Career Goal
Mantha Sowmya Prabha
Address : London, United Kingdom
Phone : +44 7884549812
E-mail : sowmya.mantha24@gmail.com
About Me Languages
English Hindi
Telugu
Gujarati
Tamil
Interests
Meditation
Education
Post-graduation - ARB/ RIBA Part 2
Glasgow, United Kingdom at University of Strathclyde
As an architecture post-graduate, I have experienced the development of various designs at different scales. With an open and curious mind, I wish to serve the society with well planned spaces and sustainable designs keeping in mind the growing need of caring for the environment.
Reading and Writing
Subject modules - Architectural Design, Projects with Collaboration, Sustainability, Cultural and Behavioural factors in Architecture and Urbanism, Professional Studies and Cultural Studies
Under-graduation - ARB/ RIBA Part 1 Equivalent
Hyderabad, Telangana, India at Church of South Indian Institute of Technology (CSIIT)
Subject modules - Architectural Design, Interior Design, Building Construction and Materials, Environmental studies, Climatology, Structural Mechanics
Experience
Part 2 Architectural Assistant
June 2022
Geddes Architects Ltd., London, UK
Travelling
Architectural Assistant
August 2018 - May 2019
Ar. Hafeez Contractor (AHC), Mumbai, India
Cooking and Baking
Architectural Assistant
August 2017- August 2018 under Ar. Naresh Konda at NK Architects, Hyderabad, India
Achievements
Year Leader for Year5 of MArch course
Part of the year cohort to represent and voice the concerns of our batch at University of Strathclyde, Glasgow
BIRLA WHITE YUVARATNA NXT
Second Best Entry - Mural of architect, Dame Zaha Hadid, Mumbai
12th Grade CBSE Topper in Graphics and Print- Making
Lalaji Memorial Omega International School, Tamil Nadu
Key Skills
Communication Skills
Presentation Skills
Design & Conceptualization
Teamwork & Adaptability
Ability to work under Pressure
Leadership qualities
Technical Skills AutoCad
Plot 6, MIRA Technology Park Project worked on at Geddes Architects, London
Project Type: Commercial & IndustrialDesign & Build
Project Year: 2021
Client: Horiba MIRA
Budget: £25 million
Location: Nuneaton, UK
Design Brief: Situated in the MIRA Technology Park which is an integrated automotive hub designed to host bespoke workshops & offices based on the tenant requirements, Plot 6 is one of the sites in the vast Masterplan designed by Geddes Architects Ltd. for MIRA. There are 3 buildings on the site are designed to suit the needs of car manufacturing companies. The main building is formed by two storey offices and a workshop at the rear end. Following a minimalistic design, the metal cladding of the structures and long strip windows along with a wide canopy at the entrance take the spotlight.
Over the course of one year, I had the opportunity to work on following aspects of the project:
RIBA Stage 2 (Pre-application)
» Understanding the design & concepts
» AfL drawings
RIBA Stage 3 (Planning Application)
» Presentation drawings for planning application
» Preparing drawings & notes for Tender
» Bike Store and Smoking Shelter detail
RIBA Stage 4 (Technical Design)
» Floor finishes & Reflected Ceiling Plans
» Finishes, Windows & Door Schedules
» Toilet Calculations and Drawing Internal Layouts
» Fence type detail drawings for site
» RFI Schedules and Change Order Schedules
Floor Finishes Layout - Ground Floor
Ceramic Tiles (For Walls)
Domus DVI 01 - Interni, 198.4mm x 98.2mm Ceramic Tile Satin Finish
NBS: M40/110E
Used in: Toilet cubicles, Showers, Cleaners Cupboard
Hardwood Veneer Door
Reflected Ceiling Layout - Ground Floor
Solid Timber Core (Fire Rated) with vision panel & Painted softwood architraves Colour RAL - TBC
NBS: L20/230B
Used in: Internal Escape Door to Staircase; Office to Workshop
Metal Ceiling Tiles
SAS International System 130 600x600 Metal Tile Suspended Ceiling
NBS: K40/115
Used in: Entrance, Reception, Lift Lobby & Offices
Porcelain Tile (For Floors)
Domus DRFW 08 Matt - Flow 2.0 600mmx600mm Porcelain Tiles
NBS: M40/110C
