YASH ROCHANI
SENIOR ARCHITECT/ DESIGN COORDINATOR
B.ARCH (BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE)
NATIONALITY: Indian
DATE OF BIRTH: 2nd Feb, 2000
Dubai, UAE
+971 56 241 8809
yashrochani@yahoo.com
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch)
American University in Dubai
Magna Cum Laude (CGPA: 3.73) September 2016 - April 2021
High School (IGCSE)
Dubai Gem Private School Upto June 2016
SOFTWARE SKILLS
As a NAAB-accredited architect, I am a former graduate of the American University in Dubai, where I cultivated a robust foundation in architecture, planning, and development. Having been born and raised in Dubai, I have developed a deep understanding of the region’s architectural development. My passion for architecture is complemented by a strong interest in parametricism, computational design, and generative modeling, enabling me to provide tailored, data-driven architectural solutions with a clear grasp of design concepts. I possess proficient, hands-on skills in a variety of architectural software, ensuring my work consistently meets current design standards. As a self-motivated and creative professional, I am dedicated to continuously enhancing my design skills and expanding my experience.
WORK EXPERIENCE
VX Studio
Architect / BIM Architect
ABOUT ME ACHIEVEMENTS
- Led schematic & detailed design development stages alongside a team of 10 members.
- Coordinated design processes and facilitated cross-disciplinary collaboration through platforms such as BIM360.
- Proactively engaged & interacted with all stakeholders to fulfill client requirements and maintained effective liaison with all disciplines.
- Executed advanced BIM modeling on softwares like Revit and utilized computational design strategies with the help of plug-ins like Dynamo.
- Implemented coordination processes & techniques to ensure smooth workflows.
- Delivered comprehensive detailed design documentation and development adhering to project milestones & timelines.
- Successfully delivered key projects including:
• Baccarat Hotel & Branded Residences - Diriyah Gate, KSA; Corinthia Hotel & Branded Residences - Diriyah Gate, KSA.
Aedas
Architectural Assistant - Level 1 (Intern)
- Worked closely with Principal Architect to develop conceptual & schematic designs.
- Produced detailed digital models & diagrams in Rhino as part of design team.
- Carried out simulations & analysis through tools like Grasshopper & Ladybug to resolve technical design issues.
- Coordinated with fabrication team to ensure realization of physical models, and ensuring they are in line with the digital design.
- Assisted to produce 3D & 4D graphical models using AR platforms.
- Assisted on projects such as:
SLS Hotel & Residences - Dubai, UAE
VISA CEMEA Headquarters - Dubai, UAE
GAJ
Architectural Intern
- Collaborated with Lead Architect and coordinated with design team.
- Contributed to design and drafting processes; including prototyping.
- Executed digital modeling and design visualization
Innovative Design Award: Senior Showcase
Thesis Project: Vertical Voids
Published in Dezeen Magazine - June 2021 publication
2nd Place: Three-Day Design Challenge
Residential Community Project: The Hub
To whom it may concern
I am writing to offer my highest recommendation for Yash Rochani, who was one of my most outstanding students during the 2019 and 2021 academic years. Yash took several courses under my supervision, including two studio courses—ARCH 301 (Architecture and Theories) and ARCH 402 (Advanced Architectural Design)—as well as a course on Materials and Methods of Construction (ARCH 211). Throughout our time together, Yash consistently demonstrated a profound passion for architecture, exceptional design skills, and a commitment to excellence, all of which set him apart as one of the most talented students in the program.
ACADEMIC REFERENCE
In ARCH 301, Yash demonstrated a remarkable ability to grasp foundational theoretical concepts in architectural design. He approached each project with creativity, precision, and a keen eye for detail. His ability to balance aesthetic appeal with functionality was particularly impressive, ensuring his designs were not only visually striking but also practical and thoughtfully executed. Yash approached every assignment with enthusiasm and actively engaged in meaningful discussions, both philosophical and conceptual, demonstrating an open‐minded approach to problem‐solving.
As the studio progressed to more advanced levels in ARCH 402, Yash continued to excel. His ability to tackle complex architectural challenges, think critically, and clearly communicate his ideas set him apart from his peers. He showed an exceptional command of both digital and hand‐drawing techniques, utilizing architectural software with proficiency to develop and present his designs. Furthermore, his work consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the cultural, environmental, and social implications of architecture, which will undoubtedly serve him well in his future career.
