Maya Smith Portfolio

MAYA SMITH IN PROGRESS THESIS AND SELECT WORK

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experience WSP Used Revit and AutoCAD to draft federal buildings to USACE and NAVFAC standards. Creating floor plans, elevations, and compiling construction documents for the Architecture Team.

D+D Studio

contact

maya smith 757.401.2442 maya@smithleadership.com 1929 piney woods lane virginia beach, va

links

www.linkedin.com/in/mayasmitharch

Used Revit and AutoCAD to design and draft residential projects for home builders. Creating models and renderings for clients.

Pace Collaborative Used AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM 360 to design and draft HVAC systems in buildings, and also completing mechanical markups.

skills Construction Documents

perspective

Problem Solving

Coordination

Presenting

Rendering

Attention to Detail

I advocate for the notion that architecture possesses the potential for both aesthetic beauty and a profound positive influence on the environment. In my perspective, the integration of elements such as passive heating and cooling, strategic building envelope design, and daylighting techniques for solar heat gain can align with aesthetically pleasing design choices. This harmony yields architecture that not only captivates visually but also positively impacts the environment.

Furthermore, I hold the belief that architecture should have a capacity for evolution, designed to stand the test of time and cater to the needs of unknown future occupants. It is to transcend aesthetics, embodying functionality as an integral aspect. In essence, architecture, when crafted with foresight and a commitment to sustainability, can transcend its immediate form to become a timeless and purposeful contribution to the built environment.

programs

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education Virginia Tech

Revit AutoCAD Photoshop Illustrator InDesign Lumion 3DS max Teams Word Excel PowerPoint Outlook OneDrive

Expected Graduation: 2024 GPA 3.86, Summa Cum Laude Top 10% of University College of Arts, Architecture, and Design Major: Architecture

Steger Center Completed 2023 Abroad program studying architecture through Europe.

Advanced Technology Center Completed 2019 Revit and AutoCAD program studying architecture and engineering design for two years in Virginia Beach, VA.

certifications and honors

Worked for creator of Amber Book, Michael Ermann Selected to present design to Knoll Honorable Mention AIAVA VT Competition 1st of 150 Students Environmental Building Systems AutoDesk Revit Certification NOCTI Architectural Certification 1st Place Tidewater Builders’ Association Competition 2nd Place Skills USA District Competition NOCTI Engineering Certification AutoDesk Inventor Certification Presidential Award in Academics Kellam High School

2024 2023 2022 2022 2019 2019 2019 2018 2018 2018 2019

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CONTENTS TEMPORAL DYNAMICS AND FORM

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DC SLOT BUILDING

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PROFESSIONAL DRAFTING SAMPLE 44

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TEMPORAL DYNAMICS AND FORM IN PROGRESS THESIS

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EMPOWERING INHABITANTS THROUGH ADAPTABLE DWELLINGS.

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This work reimagines domestic architecture – and who creates it – by empowering individuals to construct and reshape their environment. In lieu of grand gestures by the designer, architectural excellence comes from thoughtful, intricate, adaptable elements that support the changing circumstances of life.

Embarking on a journey that began with a fervent desire to address the scarcity of homes and evolved into a nuanced exploration of modularity and convenience in living spaces, this thesis encapsulates a collection of thoughts, observations, and design propositions. Inspired by the pressing need for sustainable, adaptable homes, the initial quest led to the revelation that size, often misconstrued as a measure of well-being, is more intricately linked to status than actual contentment. The solution emerged in the form of small, functional, and adaptable homes, guided by the principles of modularity.

As the narrative unfolded, the focus honed in on the heart of the home – the kitchen. Discoveries from studies on traffic flows within homes illuminated the pivotal role of kitchens and the potential of modular living areas, particularly in living rooms. The journey led to the design of an ideal kitchen, prompting a shift toward attention to detail and the intricate interplay of light, form, energy use, and material.

The thesis then delves into the temporal dynamics of life, understanding

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how architectural forms evolve with the changing needs of individuals over different life stages. A unique piece of furniture, starting as a child’s play table and transforming through various functions as occupants grow, becomes a metaphor for adaptable living spaces. The narrative extends to the design of a wall, introducing elements of storage, display, connection, and malleability, showcasing the power of modularity and flexibility.

