HELLO, IT’S NICE MEETING YOU!
I am a third year student at the University of Waterloo’s School of Architecture and I’m currently looking for a 4-month co-op placement.
My true passion lies in community driven design that creates meaningful change in neighborhoods and cities though urban design, and landscape architecture. I am driven by the desire to create meaningful and positive changes within our cities.
My previous experience working as a planning and urban design intern has helped me develop a strong understanding of what a successful urban environment looks, like however I have so much more to learn. I hope to pursue my passions in a job that helps me further develop my knowledge in an engaging and inspiring environment.
CONTACT
(416) 910 - 8429 jstepany@uwaterloo.ca
CURRICULUM VITAE
SKILLS
Exceptional Graphic Skills
Great Written and Verbal Communication
Detail Oriented
Strong Design Capabilities
Model Making
DIGITAL SKILLS
Rhino
AutoCAD
SketchUp
Enscape
Adobe Creative Suite
Model Making
EDUCATION
3D Modeling Laser Cutting Grasshopper Photography Twinmotion Laser Cutting
High-school Diploma 2017-2021
Innisdale Secondary School
Candidate for Bachelor of Architecture
2021-Present
University of Waterloo
AWARDS
Award of Academic Excellence
2017-2021
Innisdale Secondary School
Digital Media Arts Award
2021
Innisdale Secondary School
President’s Scholarship of Distinction
2021
University of Waterloo
References Available Upon Request
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Orientation Leader
University of Waterloo | 2022
Planned and coordinated UW’s Architecture School’s orientation program.
Provided insight and motivation for struggling students.
Fostered a safe and welcoming environment for students stressed about their future at Waterloo.
Interior Design Kaleidoscope Indoor Playground | 2019
Collaborated in the design of a community indoor playground and children’s event space.
Decorated the space by painting and decorating the walls.
Provided my community with an inviting play-space.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Planning Intern
Better Neighbourhoods Inc. | 2023
Contributed to the creation of design packages by producing compelling renderings to effectively persuade clients of our design proposals.
Collaborated in the development of planning justification reports to successfully persuade city council members to grant project approvals.
Crafted aesthetically pleasing plans to showcase innovative design concepts.
Conducted comprehensive research to gather relevant information for prospective projects.
Documented and consolidated the company’s drafting process, ensuring comprehensive and accessible reference materials for efficient workflow. Oversaw the organization and maintenance of the company’s filing system.
Urban Design Intern
O2 Planning & Design | 2023
Contributed to the creation of project and initiative proposals by producing compelling renderings, graphics, and presentation panels to effectively persuade neighborhood and city committees.
Contributed to concept development of projects by creating building facades and modeling landscapes.
Collaborated in the development of concept plans for developments. Conducted comprehensive research to gather relevant information on materiality for prospective projects.
Contributed to the design of company merchandise.
510–255 17 Avenue SW
Calgary, AB T2S 2T8
403.228.1336
o2design.com
February 28, 2024
Subject: Reference letter for Yev Stepanyuk
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Yev Stepanyuk as a candidate in the field of urban design. Yev joined our team as an intern as part of the work practicum program from the University of Waterloo, where she is currently pursuing her studies in architecture. Throughout her time with us, Yev displayed outstanding professionalism, dedication, and talent.
Yev consistently met or exceeded expectations. Her contributions to our projects were marked by her attention to detail, creative problem-solving skills, and an eye for design
Yev exhibited a remarkable aptitude for responding to direction. Her ability to take in feedback and implement changes accordingly showcased her commitment to continuous improvement and personal growth. It is evident that she possesses a genuine passion for urban design and architecture, and her dedication to honing her skills was evident.
As Yev continues to pursue her academic and professional endeavors, I have no doubt that she will make positive contributions to the field of urban design. I am confident that her talents, combined with her disposition and work ethic, will pave the way for a bright and successful future in the industry.
I would encourage you to consider Yev Stepanyuk for any opportunities or positions within your organization. She is a highly motivated individual with a lot of potential, and I believe that she would be an asset to any team. If you require any further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Nicholas Dykstra Urban Designer, Senior Associate 587.227.7482
nicholas.dykstra@o2design.com
CONTENTS CAMBRIDGE COMMONS RIVER ST SANCTUARY WILLIS POINT OASIS TRIP TO THE LODGE RAIL TRAIL REST STOP PROFESSIONAL WORKS 8-15 16-21 22-27 28-35 36-43 44-49
CAMBRIDGE COMMONS
December 2022 |
2A Design Studio
Rhino | Enscape | Photoshop | Illustrator
Cambridge Commons is an intimate infill project in the heart of downtown Cambridge. Designed as a transition home for struggling women, children, and young families, it focuses on the experience of moving through the shifting common spaces within the building, each with varying degrees of privacy, flexibility, and programs. These spaces, inspired by “Khrushchyovkas” (also known as “Commie Blocs”) which are built around generous courtyards with numerous programmed and public amenities, aim to offer the tenant the opportunity to connect to their community, both within the apartment’s walls and beyond.
