The University of Texas at Arlington Bachelor of Science in Architecture Aug 2018 - May 2022
Rafael Diaz
As an architecture bachelor graduated complemented by hands-on projects, I’m exited to embark on my journey finding the real meaning and true essence of architecture. My passion for sport competitions, has instilled in me the drive to push beyond one’s limits which I will channel into my architectural pursuits. With a background in real estate development, architecture desing and as a contractor, I have gained a diverse set of skills, knowledge and mindset that enables me to embark on this new learning journey.
Phone: (817)422-6163
Email: rafael.ds.arch@gmail.com
Location: Dallas, Texas
Work Experience
Real Estate Developer 2023 - Present
• Manage end-to-end projects of single-family homes
• In charge of design, construction schedules and coordination, material selection, and budgeting.
• Latest Project: 5900 Yolanda Dr, Fort Worth, Tx-Succefully completed
Arch. Designer-Freelance
2022 - Present
• In collaboration with architects, design of commercial projects.
• Participation from preliminary drawings to detailed architectural drawings.
Real Estate Developer Architecture designer Contractor
Awards
• AT [LAND] IS People’s Choice Award Top 3
Aug. 2021
UNI – Atlantis Underwater Extreme Habitat Architecture Competition
Languages
Spanish: Native English: Fluent
Handcrafted Works
Type: Hand-Made Works
Date: Fall 2019
Throughout this semester, we explored spatial relationships and design principles through various exercises. Beginning with a nine-square grid, we experimented with transformations, focusing on hierarchy, proportion, alignment, and positive and negative space.
Various materials created diverse effects and depths. Watercolor added layered depth, graphite defined precise edges, and basswood allowed a slight transition from two dimension planes to a there dimension al form.
These exercises consisted in using a grid pattern initiated with a golden rectangle as a starting point. By adding and subtracting elements, the project transitioned from a flat exercise to a physical model testing out design ideas in a more tangible and interactive way.
5ft x 6ft canvas - Winning drawing in a contest for second year architecture students.
Green Boulevard
Reclaiming a parking garage
Type: Multi-program Facility
Location: Design District, Dallas, TX
Date: Spring 2021
Upon reviewing this parking garage, it was determined that it existence was redundant due to the presence of several parking lots right next to it. However, its unique location between contrasting environmentsnature and city - presented an opportunity to act as a unifier for these fragmented areas.
The design district boasts several attractive amenities
that draw people to the area, yet it lacks a central space that unites the key points within the context.
To address this issue, the proposed solution was The Green Boulevard, which offers a versatile space that accommodates and brings together all types of users and enhances the street life and activity in the city.
Massing Study - vision in form
1. Re-claiming Parking Garage
-Re-use parking garage structure to develop a connection between Design District and Turtle Creek Landscape
2. Connection
-Access to the landscape developed through the building.
-An atrium space was offered in order to bring nature into the design simulating the outside context.
3. Circulation
-Circulation on ground level was manipulated for the building to be accessed from different directions.
4. Design Elements
-Roof fluctuations for rainwater harvesting and light entry.
-A living roof was also offered to reduce high temperatures.
-Bike track on second level to accommodate all type of users
Floor plans- layout projection
Section through atrium: A sense of openness and lightness offered by the atrium which visually unifies all spaces within the building.
Vertical program: Rooftop park- Exhibition areas - Atrium.
Top plan view: Parking garage after intervention.
Perspective view: Proposed bridge on Turtle Creek
Project: Shamberg House by Richard Meier
Location: Chappaqua, New York
Date: Fall 2021
The Shamberg House is a project that involved both additions and subtractions, resulting in a design that balances pure volumes with transparency. During this semester, the project was thoroughly analyzed with a focus on its construction details, including the composition of materials, construction methods, and compliance with zoning and building codes.
46 Old Roaring Brook Road
Chappaqua, New York
GENERAL NOTES
Architect: Richard Meier & Partners Architects LLP
Built: 1972 - 1974
Description:
Shamberg House also known as the Stuart and Paula R. Shamberg Hosue or the house in Mount Kiosk is part of the so-called white villas, a number of white house where color and clear influence Le Corbusier are a hallmark of the architect.
The premise of this house falls into a typical outline of the author, which also respond homes as the Smith House or Douglas House, works that are also part of this first period of Richard Meier.
Concept:
The volumetric approach is a set of additions and subtractions, with rationalist forms, where the purity of the volumes with transparency makes the whole a sobering result.
Spaces
It is a cubic box containing a rear rectangular strip that houses the intimate and service areas in which the empty predominates, and a much freer spatial configuration on the front containing social areas and reception with a fully glazed front enclosing a double space, and sometimes triple space.
Structure and materials
The reinforced concrete allows use of large glass panels, separating the enclosure structure. These two materials are the basis for construction.
CODES
The town of new castle hereby adopts the new york state uniform fire prevention and the building code and the energy conservation construction code (energy code) which are contained within title 19 of the new york codes, rules and regulation (19 nycrr).
