ARCHITECTURE PORTFOLIO
RAHA
POURHEMAT
Experience
Architectural Assistant
MCL Architecture, London - UK
Freelance Architectectural Designer
Fou Design, Tehran - Iran
Education
Architectural Assistant
Contact
+44 07733063405
London
R.pourhemat@gmail.com
www.linkedin.com/in/fatemeh-pourhemat
http://de7ailstudio.com
As an experienced architectural designer with over three years in the field, I have actively contributed to the design and development of both residential and office buildings. My enthusiasm lies in tackling challenging projects, and I am dedicated to continuous learning and professional growth.
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MA. EnvironmentaL, Sustainable and Regeneration Design
London Metropolitan University, London - UK
M.SC Architectural Technology
Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran - Iran
Bachelor’s degree in Architecture
University of Eyvanekey, Tehran - Iran
Related Coursed, Events and Certifications
Certificate of Revit: Rendering
Certificate of Participation in the ‘Flying Architecture Simulation of Flocks’ Behavioral Strategies to Generate Workshop
Certificate of Participation in the Construction of Pantograph Structures’
Certificate of Completion Rhino Course
Certificate of Autodesk Autocad User
Raha Pourhemat
CONTENTS
ACADEMIC PROJECTS
Extension of Iranian of Science and Technology
Entrance of Iran University of Science and Technology
The Design of Multi-Functional Complex Sport Mall
WORKSHOP PROJECTS
Flying Architecute Simulation of Flock’s Behavioral Strategies to Generate
The Construction of Pantograph Structure
EXPERIENCE PROJECT
Sotheron Place
Effie Road
Guildford Apartments
Chiswick Residence
Extension of Iran University of Science and Technology
The design represents a master’s program project aimed at expanding the University of Science and Technology’s old School of Architecture in Tehran, Iran. It integrates principles of technology and design to demonstrate applied knowledge and skills. The project underscores the importance of preserving the site’s historical identity while seamlessly incorporating new volumes with the existing structure, striving for a harmonious blend of modern functionality and respect for the university’s heritage.
Location: Tehran, Iran
2
Site Area: 3,000 m²
Year: 2016
Software Used: Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop, Illustrator
• Trying to keep part of the existing building to preserve the area’s historical integrity.
• Cutting into the existing building to create access for the new building
• Adding some new construction to the existing building to create additional space
• Form-finding to create a new level based on the location’s conditions
Ground Floor Plan
As a result of preserving several trees on the site, two distinct and continuous masses were created. In this project, preserving and enhancing the old university walls with a new structure was a crucial consideration in the design process.
The University of Science and Technology features a lush and harmonious environment.
First Floor Plan
Section B-B
Section A-A
• The main challenge of this project was the trees. The four trees had to be kept at the location
• Based on this, yards and gathering places were designed around the trees for the students
• For the design of the second floor, form-finding was conducted based on this matter
•In the end, the form of the new building appeared as follows
North Elevation
East Elevation
Entrance Section of The University of Science and Technology
The design represents a master’s program project aimed at expanding the University of Science and Technology’s old School of Architecture in Tehran, Iran. It integrates principles of technology and design to demonstrate applied knowledge and skills. The project underscores the importance of preserving the site’s historical identity while seamlessly incorporating new volumes with the existing structure, striving for a harmonious blend of modern functionality and respect for the university’s heritage.
Location: Tehran, Iran
Site Area: 3,000 m²
Year: 2016
Software Used: Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop
• Main Location
• Choosing the Rectangle Cube as a Minimal Form for the Second Entrance
• Cut to Create a Symmetrical Form
• Make the Form More Symmetrical
Ground Floor Plan
Roof Plan
First Floor Plan
Entrance section of The university of science and technology
• Using an Arc Form for a Header that Resembles the Main Entrance
• Create a Frame for the Design section
• Design a Minimal and Symmetrical Second Entrance
North Elevation
Section A-A
Entrance section of The university of science and technology
Combined hexagons to create a new pattern for the design
Combined the new geometric design to discover the new facade pattern.
PortFolio l Raha Pourhemat
The design was inspired by Iranian architecture by using the hexagon as the base geometry.
The final facade design for the university’s second entrance draws inspiration from the geometric patterns of Iranian architecture
The Design of Multi-Functional Complex (Sport Mall)
The project aims to design a multi-functional complex that includes commercial areas, office spaces, educational and cultural venues, and recreational facilities such as restaurants, a food court, cafes, and auditoriums.
With the development of the tourism industry and various initiatives in the west of Tehran, particularly in the 22nd district, the decision was made to build a commercial-sports complex next to the Azadi Sports Complex.
Site Area: 14,000 m²
Year: 2019
Software Used: Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Karamba, Grasshopper, Lumion, Photoshop
Ground Floor Plan
This study is divided into two parts: understanding the subject and the design. The first part is theoretical and covers concepts, patterns, recognition of the target space, and research criteria. Basic information is gathered through fieldwork and library research.
