n. 1. Architect, fond of art, food, books, yoga, and anything that fosters creativity.
2. possesses a growing interest in the fields of Urban Planning and Project Management
3. always enthusiastic about enhancing living environments holistically—through infrastructural, economic, social, and health improvements.
syn. Hungry for challenges, adaptable, self-motivated, down-to-earth dreamer.
location. London, United Kingdom
ref. “Sameerah’s unique ability for producing graphics has changed and influenced our design and working process. From the first week in our office, Sameerah has continued to bring a positive energy into our office that cannot be measured and that is only contagious. This makes for a working experience that one wants to be a part of, therefore sharing work with Sameerah is not only fun, it is easy.”
~David James, DIALOG - Edmonton Office
ref. “Sameerah is a self-starter and she demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the projects in which she was involved. I would most enthusiastically recommend Sameerah to any prospective employer as I believe that she can quickly become a valuable asset to any organization that she chooses to become a part of.”
~Donna Eng, Kearns Mancini Architects
ref. “Sameerah is very diligent, hardworking and professional. She has been able to contribute to the architectural team during her work term, both technically and intellectually. A pleasure to have in our office.”
ROLE: Interim Station Lead Architect at South Granville Station
sameerahaumjaud@gmail.com
London, United Kingdom (+44) 0734 920 2977
PROFILE + SUMMARY OF SKILLS
- Architect with 8 years of experience and with a background in Project Coordination and Urban Planning.
- Officially registered as an Architect with the Ontario Association of Architects.
- Highly experienced in large-scale Transportation, Educational, Institutional and Residential projects.
- Well-versed knowledge of the Building Codes, Local Plans and land-use policies for urban development.
- Efficiently managed projects by coordinating resources, adapting timelines, and assigning tasks to ensure effective execution.
- Skilled in collaborative team environments, with a proven ability to track performance and ensure projects align with scope, schedule, budget, and organizational standards.
- Fully proficient in producing sets of construction documents thorough knowledge of Strategic Definition, Preparation & Briefing, Concept Design & Spatial Coordination stages.
- Extensive familiarity with developing and coordinating Building Regulations Approvals, Planning Applications as well as other Municipal Approval processes.
- Solid sense of initiative, organisation and problem-solving. Strong track record in proactive communication with clients, consultants, and other stakeholders.
- Advanced Revit and AutoCAD skills, with full proficiency in ArcGIS, Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Project
Took a sabbatical leave to focus on personal development and on my family. Broadened my cultural understanding through a 9-week solo traveling experience, worked as a Yoga Teacher in Spain and Mauritius, and pursued further education in Urban Planning.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
ARCHITECT / PROJECT COORDINATOR
ARCADIS (CANADA) - TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES DEPARTMENT
TORONTO | JAN 2023 - APR 2024
PROJECT: Ontario Line Subway- Rolling Stock, Systems, Operations and Maintenance
ROLE: Project Coordinator (Architecture)
// Design Management & Coordination: Managed design decisions and presentations, coordinated multidisciplinary teams, and ensured design accuracy by integrating critical technical information. Proactively identified and requested missing technical information through Interface Control Design Documents (ICDDs), and managed extensive exchanges between internal and external parties. Assisted in leading a production team of 8, delegating tasks and overseeing design communication for a key project segment.
// Liaison & Communication: Clarified ambiguous project details by collaborating with external parties from the Construction Joint Venture (CJV), which enabled the team to define clear project scopes, align with goals, and meet deadlines, ultimately driving successful project outcomes.
// Project Planning & Documentation: Prepared and updated the Master Information Delivery Plan (MIDP), maintained information logs, and coordinated meetings. Developed a detailed log of missing technical information crucial for project development, which was ongoingly escalated to senior management, towards securing the necessary information for successful project delivery.
// Risk & Change Management: Monitored risk registers, design changes, and ensured compliance with building codes and security requirements. Monitored design changes with significant cost impacts, reported them to senior management for feasibility, and coordinated updates with Mechanical, Structural, and Electrical disciplines, ensuring timely updates to drawings.
// Reporting & Compliance: Analyzed project progress, prepared cost assessments, ensured conformance with deliverables, and reviewed the Project Agreement for mandatory compliance.
// Technical Expertise: Acquired comprehensive technical knowledge of equipment essential for the operation and maintenance of subway trains (including OCS poles, underfloor wheel lathe pits, step-up substations, and track power substations) along with the associated design requirements.
// Report Writing: Independently authored the Design Narrative Report, aligning the proposed design with client intentions and project requirements.
PROJECT: Surrey-Langley SkyTrain Project, Vancouver [Bid Phase]
ROLE: Station Lead Architect at Fleetwood Station
// Leadership & Design Coordination: Led the design and production for Fleetwood Station’s Technical Submission, achieving optimized passenger experience and seamless structural interactions. Coordinated with other Station Leads to ensure a cohesive design across stations, leading to enhancing the platform canopy design and improving the Reference Concept Design for better passenger flow and structural integration.