In addition to his technical expertise, Yash is an outstanding team player and a natural leader. He often took on the role of a peer mentor, helping others in the studio and fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual support. His positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to think critically under pressure made him an invaluable asset to the class and a leader within the cohort.
I am confident that Yash will continue to thrive in any professional or academic endeavour he chooses to pursue. His passion for architecture, combined with his technical skills and commitment to excellence, will undoubtedly make him an outstanding architect. I wholeheartedly recommend Yash without reservation for any opportunity he is seeking, and I am certain he will make significant contributions to the field.
Please feel free to contact me at rada.yaiche@gmail.com if you require any further information.
Ghada Yaiche Assistant professor of Architecture
Date: 28th of March 2025
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
It is my pleasure to strongly recommend Mr. Yash Rochani for admission into Architectural Design (M.Arch) at The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL.
My name is Irma Coello, and I am the Executive Director at VX Studio in Dubai. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed architect, specializing in Reinforced Concrete Structures and holding a PhD officially registered in 2012, I have had the privilege of teaching at the master’s level at Universidad Europea de Madrid (UEM) and as a guest professor at La Villette in Paris and Tongji University in Shanghai.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Yash since 2021, during which time he has proven himself to be one of my most outstanding team members. Throughout our time together, I have been consistently impressed by his commitment to continuous learning, emotional maturity, intellect, enthusiasm, and strong sense of self-demand. His ability to set high standards for himself has earned my utmost respect and admiration.
Despite his youth, Yash has shown remarkable maturity in his approach to architecture. He possesses a deep understanding of the entire design process, from Concept and Schematic Design to Detailed Design, and has successfully navigated the pressures that often come with tight deadlines and complex project requirements. His ability to remain composed and produce high-quality work under pressure speaks volumes about his capabilities.
Yash is also highly respected by his colleagues, not only for the quality of his work but also for his generosity in helping others. He is exceptionally organized, diligent with his responsibilities, always punctual, and maintains a professional attitude in all situations. His approachable nature and willingness to assist others make him a valued member of the team.
While his departure is a significant loss for my team, I am confident that Yash will thrive at The Bartlett, UCL and contribute positively to your academic community. I wholeheartedly recommend him for admission and sincerely hope you will consider him for a place in your program. Should you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time.
Sincerely,
Irma Coello Executive Director VX Studio Dubai
irma.c@vxstudio.com
+971 52 554 3758
CONTENT
ACADEMIC PROJECTS
FRACTURED - AL GHUBAIBA, DUBAI CREEK
VERTICAL VOIDS - DUBAI MARINA
IMMERGED TRILOGY - EXPO CITY, DUBAI
MOBIUS - SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
PROFESSIONAL PROJECTS
WEST CLIFF - QIDDIYA, KSA
BACCARAT - DIRIYAH, KSA
WALDORF ASTORIA - BUSINESS BAY
ONE CANAL - DUBAI CANAL, AL SAFA
INTERDISCIPLINARY PROJECTS
FORE GROUND - GRASSHOPPER
MODEL MAKING - ABSTRACT STUDY
GYFOLD - FUSION WITH CULINARY ARTS
STUDIO VIII - 2020 STUDIO X - 2021
STUDIO VI - 2019 STUDIO V - 2018
VX - 2022
VX - 2021
VX - 2023
VX - 2021
GRASSHOPPER - 2019
ABSTRACT STUDY - 2017
PASTRY ART - 2018
2017-2025
© Yash Rochani
PROJECTS
FRACTURED 1
OFFICE & COWORK SPACES - COMMERCIAL
The project aims at designing the neighbourhood’s first co-working space and business hub with multiple office configurations, alongside the busy promenade of Dubai Creek. The Creek Promenade; situated in the old district of Al Fuhaidi, is home to several traditional structures that reflect Emirati hertiage; posessing an impactful cultural & historical character that is popular amongst several pedestrians. Fractured is a concept developed on the basis or constraints of the site; whereby, the busy/ active promenade is secluded from the urban fabric behind it; therefore, isolating the two spaces. By splitting the project in between, we allow visitors to discover the entire neighborhood; while creating a continuous journey from the Creek, through the building, and into the commercial street behind it.