After reviewing this information, the derived principles will serve as the foundation for the design phase. The design phase incorporates these principles and criteria, project requirements, site analysis, and other factors to generate various options and ultimately select the final design.
Design Process
First Floor Plan
The Karamba plugin has revolutionized structural engineering with its advanced analysis capabilities, simplifying complex parametric forms, load calculations, and finite element analysis. Various patterns, such as diamond, square, and rectangle, were tested but proved inadequate for handling sudden deformation effectively.
The optimal pattern, inspired by Islamic motifs, was ultimately selected. Glass panels, which serve solely as a cover and do not contribute structurally, are included in the overall structure’s weight calculations, while only the structural members contribute to performance.
Principal stress-shell Member-cross-sections-digits
It displays the initial principal stresses on the shell. The normal stress value on the plane, where shear stress is zero, indicates the maximum tensile stress applied to the structure during loading.
Member length range
This analysis explores the lengths of the structural elements, which are represented by a color gradient from blue to red. In the numerical analysis presented, the values are classified into four groups.
This analysis categorizes the diameters of structural elements using a color gradient from blue (shortest) to red (longest), providing valuable insights into the structure’s weight.
Member Stress
This analysis indicates that regions with a deep pink hue experience the most significant displacement, while areas transitioning to white exhibit minimal displacement
Studies are conducted through field surveys and library research, which involve both analytical and descriptive approaches.
This thesis explores the evolution and classification of shopping centers both globally and in Iran, as well as concepts such as the shell, atria, and related topics
After a thorough study of the site and design, including an assessment of the establishment’s needs and access system,
The site’s layout, views, and designated areas for shopping, leisure, offices, and services were calculated and presented separately.
The plan’s principles and rules were outlined as guidelines covering theory, physical planning, environmental adaptation, and performance criteria.
WORKSHOP PROJECTS
Construction of Pantograph Structures - 2017
Flying Architecture Simulation of Flocks’ Behavioral Strategies to Generate Workshop - 2021
Construction of Pantograph structures workshop
The pantograph structures design and construction workshop took place in October 2017 at Iran University of Science and Technology. The workshop lasted for 4 days and was attended by over 50 students from universities in Tehran and other cities. The main purpose of this course was to introduce students to the design process, including parametric modeling and the construction of dynamic structures.
Type: Academic Group Work
Tutor: Dr. Maziyar Asefi
Duration: 4 Days
Year: 2017
Organization: Iran University of Science and Technology
Software: Rhino, Grasshopper, Kangaroo, LunchBox, Weaverbird
Role: Part of the design and fabrication team; responsible for the manufacture of metal and wooden elements
the workshop’s schedule was as follows:
First day: learning how to think parametric and an introdustion to the grasshopper plugin, solving simple exercises. Second Day: learning theoretical foundations, introductory construction workshop and modelling using computer software.
Third day: Focused on theoretical foundations, advanced construction workshop, and deployable dome construction workshop. Fourth day: Involved constructing and installing the entrance monument and star-ex. The event concluded with a closing ceremony attended by university lecturers, industry representatives, and consultants.
Flying Architecture Online workshop
Topology optimization is a mathematical method used to spatially optimize the distribution of material within a defined domain. This is achieved by fulfilling established constraints and minimizing a predefined cost function. The three main elements in such an optimization procedure are design variables, the cost function, and the constraints. Flocking is a phenomenon where self-propelled individuals, using only limited environmental information and simple rules, organize into an ordered motion. This ordering can even occur in two dimensions where ordering is not typically possible in equilibrium systems. In the workshop, a pavilion form was optimized using Grasshopper, and flocking was implemented through coding in GhPython to refine the form within the optimization process.
Type: Academic Group Work
Tutors: Dr. Morteza Rahbar, Alessandra Zanelli, Amirhossein Ahmadnia
Duration: 1 Week
Year: 2021
Organization: Organized by the Athens Network
Software: Rhino, Grasshopper, Tpos Tutorial, Pufferfish2, Plankto, Python, Kangaroo
Role: Part of the design and fabrication team
Topology Optimization pavilion form finding
Swarm intelligent process
GhPython Script
EXPERIENCE PROJECT
Sotheron Place
Effie Road
Guildford Apartments
Chiswick Residence
Flying Architecture Simulation of Flocks l
Sotheron Place
A flagship development located off King’s Road, the delivery of Sotheron Place has involved expert technical knowledge, team leadership, and stakeholder management in developing over 4,000 square feet of prime residential and commercial space on this underutilized site.
A variety of building uses required careful management and design of access and circulation, as well as visual and acoustic separation of the different functions.