// Detailed Design & Cost Estimation: Prepared detailed drawings for cost estimation in the Financial Submission, ensuring design cohesion through active participation in design working groups and coordination meetings with the Design Lead firm.
// Compliance & Multidisciplinary Coordination: Conducted thorough reviews to ensure Fleetwood Station’s compliance with all Project Agreement requirements, cross-checking across stations and with external designers. Coordinated efforts with Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Landscape disciplines.
// Expertise in P3 Project Delivery: Gained in-depth knowledge of the P3 project delivery system and bidding process, acquiring an understanding of the roles of various stakeholders.
EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO
MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE | SEPT 2016 - SEPT 2018
// Thesis research topic: Public space and water infrastructure as intervention tools for urban regeneration in Kigali, Rwanda.
SENECA POLYTECHNIC
SUSTAINABLE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE | SEPT 2023 - ONGOING
// Modules Covered to date: Planning and Economic Development; The Art of Public Consultation; Planning Theory, Practice and Law; ArcGIS Course.
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE
BSC. (HONS) ARCHITECTURE | SEPT 2012 - JUL 2015
// RIBA Part 1 : First Class with Honours
LICENCES
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF ARCHITECTS | 2023 - PRESENT
Licence certificate number: 10300
PROJECT: Innisfil GO Station, Innisfil Ontario
ROLE: Design and Production
INTERN ARCHITECT / JOB CAPTAIN
MOFFET & DUNCAN ARCHITECTS, TORONTO | MAY 2019 - DEC 2022
// Worked through all stages of design and construction, from designing and producing presentation packages under the guidance of the Project Principal, to independently producing full sets of construction documents for municipal approvals and tender.
// Hands-on involvement in developing interactive contemporary educational designs, with a strong focus on sustainable practices and user-comfort.
// Thoroughly involved in the construction process by attending regular site visits, performing Contract Administration, and monitoring project schedule and budget.
// Participated in close-out and handover processes, including performing deficiency reviews and producing Record Drawings.
// Involved in liaising and maintaining good relations with clients, consultants and product reps.
// Greatly contributed to the firm’s branding by tailoring attractive responses to RFPs, and by developing an explicit reference database for regularly used bid content.
// Acquired a strong grasp of the Bidding process by responding to Contractors’ questions, issuing Addenda and awarding contracts.
// Took on the role of Job Captain for various renovation projects and worked independently in resolving design / site issues with the Client and/or consultants under the direction of the Principal.
INTERN ARCHITECT
KEARNS MANCINI ARCHITECTS, TORONTO | NOV 2018 - APR 2019
// Single-handedly produced an extensive set of construction documents for renovations at Ryerson University, while simultaneously assisting the Project Manager in solving multiple design constraints that arose throughout the process. This involvement required intensive coordination with both client and consultants.
TEACHING ASSISTANT
UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO | SEPT 2017 - DEC 2017
// Facilitated learning for the PD ARCH 2 course, provided constructive feedback on the students’ professional behaviour through mock interviews, and marked assignments.
// Helped students identify key elements that would make them stand out through their job search, as well as boosting their confidence in answering job interview questions towards getting their first co-op experience.
ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT
DIALOG, EDMONTON | MAY 2017 - SEPT 2017
// Developed a sound knowledge of urban design through involvement in the design stages of different urban projects, namely the ICE District (Edmonton),the Kinistinaw Park (Edmonton), the Belvedere Transit Centre (Edmonton), and the Telus Spark (Calgary).
// Produced high-quality visuals and presentation packages for various promotional needs, including participatory design meetings organized by the City of Edmonton and numerous media features.
ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT
MACBETH ARCHITECTS & DESIGNERS, MAURITIUS | OCT 2015 - AUG 2016
// Produced high-quality visualizations for the promotion of high-end residential villas and hotels.
// Contributed to the design of a chapel for a national competition (ranked 2nd).
// Thoroughly involved in the production of multiple tender packages.
Revit
AutoCAD
ArcGIS
SketchUp + V-ray
Microsoft Office Suite
3DS Max + V-ray
Rhinoceros + V-ray
published work
GALT PUBLICATION | 2018
Article entitled: ‘Questioning degrees of renewal: The Case of Kigali, Rwanda’ published in the first edition of the University of Waterloo Architecture magazine.
IDEA EXCHANGE GALLERY | 2018
Thesis research featured at the “Questioning the established” exhibition at Idea Exchange Gallery in Cambridge, Ontario.
EDMONTON JOURNAL | 2017
Featured renderings in the Edmonton Journal, on behalf of DIALOG Edmonton, for the promotion of the upgrading of public transportation across Edmonton, and for encouraging the activation of the public realm.
ANTI-ARCHITECTURE AND DECONSTRUCTION | 2017
Collaboration with Professor Nikos Salingaros to publish a French version of his book Anti-Architecture and Deconstruction.