Used in: Reception, Lift Lobby, Lift, Mixed Use Toilets & Corridor, Escape staircase and corridor
Hardwood Veneer Door Solid Timber Core - Oak Veneer Without vision panels & Stainless steel brushed signage
NBS: L20/230B
Used in: Mixed use toilet Cubicles; Accessible Toilets, Showers
Beech Veneer
Carpet Tiles
Carpet Tiles Interface 332920 Nett Effect B603
NBS: M50/130 A
Used in: Open plan Office area
Ash Veneer
Walnut Veneer
Casoline MF Plasterboard
British Gypsum - Casoline MF Plasterboard Suspended ceiling painted white emulsion
NBS: K10/220
Used in: Open Plan Office margins; Escape Staircase & Corridor (FR) Mixed Use WCs & Corridor (MR)
Plot 8, MIRA Technology Park
Project worked on at Geddes Architects, London
Project Type: Commercial & Industrial - Design & Build
Project Year: 2021
Client: Horiba MIRA
Budget: £30 million
Location: Nuneaton, UK
Design Brief: Simultaneously along with Plot 6, Plot 8 was also intended to be developed into a building with workshop and offices in the MIRA Technology Park. There is a single building on the site which is replicated onto the adjacent site called Plot 9 and the structure has been designed in a manner that keeps the mirroring in mind while binding the structures as one. The rear section of each unit is of portal frame construction and attached to a front section which is steel framed and has a flat roof. The tenants occupying the buildings would be automobile companies.
The application proposes the erection of a building divided into 2 units, each unit comprises of offices at the front and workshop at the rear, with service yard at the sides that are enclosed with a 2.4m high powder coated louvred metal security fencing together with associated plant area, external works, parking area, access road and landscaping. The work done on this project ranged from RIBA stages 2-5 including drawings for planning application, tender stage detailed drawings.
Some of the layouts I had prepared for the project included Site Plan, Floor finishes plans, reflected ceiling layouts, door schedules, sanitary schedule and layouts, finishes schedule, fence details, presentation drawings for marketing package for clients amongst many others.
Section 1:100 @ A1
Worksop Enlarged Section 1:50 @ A1
Office Enlarged Section 1:50 @ A1
3 Project
Gatehouse, MIRA Technology Park
Project worked on at Geddes Architects, London
Project Type: Commercial
Project Year: 2023
Client: Horiba MIRA
Budget: £3 million
Location: Nuneaton, UK
Design Brief: The Gatehouse building is situated at an important focal point within the MIRA Techology Park masterplan, located at the very entrance to the new phase of development, with a programme of new and increase in infrastructure and expansion of the masterplan to accommodate the development of new plots. Although a simple building, the purpose of the Gatehouse is greater: it’s the entrance point, security device and a Welcoming center to reflect premium design.
The building is clad in metal panel system and the front area is glazed with curtain walls to allow views of the adjacent sites from the Reception. Roof Plan Ground Floor Plan Site Plan of the Gatehouse at the Main Entrance of MTPCounsel House
M.Arch Year4&5 Project: ‘To Care’-Glasgow City Strategy
The proposed Counsel house intended to bring commuters from the Argyle Street Station which is located in the city centre (commercial area) into a Counsel House designed to meet the spiritual and divine needs of people. Counsel House: The Inner Journey – is divided into 3 tangible parts which can be virtually experienced by the people due to the varying architectural aspects of each part as a unique stage of a spiritual path in one’s life. The central atrium consists of a sky light in the form of a semi-open dome which allows ample ventilation into the main congregation space. The basement emphasises on the importance of diving deeper within out hearts to find the divine light present within each one of us so as to achieve liberation from the mundane and materialistic aspects of everyday life.