BASEMENT 01 FLOOR PLAN
MASS P 1:500
LEVEL 02 FLOOR PLAN
SECTION BB
SECTION AA
BOH DETAILS - WASHROOM
BOH DETAILS - LIFT / ELEVATOR
VERTICAL VOIDS 2
REIMAGINING DUBAI’S SKYLINE
Dubai has rapidly expanded its architectural footprint over a short period, leading to a transformation in its topographic scheme from something flat to a skyline filled with high-rise towers. This transformation has distanced its people, both horizontally and vertically. Vertical Voids is an approach to urban design project which tries to change the point-of-view of looking at the city and takes a new approach towards architecture, whereby these tall superstructures are now considered the new topography of Dubai. The design of the site aims at taking a radical approach, by studying the voids between the skyline of Dubai’s architecture and following it’s tradition of building vertically into the sky. This is done by creating a floating development within the current urban fabric; interconnecting and sufficing around the existing buildings; keeping the existing urban tissue intact, while adding or further densifying its neighbourhoods.
EXISTING VS PROPOSED CONDITIONS
VIEW AT GRADE LEVEL - INFILL BETWEEN EXISTING TOWERS
FUNCTION DIAGRAM
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
DETAIL SECTION
RECREATIONAL FLOOR PLAN
RECREATIONAL FLOOR PLAN
APPROACH FROM NEIGHBOURING BUILDINGS
APPROACH FROM SKY BRIDGE
LIBRARY & EDUCATION CENETER - EXPO
The project is a propsal for the Education pavillion located in the heart of Expo 2020; alongside Al Wasl Dome. Immerged Triology is a concept developed on the fundemental theme of the three pillars or ideologies of Expo 2020; ie. mobility, sustainability & opportunity, which is also evident in the design of the masterplan. Following the same principles, a volume has been developed clearly identifying the three pillars of education. The project features an interplay of submerged versus extruded spaces throughout the development, creating a homogenous flow of movement amongst ground, lower and roof level. The volume also hosts a central courtyard connecting the 3 volumes together; creating a semi-public space at lower level for visitors to host gatherings & talks.
IMMERGED TRIOLOGY 3
MASS PLAN - CULTURE PLAZA
Triangular volume
DESIGN PROCESS
Subtracting volume to create courtyard
Dividing volume to 3 spaces
Shifting volume to create access
Pulling volume to create level
KEY DIAGRAMS
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation
Extruding edges to create an interplay of roof levels
Back of House vs Front of House
Access to project through lower level
Areas of sunlight within volume
APPROACH FROM WASL DOME
INTERNAL VIEW AT LOWER LEVEL - ACCESS TO COURTYARD AT LOWER LEVEL
COURTYARD FORMED - DUE TO VOLUMES SUBMERGED & SURROUNDING FROM ALL DIRECTIONS
MOBIUS 4
TESLA SHOWROOM
The project aims at designing the first Tesla MotorsHeadquarters in the Middle East, alongside the primary highway of Dubai; Sheikh Zayed Rd. Mobius is a concept developed on the basis of a mobius strip; a continuous loop where the start and end points remain same. This allows visitors to discover the entire space while creating an endless journey, similar to driving around in a loop. The project features an interplay of various ramps throught the structure, helping to create a continuous flow of movement among different levels. The volume hosts several functions throughout the strip, from car displays, service bays; to office spaces.
SITE PLAN
3D PRINTED MODEL - FACADE/ SHELL FABRICATED MODEL - FLOORPLATE
APPROACH FROM FILTER ROAD TO SERVICE AREEA
CROSS SECTION
SOUTH-WEST ELEVATION
LONGITUDINAL SECTION
SOUTH-EAST ELEVATION
PROFESSIONAL
PROFESSIONAL
PROJECTS
LUXURY HOTEL & BRANDED RESIDENCES
This project is situated at the doorstep of the largest upcoming playground destination in the world - Qiddiya. The proposed towers sit right on the crescent shaped cliff edge of Qiddiya; and are therefore, oriented to provide the best views across the impressive landscape. The design is driven by the site’s relationship with both the resort core below and the uptown masterplan to the East. The stunning local geomorphology is the inspiration for the shape of the slender and elegant towers which hosts several amenities along the 4 towers. The scope consists of 2 independant projects; South Gondola & Ultra Luxury, consisting of 2 towers each (4 total). Each project comprises of one tower hosting a Hotel and the second tower occupying Serviced Apartments & Branded Residences.