MEMENTO MAGAZINE | 2017
Featured in Memento magazine (Mauritius) for thoughts on sustainable design practices in a tropical climate.
LANGUAGES
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe InDesign
Adobe PremierePro
Adobe AfterEffects
Adobe Lightroom Enscape
involvements + achievements
DR. NORMAN PEARSON BURSARY AWARD 2023 | CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF CERTIFIED PLANNING TECHNICIANS
Awarded to planning students displaying community involvement, dedication and meaningful contributions to their program of study.
COMMITTEE MEMBER - ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF ARCHITECTS | JAN 2023 - JUL 2024
Member of the Interns Commitee part of the Ontario Association of Architects, which has the ongoing task of keeping OAA Council apprised of issues that are of importance to Intern Architects and Student Associates.
GUEST CRITIC - LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY | 2020
Guest critic for the ARCH 2505 Studio Final Reviews (4th year Undergraduate students)
3-MINUTE THESIS COMPETITION | 2018
Winner of the University of Waterloo School of Architecture 2018 edition of the 3-minute thesis competition, which involved pitching one’s thesis research to a non-architectural audience in a 3-minute time span.
UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO ADMISSION PANEL | 2018
Part of the interview panel for the admission of 1st year undergraduate students at the University of Waterloo School of Architecture.
EDMONTON FOLK FESTIVAL | 2017
Involved in the organisation and setting up of the festival. Developed strong team management and cooperation skills.
TEDxPLAINES WILHEMS | 2016
Involved in the organisation and setting up of a main TEDx event in Mauritius, which was held on the 20th May 2016.
PROFESSIONAL WORK
01 - ONTARIO LINE - ROLLING STOCK, SYSTEMS, OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE (RSSOM)
ARCADIS (CANADA)
Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Project type: Industrial - New Construction
Project phase: Spatial Coordination and Technical Design
Role: Project Coordinator
Project description:
The Ontario Line will be a 15.6-kilometre new rapid transit line running between the Ontario Science Centre and Exhibition/Ontario Place in Toronto, with 15 stations, including six interchange stations.
The Ontario Line RSSOM package is a design, build, finance, operate, maintain contract that covers a 30-year term. It includes:
• Designing, supplying, operating and maintaining the rolling stock (trains).
• Designing, building, operating and maintaining all track and systems (communications and train control).
• Designing, building, operating and maintaining the Maintenance and Storage Facility (where the trains are stored) and the Operations Control Centre (where Staff control train operations and connect to Toronto Transit Commission and GO Train Transit systems) and backup operations control centre.
• Comprises of 1 large maintenance yard including Stabling Tracks, Track Switches and Turntables, and 4 main buildings: The Maintenance and Storage Facility, the Trainwash and Maintenance of Way, the Yard Track Power Sub-Station and the Security Gatehouse.
Tasks assigned:
1. Design Management & Coordination:
a. Managed and tracked design decisions, developed Design Development presentations, communicated design updates to the production team, and helped build the drafting and communication skill sets of team members.
b. Coordinated with extensive teams of project Engineers (Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, Geotechnical, Track, etc) and other consultants (Security Consultant, Signage & Wayfinding, Accessibility, Specifications Writer) to ensure the accuracy of Architectural package in relation to other disciplines.
c. Collaborated with the Construction Joint Venture (CJV) to obtain and coordinate missing critical technical information, ensuring it was integrated into the building design.
d. Monitored and tracked all incoming and outgoing information through formal Interface Control Design Documents (ICDDs), ensuring their integration into the design process and that all external requests for information were addressed. Prepared ICDDs to request essential information from the Train Manufacturer and other external parties - crucial to the progress of the design.
e. Evaluated and responded to Contracting Agency’s (client) comments on preliminary submissions, coordinating responses with relevant counterparts. Organized and facilitated meetings with the Contracting Agency to discuss and review feedback.
2. Liaison & Communication:
a. Collaborated with various management tiers, consultants, contractors, and external resources to define project scopes, coordinate information, and maintain project alignment with goals – in a situation where these elements were initially ambiguous.
b. Attended Project Management meetings to provide team updates on deadlines, project changes, and design directions. Effectively managed project milestones to ensure alignment with overall objectives.
3. Project Planning & Documentation:
a. Prepared and updated the Master Information Delivery Plan (MIDP) for architectural submissions, maintained logs regarding incoming and outgoing information, and ensured team accountability for deliverables.
b. Coordinated meetings, agendas and minutes.
4. Risk & Change Management: Monitored Design Risk registers and Design Change trackers, reviewed security requirements for confidential facilities, and ensured compliance with the Ontario Building Code and other standards.
5. Reporting & Compliance:
a. Analyzed project progress, prepared preliminary cost assessments for the building envelope, ensured project conformance with deliverables, and reported risks and outcomes to management.
b. Carefully reviewed the Project Agreement to ensure all mandatory requirements were fully met and that no critical elements were overlooked.
