/ Performing Art Institute in India
/ Boutique Shop at Della, (Alys Beach) Florida 03 / Santuary for Navy Seals, ( C4 Ranch), CA 04 / E-Sport Center in San Francisco
05 / Courtyard House in India
06 / Wall of Wildflower, Cafe Design
Course Thesis
Instructor Manish Bhatt
Project Type Academic/Institute
Site Kerala, India
Completed Spring 2020
Description
This project aims to establish a dedicated institute for developing and promoting various curated performing arts from southern India. It seeks to create an environment that not only supports these art forms but also caters to tourism in the region, particularly in Kerala. By integrating elements of vernacular architecture and considering the local context, this initiative will offer workshops, performances, and leisure activities, blending different trends in southern classical art forms. Through extensive case studies, it explores the built context, climatic responses, and spatial requirements to achieve this vision, ultimately contributing to the preservation and advancement of India’s rich performing arts heritage while enhancing the state’s tourism sector.
The architectural massing draws inspiration from Kerala’s vernacular, unifying four symmetrical blocks around a central, open-sky courtyard, creating an introspective yet interconnected layout. Traditional elements like courtyards, columns, water bodies, and sloping roofs are reimagined to shape a cohesive design that embodies cultural resonance and communal harmony.
Concept Statement
The design concept for this performing arts institute is a harmonious blend of tradition and functionality, encapsulating the essence of Southern India’s rich cultural tapestry. Anchored in the time-honored vernacular of Kerala’s architecture, it reinterprets classic elements like courtyards and sloping roofs to foster a dialogue between space, climate, and artistry. This philosophy prioritizes environmental responsiveness, cultural reverence, and adaptive use of space to promote learning and engagement with the performing arts, aiming to become a beacon of cultural tourism and a cradle for artistic growth.
Fig 1 Concept Images
Fig 2 Site Blocks
Fig 3 Site Planning Diagrams
4 Site Layout
5 Site Section A-A’
6 Site Section B-B’
Fig 7 Site Section C-C’ Legend
12 Academy Block 2 First Floor
13 Academy Block 2 Second Floor Fig 14 3D Academy Courtyard View Legend
Office Name Hart Howerton
Job Title Junior Designer
Site Location Florida, USA
Interior Lead Danielle Yuen
Description
This project embrace Alys Beach’s elegant and minimal aesthetic, featuring boutique-style merchandising and refined architectural details. Key elements includes textured pebble flooring with subtle patterns, cabinetry with square or stepped motifs and a play on light and shadow using white. Inspired by the courtyard and grid concept, the design incorporates palms and residential-quality lighting to enhance the serence atmosphere.
1. Lifestyle & Living at Alys Beach
2. Boutique Style Merchandising
3. Alys Beach Arch Detail
4. No Crown, Minimal Base
5. Textured Pebble Floor, Simple Pattern Mimicking the Repetition / Succession of Design Element
6. Incorporation the Square or Stepped Motif on Cabonet Millwork
7. Palms
8. Play on Light and Shadow using White (The Alys Logo)
9.Concept: Nod to the Courtyard, Grid
10. Residential Quality Lighting
WALL OF HATS, SCARVES, HEADWEAR, & JEWELRY
&
Office Name Hart Howerton
Job Title Junior Designer
Site Location Santa Ysabel, CA
Interior Lead Danielle Yuen
Description
The Mission was to Create a Look & Feel Throughout the Ranch, Including Landscape Design, Architecture, and Interior Design, that is Cohesive and Harmonious. The Overarching Concepts that Promote, Guide and Permeate Throughout each Design Decision Include the Following:
-Relaxed, Mountain Lifestyle
-Regional, Arrarian Aesthetics
-Timeless, Not Tredy
-Indoor / Outdoor Connection
-Encourage Exploration
-Create Memories Through Shared Experience
Interior Design Concept
The C4 Ranch is thoughtfully designed to be luxurious, but not precious. Like a high-end offroad vehicle, the exterior bears a utilitarian, form-follows-function aesthetic, clad in materials thatare durable and built to last. The interior cab is simple, intuitive, and straightforward, but tailored with materials fine to the touch: soft, supple leather; smooth, stained solid wood; and polished steel. Aspiring to be like the SEALs themselves, every detail is considered, every scenario anticipated.