Informed by architectural philosophies such as Tom Kundig’s belief in evolutionary architecture and Eileen Gray’s emphasis on the home as an extension of oneself, this work strikes a delicate balance. It acknowledges the practicality of adaptable mechanisms within homes while championing the empowerment of inhabitants in shaping their living spaces.

With the presentation of the wall and furniture boards, the focus shifts to a practical application in the form of a front yard Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in suburban Virginia Beach. The thesis concludes with a proposition for a 360-degree walkthrough video, and the determination to create a physical model to encapsulate the culmination of ideas, observations, and designs.

This thesis is not merely an exploration of architectural concepts; it is a testament to the evolving thought process, the intricacies of designing for human experiences, and the realization that, ultimately, the inhabitants dictate the narrative of their living spaces.

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“architecture is evolutionary not revolutionary”

21st Century

Tom Kundig

Eileen Gray

“house is the shell of man, his extension, his release, his spiritual emanation”

20th Century

Le Corbusier famously stated that “a house is a machine for living in,” emphasizing the functional and efficiency aspects of architecture. In his view, architecture should serve practical purposes and improve the efficiency of daily life. This concept is rooted in modernism and industrialization, focusing on form following function.

On the other hand, Eileen Gray’s perspective seeing home as an extension of man” emphasizing the deeply personal and emotional connection between individuals and their living spaces. She believes that a home should go beyond mere functionality and become a reflection of the inhabitant’s personality, desires, and spirit.

In my eyes I am balancing between these two views. Acknowledging the practical aspects of architecture by PROVIDING ADAPTABLE AND FLEXIBLE MECHANISMS WITHIN THE HOME, allowing it to function efficiently as needed.

While having these functions be the extension of the individual, offering tools and choices that empower the inhabitants to shape and personalize their living space.

Using mechanisms that follow along with my other role model architect, Tom Kundig, to create architecture that is evolutionary.

creativity flexible storage supervision

In the early stages of family life, a household often revolves around the needs of young children. At this stage, the family requires open, versatile spaces that accommodate active play and exploration. Safety is paramount, with childproofing measures in place to ensure a secure environment. Functional storage solutions are essential for managing the array of toys, books, and supplies that come with raising young children. Flexibility in furniture arrangements allows for easy adaptation to changing activities and evolving needs throughout the day. Additionally, incorporating elements that stimulate creativity and learning, such as interactive play areas or designated art spaces, fosters developmental growth and enriches the family’s daily experiences.

versatility

EARLY STAGE OF FAMILY’S HABITAT

open

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studying independence

privacy

socialization

expression

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MIDDLE STAGE OF FAMILY’S HABITAT As a family transitions into the stage of having teenagers, the household dynamic evolves to accommodate their changing needs and interests. Spaces for privacy and personal expression become increasingly important as teenagers seek independence and autonomy. Bedrooms serve as retreats where adolescents can relax, study, and pursue hobbies away from the rest of the family. Areas for socializing and gathering with friends become focal points, with flexible seating arrangements and entertainment options catering to group activities. Additionally, designated study areas or home offices support academic endeavors and encourage focused learning. Storage solutions that allow for organization and customization empower teenagers to personalize their spaces and express their individuality.

Overall, the home design prioritizes creating a balance between communal areas for family bonding and private zones for teenage self-discovery and growth.

With children grown and flown the nest, the focus shifts towards downsizing and simplifying living spaces. Unused bedrooms may be repurposed into hobby rooms, home offices, or guest accommodations, reflecting the newfound flexibility and freedom of this life stage. The home design emphasizes comfort, relaxation, and enjoyment, with cozy reading nooks, tranquil gardens, and inviting outdoor living areas becoming central features. Spaces are curated to facilitate hobbies and interests, whether it’s a dedicated studio for painting or gardening or a cozy corner for indulging in favorite pastimes. Additionally, downsizing may entail reevaluating possessions and embracing a minimalist approach to living, with storage solutions tailored to accommodate cherished belongings while maintaining a clutter-free environment. Overall, the home becomes a sanctuary for empty nesters to savor the joys of retirement, pursue lifelong passions, and create new memories in a space designed for their evolving lifestyle. As they enter a stage requiring more accessibility, adaptable features like foldable beds and staircases optimizes space for circulation.

hosting downsize

LATER STAGE OF FAMILY’S HABITAT

simplifiy

hobbies

gathering

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EVOLUTIONARY FURNITURE In the continuum of thoughts and explorations, a singular piece emerges as the tangible embodiment of this architectural journey—an innovative and adaptive piece of furniture.