Location: London, United Kingdom
Studio: MCL Architecture | RIBA Stage 5 & 6
Role: BIM Technician
Site Area: 2,400 m²
Software Used: Revit
Year: 2024
Projecting bronze balconies, stone window heads, and articulated brickwork all unify to create a highly detailed and tactile environment.
Two meticulously detailed buildings, powered by sustainable energy sources, flank the central access road and form a gateway to the development.
Set-back terraces provide ample private amenity space and offer relief to the building forms, while planted roofs encourage biodiversity and forge a connection between occupants and nature within this urban setting.
The architectural language of Sotheron Place is defined by a commitment to high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Projecting bronze balconies provide a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic, while stone window heads and articulated brickwork contribute to the building’s tactile and richly detailed facade. These elements work together to create a cohesive and visually engaging environment that harmonizes with both the historic and modern context of the area.
Every aspect of Sotheron Place has been designed with careful consideration of its urban setting, ensuring that the development not only meets but exceeds the expectations of modern living.
The result is a landmark project that seamlessly blends luxury with thoughtful design, creating a vibrant and desirable community space in the heart of one of London’s most sought-after neighborhoods.
Block A- East Elevation
Block B- North Elevation
PortFolio l Raha Pourhemat
Detail 12 - Block B
Detail 13 - Block B Wall Section- Block B
PortFolio
Effie Road
The project brief has provided MCL Architecture with a unique opportunity to refurbish a former church into a series of contemporary apartments. Located in a prime area of West London, the site offers numerous opportunities for local engagement and collaboration. Built in 1901, the former church presents various design opportunities to enhance its existing fabric.
The proposal involves adapting the interior space to accommodate high-end residential apartments while preserving the building’s historical integrity, achieving a harmonious integration of past and present.
Location: London, United Kingdom
Studio: MCL Architecture | RIBA Stage 0 to 4
Role: Architectural Designer, 3D Modeler
Software Used: AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop
Year: 2024
The exterior and interior design embody the character of the building, juxtaposing the retained neo-Gothic exterior with contemporary high-end apartments. The design has resulted in a building rich in character and innovation, fostering a harmonious balance between functionality and architectural aesthetics. The design approach emphasized a careful balance between preserving the structure’s heritage and meeting contemporary living standards, ensuring a harmonious integration of old and new.
Portfolio
Existing Floor Plans
Proposed Floor Plans
Proposed East Elevation
Junction Detail
Floor Slab Junction to Window
North Elevation
Guildford Apartments
The simple crown roof form draws inspiration from the residential vernacular in the immediate vicinity, while full-height windows offer panoramic views over Guildford. A key feature of the redevelopment is the strategically designed extension of the central core on the third floor. This extension provides practical access and establishes a visually compelling fulcrum point in the building’s massing. The addition of this element introduces a layer of high-tech architecture, subtly contrasting with the existing structure while maintaining a cohesive appearance.
Location: Guildford, United Kingdom
Studio: MCL Architecture | RIBA Stage 3 & 4
Role: Architectural Designer
Software Used: Revit, AutoCAD, Photoshop, AI
Tool
Site Area: 3,244 m²
Year: 2024
Furthermore, the use of glass, steel, and other modern materials in the core extension adds a sense of transparency and lightness, creating a visual dialogue between the building’s heritage and its future.
The careful selection of materials ensures durability and longevity while contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the building, making it both environmentally responsible and visually engaging.
This thoughtful integration of traditional and contemporary elements results in a harmonious design that respects the character of its surroundings while embracing modern architectural principles. The project exemplifies a commitment to innovation and sustainability, enhancing the building’s functionality and aesthetic value.
Ground Floor Plan
Proposed Ground Floor Plan
Class AA Persepective
Guildford Apartments
CHISWICK RESIDENCE
The project involved designing and constructing a two-storey front residential extension to the main house, along with an exterior summer house in the back garden. Throughout the conceptual development, MCL collaborated closely with the client to transform ideas into architectural reality. The design process focused on exploring organic, free-flowing forms that contrast with the existing building, creating a unique blend of traditional and contemporary architectural aesthetics. For the summer house, we incorporated fractal patterns to enhance biophilic elements within the architectural design.
Location: London, United Kingdom
Studio: MCL Architecture | RIBA Stage 0 to 4
Role: Architectural Designer, 3D Modeler
Software Used: AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop
Year: 2024
• Existing Condition
• Identifying Extension Boundaries
• Programmatic Distribution
• Proposed Scheme
Additionally, the proposal emphasizes user customization, blurred interior-exterior boundaries, and optimal functionality. It enhances the client’s everyday living experience by providing a two-storey extension that offers additional living and working space, while generating a distinctly contemporary aesthetic. The summerhouse serves as an ideal retreat, allowing the clients to reside, relax, and reflect.
Summer House Ground Floor
Summer House Roof Plan
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