STEPHANIEFERNANDEZ
PROJECTMANAGER
DesignManifesto
I believe the purpose of architecture is to elevate the human experience while fostering a harmonious relationship with our natural environment My vision encompasses promoting sustainable design, ecological intelligence, and the well-beingofindividualsandcommunities.
Drawing inspiration from our past, I embrace innovation to discover better ways to design and build. My commitment to sustainability guides me to create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also responsible and regenerative.
Iprioritize:
Sustainable Design: Crafting buildings that minimize environmental impact through energy efficiency, resource conservation, and the use of sustainablematerials.
EcologicalIntelligence:Integratingnaturalsystemsandbiodiversityintoour designstoenhanceecologicalbalanceandresilience.
Wellness and Well-being: Designing spaces that promote physical and mentalhealth,fosteringenvironmentswherepeoplecanthrive
Human Experience: Creating architecture that responds to human needs andenrichesdailylife,encouragingconnection,creativity,andcommunity.
My approach blends tradition with innovation, ensuring that my architectural practices respect history while paving the way for a sustainable future. By prioritizing these principles, I aspire to contribute to a better world through thoughtfulandimpactfuldesign
TableofContents
MAYSCLINICALBUILDING
OUTPATIENTVACLINIC
THECATALYSTSTUDENTHOUSING KETCHUMARTS &SCIENCEBLDG
CHILDREN’SMUSEUMOF HOUSTONEXPANSION
UTILITYINTHEMOUNTAINS
BUILDING250-FAMILYCENTER
OFFICEADAPTIVEREUSE
TRAVELSKETCHES
PROJECTS
M.D. ANDERSONCANCERCENTER MAYSCLINICALBUILDING
Houston,TX
The Mays Clinic Building, an integral part of the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, stands as a symbol of hope, healing, and innovation in the field of healthcare architecture. Designed with a focus on patient well-being and advanced medical care, the building embraces the idea that thoughtful design can play a critical role in the healing process. This facility is more than just a medicalcenter itisaspacethatfostersphysical,emotional,andpsychological healing,whilepromotingcollaborationandcutting-edgeresearch.
The design of the Mays Clinic was envisioned to create a therapeutic environment that minimizes the often stressful experience of navigating a healthcaresetting.Everydesigndecisionwasmadewiththepatient'sjourneyin mind, from the moment they enter the building until they leave, whether for treatment,consultations,orrecovery.Thebuildingfeatureswide,opencorridors filled with natural light, making the spaces feel less clinical and more welcoming. These open areas, filled with daylight, offer moments of calm and clarity,encouragingemotionaleaseforbothpatientsandtheirfamilies.
Thearchitecturealsoincorporatessoothingcolors,organicmaterials,andnaturaltextures,reinforcing a sense of comfort and grounding. The interior design is intended to support both the physical recovery of patients and the emotional comfort of visitors, helping to alleviate the anxiety that often accompaniesmedicaltreatment.
As a leading cancer treatment facility, the Mays Clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology andadaptablespacesthatcanevolvealongsidemedicaladvancements.Thebuildingwasdesigned with future-proofing in mind, with flexible treatment rooms and research labs that can easily accommodatenewequipmentandmethodologiesastheydevelop.
The Mays Clinic Building stands as a model of how architecture can transform the healthcare experience.Byprioritizingpatientcomfort,environmentalsustainability,andadaptability,itservesasa beacon of compassionate care and cutting-edge medical innovation in Houston. It is not just a medicalfacility itisaplaceofhealing,community,andhope.
YearCompleted:2006
ConstructionCost:$240Million
TotalBuildingArea:782,000Sq.Ft.
CannonDesign(FormallyFKPArchitects)
Role:Designer
COMMUNITYBASEDOUTPATIENT VACLINIC
CastleRock CO
The Community-Based Outpatient VA Clinic in Castle Rock, Colorado, is designed to provide veterans with high-quality healthcare in a welcoming, supportive environment. The architecture reflects the clinic’s mission of service, healing, and community, with a focus on comfort, accessibility, and respect for the natural beauty ofthesurroundinglandscape.
The building’s design emphasizes human-centered care. Thoughtful layout and planning ensure a patient-friendly experience, with intuitive wayfinding and easily navigablespaces.Widecorridors,openwaitingareas,andamplenaturallightcreatea calming atmosphere, reducing stress for patients and visitors. The use of warm, natural materials like wood and stone connects the interior spaces to the Colorado landscape, fostering a sense of belonging and connection to the region’s natural beauty.