Born out of a quest to create living spaces that evolve alongside their inhabitants, this furniture transcends conventional definitions. Originating as a child’s play table, it unfolds into a chair, desk, shelves, drawers, cabinets, and a bench, mirroring the phases of life. Beyond a mere utilitarian entity, this furniture encapsulates the essence of modularity, mirroring

the ebb and flow of occupants’ needs over time. It is not a static object but a dynamic mechanism, growing symbiotically with the lives it shelters.

This piece stands as a testament to the belief that architectural design should not be rigid but a canvas, providing inhabitants with the autonomy to orchestrate their own living spaces.

As the heart of the envisioned homes, this furniture symbolizes the fusion of form, function, and adaptability, offering a glimpse into a future where dwellings are not static but living entities that evolve with the rhythm

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The Vivo Box

tools of the process

Named after the Latin term for vitality and life, the “Vivo” is not just a piece of furniture but an extension of the occupants’ evolving needs.

Crafted as an evolutionary element of the home, the Vivo adapts and grows alongside its inhabitant. With meticulous intentions for each life stage, the Vivo’s core design is grounded in a cabinet structure featuring concealed hinges and recessed handles. This unassuming facade conceals a world of possibilities—stacking, rotating, folding— unleashing a myriad of capabilities that maximize functionality. The Vivo transcends the boundaries of conventional furniture, promising a living entity within the home that is as dynamic and vibrant as life itself.

c

teĖs

Laying the cabinet flat, it becomes a set of two dĎwers. Ēe piece has access to the top dĎwer through the doors. If the top is to be used as a surface, the dĎwers can be flipped and the cabinet turned upside down.

flush design

bĎss hinges

arĚed gęp for lifting

solid wood

Ēe Vivo is designed with speciĠc intĖtions for eaĚ ġage of life. At its core, Ēe Vivo is a cabinet with hiddĖ hinges and recessed handles. Ēe flush design provide ġacking, rotating, folding, and many other capabilities, maximising đnďionality.

cabinet

ġoĎge

any ġage of life

ġack

ġacking two vivos creates a vertical cabinet

modular

ġoĎge

flexible đrniture that evolves with life

designed to laġ a lifetime

Ēe Vivo is a modular đrniture piece designed for dynamic living. “Vivo” represĖting vitality and life, the box being the extĖsion of the occupants needs. Ēe Vivo provides an evolutionary piece of the home to grow with you, the occupant.

the vivo box

s t o r a g e

place a cushion on the seat for comfort

seating playing ġoĎge

workspace

de s k

Stacking two flat vivos on top of eaĚ other creates a dresser for clothing or other itės, as the occupant Ěooses. Its design is intĖded for people aging and looking to downsize from large closets.

playing ġoĎge

Ēe vivos can be rotated on to their sides and an additional woodtop turns the piece into a desk. Ēis modiĠcation provides a pęvate space to ġudy as a Ěild ages into a teĖ.

play table

Designed with ĚildrĖ in mind, the vivo play table is low to the groĝd with ġoĎge on both sides. Ēe ġoĎge can be accessible to the ĚildrĖ, or the vivos can be rotated to keep ĚildrĖ from accessing what is inside of the play table. Ēe play table is solid and intĖded for exploĎtive learning.

dresser

Rotating one vivo, sit its edge on the flat vivo and let the dĎwers faĕ out of the boĔom. OpĖ the top door and Ėsure the flaps have locked the dĎwers in place. Ēe form becomes a seat for teĖs, spĖding more time in their rooms, or a ġanding desk platform for ĚildrĖ to play with the cĎfts, toys, games that they ġore inside.

ai r

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EVOLUTIONARY WALL

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The envisioned wall, a masterful creation at the intersection of form and function, stands as a testament to the philosophy that a home should be a canvas for inhabitants to paint their stories upon.

