The lobby is equipped with a ticket booth, coat check, and a public café, complemented by lounge chairs for guests.
02 Eureka Housing Project
Residential Architecture
Semester 5
The Eureka Housing Project is thoughtfully designed to embrace its rural surroundings and foster a sense of personalization for each resident. The housing units, which range from one-bedroom to three-bedroom layouts, all feature an exterior space that encourages owners to customize and make it their own. The diverse topography of the site provides direct access to a nearby park for residents, integrating the park and the housing site to be a harmonious blend of natural and built environments.
eureka housing project / selected works
The exterior spaces for each residence are designed to be personalized, enriching the overall living experience.
Views from within the unit are intentionally oriented to overlook the communal exterior plaza space.
The public plaza divides the site creating a datum that connects the site with the adjacent park.
The shaded terrace area provides a subtle transition from the outdoor to the indoor spaces.
eureka housing project / selected works
One Bedroom Unit:
The unit is one story with a sloping roof to allow natural light to illuminate the space.
Studio Unit:
The unit is one story with a loft that separates the private sleeping area.
Two Bedroom Unit:
The unit is the most spacious including two bedrooms and an above terrace space to connect exterior and interior.
North Section
South Section
Terrace space allows residents to have access to a covered exterior space
Customizable yard space for each unit
Direct access to the park beyond
Vertical Farm
Urban Agricultural Architecture
Semester 6
The vertical farm is designed to supply tropical plant varieties to the consumers of New York.
Drawing inspiration from the layered complexity of a tropical rainforest, the farm’s structure mirrors this hierarchy, creating a symbiosis between form and function. The building’s facade systems, along with strategic ventilation and daylighting, are meticulously planned to enhance the growth zones, ensuring optimal conditions for cultivating tropical flora.
Plant Hierarchy
Emergent Layer
Orchids and Vines
Canopy Layer
Ferns
Understory Layer Underground Layer
The form is terraced in order to draw sunlight further into the building.
Honeysuckle and Spicebush
Violets and heliconia
The distribution of plant growth areas reflects the hierarchy of a tropical rainforest. In the vertical farm, the plant typology is arranged within the building according to a spectrum ranging from direct sunlight to complete shade.
The incorporation of a curved facade is a reflection of the movement of the sun throughout the day to optimize daylighting.
East Elevation
South Elevation
Floor Plans
Hierarchy is reflected throughout the building with larger growing space area toward the lower levels and smaller area at the top level.
Vertical transport is accessible via elevator or stairway across the building.
Each level is provided with means of egress protected by a fire resistant corridor between two fire stairs.
Plant Distribution
Service Space
The existing highline is renovated as an exterior place of occupancy and provides connection between exterior and interior.
The buildings structure is represented by a grid that is based on span length and consists of steel columns supporting floor and roof plates.
The first level is market space supplied by the flora grow on the above levels.
Detail Wall Section
Section Model