WEST CLIFF - QIDDIYA 5
MASSING INSPIRATION & DEVELOPMENT
Qiddiya West Cliff Hotels
South Gondola
Qiddiya West Cliff Hotels
ZONING / FUNCTION - ULTRA LUXURY
ZONING / FUNCTION - SOUTH GONDOLA
MASSING DEVELOPMENT TOWERS ALIGNED FOR BEST VIEWS
DIGITAL MODEL TO ANALYSE MAXIMUM HEIGHTS
Qiddiya
BIRD EYE VIEW: V-SHAPED TOWERS WITH MAXIMUM VIEWS TO ROOMS
MASSING DEVELOPMENT TERRACED LANDSCAPE CONTINUES INTO PLOT
26 QC00918004-VXS-REP-DSR-ARC-WCP-Z00-00001 [0A]
CONTEXTUAL RELATION: HIGH-RISE TOWERS OVERLOOKING WEST CLIFF
SOUTH GONDOLA
BACCARAT - DIRIYAH 6
LUXURY HOTEL & BRANDED RESIDENCES
The project enriches the traditional cultural site of Diriyah Square by proposing a new 5* Hotel & Branded Residences development at the heart of Diriyah Gate, Riyadh. The architectural style & design principles are in line & represent the culture, history & geology of Riyadh. The overall form & external volumes are defined by the local traditional Najdi style; such as elements like courtyards, sikkats, fenestrations, crenellations & barahats. The project features 86 keys within the Hotel & 10 luxurious duplex residences with private garden & terraces. The volume hosts several amenities throughout the hotel from retail shopfronts, restaurants, library lounge, gym, spa, pools, and other facilities.
AERIAL VIEW OF BACCARAT DEVELOPMENT IN DIRIYAH SQUARE
ALL DAY DINING COURTYARD
APPROACH FROM LUX STREET TO RETAIL SHOPFRONTS
FACADE DETAILS
CCF-50FALSE CEILING BY
EXF-01ADOBE MUD RENDER FINISH
EXF-02RIYADH LIMESTONE PLINTH
EXF-03LIME CEMENT RENDER FINISH
EXF-04PRECAST CONCRETE CRENELLATIONS IN LIME CEMENT RENDER FINISH.
EXF-07DECORATIVE FRIEZE-TRIANGULAR PATTERNS IN ADOBE MUD RENDER FINISH
EXF-12CANOPY IN TIMBER CLAD OR IN ATHEL WOOD FRAMES
EXF-18PRECAST COLUMNS + CAPITAL IN WHITE LIME-CEMENT RENDER FINISH
FFIN-50FLOOR FINISH REFER TO I.D. DWGS. AND SPECS.
FFIN-70FLOOR FINISH AS PER FINISHES SCHEDULE
FFIN-80FLOOR FINISH REFER TO LANDSCAPE DWGS. AND SPECS.
FLF-19ROOFING SYSTEM - (CONCRETE PAVERS - WITH SRI=
GEN-03SOFT AND HARDSCAPE SURFACES, REFER TO LANDSCAPE DETAILS AND SPECS.
GEN-52LANDSCAPING, ROADS AND PAVINGS (NOT IN SCOPE) REFER TO PACKAGE-3
GEN-54PLANTERS: REFER TO LANDSCAPE DWGS DETAILS STR-02STRUCTURAL
FACADE DETAILS
BRANDED RESIDENCES 01 - BIRD EYE VIEW
APPROACH TO BRANDED RESIDENCE - MOTOR COURT
LIVING AREA - TYPICAL UNIT
WALDORF ASTORIA
BRANDED LUXURY
APARTMENTS
The project aims at designing the first-ever standalone Waldorf Astoria residential address outside United States; providing world-class luxury residential lifestyle experience in the heart of Downtown Dubai. The G+65 skyscraper visions to be the tallest single-fuction: residential tower in Business Bay district; setting an impressive total structural height of 350meters. The high-rise tower provides panaromic views to the Gulf, Burj Khalifa and Wildlife Sanctuary from all 146 units. The project features an interplay of various individual lift lobbies, creating exclusivity & privacy for each unit. The structure hosts several functions throughout the building, including retail, fitness center, spa, infinity pool deck & F&B outlets.