Designed with meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to modularity, this wall is not a static divider but an ever-evolving element that transforms with the rhythm of life. Its essence lies in the careful orchestration of storage, display, connection, and malleability, embodying the principles of adaptability in architectural design.

At its core, the wall serves as a living space’s constant companion, offering hidden storage that gracefully adapts as occupants’ needs shift and grow. The design elegantly conceals its transformative capabilities, providing a seamless and unobtrusive aesthetic.

As life progresses, the wall becomes a silent witness to the rituals and changes within the living space, evolving gracefully alongside the family it shelters.

The wall’s pièce de résistance is its ability to rotate, creating an interplay between spaces.

As families age and privacy becomes paramount, the wall pivots to separate living areas, fostering intimacy. Yet, true to its nature of adaptability, the wall can seamlessly integrate with adjacent spaces when a sense of openness is desired. It is not just a physical barrier; it is a conduit for defining the emotional and spatial dynamics within the home.

Moreover, the wall’s design caters to the desire for downsizing without sacrificing functionality.

Display spaces can be transformed into open or closed configurations, accommodating the need

to curate life’s journey within the living space. The wall transcends traditional notions of separation and enclosure, presenting an innovative approach to how architectural elements can facilitate both privacy and connection within a home.

In its entirety, this wall is a living, breathing entity within the home—a harmonious blend of form and function, light and shadow, privacy and openness. It symbolizes a new era in architectural design, where the boundaries between spaces are not fixed but fluid, responding to the evolving ebb and flow of life.

WhĖ the waĕ is rotated to the living room, it beġ caters to the needs of yoĝg families, by providing closed ġoĎge for toys, games, and cĎfts. Ēe top portion of the waĕ is conġruďed of woodĖ slats to accommodate displaying a vaęety of ĚildrĖs artwork.

yoĝg family

pęvacy

seating

Ēe waĕ rotates to sepaĎte the living and dining areas. It provides increased pęvacy for families Ėteęng the teĖ phase and accommodates increasing indepĖdĖt aďivities in the house.

hiddĖ ġoĎge display space

s to ra g e

the axio waĕ Ēe Axio Waĕ is a pivotable waĕ that is intĖded to be the conneďion betweĖ the living room and dining area or kitĚĖ. With its axial hinge, it introduces a dynamic elėĖt for tĎnsition betweĖ spaces as the occupants’ needs Ěange over time. Ēis design balances đnďionality with use over long peęods of time for a versatile inteęor.

dining dining dining

hiddĖ axis hinge

teĖ family

dining

living living living living

adult family

WhĖ đĕy rotated into the dining area, the waĕ becomes tucked away and ĝveils a waĕ-moĝted couĚ ġruďure in the living room. Ēe couĚ can be puĕed down, cateęng to the needs of adult ĚildrĖ and families looking to spĖd quality time together or Ėtertain gueġs as their free time increases in the upcoming years.

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KITCHEN IS THE HEART

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Traffic Study

KITCHEN

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These studies revealed a clear trend: while living rooms often remained empty, kitchens were consistently busy. This highlighted the kitchen’s essential role as the hub of household activity, where daily routines, social interactions, and culinary tradition unfold.

Based on the studies I reviewed, which often depicted cramped, bustling kitchen spaces, I’ve developed a vision for the ideal kitchen that addresses these challenges. These studies revealed a consistent pattern of kitchens being heavily utilized areas, where multiple activities converge simultaneously.

In response, the ideal kitchen design prioritizes efficiency and functionality, ensuring that every component serves a purpose and contributes to a seamless workflow.

In the ideal kitchen, having a prep area located next to the stove ensures efficiency in meal preparation, allowing for easy transfer of ingredients from cutting board to cooking pot. The fridge and sink adjacent to each other creates easy access to ingredients and cleanup. Optimal workspace placement, with the prep area offering a view, enhances the cooking experience by providing visual stimulation and a connection to the surroundings. Ample room for guests to mingle nearby fosters a sociable atmosphere, allowing hosts to engage with visitors while attending to culinary tasks. A pullout shelf for groceries facilitates the unloading process, providing a convenient landing spot for items as they are put away. Storage for spices and oils behind the counter keeps frequently used ingredients within easy reach without cluttering the countertop. Accessible tool storage near the stove and prep area ensures quick access to utensils, enhancing cooking efficiency. A designated cooling area on the stove offers a safe spot for hot pots and pans to cool down, preventing countertop clutter and potential hazards. Lastly, positioning the trash bin near the sink facilitates efficient waste disposal, promoting cleanliness and tidiness in the kitchen environment.