6. Report writing: Independently authored the Design Narrative Report, demonstrating how the proposed design aligns with the Contracting Agency’s intentions, the Project Agreement, and the Design Guide, while also articulating the rationale behind the facility’s design.
RENDER OF THE TRAIN MAINTENANCE HALL Render by others, Property of Arcadis
RSSOM SITE PLAN SHOWING LOCATION OF 4 MAIN BUILDINGS AND THE MAINTENANCE YARD Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud & others, Property of Arcadis
& MAINTENANCE (RSSOM) -
Design Development | Façade Development
AERIAL VIEW OF THE RSSOM SITE SHOWING THE VARIOUS PROJECT COMPONENTS Render by others, Property of Arcadis
02 - SURREY-LANGLEY SKYTRAIN PROJECT (SLS)
ARCADIS (CANADA)
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Project type: Public Infrastructure - New Contruction
Project phase: Bid Phase
Role: Station Lead Architect for Fleetwood Station
Project description:
The Surrey Langley SkyTrain Project (SLS Project) is a 16-km elevated extension of the existing Expo Line in Vancouver primarily along Fraser Highway from the current terminus at King George Station in the City of Surrey, through the Township of Langley to a new terminus station at 203 St. in Langley City Centre. The Project includes eight new stations, three new transit exchanges, and nine new propulsion power substations.
Tasks assigned :
• Leadership & Design Coordination: Led the design and production for Fleetwood Station’s Technical Submission, achieving optimized passenger experience and seamless structural interactions. Coordinated with Station Leads to ensure cohesive design across stations, enhancing platform canopy design and improving the Reference Concept Design for better passenger flow and structural integration.
• Detailed Design & Cost Estimation: Prepared detailed drawings for cost estimation in the Financial Submission, ensuring design cohesion through active participation in design working groups and coordination meetings with the Design Lead firm.
• Compliance & Multidisciplinary Coordination: Conducted thorough reviews to ensure Fleetwood Station’s compliance with all Project Agreement requirements, cross-checking across stations and with external designers. Coordinated efforts with Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Landscape disciplines.
• Expertise in P3 Project Delivery: Gained in-depth knowledge of the P3 project delivery system and bidding process, contributing to successful project outcomes.
Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of Arcadis
Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of Arcadis
LONG SECTION
Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of Arcadis
STREET ELEVATION
Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of Arcadis
03 - BROADWAY SUBWAY PROJECT (BSP)
ARCADIS (CANADA)
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Project type: Public Infrastructure - New Contruction
Project phase: Technical Design
Role: Interim Station Lead Architect for South Granville Station
Project description:
The Broadway Subway Project is a 5.7 km extension of the Millennium Line in Vancouver. This extension connects key areas, including the downtown core, healthcare facilities, an emerging hub for innovation and research, and growing residential neighborhoods. The project features a 700-meter elevated section from its starting point to a tunnel portal, after which 5 kilometers will run underground along a busy corridor. Six underground stations will be built to enhance regional connectivity, including a direct link to another important train line.
The South Granville Station will be fully integrated within a high-rise mixed-use development comprising of residential units and commercial spaces. The interior of the station will feature a two-dimensional artwork integrated into the wall and a direct connection to the neighbouring development at the concourse level.
Tasks assigned :
• Took over the Station Lead role from permanent Station Lead for 3 months due to parental leave.
• Led Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Actively participated in internal team meetings with other station leads, and various Project Leads, ensuring seamless integration across all disciplines.
• Facilitated Final Design Review Submission: Successfully coordinated efforts towards the Final Design Review, ensuring all documentation met stringent project standards.
• Managed Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Directed ongoing coordination between mechanical, electrical, structural, tunnels, and track teams, addressing critical elements such as structural requirements for access hatches, heat load implications, and optimized floor drain patterns.
• Ensured Compliance with Building Codes: Thoroughly reviewed the Building Code Report, identified design discrepancies, and addressed issues related to travel distance, ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Addressed Provincial Feedback: Led the review of comments from the Province of British Columbia on previous submissions, requiring extensive coordination with other disciplines and the Project Lead. Developed effective strategies for responding to feedback with precision and tact.
• Adapted System-Wide Details to Station Needs: Collaborated with the System-wide Details package lead to tailor systemwide elements for integration into South Granville Station.
• Conducted Final QA/QC: Took responsibility for the final Quality Assurance and Quality Control of Issued for Construction drawings, ensuring their accuracy and readiness for implementation.
PASSENGER CIRCULATION ISOMETRIC OF SOUTH GRANVILLE STATION Image by others, Property of Arcadis
ABOVE: CONCOURSE LEVEL FLOOR PLAN OF STATION Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud and others, Property of Arcadis
BELOW: PLATFORM LEVEL FLOOR PLAN OF STATION Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud and others, Property of Arcadis
04 - INNISFIL GO TRAIN STATION
ARCADIS (CANADA)
Location: Innisfil, Ontario, Canada
Project type: Public Infrastructure - New Contruction
Innisfil GO Station is a planned GO Transit (regional commuter train system) train station to be built by Metrolinx on the Barrie line in Innisfil, Ontario. It is part of a wider masterplan for a Transit-Oriented Community (TOC), entitled The Orbit, under development for the town of Innisfil. The train station embodies a civic space that connects all these aspects of the community and acts as the catalyst for a transit-oriented, efficient, and sustainable community built from the ground up.