Specifications & Parts of the Facade (by Lang+Fulton Wall Cladding)
» Sheets Material: Stainless steel
(Finish: Brushed)
» STEREO-KINETIC grating: Grating made from flat bars and plain round bars (Material: Carbon steel) Finish: Hot dip galvanized and powder-coated to comply with BS EN ISO 1461.
» Framing and fixing
» Support Steelwork
The glazed dome is assembled piece by piece in stages. First the metal framework is precisely planned and then prefabricated into the required dimensions of several pieces. They are then assembled on site with the help of tower cranes and boom lifts at an approximate height of 15m after the superstructure has been built. After the entire metal framework is installed and fit, molded Glass panels are lifted with precaution and safety to be fixed within the frame.
Prefabricated elements (steel framework and glass panels) off-site to avoid accidents on site, to reduce site errors.
Design Alteration - Make the center piece of fixed glazing in the center of the Dome op-enable to enable stack ventilation for better fire safety in cases of emergency.
Section indicating the Scaffolding during construction with possible areas of risks
Floor plan indicating the Fire Escape Strategy in according with Building Regulations
Acoustic Panels for Basement Walls
Moments of Reflection
M.Arch Year 5 Thesis: ‘Urgencies’, 2021
The proposed design of the Ephemeral Festival was such that people come together to create and not just populate the massive floating archipelago over a period of 6 months during the non-monsoon season in Mumbai. There is the factor of instilling a sense of belonging within the people and this has been architecturally responded to by establishing the permanence of the cluster of 4 islands (archipelago) as an advanced addition to the map of Mumbai city. The motive behind keeping the festival of water ephemeral, is to explore and exhaust the endless architectural possibilities of engaging people with water through spaces that heal and enhance the mental well being of people in the ever increasing urbanization of cities. This poetic conundrum between Time and Architecture commemorates the city and it’s people in pursuit of collectively healing them.
Mental Well-being of People and their Communities
Urban City (Financial District) - leading to Fast paced lifestyle
In a rapidly developing world, high levels of stress have become an integral part of peoples fast paced lives. The proposed floating Archipelago concept is an initiation to uplift people and place by bringing together the issues in conjunction. Once the wellness of people is adhered to, through therapeutic benefits of water, it would then provide these individuals with an opportunity to pause and reflect upon themselves and together grow as a healthier community. This approach to heal the communities in the city of Mumbai pledges that its people will always remain excited and enthusiastic to come back for an escapade.
Mumbai
Coastline and Its History of Land Reclamation
Significance of the population density and scarcity of land
Allowing linking various communities at a Citywide scale
Creating pedestrianised spaces and public spaces/ parks
Allowing people to access the route along the Sea Link
Reviving Abandoned Forts and Poorly Maintained Heritage Sites
Used for creating wellness centers to enhance community well-being
Transforming Bandra Worli Sea Link = Social LinkAn Ephemeral physiology as an architectural response aims to enhance the physical attributes of the built environment thereby positively affecting the mental wellness of people within their surroundings. This interlinked relationship of celebrating water and the people through endless ephemeral solutions combined with a permanent socially sustainable strategy in the form of a cluster of permanent floating islands along the coastline of Mumbai, aims to heal the city itself. Permanent aspects are designed in the form of wellness centers set-up at significant heritage sites and a pedestrianized pathway under the Sea Link connected to the Islands.
Area of Intervention: Mahim Bay in Mumbai, India
Using the proposed materiality and technology of Bamboo grids with recycled plastic blocks, the 4 islands and connecting access-ways will be instated over water with a mooring system holding them in place.
After intensive planning and designing, several structures and landscape elements shall be erected over these islands. This opportunity can be given to a new team of creators and architects each year.
The futuristic design of that year will recall itself to the city of Mumbai to heal its people yet again through a series of social, public and personal scale of activities. It is intended to be open to the public for 6 months.