Sustainability is a key focus in the design, with the clinic incorporating energy-efficient systems, natural ventilation, and eco-friendly materials. Solar panels and water conservation systems help reduce the building’s environmental impact, aligning with Colorado’s commitment to sustainability. Additionally, large windows provide daylighting and offer views of the surrounding mountains, creating a healing environmentthatpromoteswell-beingforbothpatientsandstaff.
AnticipatedCompletionDate:February2025
ConstructionCost:$10Million
TotalBuildingArea: 29,000Sq.Ft.
dcbConstructionCompany,Inc.
Role:ProjectManager
THECATALYSTSTUDENTHOUSING
Atlanta,GA
The Catalyst Student Housing project in Atlanta, Georgia, is designed to redefine the student living experience by offering modern, functional, and sustainable housing tailored to the needs of university students. Located near the heart of Atlanta’s academic hubs, the development focuses on creating a vibrant and connected living environment that fosters both academic success andcommunityengagement.
The building’s architecture blends urban modernity with environmental sensitivity, incorporating clean lines and contemporary materials while integrating eco-friendly design features. Large glass facades and expansive common areas provide natural light and create a sense of openness, reducing thefeelingofconfinementoftenassociatedwithtraditionalstudenthousing. Inside, Catalyst offers a range of suite-style apartments, complete with private bedrooms, shared kitchens, and living spaces that promote a balance between privacy and communal living. The common areas, including study lounges, fitness centers, and outdoor courtyards, are designed to encourage collaboration and social interaction, reflecting the needs of a diverse student population.
YearCompleted:2021
ConstructionCost:$16Million
TotalBuildingArea:13,000Sq.Ft. Galloway&Co.. Role:TeamLead
KETCHUMARTSANDSCIENCEBUILDING
UNIVERSITYOFCOLORADO
Boulder,CO
The renovation of the Ketchum Arts and Sciences Building at the University of Colorado Boulder breathes new life into a historic academic facility while enhancing its functionality for modern education. Originally constructed in 1938, the renovation focuses on preserving the building’s classical architectural elements, such as its brick façade and arched windows, while introducing contemporaryfeaturesthatsupporttheevolvingneedsofstudentsandfaculty. The updated design emphasizes sustainability and accessibility, incorporating energy-efficient systems, improved natural lighting, and updated HVAC systems to meet current building standards. Inside, classrooms and collaborative spaces are reconfigured to foster active learning, with flexible layouts and modern technology that enhance interdisciplinary study and interaction.
Respecting its historical significance while advancing academic excellence, the Ketchum Building’s renovation blends the university’s rich legacy with forwardthinking design, ensuring that it remains a dynamic center for education at CU Boulder.
YearCompleted:2021
ConstructionCost:$16Million
TotalBuildingArea:13,000Sq.Ft. HordCoplanMacht Role:TeamLead
CHILDREN’SMUSEUM OFHOUSTON EXPANSION
Houston,TX
The expansion of the Children’s Museum of Houston is a testament to the museum’s mission of inspiring children through interactive learning and creativity. Designed to accommodate growing visitor numbers and an expanded array of exhibits, the new space integrates seamlessly with the existing structure while introducing modern design elements that emphasize innovation,playfulness,andeducation.
At the heart of the expansion is the idea of learning through play. The architecture fosters curiosity and exploration, with flexible spaces that can evolve with changing exhibits. The design embraces vibrant colors, dynamic forms, and interactive elements, creating an engaging environment for children of all ages. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interiors with natural light, making the spaces feel bright and inviting, while also providing visual connections to outdoorplayareasandgardens.
The expanded areas include new exhibit spaces, classrooms, and open atriums designed to promote hands-on learning. Playful architectural details, such as sculptural elements and creative signage, guide visitors through the museum, encouragingmovementanddiscovery.
Sustainability is another key focus, with energy-efficient systems, water conservation strategies, and environmentally friendly materials incorporated throughout the expansion. Outdoor spaces are designed with green infrastructure,includingraingardensandnativeplantings,tocreateeducational opportunitiesaboutthenaturalenvironment.
YearCompleted:2006
ConstructionCost:$26Million
TotalBuildingArea:22,000Sq.Ft.