Tasks assigned :
• Actively contributed to the design and production of the 60% Construction Drawing set.
• Addressed platform and canopy design challenges related to complex site topography.
• Coordinated with Structural, Mechanical and Electrical disciplines to ensure that all necessary details were implemented in the Architectural package.
• Ensured compliance with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Contracting Agency’s design standards.
• Participated in Envision credits discussions, exploring practical applications of sustainability credits, and how these could be best integrated in the design of the train station.
Below: View from East Plaza. Render by others. Property of Arcadis.
Left: Platform access stairs and ramp zoomed-in plan. Drawn by Sameerah Aumjaud. Property of Arcadis.
Below: Platform access stairs and ramp zoomed-in section. Drawn by Sameerah Aumjaud. Property of Arcadis.
Below: East-West Section through overpass. Drawn by Sameerah Aumjaud & others. Property of Arcadis.
Below: View from East Plaza. Render by others. Property of Arcadis.
May 2019 - December 2022
List of projects involved:
- St Anne Catholic School - Construction Documents, Deficiency Reviews and Closeout
- Bradford North Public School - Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding & Contract Negotiation, Contract Administration
- Ecole Secondaire Kitchener-Waterloo - Design Development & Contract Administration
- East City School - Contract Administration
- Ecole Elementaire Mathieu da Costa Child Care Addition -Design Development, Construction Documents, Building Permit Application
- We Welcome the World at Erindale Secondary School - Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Building Permit Application, Bidding and Contract Negotiation, Contract Administration
- Dr. J.M. Denison Secondary School Renovations - Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Building Permit Application, Bidding and Contract Negotiation, Contract Administration, Closeout
- Brampton City Hall 5th Floor Renovations - Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Building Permit Application, Specifications Writing
- Dundas West Mid-Rise Development - Schematic Design, Design Development, Re-zoning Application
- Hodan Nalayeh Secondary School Renovations - Schematic Design & Design Development
- Robert Munsch Public School AC Retrofit - Contract Administration
- Various responses to RFPs - Produced tailored bids and attractive marketing documents for various municipal and educational institutions
- Accessibility Studies for Durham Catholic District School Board & Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board - Building Code Review, Site Review and Report Production
- Lakeview Public School - Site fit
- Port Credit West Village Public School - Site fit
05 - ECOLE ELEMENTAIRE MATHIEU DA COSTA CHILD CARE ADDITION
Construction of an addition to accommodate for a new Child Care area on the existing Elementary School premises. The main elements of the addition were a Pre-School classroom, a Toodler classroom, an Infant classroom, a Universal Washroom and other amenities. Special attention was given to barrier-free design and spatial mobility.
Tasks assigned:
- Assisted the Project Principal in the final design stages and liased with the Client to ensure that all their requests were met.
- Produced full set of Construction Documents for Building Permit and Tender, including construction details, under the supervision of the Project Manager. Coordinated drawings between Architectural, Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, Site Services and Landscape.
- Prepared documentation required for Building Permit approval. Responsible for submitting the Building Permit application.
- Independently performed site visits to assess existing conditions and to optimize the amalgamation of the old and new building and landscape.
- Liased with consultants and assisted the Project Manager in dealing with design issues.
06 - BRADFORD NORTH PUBLIC SCHOOL
MOFFET & DUNCAN ARCHITECTS
Location: Crossland Boulevard, Bradford, ON
Project type: Institutional - New Construction
Project phase: Spatial Coordination, Technical Design, Manufacturing & Construction
Project description:
New construction of an Elementary School in the heart of an upcoming residential community in Bradford, ON. The school was designed to accommodate 5 Kindergerten classrooms, 2 Child Care classrooms and associated amenities, 17 standard classrooms, a Gym, a Cafeteria and Learning Commons.
Render by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of MDA
EXTERIOR VIEW
Render by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of MDA
06 - BRADFORD NORTH
PUBLIC SCHOOL -
CONTINUED
Tasks assigned:
- Actively involved with the Design Team to source materials and propose different options to add texture and variety to the building facades.
- Prepared multiple presentation packages to showcase narrative behind material choices for Client Presentation.
- Produced 3D model of entire school and renderings for Client Presentation.
- Assisted the Project Principal in delivering Client Presentation meetings.
- Gained thorough understanding of how various siding materials are designed and assembled, and how all components come together to constitute an efficient building envelope.
- Contributed to the production of Construction Documents for Building Permit and Tender.
- Assisted the Project Principal in the Prequalification of Bidders - this task included reviewing the CCDC 11 documents for each contractor, requesting references and assessing all the contractor information through a point-based system.
