Architectural Portfolio
Rajni Kathiriya
Rajni Kathiriya
I am a highly motivated architecture student with over 4.5 years of hands-on experience in both commercial and residential design, dedicated to shaping sustainable, transformative environments. Currently serving as a Design Intern Architect in New York, I am acquiring in-depth expertise in DOB codes, residential renovations, and building inspections. My passion lies in seamlessly merging technology with design, harnessing advanced digital tools to drive innovation and sustainability. As a resourceful and collaborative learner, I am constantly expanding my knowledge of construction processes and regulatory frameworks. I am eager to bring fresh, visionary ideas, creative problem-solving, and a dynamic approach to high-impact design teams.
Email: rajnikathiriya24@gmail.com
Contact: 929-235-5262
INTERN ARCHITECT
MAY 2024 – PRESENT
Project tactical solutions I New York
• Drafted detailed roof & floor plans, elevations, and wall sections for multiple renovation projects.
• Conducted building inspections, documented conditions, and ensured DOB compliance
• Collaborated with design managers to develop proposals and oversee contractor site visits.
JUNIOR ARCHITECT
APRIL 2023 – AUG 2023
Innovatique Architects I India
• Designed efficient and functional residential projects with working drawings and elevations.
• Developed building sections and conducted site visits for accuracy verification.
• Produced detailed sketches and collaborated with architects to ensure regulatory compliance.
JUNIOR ARCHITECT
JUN 2018 – FEB 2022
Raghuvir Builders & Developers I India
• Assisted in multiple residential, commercial, interior, and façade design projects.
• Developed 2D and 3D drawings to support new proposals and presentation visuals.
• Applied knowledge of building codes and materials for finalizing designs
INTERN ARCHITECT
JUN 2017 – JUN 2017
Kuke associates I India
• Produced working drawings and conceptualized interiors/exteriors for residential projects.
• Conducted site visits and assisted with material selection for design accuracy.
SKILLS
ABILITIES
Teamwork/Interpersonal skills
Physical model making
Hnad drawn illistrations
3d modelling / Rendering
Organized and detail oriented
MY INTEREST
Travelling
Styling
Doodling
Photography
01 Adaptive Reuse As a catalyst for urban agriculture
Gradaute 4th sem spring 2025 (current semester going project)
03 Vertical podsfacade proposal
Gradaute 3rd sem fall 2024
02 Green horizonhousing for future
Gradaute 3rd sem fall 2024
05 Play & learn kinder garten
Gradaute 1st sem fall 2023
04 Splash & stretchBedford swim & fitness
Gradaute 2nd sem spring 2024
06 Vertical garden cooper street garden
Gradaute 2nd sem spring 2024
Graduate thesis - Masters Of architecture studio
Matrix Strategies for Urban Agriculture and Adaptive Reuse
ADAPTIVE REUSE
Warehouses Residences Cultural Institutes Under the highway Parking lots
Vertical gardens
Rooftop gardens
Aquaponics
Greenhouses
Urban farming
models
Physical
Masters Of architecture studio
GREEN HORION -Housing for the future
This studio project focuses on affordable housing in Red hook, Brooklyn, by integrating sustainable design with the neighborhood’s industrial history. The design elevates the housing on a steel platform to mitigate flood risks while freeing up ground space for public areas. Mixed-use spaces, such as local businesses, co-working hubs, and community centers, foster economic growth and social interaction. The project incorporates sponge landscapes and oyster farming to enhance environmental resilience. Green spaces throughout the site promote well-being and ecological balance. Buildings are strategically placed to connect the street and waterfront, revitalizing urban engagement. Ultimately, the project creates a vibrant, inclusive community that balances sustainability, heritage, and climate resilience.
3rd sem, Fall 2024
Red hook, brooklyn, New york
Group work with Aneesha muthuraj
Dividing the site into 3 parts - Hardscape, sponge landscape, marshlands
Orienting the building based on the sun and wind analysis and maximizing the views to the waterfront
Circular buildings inspired from grain silos that were found in Industrial Redhook. Staggered to maintain the connection to waterfront.