De-assembling of all the components will be done by the local people just as it was set up by them, providing scope for occupation and employment making the process efficient and self sufficient.
Recycling and reusing all the structural elements and materials on main land or for the same festival in the upcoming years based on the purpose and their needs is proposed as an agenda for the new designers each year.
During the monsoon season, heavy rainfalls cause floods, therefore allowing thhe sea to consume the derelict islands which shall ideally should not undergo any damage because of its materiality and buoyant nature.
The project culminates onto proposing an ephemeral festival on a cluster of 4 permanent islands situated in Mahim Bay.
Based on factors such as the scale and position of the original islands of Mumbai, 4 out of 10 were chosen to inspire the form of the proposed floating archipelago so as to manage the overall scale of the Ephemeral festival and to vividly segregate the zones into : Arrival, Healing, Relishing and Gathering. Connectivity between the 4 would be through or on water.
Gathering Area, Administration, Arrival lounge, Waiting area, Parks, Connecting Pathways, Washrooms and Emergency Services & Security
3. Island for Relishing
Water rides, Amusement park, Changing rooms and Toilets, Public spaces, Open -air theater, Water activities, Public Parks
Permanent Islands Structure and Materiality:
Bamboo and recycled plastic stacked under a Concrete capping, held down by a mooring system for stability and balance.
Meditative spaces, Therapy rooms, Private Gardens, Spas, Pavilions, Various therapeutic and interactive spaces allowing engagement with water
4. Island for Gathering
Public Spaces, Community hub, Cafes, Market plaza, Shops and kiosks, Exhibition Space, Emergency Services
Bamboo being a viable option for the main material, as it is grown in ample amounts in the state of Maharashtra is used to produce a strong and rigid framework which is filled using recycled plastic blocks to create buoyancy for the floating islands. These massive islands are held in place with the help of anchors and mooring systems as visible in the sections shown.
A Site section cut through the entire Mahim Bay depicting the floating archipelago with the Festival on the left and the breakwaters near the Mahim Fort and wellness center on the mainland to the extreme right end.PAST
Site - Mahim Bay and Sea link
LEGEND
Proposed Wellness centers along the Coastline
Mahim Bay - Water made accessible to people
Proposed Floating Ephemeral Festival/Structure
Sea port - access to the Proposed Ephemeral Structure
Proposed Route for Water transport
Section through an entire Island showing the mooring system that holds it down for stability and support
Pedestrianized + Green zone under the Sea Link
Proposed Ephemeral Festival (Nov. to April)
PRESENT POSSIBLE
Proposed Permanent Islands
Section through an island at a human scale showing the material composition of the Permanent Islands
A range of spaces designed in a manner that would bring peace and calmness to people while interacting with water elements in those built forms. A myriad of numinous experiences is what would be the result of spending time on these Islands for Healing and Relishing for any individual who wishes to better their mental health and well-being. Views of the Island for Relishing which aims to provide a place for respite in the middle of a burnt-out city.
A Section through the Island for Healing showing various types of structures with several water elements
A Site Elevation showing the entire area of Intervention with the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in the background of the proposed Ephemeral Festival on the permanent Archipelago
Bath House
M.Arch Year4 Project: ‘To Care’Glasgow City Strategy, 2020
Present conditions of the part of the existing block are proposed to be redeveloped into a Bath House.
The design of Bath house: A Journey through Rhythm’ aimed to envelope the Argyle street railway station from all around and bring the pop up station to the edge of the street frontage allowing easier access and circulation.
Adding a Civic square to the thriving city centre is an element that integrated the design with the city strategy of caring for the people & city of Glasgow.
Certain buildings within the chosen block for redevelopment were retained owing to their significant historical background. These buildings are of great heritage value and continue to add to the beauty and elegance of the Glasgow city.
