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ARCHITECTURE PORTFOLIO

VALERIA ZAMULA

TORRE

Reuse the Tower — Torre Rinalda

In collaboration with Anastasia Yakovets and Oleksandr Polikrovsky

Lecce, Apulia, Italy

Torre Rinalda, at first glance, exudes a sense of power and steadfastness, tempered by the passage of centuries. Yet, it also carries the lightness of a sea breeze under the golden rays of sunshine. Over time, nature became the true artist, carving new faces, cracks, and shapes into the tower. This place, completely at the mercy of the elements, now holds a timeless energy that we aim to share with everyone who touches the building.

The project seeks to fuse history with modernity, strength with elegance, sunlight with wind, and steadfastness with the ethereal lightness of the place. This balance is at the heart of the design. Beyond Torre Rinalda, this concept can inspire the renovation of other towers, ensuring each solution remains timeless and fresh, shaped by the unique character of every building.

The Evolution of Form

02 WORK BAM Hills

In collaboration with Robert Mytrychko and Halyna Syma Uzhgorod, Ukraine

This project comprises two- to threestory interconnected cottages thoughtfully situated on elevated terrain in the central part of the city, offering stunning views, enhanced privacy, and a harmonious blend of urban living with natural surroundings.

The project’s concept was inspired by the surrounding landscape, resulting in four distinct modules of varying sizes arranged cascadingly on the site. Each module features a private entrance area and a backyard with a terrace, surrounded by green spaces.

The first block, prominently facing the main road, serves as the focal point, hosting a charming restaurant and a spacious common area designed exclusively for the residents.

Surrounding the cottages, landscaped gardens and pathways wind through the terrain, enhancing the natural beauty and providing tranquil spaces for leisure and relaxation.

1. Residential building

2. Recreation area 3. Playground

Bike station

Parking 6. Outdoor terrace

Main entrance

Entance to the common area

The Evolution of Form

slope patio awning

gabion wall

glass railling terrace

facade paint

In this architectural project, the focus is on creating a residential environment that not only provides comfortable living spaces but also enhances the overall quality of life through well-integrated outdoor amenities.

Outdoor seating areas are strategically positioned to encourage social interaction and proper relaxation,offering residents great opportunity to connect with their neighbors in a casual and inviting setting.

Equally important are the playgrounds designed specifically for the youngest residents. These areas are carefully planned to ensure safety and enjoyment, providing children with spaces to play, explore, and develop physically and socially within a secure environment.

The design features separate levels for active and quiet zones to ensure distinct atmospheres without overlap, enhancing optimal living comfort for residents and community cohesion. These spaces are essential for promoting social interaction, physical activity, and fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among residents of all ages.

H

In collaboration with Robert Mytrychko, Halyna Syma, Nicole Anikina Uzhgorod, Ukraine

In this project, we began by working with an existing structure but reimagined its concept to align with the client’s desire for dynamic architecture consisting of multiple volumes.

The first striking feature upon entering the space is the open layout of the kitchen and living room, visually extending into the outdoors through panoramic windows. We also improved this part of the first floor with a double-height space, reaching 6 meters in ceiling height. The cantilever that separates the floors serves as a terrace for the second floor and a canopy for the first. Beneath it, there is a barbecue area with an outdoor jacuzzi.

On the second floor, three bedrooms are located: two guest rooms with access to the roof space above the garage, and a spacious master bedroom with a dressing room and terrace access. The elongated structure of the second floor forms a canopy over the entrance area.

Speaking of the facade, it showcases a meticulous blend of materials to achieve a modern aesthetic. Wooden cladding adds warmth and texture, juxtaposed against robust concrete columns that provide stability and structure. Metal sheets introduce a contemporary edge, contributing to the overall architectural dialogue between natural elements and industrial influences.

In essence, this project exemplifies our commitment to architectural innovation and client satisfaction. By reimagining existing structures and infusing them with dynamic elements such as multiple volumes, open layouts, and integrated outdoor spaces, we have created a living environment that is not only functional but also inspires a sense of modern luxury and connectivity with nature.

Construction work of this project has already commenced, with significant progress underway. Currently, the installation of the second floor is a focal point of the construction phase. This critical stage marks the realization of our design concepts into tangible form, as the framework and structure begin to take shape above ground level.

This phase of construction not only highlights the project’s advancement but also underscores our commitment to delivering a space that harmonizes with its surroundings and fulfills our client’s vision for dynamic, modern architecture. As work continues on site, we look forward to seeing the project evolve further, ultimately culminating in a residence that embodies innovation, functionality, and timeless design.

04 ACADEMIC WORK

VAN UZH

Uzhgorod, Ukraine

Incorporating this ethos into my thesis, I embarked on designing a cultural arts center aimed at nurturing fine arts and folk culture, responding to Ukraine’s resilient spirit in the face of adversity. Despite Ukraine’s rich cultural landscape boasting around 800 cultural centers in 2020, the devastating impacts of war have tragically destroyed more than half of these essential institutions.