- Responsible for the selection of interior materials and finishes. After comprehensive research, a pastel theme was chosen to create a calm atmosphere that is most conducive to learning.
- Assisted in the review of Shop Drawings and other aspects of Contract Administration until project completion.
CLOSE UP ON SCHOOL EXTERIOR Property of MDA
EAST STAIRCASE WITH FRAMED VIEW Property of MDA
FEATURE CORNER AT LIBRARY Property of MDA
GROUND
Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud and other contributors, Property of
07 - DUNDAS WEST MID-RISE DEVELOPMENT
MOFFET & DUNCAN ARCHITECTS
Location: 5144 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON
Project type: Mix-use (residential and retail) - New Contruction
Project phase: Spatial Coordination & Technical Design, Re-zoning and Official Plan
Ammendment Application
Project description:
This proposed mix-use development was designed to replace an old pub in the upcoming Six Points Hub in Etobicoke. Due to a change of use in the site, an application had to be put in for Re-zoning and Official Plan Ammendment. The new 8-storey building has been conceived to accommodate retail spaces on the ground floor and residential suites on the second to eighth floor. Care was taken with the exterior aesthetics to provide consistency with the numerous proposed buildings in the area, while providing a modern and classy feel.
Tasks assigned:
- Involved in producing preliminary drawings from initial design concepts to design development.
- Produced comprehensive 3D model of building for sun and shadow studies and massing studies.
- Produced environmental report as part of the Municipal approvals application to outline the impact of the development on the surrounding neighbourhoods and open areas.
- Produced 3D renderings for Municipal approvals and community consultation meetings.
GROUND FLOOR PLAN (LEFT) AND SECOND FLOOR PLAN (RIGHT)
Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud and other contributors, Property of MDA
ARTISTIC VISUAL OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
Render by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of MDA
MANCINI ARCHITECTS
November 2018 - April 2019
List of projects involved:
- Ryerson University Admission Offices - Design Development and Construction Documents
- Ryerson University O’Keefe House Addition - Feasibility Study, Schematic Design & Programing
- Various Bank of Montreal branches across the GTA - Construction Documents
08 - TORONTO METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY
ADMISSION OFFICES
KEARNS MANCINI ARCHITECTS
Location: 10th Floor, 1 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON
Project type: Institutional
Project phase: Technical Design, Manufacturing & Construction
Project description:
Renovation of an entire 2000 sqm floor within an office tower at Yonge and Dundas Square. The project consisted of converting outdated classroom spaces into a modern and fresh office environment for the staff at the Admissions Department at Ryerson University.
Tasks assigned:
- Involved in design development stages and producing working drawings.
- Independently produced full set of construction drawings for building permit and tender with Revit.
- Gained experience in product sourcing, specification writing and contract administration.
- Client and consultant coodination; issue of Addenda during bidding phase.
ADMISSION OFFICES - CONTINUED
Drawing by Sameerah Aumjaud. Property of KMAI.
09 - BELVEDERE TRANSIT CENTRE
DIALOG EDMONTON - WORK TERM MAY 2017 - SEPT. 2017
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Project type: Public Infrastructure - New Construction
Project phase: Technical Design
Project description:
The new Belvedere Transit Centre replaces its 35-year old predecessor with a sleek new design that takes its cue from the roofline of the neighbouring LRT building. Glass walls and multiple exits improve safety for transit users with views and paths in and out. The interior features an exposed roof structure with warm wood tones that soften the experience. Public art brightens the space with tropical sculptures that celebrate the diversity of the community.
Tasks assigned:
- Production of renderings with SketchUp and V-ray
- Production of energy modelling reports through Sefaira and evaluation of building structure
- Compilation of graphics and layout for Schematic Design report
INTERIOR RENDER OF STATION Render by Sameerah Aumjaud, Property of DIALOG
EXTERIOR
10 - KINISTINAW PARK
DIALOG EDMONTON - WORK TERM MAY 2017 - SEPT. 2017
Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Project type: Landscape / Public Realm
Project phase: Technical Design
Project description:
This project consisted of the renewal of a redundant and abandoned longitudinal piece of land in the outskirts of Edmonton’s downtown area. A contemporary design for an urban park was proposed, with a jagged red canopy as the centerpiece.
Tasks assigned:
- Production of sets of architectural drawings (floor plans, sections and elevations)
- 3D modelling and production of graphics with SketchUp and V-ray
- Assisting in team and client meetings
PERSPECTIVE OF THE CANOPY UNFOLDING ACROSS THE PARK
11 - ANAHITA REAL ESTATE VILLAS
MACBETH ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS - WORK TERM OCT. 2015 - JULY 2016
Location: Beau-Champ, Mauritius
Project type: Residential
Project phase: Technical Design
Project description:
New Construction of high-end villas on the East Coast of Mauritius.