As seen from Argyle Street: Block Elevation of the Bath House with the Pop-up Argyle St. railway station at the street frontage
Section through the Bath House
A detailed Section of the main pools in the Bath House also indicating the underground railway station at Argyle St.
7 Project
Signature Global Mall
Project worked on as Intern architect at AHC, Mumbai
Project Type: Commercial
Project Year: 2017
Client: Signature Global Location: Vaishali, Ghaziabad.
Design Brief: The designed commercial mall was to become the next prime family entertainment sensation in the NCR region of New Delhi and the new ‘go-to’ center for all recreational needs. It consists of dining restaurants, banquet halls for parties and celebrations, hotel rooms, kids play areas, retail stores and a rooftop club full of lifestyle amenities.
Sections through the Commercial Complex
Materials used for the Facade Design
Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP) for Projection Claddings
Structural Glazing Tinted Glass for the Multi-colour Glass Fins
Site Images
Ajnara Commercial Tower
Project worked on as Intern architect at AHC, Mumbai
Project Type: Mixed Use
Commercial
Project Year: 2018
Client: Ajnara Builders
Location: Noida NCR, India.
Site Area: 7800 sqm.
Design Brief: A Commercial Mall located in the suburbs of Greater Noida has been proposed. Located along the NCR belt where there is rapid growth in residential population, it will definitely attract great number of visitors and cater to their needs. The mall majorly consists of public spaces like retail stores and semi private spaces such as hotels and offices.
Practical Applications of the Mural: 9 Project
Mural of Zaha Hadid
Birla White Yuvaratna Award, Second Best Entry, 2016
Dame Zaha Hadid, an Iraqi born British architect was the first woman to have received the honourable Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2004. She was globally renowned for her ground breaking architectural drawings of de-constructivism. In her honour, this mural following the theme of de-constructivism was designed by a group of 4 students for a mural competition held by the construction company Birla White.
Through the use of solids and voids, the dedicated portrait of the Dame creates a visually startling 3D optical illusion.
Steps followed to achieve final output:
This unique method is both innovative and economical as it uses optimal amount of materials along with modern technology.
STEP 1 : DIGITAL APPROACH
Softwares Used: Rhino and Grasshopper
Use of parallel lines helped achieve the concept of solids and voids which adds a 3rd dimension to it. The white stripes with slight curves define the actual image.
STEP 2 : PREPARING THE TEMPLATE
A plywood plank 6’ X 4’ coated with white paint was used as the base. A foam board of 4mm thickness was placed on it and the white strips were cut out creating voids into the frame. The voids were filled with Birla White Putty, and before drying, template was removed. The putty stuck to the plywood in the shape of the voids.
STEP 3 : APPLICATION OF PAINT
The strips of putty, made out of voids, were left exposed in their original state of white colour. The rest of the base, consisting of solid filling was painted black so as to highlight the white portions. This contrast brought out the final output.
Graphic Design - Print Making
12th Grade High school, India
As a part of an elective subject - Fine Arts class, in 12th grade I found myself passionate about Printmaking, a process of printing motifs or patterns onto a surface or by carving out surfaces, with the help of various tools, ink and pressure. Here are some of the selected works:
Relief Printmaking
A variety of materials are used to define the form, so as to give different textures and relief. All the materials used are stuck on a paper with simple glue, after which black printing ink is applied onto them. The frame is then printed onto the printing paper by the use of foam board and rollers in order to put pressure so that the ink transfers with interesting textures onto the printing paper. The concept behind the artwork is a paradox, showing a dolphin trapped inside an angler-fish contracting the reality of scale and proportions.
Etching
Using resin powder with Nitric acid as ground, this method allows creation of depth with patterns and shades using pointed tools to etch on metal zinc plate.
Intaglio printing
Printed in multi-layers using Resin Powder with Nitric Acid as the Ground. The base used was a metallic Zinc plate and the abstract patterns are engraved with sharp pointed tools. The piece of art is called ‘Tree of Life’ portraying how we, human beings always tend to go back to the roots from where we originally came into being.