Guided by historical maps and archival photographs, my vision for the center unfolds strategically across the site. This comprehensive design not only pays homage to Ukraine’s diverse cultural heritage but also aims to revitalize and safeguard its artistic traditions amidst the challenges of contemporary times.

By fostering a space where fine arts and folk culture converge, the center aspires to become a beacon of creativity and community. It stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of Ukrainian society to preserve its identity through the unifying power of creativity and art.

19th century buildings footbridge terrace pavilion waterfront river

North Elevation

East Elevation

The main design concept of the recreational area is to create a comfortable space for relaxation, communication, learning, and work, promoting social interaction.

Materials and color scheme of the interiors remain neutral, as do the finishes of the facades. Concrete and light tones are predominant. Walls are covered with decorative coatings mimicking natural concrete and wooden panels. The floor is made of microcement, and the ceiling material is polished concrete. Diverse planting adds natural freshness, creating a sense of coziness, tranquility, and energy.

A decorative lighting installation serves as a focal point in the interior, made of a thin metal frame and LED lamps. The structure is suspended from the ceiling with metal cables and serves as the main source of illumination. Pendant lights and spotlights are placed around the perimeter of the room and near the elevators in the vestibule.

Stainless Steel Wire Rope

Thin Metal Frame

LED Lamps

05 PRACTICE WORK PROJECT BRODY

Seattle, Washington

Design Principal: Tom Kundig

Located in a floating home community on Lake Union, north of downtown Seattle, Project Brody transforms an existing home into a contemporary retreat that embraces the unique charm of waterfront living.

Low to the water and modest in scale, the renovation creates a platform for engaging with the surrounding lake and its vibrant community. Featuring a refined material palette and expansive glazing, the design frames stunning 180-degree views of the lake, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Designed to harmonize with its setting, Project Brody provides a peaceful escape, emphasizing the interplay of light, reflection, and the sounds of the water, creating a tranquil and responsive living oasis.

The architecture of the house mirrors the calm expanse of the lake, with its horizontal lines seamlessly integrating the structure into its surroundings. A subtle and muted color palette allows the house to blend harmoniously with the natural environment, enhancing its understated presence. The wood’s organic texture, complements the sleek precision of the metal, resulting in a balanced and nuanced composition that speaks to both contemporary craftsmanship and the natural beauty of the setting.

View 1: View with Existing Building

View 1: View with Proposed Building

View 2: View with Proposed Building

View 2: View with Existing Building

1. Weathered Wood Siding

2. Black Painted Metal Panel

3. Dark Bonze Metal Mesh Guardrail

4. Kebony Decking

5. Interior Plywood wall paneling and Flooring

6. TK Hardware

7. Stainless Steel Black splash

8. Absolute Black Granite Steel panel

9. Interior Blackened Steel panel

10. Marmoleum flooring at Laundry and Gym

11. Calacatta Tucci Marble Slab at Vanity

12. Thassos Solid Surface

13. Daltile - Bathroom Wall and Floor Tiles

06 HANALEI RIVER HOUSE

Hawaii, USA

The Hanalei River House is a harmonious blend of modern design and island living, nestled within the scenic beauty of Princeville, Hawaii.

Designed to embrace its tropical surroundings, the home is situated on a 0.67-acre lot along Hanalei Plantation Road, and thoughtfully integrates into the existing landscape, which features coconut palms, mango trees, and lush native vegetation.

The architecture draws inspiration from Hawaii’s vernacular style, with clean lines, open floor plans, and a focus on natural ventilation and light. The residence includes carefully curated materials such as wood and stone to create a warm, inviting atmosphere while maintaining durability against the coastal environment.

This serene retreat provides a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, making it a celebration of the island’s unique environment and culture. through the unifying power of creativity and art.

07 ACADEMIC WORK

SOIMY RECREATION

Soimy, Ukraine

Drawing inspiration from my thesis research, I focused on creating a water-based recreational complex that merges leisure, health, and environmental stewardship.

Zakarpattia region, with its historical connection to wellness and natural resources, provided a compelling backdrop for a project that redefines the role of architecture in enhancing community life. While Ukraine has a longstanding tradition of recreational zones, contemporary demands call for innovative solutions to sustain and rejuvenate these spaces.

Rooted in the site’s natural features, including its mineral springs and diverse landscapes, the design embraces the land’s character, prioritizing ecological balance and user comfort. This approach not only integrates architectural functionality with nature but also aims to foster a deeper connection between visitors and their environment.

The project seeks to redefine recreational architecture as a cornerstone of sustainable development and regional vitality. By creating a space that celebrates both the local heritage and the intrinsic value of natural resources, the complex is envisioned as a landmark of renewal and thoughtful design.