Course Design Studio ll
Instructor Scott Kress
Project Type Academic/Commercial
Site San Francisco, CA
Completed Fall 2022
Description
The Academy of Art University and its Game Development program are collaborating to establish an e-sports competition arena within their existing gaming development campus. This venue will include a spectator area, live web event broadcasting
seamlessly integrate with the vibrant urban surroundings.
Concept Statement
This design concept envisions a cafe nestled in a serene countryside setting, where nature takes center stage. The core idea is to provide visitors with not just a place to enjoy delicious comfort food made fresh in-house but also a space that nurtures a deep sense of well-being. The design philosophy revolves around natural and neutral elements, employing a soft color palette, rich textures, and textiles to create a warm and inviting ambiance. The use of soft, ambient lighting further enhances the atmosphere, offering a sense of relaxation and serenity. This cafe design transcends traditional dining, becoming a sanctuary for individuals seeking solace and reconnection with nature, emphasizing the importance of a calming and soothing environment.
Legend
Fig 54 Concept Images
Fig 55 Interior Conceptual Sketches
Fig 56 Bubble Diagrams
Fig 60 FF&E
Fig 61 Interior Material
Fig 62 Overall Moodboard Legend
Job Description
As an Architectural Intern, my role was to orchestrate spatial design, aligning the architectural vision with functional and aesthetic objectives. actively engaged in schematic design, space planning, and detailed elevation studies, while rigorously adhering to local building codes. Under the principal architect’s guidance, honed my craft, contributing to the creation of spaces that were not only visually compelling but also resonated with the community’s cultural and environmental ethos.
Situated in Vadodara, India, the bungalow emerges as a modern interpretation of Kerala’s architectural heritage, blended seamlessly with contemporary design principles. At its heart lies the ethos of tropical modernism, manifesting in expansive openings and an intimate connection with nature. This residence is a dialogue between openness and privacy, where spacious courtyards echo tradition, and the integration of custom furniture and curated art reflect a modern Indian aesthetic. Materiality and color are meticulously chosen to complement the architectural narrative, creating a cohesive and serene living environment.
Course IAD_612 Material Use
Instructor Archibold Woo
Project Type Commercial
Site California
Completed Fall 2022
Description
The proposed cafe project is set in a picturesque countryside location, offering an idyllic retreat for urban dwellers and nature enthusiasts alike. Beyond the delightful comfort food served within, the cafe also functions as a space for tranquil contemplation and creative expression. It will feature a small flower nursery, carefully curated with unique blooms sourced from a local flower farm, underscoring the cafe’s connection to the natural world. This floral integration goes beyond aesthetics, as it invites visitors to engage with the earth by trying their hand at farming. Additionally, the cafe will host pottery workshops every weekend, fostering a sense of community and artistic exploration. In summary, this project promises an all-encompassing experience, harmonizing comfort, calmness, and creativity in a setting that feels like a welcoming and familiar haven.
Concept Statement
This design concept envisions a cafe nestled in a serene countryside setting, where nature takes center stage. The core idea is to provide visitors with not just a place to enjoy delicious comfort food made fresh in-house but also a space that nurtures a deep sense of well-being. The design philosophy revolves around natural and neutral elements, employing a soft color palette, rich textures, and textiles to create a warm and inviting ambiance. The use of soft, ambient lighting further enhances the atmosphere, offering a sense of relaxation and serenity. This cafe design transcends traditional dining, becoming a sanctuary for individuals seeking solace and reconnection with nature, emphasizing the importance of a calming and soothing environment.
I would like to express my profound gratitude to the institutions that have shaped my journey - my undergraduate and graduate schools in San Francisco, California, and Gujarat, India. The American education system ignited my dream of becoming a designer and propelled my career forward.
A special thank you to my professors, instructors, classmates, and friends for your invaluable support, both directly and indirectly, in my projects. Your belief in me reinforced my self-confidence, especially when saw hope reflected in your eyes.
I am also immensely grateful to my past and current employers and coworkers. Your guidance has been pivotal in shaping my work ethics and professionalism.
To my loving family in India, My parents and brother, your unwavering faith in my talent and future has been my stronghold. Your efforts to support me, both in India and abroad, have been a cornerstone of my success.
I am blessed to have each one of you in my life. You have all played a significant role in my growth and achievements. Inspired by your support and love, am committed to being a force for positive change and making the world a better place.