Tasks assigned:
- Producing two-dimentional drawings design and construction drawings (plan, sections, elevations)
- Three-dimentional modelling using Revit
- Calculations of room dimensions and surface areas for pricing
- Producing construction details
- Preparing documents for client presentations
EXTERIOR NIGHT RENDER OF VILLA
ACADEMIC WORK
12 - NAVIGATING THROUGH PEAKS AND VALLEYS (MASTER’S THESIS)
Public space and water infrastructure as intervention tools for urban regeneration in Kigali, Rwanda.
Design and research thesis submitted for the degree of Master of Architecture
UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO - SEPT. 2017 - AUG. 2018
Location: Kigali, Rwanda
Project type: Urban and landscape infrastructure / integrated water management
Current methods of urban regeneration, more specifically as practiced in Rwanda, are totally devoid of socially inclusive approaches, and highly lack contextual adaptability.
Through the critique of current methods and proposals of urban revitalisation, this thesis advocates for a more inclusive approach to urban planning, and promotes urban development lying in the interest of every strata of Rwandan society. The interventions presented through this thesis are focused along the edge of informal settlements and wetland valleys, which constitute a huge part of Kigali’s underestimated assets.
The design strategy proposes a framework supporting enhanced livability based on the dimensions of society, economy,
biodiversity, and sustainable development. The framework is explored through three nodes and a fourth potential site, each with their own specific challenges, and focusses primarily on restoring water quality and wetland ecology through a decentralised, human-centric set of interventions. The work also showcases how the framework allows for continuous growth in the medium and long term, remaining in complete synchronisation with the altering dynamics of Kigali’s emerging society. In contexts like Rwanda, where peace and conflict are sensitive and controversial matters, this thesis demonstrates how design can not only build communities and trigger tenacious social relations, but also how it can act as a gentle and subversive form of questioning the status quo.
generates financial revenue that could be re-invested in the developement of the city
engagement in fostering community activities
wetlands as a source of water
consolidation of informality
waste collection
generation of malleable and sustainable infrastructure ecological rehabilitation
sustained growth over time
creation of bio swales, retention ponds, sustainable agriculture and other cultural practices re-establish water cycles and systems of vegetation
data about the city’s ecology collected by scientists, researchers and students empower the community towards the rehabilitation of wetlands
architects as the facilitators of a community in action
mapping tools required to identify sensitive areas
SITE 3 - ARTISTIC IMPRESSION OF THE WATER DISPENSING STATION AND COMPOSTING GARDEN OVERLOOKING THE FIELDS
DESIGN FRAMEWORK
The proposed design for this site is a network of 5 water purification stations, all located along the main canal separating the Kimisagara informal settlement. The primary infrastructural role of the canal is to carry runoff water from both sides of the hills into the Nyabugogo wetland. But the canal also serve a major social role for the inhabitants of Kimisagara, who collect the run off water flowing into the canal for domestic purposes. Most of the informal dwellings in Kigali do not have running water, and dwellers have to walk fairly long distances to buy water from a water pumping station. Hence, the proposed design aims
IMPRESSION OF THE WATER DISPENSING STATION, ALONG WITH THE CLOTHES WASHING
AXONOMETRIC OF THE WATER STATION SYSTEM
The main aim for this site was to re-define the idea of the market as a vehicle for public interaction. Every major informal settlement of Kigali hosts a market, so the idea was to propose interactive spaces that enhances the value the market holds in the city’s culture. The proposed market is divided into 4 main parts: the fruits and vegetable market, the food stalls, the flea market and the craft market. The market canopies, and the roofs of the proposed buildings capture rainwater into 2 given tanks. To combine the need for water with the existing canal, the centre space of the market is defined by a plaza designed for washing purposes. This plaza will be used by 3 sets of people: 1. the moto-taxi drivers, 2. the flea market sellers, to wash the second hand clothes before selling them again, and 3. the inhabitants of the surrounding informal settlement.
Water stations from Site 1 have been added to the canal, to provide clean water. Just like on the previous site, the canal captures the run-off water and is dispensed through the water stations. To complement the main elements, a community centre has been proposed for meeting spaces and to house the management of the informal settlement. Opposite the community centre a vocational training facilty has been proposed to train Kigali’s expanding young population and to increase their employability. Finally, a series of canopies have been suggested for the sofa-repair workers, to provide shelter during harsh weather conditions. The path across the canal enhances mobility from and to the Nyabugogo bus terminal. This even creates an opportunity for the revitalisation of the bus terminal along as the wetland edge for a better transition between the city and the wetland.
SITE RESPONSE DIAGRAM
spatial qualities centered around community interaction
FRUITS AND VEGETABLES MARKET
FOOD STALLS
THE RELATIONSHIPS
BETWEEN THE DIFFERENT COMPONENTS
The nodes are located within 400m of each other to maximize walkability. The above diagram shows the enhanced access through the boardwalks, and the connectivity through the nodes.
Site 3 is located in an agricultural setting, which is the main pillar of Rwanda economy. The section here shows the relationship between the informal settlements on both side and agriculture in the wetland valleys. The site is primarily surrounded by informal settlements, with the only public space available being the wetland.
