Bringing Ideas to Life: A Collection of Architectural Works

ABOUT

I am a highly motivated Architecture Graduate from the University of Mumbai, India with a five-year professional Bachelor of Architecture degree. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Architecture at the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, where I have received both a merit scholarship and a graduate fellowship. With over two years of professional experience, I have a strong background in the field of architecture, having worked for top design firms in Mumbai and most recently, serving as an Architectural Intern at Solomon Cordwell Buenz Architects in San Francisco, California.

My particular area of interest is computational design and parametric modeling, which I have further developed through a graduate certification in digital technology at the University of Texas. I have also honed my skills through participation in global virtual workshops and conferences, including digitalFUTURES 2020-2021 and workshops focused on robotic fabrication.

I am currently a part of the Advanced Studio “Foresting Architecture” offered by Daniel Koehler where I am exploring AI text-to-image generation and its impact on the conventional architectural workflow. In Spring 2022, I participated in the “Architecture Interfaces” Advanced Design Studio offered by Casey Rehm (SCI-Arc) and Daniel Koehler in collaboration, where I worked at the intersection of algorithmic design, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to reimagine living environments through thresholds.

Throughout my education, I have demonstrated strong leadership skills and served as the President of the Undergraduate Student Council. I also represented my college as the Unit Secretary at the National Association of Students of Architecture Annual Convention. My passion for architecture, combined with my technical skills and leadership experience, make me a valuable asset to any architecture firm.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Undergraduate Thesis

Integrative Studio, Fall 2022

Vertical Studio, Fall 2021

Internship Work, SCB Architects

Advanced Studio, Spring 2022

Internship Work, KNS Architects

Architectural Design Studio, Semester 9

Workshops / Conference Explorations

Semester

Undergraduate Thesis Project:

Empowering the living conditions: A case of Anegundi, Karnataka.

Nestled in the heart of the historic Hampi World Heritage site, lies Anegundi, a royal village steeped in a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Ramayana period. With a diverse community of people from all walks of life, the majority of whom earn their livelihood through farming, water hyacinth crafting, and tourism, Anegundi presents a unique opportunity for architectural intervention.

Our research initially focused on the local craft scene in Anegundi, but quickly evolved to encompass a more holistic approach to resolving the challenges faced by the community as a whole. The chosen site, located in the heart of Anegundi, was specially selected for its potential to impact the lives of all stakeholders - the locals, tourists, and researchers/volunteers.

The proposed architectural intervention comprises three key components - a Tourist Information Centre, Accommodation and Studio spaces for researchers and volunteers, and a Craft Workspace and Sale Center. The Tourist Information Centre provides tourists with a comprehensive overview of Anegundi’s rich history, local crafts, and historical landmarks. The Accommodation and Studio spaces offer researchers and volunteers the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with the local community, as well as explore new possibilities for the future of traditional crafts through cutting-edge research and innovation.

At the heart of the intervention lies the Craft Workspace and Sale Center, where the entire crafting process, from treating banana leaves to producing finished products, takes place. This space not only serves as a hub for the preservation of traditional crafts, but also serves as a Skill Development Centre, where skilled artisans can pass on their knowledge and techniques to the next generation of craftswomen.

This holistic approach to architectural intervention will ensure the future of the traditional crafts in Anegundi, while also contributing to the social and economic growth of the community, helping to empower the locals and make them selfsufficient. The proposed campus, built using Rammed Earth technology, will serve as a testament to the community’s determination to embrace sustainability in all aspects of their lives, and will be a living embodiment of their spirit and resilience. This is not just a building for the community, but a campus built by and for the community.

Site Elevations

Site Sections

West Side Site Elevation

South Side Site Elevation

Section through Workspaces

Isometric Site Section

Designing a gathering space in a village is an opportunity to create a social hub that fosters interaction and community building. The goal was to create a structure that mimics the comfort and shade of a tree, providing a pleasant and comfortable environment for artisans to work in, even under extreme temperatures. In this project, we sought to recreate the serenity of a tree’s shade in South India, which serves as a respite from the scorching heat during summer.

Earth Vaults Inspiration:

Exploded Isometric view of Workspace (structural components)

Exploded Isometric of Accomodation Block (Structural Components)

Fall 2022, Integrative Design Studio, Mentors: Mabel Loh & Andrew Stone

Cross-Section Studio

Cross Section seeks to challenge the dominance of the present in our built environment. The studio questioned generational stratification and reimagined affordable, sustainable, and beautiful housing that can adapt alongside us as we experience the seasons of life. Aging is a natural and beautiful part of our experience. Cross-sectional living embraces the symbiotic relationship between the past, the present, and the future.

The proposed design seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, creating a personal connection with nature. The buildings are situated in a manner that preserves the existing trees, preserving the integrity of the landscape. This results in a timeless and unpretentious environment, suitable for both senior living and childcare facilities, fostering an informal atmosphere for leisure and education. The aim is to promote a harmonious relationship between the built and natural environments, enhancing the overall experience.