Located on Dickson Street, the building neighbors the Young Women’s Christian Association headquarters. This nonprofit organization provides accommodation for women and children, as well as daycare services, youth engagement initiatives, public events, and more.
8
9
Context Map
Homeless Shelters
Daycare Services
Cambridge Commons/YWCA
Programing Strategy
Taking a critical look at the services offered for women and children as well as unhoused persons it is clear to see that the downtown Galt core is severely lacking in resources. After assessing the limited programs offered within the existing services it became clear that working with the neighboring YWCA office and providing space for their services with immediate access to transitional housing was the most practical strategy.
Morphology Strategy
The “Commie Bloc” Courtyard is a vibrant urban oasis that thrives in the heart of a typical Soviet social housing complex, designed to foster a sense of community. The spacious central courtyard features gardens, shaded seating areas, and communal spaces that encourage social interaction. Residents can gather for picnics, playtime, or cultural events, promoting a strong sense of community. The amenities provided include shared gardens and playgrounds, as well as on-site amenities such as convenience stores, grocers, and even healthcare clinics, offering a wide array of services close to home. These conveniences make life more comfortable and connected, promoting a balanced lifestyle, where residents can easily access every day essentials and enjoy a sense of strong community.
Cambridge Commons is designed to emulate the community-centric model of the “Commie Bloc” courtyard by centralizing all living units around three interconnected public and semi-public spaces. These shared spaces serve as vibrant hubs for social interaction, relaxation, and convenience, providing amenities comparable to the “Commie Block”. Residents can gather in the courtyards, play with their children in the parkette, and host a variety of communal events in the public atrium. Additionally, convenient on-site amenities such as a daycare, café, and counseling services are strategically located within these spaces.
10
11
“Commie Bloc” Courtyard
Cambridge Commons Courtyard
Green spaces and rooftop garden connect residents to the surrounding ecological milieu.
Daycare program assists women and young families in their transition to a more secure lifestyle
12
Public counseling services support residents during their transition to a secure lifestyle
Flexible spaces allow the residents opportunities to engage with the Cambridge community
13
Public Spaces
Common Spaces
Supportive Spaces
Private Spaces
14
Flexible Studio Unit
This adaptable studio apartment provides a spacious and open living area, ideal for women and children looking to establish a secure lifestyle within this tight-knit community. With a private balcony and simple design it offers versatility and comfort, allowing residents to tailor the space to their specific needs and preferences.
Flexible 2 Bed Unit
This two-bedroom unit offers a comfortable living space for young families or women and children seeking a bit more room. It features two cozy bedrooms and a generous and living area with direct views to the buildings public spaces and amenities. The unit is designed for convenience and flexibility, providing a welcoming environment that meets resident’s housing and social needs.
Flexible 3 Bed Unit
This two bedroom unit comes with an extra flexible living space separated by a room divider, offering versatility for families and individuals. The bedrooms provide privacy, while the open flex space can be customized as an additional bedroom, home office, or play area. With a private balcony and a comfortable living area, this unit caters to various lifestyle preferences.
15
RIVER ST SANCTUARY
April 2022 | 1B Design Studio
Rhino | Enscape | Photoshop | Illustrator
Located in the heart of the Toronto Corktown area, wedged between King St, Queen St, and River St sits a proposed active community hub. Designed to provide people with a peaceful work and study environment, as well as a split bike store and repair shop on the ground and basement floor which can facilitate learning the trade of repair for willing hobbyists.
As it is located on a road island with an intersecting pathway, the building folds around itself to accommodate heavy foot and bicycle traffic. The integrated outdoor seating and height of the structure establishes the River Street Sanctuary’s courtyard as a rest stop, shielded from the commotion of the busy streets and city life surrounding it.
16
17
18
Second Floor Context Plan
19
First Floor
Basement Floor
Addressing The Path
The existing site that River St Sanctuary sits on is used as a pedestrian and cycling path that connects Corktown to the Don Valley. In order to keep this path and invigorate it, the building wraps itself around the contours of the site, extending up to protect the path from the surrounding roads. This also creates the opportunity for tiered landscaping that provides a rest stop for bikers and pedestrians with immediate access to the bike repair shop and coffee shop housed within the library.