TITLE 19 OF THE NEW YORK CODES, RULES AND REGULATIONS (19-NYCRR) - FIRE PREVENTION CODE
TITLE 19 OF THE NEW YORK CODES, RULES AND REGULATIONS (19-NYCRR) - ENERGY CODE
TITLE 19 OF THE NEW YORK CODES, RULES AND REGULATIONS (19-NYCRR) - ELECTRICAL CODE
TITLE 19 OF THE NEW YORK CODES, RULES AND REGULATIONS (19-NYCRR) - MECHANICAL STANDARDS
TITLE 19 OF THE NEW YORK CODES, RULES AND REGULATIONS (19-NYCRR) - PLUMBING STANDARDS
ZONING:
Project: Kieta House by di Frenna Arquitectos
Location: Colima City, Mexico
Date: Fall 2021
The Kieta House was designed by di Frenna Arquitectos who reinterpreted the typology of a Mexican house in a contemporary version which main feature is a central patio that serves as both the circulation and main view of the residence. For this project, an additional, space such as a guest house, was to be designed in harmony with the existing material, concept and aesthetic of the house. B.I.M.
1/4"
1/4"
Type: Accessible Dwelling Unit
Concept: Housing for elderly people
Location: Dallas, TX
Date: Spring 2022
This project was executed in collaboration with Serge and Tristan, in association with the HKS healthcare department. The objective was to propose a solution for the elderly population who face medical difficulties and need to downsize to a smaller and more accessible unit such as an ADU.
Site Analysis
Dallas Zip Codes (QGIS)
The targeted zip code and R-7.5 (A) zoning designation are well-suited for ADU development
The elderly population constitutes a significant percentage of the overall demographic.
Block Types - Zoning R-7.5 (A)
Focusing on block types with favorable conditions for ADU development.3 mixed grid R-7.5
mixed grid R-7.5
Massing Study
Volume: A 22’ x 10’ modular volume.
Shift/ View: Shift volume forward to generate secondary spaces and make it more visually open with its surroundings.
Modular: Manufacture production of volume that contain multiple programs
Roof raising: Lifting up roof edges to allow sun light entrance into the house from a higher point. ALLEY VISUAL CONNECTION IN DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS
STREET
ALLEY
ALLEY
Seam metal roof system
Metal Roof Panels Roof Structure
Roof offers two different experiences. From one side it follows a gable roof design, and as it goes to the back, it transitions into a lower slope.
Frame
2” x 6” wall studs were used in exterior walls, with 24” o.c.
Foundation preparation prior ADU placement.
Beams: (3)2” x 12”
Floor joists: 2” x 8”
Construction Process
Rolling base was constructed for easy transportation of the ADU.
Tools handled:
-Circular saw -Nail gun -Welding machine
Pier and beam foundation shims were built with metal plates and welded to base.
Elevation of wall frames on previously constructed base.
Tools handled: -Circular saw -Nail -Levelgun
ADU 4’ x 4’ section finished
Team members (left to right):
-Tristan Analis -Serge -RafaelGasana Diaz
Jury day:
The solution aims to the use of spaces that belong to larger residential lots and create an additional living unit carefully planned offering solutions for elderly medical needs effectively. The design decisions were made with a fictional character in mind, who had medical conditions such as vision impairment and mobility difficulties. As a result, all design choices were focused on making the daily life of this character easier by adapting the ADU as a solution for current problems and any potential medical needs in the future.
AT [LAND] IS
Type: Architecture Competition
Concept: Atlantis Extreme Habitat
Award: Finalist - Top 3 - People’s Choice Award
Date: Fall 2021
This competition challenged participants to envision a self sufficient floating community that would harness advanced technology to sustain human life using the resources that remain.
Following the Atlantis mythology, the design focused on a future where the seas are rising and the Earth’s resources are dwindling. New ways of thinking about community design and sustainable living were explored and proposed through the AT [LAND] IS project, which empathized on creative and innovative solutions to the challenges that face us as a global society.
Beans & Bubbles
Latest Project - Ongoing Project
Type: Commercial
Location: Melissa, Tx
Date: Sep, 2024
. This project was conceptualized and developed in collaboration for a client based in Melissa, TX. The design approach emphasized a linear circulation pattern beginning at the entry, intentionally crafted to guide visitors through the space. As they move through, they encounter distinct zones, including seating, a lounge, and a study room to accommodate a variety of user needs and experiences.
Design Projection
3Ds Renders
3D- VIEWS
Fix and Flip
Latest Project - Succesfully finished
Type: Single Home
Location: Fort Worth, Tx
Date: Dec, 2024
. This fix-and-flip project focused on creating an open-concept layout for the living, kitchen, and dining areas to align with market trends. The budget prioritized kitchen upgrades, structural beams, and a master bathroom remodel to boost after-repair value and market appeal.