CONCEPT DIAGRAM - MODULAR STUDY
CREATE STRUCTURAL GRID
GENERATE MODULES: PROTOTYPE B (30sqm) 3. SIMPLIFY CORE TO CREATE MODULES
1. USABLE FLOORPLATE (670sqm) 4. GENERATE MODULES: PROTOTYPE A (105sqm)
2.
UNIT TYPES - MODULE DISTRIBUTION STUDY FLOORPLATE VARIATIONS
2BHK - Modules: 1A + 3B
3BHK - Modules: 2A + 2B
4BHK - Modules: 4A + 6B
TOWNHOUSE - Modules: 1A + 3B on each level
SKY VILLA - Modules: 2A + 2B on each level
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN CONTEXT
PROPOSED VERTICAL DISTRIBUTION OF UNIT TYPES
05TYPE 02 LEVEL 11TYPE 01B (LL)
33TYPE 01A (PD)
343.00 m TOTAL BUILDING HEIGHT (from Asphalt level-DDA)
2.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
RESIDENCES - LUXURY APARTMENTS
ONE CANAL RESIDENCES | AL SAFA PARK
SCHEMATIC DESIGN | 16.03.2023
40
The project is an ultra-luxury residential building by AHS Properties with only 24 exclusive penthouses & sky villas overlooking the skyline of Dubai. The stunning G+9 development is situated in Safa Park, alongside the primary banks of Dubai Canal. The building’s design is characterised by various forms of nature, including pockets of greenery in the facade inspired by Safa Park, the curved elevations inspired by waves of Dubai Canal, and the curved floorplates hosting each unit pool drawn by the water body of the canal. The amenities comprise of screening room, cigar lounge, fitness studio, spa, and indoor swimming pool with pool lounge.
ONE CANAL - AHA 9
AFFECTION PLAN
PEDESTRIANWALKWAY
ADJACENT PLOT
OPEN SIDE
DOUBLE HEIGHTED LAYOUTS ALLOWING FOR ARTICULATION WITHIN TERRACES
VIEW OF THE DUBAI SKYLINE FROM THE LIVING ROOM
BALCONY FACIA TO REPLICATE WAVES - INSPIRED BY THE CANAL
PRIVATE POOL WITHIN EACH UNIT - OVERLOOKING THE CANAL
FACADE
INTERDISCIPLINARY
INTERDISCIPLINARY PROJECTS
FORE GROUND 10
PARAMETRIC DESIGN STUDY
Fore-Ground is an urban design project which tries to change the point-of-view of looking at the city and takes a new approach towards architecture, whereby these tall superstructures are now considered the new topography of Dubai. The design of the site aims at taking a radical approach, by studying the voids between the skyline of Dubai’s architecture and following it’s tradition of building vertically into the sky. This project has been designed using Grasshopper to create a parametric development that is able to adapt and respond according to the dynamic requirements of the site, by taking into consideration several parameters.
CONDITIONS & CONSTRAINTS
A Plot:
a A minimum offset of 30 must be created to allow a sufficient gap allowing view,
b A maximum offset of 80 must be created to keep the plot boundaries inside the
CONDITIONS & CONSTRAINTS
1. PLOT & SETBACK
a. A minimum offset of 30 must be created to allow a sufficient gap allowing view, ventilation and light.
b. A maximum offset of 80 must be created to keep the plot boundaries inside the initial boundary.
B Heights:
2. LOCATION & VIEWS
a Studying individual building height our proposal
In addition, we used the component Galapagos to retrieve the placement of buildings while allowing the existing buildings to retain the maximum viewable areas of those structures
The algorithm will consider the heig ng to the given in appropriate height to fill the voids a uilding around i
B. Heights:
To retrieve the placement of buildings while allowing the existing buildings to retain the maximum viewable areas of those structures.