“the ideal kitchen”

The dynamics of a family’s living and dining spaces undergo transformative shifts as they traverse through different stages of life, demanding flexibility and adaptability in their design. However, amidst these changes, the kitchen remains a steadfast constant—a nucleus of daily life that transcends temporal variations.

Recognizing the enduring importance of the kitchen, I endeavored to design the ideal culinary space with functionality at its forefront. While the living and dining areas require modularity to accommodate evolving needs, the kitchen serves as a timeless anchor, fostering a sense of continuity and reliability within the home. This intentional approach ensures that the heart of the household is equipped to meet the demands of both dynamic family life and the enduring rituals that unfold within the culinary realm.

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Virginia Beach

Front Yard Living

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COMING UP Embracing the ethos of living small while maximizing adaptability, the natural next steps in my design journey extend towards crafting an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rich in transformative elements. The envisioned space seeks to redefine the very essence of compact living by incorporating an array of adaptable components. Foldable couches promise to optimize both private and engaging configurations, providing flexible seating and playing arrangements. Collapsible stairs elegantly address vertical space constraints, offering customizable access to elevated areas or open space through walkways. Pull-out hooks and hidden nightstands further contribute to the multifunctional nature of the living space, ensuring that every nook and cranny is purposefully utilized. The ADU becomes a testament to the art of harmonizing function and convenience, where adaptability and innovation converge to enhance the overall living experience within a confined yet thoughtfully curated environment.

The accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is tailored specifically for front yards in suburban areas. Front yards, often underutilized and relegated to mere aesthetics, become prime real estate for innovative living solutions. The envisioned ADU, seamlessly integrated into these spaces, stands as a versatile haven. Beyond the practical incorporation of foldable couches, collapsible stairs, pull-out hooks, murphy beds, and hidden nightstands, this design philosophy extends to the neighborhood level. Front yard ADUs not only capitalize on underutilized space but also foster a sense of community by providing compact yet inviting additional living quarters. The benefits are manifold—from creating private living spaces for extended family members or renters to contributing to the neighborhood’s overall sustainability. This transformative concept seeks to redefine the suburban landscape, turning front yards into functional extensions of homes while maintaining a harmonious aesthetic within the community.

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STUDIO DESIGN PROJECT DC SLOT BUILDING SCHOOL

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DESIGN THAT LASTS BEYOND PROGRAM

COMPLEXITY TO STIMULATE THE MIND

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Interior Model Pictures

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interconnected pathways and balconies

steel structure

This school was designed to cater to small groups of students with mental disabilities and delayed learning. The primary objective of the design was to move away from a traditional stacked-floor layout and instead create a dynamic, brainstimulating complex with minimal materials. A central courtyard runs through the heart of the building, ensuring that every classroom enjoys a view of the outdoors, even though the site is flanked by brick buildings on either side.

To foster an open and spacious atmosphere within the otherwise compact structure, the school incorporates pathways composed of interconnected balconies and stairs. This design approach seeks to enhance the overall learning environment and promote a sense of connectivity for the students.

Section Cut West Facing

N02

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STEEL CONCRETE WOOD GLASS

HAND MADE 1/4” MODEL

Floor Plans

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N03 Each floor is comprised of small scale classrooms. The classrooms have a range of seating options designed to offer ample options to those with specific sensory requirements. The furniture chosen is modular in order to allow for changing classroom styles and needs throughout the day and lifespan of the building. The connection of the classrooms is created through balconies that over look the floors above and below. This fosters a sense of overall connection. The uniqueness of each floor allows for the occupant to be stimulated by each floor’s respective complexity.

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LAPALMA FURNITURE - MODULAR DESK SYSTEMS

ANDREU WORLD FURNITURE

Furniture

N04

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PROFESSIONAL DRAFTING SAMPLE RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION SET

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USED: REVIT BLUEBEAM

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