Contact:

Emotive Collage

Brackenridge Track

Location:

Lake Austin Blvd, AusTX 78703

Designer:

STUDIO MERGE

Yiwei Huang

Nilan A Varade

Contact:

512-xxx-xxxx

Location:

GOL3.124, 310 INNER CAMDR, AUSTIN, TX 78712

Process Models

INTEGRATIVE STUDIO

STUDIO MERGE CROSS SECTION

Emotive Collage

Steel

Steel

Laminated

Translucent Solar Panels (Installed for power supply to the campus while providing shade throughout site)

CANOPY COLUMN TO GRID

CANOPY

INSULATED GLASS UNIT

FOUR SIDED STRUCTURAL GLAZED CURTAIN WALL SYSTEM

Transitional Spaces

Seamless integration with Existing landscape

GLAZING DETAIL

TYPICAL CLT TO GLAZING DETAIL

SCALE: 3:1

INSULATED GLASS UNIT

FOUR SIDED STRUCTURAL GLAZED CURTAIN WALL SYSTEM

1/2" CEMENT COVER BOARD

1/2" CEMENT COVER BOARD

INSULATED GLASS UNIT

FOUR SIDED STRUCTURAL GLAZED CURTAIN WALL SYSTEM

HSS ANCHOR

INSULATED SPANDREL GLASS,

1/2" CEMENT COVER BOARD

HSS ANCHOR

INSULATED SPANDREL GLASS,

MINERAL WOOL BOARD

INSULATED GLASS UNIT

INSULATED GLASS UNIT

MOTOR-OPERATED

ELECTRICAL CONDUIT

TEL/DATA CONDUIT

June 2022 - December 2022 | Solomon Cordwell Buenz Architects | San Francisco, California.

Project Lead: Melissa Godfrey, Associate Principal

Lot X - Mixed-use Residential Project, Sacramento, California

Collaborated with the Project Design team from 25% Design Development stage till 100 % Design Developement submission. Developed spatial planning layouts (Interiors) for the Residential tower and Townhomes. Presented Schematic Design options for Townhome Elevations to Design team and Consultants. Coordinated and Communicated design changes with consultants to ensure project alignment

201 N STREET

SACRAMENTO, CA 95814

Owner

Southern Land Company

Architect

Solomon Cordwell Buenz

Structural Engineer

Consulting Engineers

DCI Engineers

MEP/FP Engineer

Meyers+ Engineers

Civil Engineer

BKF Engineers

Landscape Architect

Atlas Lab Inc.

Trash Consultant

American Trash Management

Acoustics Consultant

Veneklasen Associates

Waterproofing Consultant

WJ Higgins

Elevator Consultant

VDA

Pool Consultant

Building Maintenance SIT-Co

Architecture Interfacaes

As an architect, I have a unique perspective on the relationship between buildings and artificial intelligence. I believe that buildings are early forms of AI and that they perform important functions such as regulating airflow, temperature, shade, and shelter that are beyond human capabilities. The project explores the concept of “Architecture Machines,” which involves using machine learning to design, construct, and own buildings.

In my designs, I view buildings not simply as structures to be used or owned, but as complex machines that can be designed and optimized using computational methods. My research focuses on investigating the potential and implications of using spatial computation in architecture. The aim is to demonstrate the potential of using computational techniques in architecture to create innovative, functional, and optimized designs.

Thesis (Macro-city)

Programmatic Composition (Algorithmic Design - Unity)

Training the Neural Network (CycleGAN) - Vertical Circulation/ Parameter

Short Path Algorithm

Project Description:

As an intern, I was fortunate to be involved in the design and development of a stunning bungalow located in Pawna, India. My contribution to the project spanned from the conceptual design stage to the creation of proposal drawings.

The main challenge in the project was to design the roof in a manner that complemented the contoured site and incorporated all the necessary elements without sacrificing spatial quality, all while adhering to a stringent budget. The structures were oriented to take advantage of the breathtaking views from the site.

Working alongside a senior architect, my role included designing the structural grid, creating initial design sketches, developing working drawings, constructing a 3D model, coordinating with the structural engineer, vendors, and contractor, and managing the budget for the roof.

Pawna Second Home Bungalow Project, Lonavala, India.

Design Sections

Architectural Design studio: Mixed-use Commercial complex

Project Description:

This design project involved the creation of a multi-functional development comprised of commercial office spaces, service apartments, and a Convention center, located in a highly sought-after area in Powai, Mumbai. The site’s close proximity to the Powai lake and its easy access to key city hubs, important institutions, and neighboring residential areas made it an ideal location for development.

The primary objective of the proposal was to orient the built forms in a manner that would maximize views of the lake from the site, while also being mindful of the well-being of the existing tenants in adjacent buildings. To achieve this, a horizontal staggering pattern was incorporated on the front facade of the office building, as well as recreational spaces on the terrace, in order to maintain aesthetic appeal and provide additional commercial opportunities.

Designing for Robotic Fabrication Workshop

October 2020

Tutors: Shajay Bhooshan, Leo Bieling, Federico Borello, Cesar Fragachan (AADRL | ZHCODE Team, London)

DigitalFUTURES 2020: Rework//Workspaces by Futurly.space

Project Title: Reimagining the Relics: Gladiator’s Inferno

Tutors: Vamsi Krishna Vemuri & Arek Keshishian

Project Description:

For my final workshop project, I envisioned a post-digital workspace in the virtual world to adapt to the changing times brought about by the pandemic. I proposed a Combat Arena in Virtual Reality, where users could take mental breaks from work and find relief from stress. The environment was tailored for physically active individuals, such as athletes or fitness enthusiasts, who were limited in their physical pursuits during lockdown. Despite its imaginative setting, the design was carefully crafted with attention to scale, form, and quality to deliver a rich and immersive experience.