3. HEIGHTS
a Studying individual building height our proposal
The algorithm will consider the hei ng to the given i appropriate height to fill the voids building around
Once the points and location of the buildings are allocated, we used the plugin Stella to stimulate the path of stars by creating vectors connecting from these points to fill the voids between the buildings
Studying individual building heights to define the level of height of our proposal. The algorithm will consider the height of each building and according to the given information will place the project in appropriate height to fill the voids and have a connection with the building around it.
C. Urban Connection
a Zero disruption to the existing the conne
C Urban Connection
Next, we used the plugin Dendro to give volume to the linear data that we made and at the end made a mesh that could be used to make the form of the project
4. URBAN CONNECTION
a Zero disruption to the existing roads and city urban fabric, while creating the conne
Zero disruption to the existing roads and city urban fabric, while creating the connections.
5. MASS & VOID
Gathering data on the figure/ground to understand and limit areas of buildable plots around and above the existing fabric.
DESIGN PROCESS
a parametric dev requirements of th eading to a with high-rise tically w of looking ll superstrucsite aims at ai’s architecic; intercontissue intact, ervation and g g g g p g g
Dubai has rapidly expanded its architectural footprint over a short period leading to a transformation in its topographic scheme from something flat to a skyline filled with high-rise towers This transformation has distanced its people both horizontally and vertically Fore-Ground is an urban design project which tries to change the point-of-view of looking at the city and takes a new approach towards architecture, whereby these tall superstructures are now considered the new topography of Dubai The design of the site aims at taking a radical approach, by studying the voids between the skyline of Dubai’s architecture and following it’s tradition of building vertically into the sky
adding or further densifying its neighbourhoods. This approach of preservation and ion is exactly what makes our design radical roject has been designed using Grasshopper to create a parametric development s able to adapt and respond according to the dynamic requirements of the site, by g into consideration sev
This is done by creating a floating development within the current urban fabric; interconnecting and sufficing around the existing buildings; keeping the existing urban tissue intact while adding or further densifying its neighbourhoods This approach of preservation and addition is exactly what makes our design radical
eading to a with high-rise tically w of looking ll superstrucsite aims at ai’s architecic; intercontissue intact, ervation and ctur from d its
SECTIONAL DIAGRAM
EXPERIMENTAL 11 MODEL MAKING EXERCISE
The following exercise is a pre-concept design methodology to experiment, test, & study various geometries & volumes. This helps analyze different aspects of the design stage; including volume, envelope, form, structure, & facade. This study was carried out using 5 main principles; addition, subtraction, deformation, folding, & extruding. The following principles were used to develop 100 variations of a simple cuboid volume; allowing us to understand the infinite possibilities of design through just 5 principles.
GYFOLD 12
INTERDISCIPLINARY FUSION
The following project is a take on the fusion of two separate industries; which brings together the art of culinary through architecture. The aim of the study included using digital modeling tools & fabrication techniques commonly used in architecture to develop an interdisciplinary usecase; such as baking or chocolate making. Gyfold is a concept inspired from 2 such architectural fundaments of Scaffolding and a Gyroid. Traditionally, chocolate due to its brittle nature is molded in 2D bars; however, by using a mathematical shape such as Gyroid allows for endless possibilities for sculptural exploration while holding its integrity. Additionally, a sugar coated grid lattice structure is used to replicate a Scaffold; which is used to plate the chocolate gyroid surface.
IDEOLOGIES
DIGITAL DESIGN
1. Create PolyLines & Patch Surface
3. Form a cubic unit cell - Gyroids 4. Fabricate Cubic Grid for plating 5. Assemble Gyroid within Grid
2. Duplicate & Rotate - Repeat 8 times in each direction
FINAL OUTCOME - CHOCOLATE GYROID PLATED ON SUGAR CANDY GRID
SCRIPT
CHOCOLATE MAKING PROCESS
Mix ingredients for chocolate batter
Melt edges and attach all gyroids
Dip into strawberry & white chocolate
Pour batter on mold & freeze
Trim & fill edges for a smooth surface Spray droplets of strawberry chocolate
Milk chocolate Gyroid - Cubic unit cell Plate edible gyroid onto the grid