Jackson&RyanArchitects
Role:Designer
The Idarado Telluride Storage Project involves the development of a strategic storage facility in Telluride, Colorado, designed to address local storage needs. This project aims to maximize storagecapacitywithintheconstraintsofTelluride'sgeographicalandenvironmentalconditions, optimizing the layout for easy access and organization. Incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, the facility minimizes environmental impact and aligns with local sustainability goals and regulations. The design concept includes forms and materials inspired by the local mining history, ensuring the facility blends seamlessly with the aesthetic and cultural characterofTelluride.
Careful site planning ensures optimal positioning of the building to capture breathtaking mountain views, while the integration of solar panels reflects a commitment to sustainable practices. Noteworthy design elements address Telluride's mountain climate, encompassing considerations for snow loads and the incorporation of energy-efficient wall assemblies, ensuring durability and resilience. Advanced security measures and convenient accessibility enhance the user experience, and the design allows for future adaptability to meet evolving storage needsandtechnologicaladvancements.
While getting to Telluride may require some effort, with a six-hour drive from Denver, many visitors find the journey part of the adventure, as the stunning scenery along the way contributes to the overall experience of visiting this picturesque mountain town. Telluride is renowned for its picturesque setting, outdoor recreation opportunities, cultural events, and preserved historic charm. Itstandsasauniqueblendofitsminingpastandcontemporaryappeal.
BUILDING250-FAMILYRESILENCECENTER
FortBliss,TX
Built in 1913, Building 250 holds a significant place in the history of Fort Bliss. Originally serving as the Fort Bliss Officers' Club, this storied structure was a vibrant social hub for military officers and their guests. Positioned with a commanding view overlooking Armstrong Field, the club was an ideal spot for watching polo games and enjoying the scenic surroundings. The Officers' Club was more than just a venue; it was a place where camaraderie and relaxation flourished, offering dining, socializing, and event spaces tailored to the needs of themilitarycommunity.
As Fort Bliss expanded in the 2000s, the role of the Officers' Club transitioned to the Centennial Club on the east side of the installation, accommodating the growing number of officers. Building 250, with its rich history, found a new purpose as the Family Resilience Center (FRC). This transformation required severalupdatestothehistoricbuildingtobetterserveitsnewfunction.
YearCompleted:2010
ConstructionCost:$39Million
TotalBuildingArea:28,135Sq,Ft..
DirectorateofPublicWorks
Role:HistoricPreservationProjectManager
Today, the FRC is a vital part of Army Community Service (ACS) at Fort Bliss, designed to strengthen the readiness, resilience, and well-being of Soldiers and their families. As the administrative hub for Family Resilience Programs, the FRC houses several ACS programs, providing a range of essential services. The facilityfeaturesclassrooms,meetingrooms,alargeconferenceroom,aresource center with ten computer stations, and lounge areas throughout the building. The adaptive reuse of Building 250 ensures that it continues to play a central roleinsupportingtheFortBlisscommunity,preservingitshistoricallegacywhile meetingcontemporaryneeds.
MEGROUPOFFICE ADAPTIVEREUSE
The 3040 Blake Street warehouse, originally constructed in 1932-33, stands as a testament to Denver's industrial heritage. Initially home to the Denver Engineering Works Company, it served as a hub for manufacturing activities, housing essential functions like the boiler shop, steam engine works, and pattern shop within its sturdy masonry walls and distinctive double exposed bowstringtrusses.
Over the decades, the warehouse evolved into a versatile space, offering an open layout that lends itself well to adaptive reuse while retaining its historic charm. This adaptive reuse not only preserves the building's architectural character but also aligns with sustainable principles, making efficient use of existingstructuresratherthannewconstruction.
In a forward-thinking initiative, the M.E. Group pursued WELL Building Certification Silver for the Blake Street warehouse. This certification underscores their commitment to creating a healthy and productive workspace that enhances the well-being of its occupants. By integrating sustainable practices and modern amenities, the warehouse has been transformed into a comfortable office environment that reflects contemporary standards while respectingitshistoricalroots.
Through careful planning and design, the Blake Street warehouse exemplifies howadaptivereusecanblendhistoricalpreservationwithmodernfunctionality, offering a compelling case for revitalizing older industrial buildings into vibrant, sustainablespacesforthefuture.
YearCompleted:2015
ConstructionCost:$8Million
TotalBuildingArea:22,000Sq.Ft.
dcbConstructionCompany,Inc.
Role:ProjectManager
TRAVELSKETCHES
TRAVELSKETCHES