The proposed design consists of 7 nodes across the site. A constructed wetland belt all around the site to provide a primary filtration, before the water is directed into water retentions ponds across the 7 nodes. Each node is equipped with a solar powered pump and a water dispensing station to provide water to the inhabitants of the informal settlement. A system of boardwalks has also been designed to enhance access to, and within the wetland.
The nodes also consist of composting gardens, which help manage organic waste, reduce the use of fertilisers in the fields, and also serve as a community building exercise. Care has also been taken to maximise the user-interaction with the wetland with seating pods and platforms.
13 - THE CANADIAN CULTURAL & SPIRITUAL CENTRE
UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO - M.ARCH FALL 2016
Location: Cambridge, Ontario
The scheme presented is a Canadian Cultural and Spiritual Centre based upon Aboriginal Cultural and Spiritual practices in the area of Downtown Cambridge, ON. The whole idea behind this project was to build a community hub truly for all Canadians, regardless of their faith or spiritual belief. The Aboriginal aspect of the scheme was chosen firstly to pay tribute to the real custodians of Canadian land, and due to the broadness of Aboriginal Spiritual Values, values to which people of any faith or no faith can relate to. Aboriginal values entail that spirituality is more a worldview than a set of specific cultural practices. In this worldview, sacredness is interwoven through all dimensions of life; humankind strives for a holistic, balanced, harmonious existence. There is no dichotomy between “religion” and regular daily life—it is not seen as separate from the overall human experiences of living, knowing and learning. This scheme also aims at raising awareness about the tremendous injustice and persecution that Aboriginals suffered from throughout the past centuries, and an aim towards embracing ethnical and cultural differences and encouraging social inclusion.
The main material chosen for the building is rammed earth since it inherently provides a natural feel in the building. One of the main aboriginal focuses is the closeness and intimacy to nature,
rammed earth hence being a perfect fit due to its raw natural beauty. When experiencing the building, one is surrounded and embedded by the earth, hence creating a true connection with mother nature herself. This creates the perfect setting for spiritual immersion. The rest of the building is made out of a glulam timber post and beam construction, also due to the natural and raw feel brought by wood.
The rammed earth envelope also makes the building extremely energy efficient, with a complete annihilation of air conditioning requirements, and a considerable reduction for heating requirements due to its high thermal mass, which slows down heat transmission through the walls. Rammed earth is one the most readily available materials in almost every building context, since its primary component is soil which is available everywhere, and hence significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the material.
The scheme is also comprises of solar water heating and rainwater harvesting systems, as well as a sustainable landscaping (porous paving and rain garden) for sustainable water drainage.
COURTYARD DURING DRUM CEREMONY
FLOOR PLAN
COURTYARD LOBBY
RAIN GARDEN POROUS PAVING CAFE
WORKSHOP
GENTS WR
LADIES WR EXHIBITION SPACE
MEETING ROOM
14 - ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE
UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO - M.ARCH WINTER 2017
Location: Toronto, Ontario
CULTURE AND PERFORMANCE AS DRIVERS TOWARDS THE ACTIVATION OF PUBLIC SPACE
Toronto’s urban fabric can, under certain angles, be perceived as dull, lifeless and uniform. Urban sprawl is creeping at breakneck speed and Downtown Toronto’s population is gradually increasing. While the need for accommodation and office infrastructure is reaching sky-rocketing demands to service and sustain this population, it is also crucial to provide outdoor public spaces that will foster social interaction provide a better, healthier, mental and emotional environment for the inhabitants of Toronto.
The city lacks a sense of identity, and asks for a way to express itself. Culture and art are some of the major drivers of identity. Through the design of the Toronto Rail Deck Park, the aim was to create a stage, for the city and its people to freely express themselves under different forms of performance, culture and art, whether active or passive. The park will serve for people of all ages to identity themselves in their own unique ways, and will also be a means of painting the multicultural palette that shapes the city of Toronto.
THE RAIL DECK PARK AS A CONNECTIVE NODE TO OTHER PARTS OF TORONTO’S URBAN REALM. THE PARK ACTS AS A HUB FOR PARADES, FESTIVALS AND OTHER CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, WHOSE ROUTES ARE HIGHLIGHTED ON THE MAP
MORNING SCENE AT THE TORONTO RAILDECK PARK
VIBRANT SCENE AT THE NIGHT MARKET
LEVELS OF ENGAGEMENT
PROGRAMMING DIAGRAM
INSTALLATION PLAZA AS A STAGE FOR VARIOUS PERFORMANCES AND JAZZ CAFE IN THE BACKGROUND
PERSONAL WORK
Graphic Design Work
Conception of logos, business cards and brochures for various organizations and small businesses.
Crafts:
A series of concrete planters based on custom orders for private clients.
Illustrations
This project was undertaken to honour the Mauritian rich and vibrant folklore through simple yet striking digital illustrations.