20
21
WILLIS POINT OASIS
April 2022 | 1B Environmental Building Design Rhino | Enscape | Photoshop | Illustrator
The Willis Point Oasis is a tiny house designed with sustainability in mind. Using locally sourced ecological materials, the home features programs tailored to the needs of two scientists participating in botanical studies. Located in a rural community on Willis Point in the Saanich Inlet, and backed by three protected forests the Oasis sits nestled in the hillside and faces the ocean waters. The building’s embodied carbon and ecological footprint is reduced by using green and reused materials (repurposed steel, downed wood, reclaimed brick, and hempcrete).
With its proximity to the natural environment, the Willis Point Oasis is conducive to a peaceful working and living environment and is beneficial to both the mental and physical well-being of its residents.
Made in collaboration with Matthew Beecroft
22
23
Corrugated steel sheeting sourced from recycled shipping containers.
Wood exterior cladding sourced from downed native trees in surrounding national parks
Hempcrete sourced from local hemp material supplier
Reclaimed rick sourced from Victoria Island Brick and Stone company
Context Plan
24
25
Roof Plan
Floor Plan
26
Compost
Photo-Voltaic
Water
27
Gutter Detail
Compost Toilet System
Photo-Voltaic Cell System
Water Collection System
North Facing Wall Detail
TRIP TO THE LODGE
August 2023 | 2B Design Studio
Rhino | Enscape | Photoshop | Illustrator
Trip to the Lodge is a transformative lodging experience nestled along the serene shore of the French River with a unique focus on facilitating mental health healing through the careful integration of psychedelic therapies. The architecture adeptly blurs the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, with rooms that seamlessly unfold to the elements, fostering an unbreakable connection between inhabitants and the rejuvenating power of nature.
Guests can immerse themselves in moments of relaxation and take part in curated programs designed to encourage guests to explore their inner selves. Combining elements of adventure, self-discovery, and well-being, Trip to the Lodge provides a haven for individuals seeking mental and emotional rejuvenation.
28
29
Main Lodge and Bunkie
30
31
Bunkie Top Floor
Bunkie Bottom Floor
32
Typical Bunkie Section
Main Lodge Cross Section
33
34 Healing Through Rest Site Axonometric
Healing Through Movement
35
THE RAIL TRAIL REST STOP
April 2022 | 1B Building Construction
Rhino | Enscape | Photoshop | Illustrator
The Rail Trail Rest Stop is a steel pedestrian bridge crossing over Kenilworth Access of Hamilton Ontario. Joining the Hamilton escarpment rail trail, the bridge acts as a means of connection and a rest stop for local bikers and hikers.
Fitted with deep-set benches and bike stands,it provides a place for short breaks for those looking to traverse the trails. Its industrial design is reflective of Hamilton’s past, often regarded as the “Steel City.”
Made in collaboration with Matthew Beecroft
36
37
38
Plan Elevation
39
40
AESS3 Category Connection
AESS2 Category Connection
41
Connection Detail
Detail Section
Connection Detail
42
43
MISSION CIVIC CENTRE AND RCMP
O2 Planning & Design
Rhino | Enscape | Photoshop
Mission City is taking strides in the early phases of the Waterfront Revitalization Master Plan, concentrating on enhancing the waterfront area and developing a civic, recreation, arts, and education hub.
Central to this initiative is the concurrent development of two pivotal public buildings: a new Civic Building and an RCMP facility. These renderings were made to illustrate how these buildings could be situated within the civic hub, showcasing synergies and kick starting the implementation of the Waterfront Revitalization Master Plan.
44
45
CALGARY PROGRAMING AND ACTIVATION
O2 Planning & Design Rhino | Illustrator
Calgary’s downtown is undergoing a significant transformation with a growing residential population, repurposing of office towers, and a surge of interest in innovation and creative economies. In alignment with key urban plans, this project aims to enhance the downtown core’s vitality through strategic programming and activations.
Focused on outdoor venues within a core study area, the initiative seeks to expand and enhance programmable spaces, diversify programming types, and streamline processes. These drawings aim to show the range of strategies used to revitalize these core areas, with some specifying differing programs based on the seasons.
46
47
BEER LABEL COMPETITION
In collaboration with a local brewery, this initiative aimed to showcase O2’s most influential projects across the country through creative beer labels. These labels were applied to selected beer flavors and distributed to O2’s clients.
The selection of labels involved a competition among employees, in which I submitted three distinct designs for each beer flavor. “Eau Claire’s Delightfull” emerged as one of the winning designs.
48
O2 Planning & Design Illustrator
49