Raising the building above the flood zone and connecting them with a platform that serves as the new public realm
Planned wetlands
Wetlands with viewing deck
Proposed oyster farms for stromwater mitigation Raised platform for urban activities
Increased permeability between built and unbuilt spaces
Site section
Building section of residential unit
Building floor plan of residential unit
3d visualization of site
Masters Of architecture - Building system
GREENSCAPE PODS
The proposed façade design for the Whitney Museum draws inspiration from the surrounding neighborhood’s artistic and architectural diversity, aiming to create a climate-responsive, visually dynamic, and sustainable structure. Expansive glass panels replace traditional exterior walls, enhancing transparency, natural light, and a connection to the environment. A multifunctional platform serves as a recreational space, while vertical green facades allow for seasonal transformation, offering a living, evolving aesthetic. The use of wood and Corten steel adds tactile contrast, enriching the building’s visual appeal. Rainwater harvesting on the platform sustains the green facades, contributing to environmental sustainability. This design seeks to blend artistic expression with functionality and ecological responsibility, enriching both the architectural experience and the urban landscape.
3rd sem, Fall 2024
Madison ave, New york (Proposal for whitney museum facade) Group work with Devangi hinglokwala
Wooden/ corten steel cladding
Wooden/ corten steel cladding
planters
Glass panel
Masters Of architecture studio
SPLASH & STRETCH - Bedford Swim & Fitness Center
The proposed design for an aquatic center featuring an Olympic-sized swimming pool and fitness center is inspired by the surrounding neighborhood context. Positioned between two streets, the design features a lobby area that connects seamlessly with both streets, enhancing accessibility and urban flow. The use of glass and concrete materials creates a modern, transparent aesthetic while providing structural strength. The layout maximizes space and views, offering a dynamic environment for both swimming and recreational activities. The project aims to create a functional, engaging space that blends architectural expression with its urban surroundings.
2ndsem, Spring 2024 Brooklyn, New york
The site is divided into two portions, creating a central open space that seamlessly connects both streets, enhancing accessibility and ensuring a smooth circulation flow for users throughout the aquatic center.
The roof garden enhances sustainability, wellness, and urban integration by providing a green retreat with native plants, seating areas, and energy-efficient features that complement the aquatic center’s design.
SOLAR PANEL
SOLAR PANEL
SOLAR PANEL
“Play & Learn: A Kindergarten Designed for Exploration” Masters Of architecture studio
This kindergarten school in Harlem is designed to create a welcoming and stimulating first school experience for young children. Emphasizing an open-classroom concept, the design allows learning to extend beyond traditional spaces into the interactive lobby area. The lobby itself is transformed into a playful environment where children can sit on built-in railings, explore, and engage with their surroundings. A vibrant palette of colors and geometric shapes is integrated into both the interior and exterior, fostering creativity, cognitive development, and a sense of familiarity. The open layout encourages social interaction, movement, and handson learning, making education an immersive experience. Natural light and child-friendly materials enhance comfort and safety, creating an inviting atmosphere for both learning and play. This project aims to establish a joyful and engaging environment where children can develop foundational skills while feeling at home in their first educational setting.
1st sem, Fall 2023 Harlem, New york
Ground floor plan
3rd floor floor
Axiometric diagram
Building techtonics
Vertical garden - cooper street garden
As part of the project, we were tasked with designing a vertical garden for Cooper Street, beginning with the development of a prototype before assembling the final structure on-site. The process involved experimenting with different materials to determine the most suitable options for durability and aesthetic appeal. We explored various joinery techniques to ensure structural stability and ease of assembly. Additionally, we utilized a range of tools to fabricate and refine the components, gaining hands-on experience in precision cutting, fastening, and finishing. Through this project, we deepened our understanding of modular construction and sustainable design practices. The final installation aimed to enhance urban greenery while serving as a functional and visually engaging addition to the site.
2nd sem,Spring 2024 Brooklyn , new york Class group work
