This portfolio represents the transforming experience I had as a student at Texas A&M University from 2021 to 2024. In these formative years, I engaged in a demanding academic setting that enhanced my intellectual capabilities and significantly fostered my personal development. The varied and multidisciplinary courses I undertook established a robust basis in my discipline, while leadership positions and extracurricular activities enabled me to apply theoretical frameworks to practical difficulties with measurable outcomes. My academic experience was significantly enhanced by the guidance and support of committed faculty members, whose encouragement motivated me to transcend traditional boundaries and continually strive for greatness.
Alongside my academic endeavors, my tenure at Texas A&M was marked by significant involvement in the campus community and participation in collaborative initiatives. Engaged in several student groups, I developed robust leadership and collaboration abilities, gaining personal insight into the importance of empathy, resilience, and flexibility in a dynamic global environment. The relationships I established with colleagues and mentors have been indispensable, fostering a feeling of community and reciprocal support that has left a lasting impression. This portfolio encapsulates my path, showcasing the abilities, knowledge, and experiences that have developed me into a versatile and dynamic person ready to contribute significantly to my chosen sector.
RIO SAN ANTONIO CULTURAL CENTER
ARCH 405 Design IV | Cultural Center in San Antonio, Tx
Professor: Andrew Hawkins
Software: Revit, Lumion, and Photoshop
Partner: Jordyn Redden
The design of public spaces is an impactful market sector within the field of architecture. Works of architecture in this typology are seen and experienced by thousands or even millions of people in the life of the project. For this studio project we will design an all new facility to for the “proposed” client of The San Antonio River Foundation. It currently operates from the small building at Confluence Park. The goal of this project is to create a facility that showcases the history, ecology and culture of the San Antonio River Walk and its relationship to the city.
An interpretive center is a type of building or facility designed to provide educational and interactive experiences about a specific subject, often related to natural, historical, or cultural themes. These centers serve as gateways for visitors to explore and understand complex topics through exhibits, presentations, and guided activities. From an architectural or programmatic perspective, an interpretive center is as a specialized building where the design and layout are carefully planned to enhance learning and engagement. It’s more than just a museum; it’s a place where visitors are actively involved in discovering and understanding the subject through various sensory experiences. The architecture supports this by creating spaces that flow naturally from one to another, guiding visitors on a journey of discovery. Each component of the building, from exhibit halls to interactive displays, is intentionally designed to help visitors connect with the topic in a deeper and more meaningful way.
Architectural Expression: The exposed structural framework gives the building a distinctive industrial aesthetic, showcasing the steel beams and connectors rather than concealing them. These elements lend the terminal a sense of transparency and honesty, reflecting a design philosophy where structure is celebrated as part of the architecture rather than hidden behind decorative facades.
Curved Steel Beams and Structural Rhythm: The distinctive curved steel beams that support the terminal’s undulating bamboo roof contribute to a rhythmic visual flow. These beams, spaced at regular intervals, create a wavelike effect that guides travelers’ sightlines through the terminal, enhancing both spatial orientation and visual harmony. This structural rhythm reflects a sense of movement, appropriate for a high-traffic transit environment like an airport.
Project Goals
Human-Centered Design: We enhance well-being with biophilic elements, natural light, peaceful zones, accessible paths, and functional layouts that promote comfort and activity.
Fostering Community: Shared spaces like courtyards and plazas encourage social engagement, offering adaptable areas for casual and organized gatherings to build a sense of belonging.
Walkable Environments: We design pedestrian-friendly spaces with wide, well-lit walkways, public seating, and landscaping to promote active lifestyles, social encounters, and reduced vehicle reliance.
Connectivity and Accessibility: We design clear access points, public pathways, and green corridors to seamlessly connect the building with nearby landmarks, streets, and communal areas, enhancing the urban experience.
2.0 WR 16 METAL DECKING (04 41 30) DK-4 METAL DECKING (04 41 30)
A308 MASONRY MORTAR (04 05 10)
2" AIR GAP
VAPOR RETARDER (03 05 80)
2" R13 RIGID INSULATION (07 21 13)
6" METAL STUD (05 41 00)
6" LIMESTONE BLOCK (04 41 30)
MASONRY MORTAR (04 05 10)
2" AIR GAP
VAPOR RETARDER (03 05 80)
1/2" EXTERIOR CEMEENTIOUS BACKER BOARD (09 28 13)
STEEL ANGLE
8X8X5/8 (05 12 00)
WOOD BLOCKING (06 10 00)
1 1/2" GYPSUM (09 29 00)
WOOD PLANK FINISH FLOORING (09 64 00)
2" R13 RIGID INSULATION (07 21 13)
MASONRY WALL TIE (04 05 20)
6" METAL STUD (05 41 00)
6" R21 BATT. INSULATION (07 21 10)
STEEL ANGLE 8X8X5/8 (05 12 00)
A307 1/2" BOLT (05 05 23)
WOOD BLOCKING (06 10 00)
1 1/2" GYPSUM BOARD (09 29 00)
STOREFRONT CENTER GLAZED JAMB (08 40 00) PIP HAND RAILING (05 52 13) 2.0 WR 16 METAL DECKING (04 41 30)
1/4" ROOFING EPDM (07 53 23)
SUBFLOOR FLOOR JOISTS (05 20 00)
3" RIGID ROOF INSULATION R30 (07 22 16)
3" CAST IN PLACE CONCRETE SLAB (03 30 00)
CUBO VIEW
ARCH 305 Research Studio | Dallas 2050. Design for climate change adaptation
Professor: Fabrizio Aimar
Software: Rhino, Revit, Illustrator, and Lumion
In response to escalating climate risks, the city of Dallas, Texas, embodies both the challenges and opportunities of urban resilience. Facing extreme heat, high drought, decreasing humidity, and unpredictable precipitation patterns, the city has approximately 35-37% of its buildings at risk of wildfire and 15% at risk of flooding. These urgent realities demand a reimagining of our built environment.
A recent analysis by Clark et al. (2022) in “Flocking to Fire: How Climate and Natural Hazards Shape Human Migration Across the United States” highlights a decade-long migration trend toward regions increasingly affected by climate change, including cities and suburbs in Texas. This influx, coupled with rapid urban expansion into rural areas, has heightened wildfire risks as development brings people and structures closer to dense vegetation, as noted by the Texas A&M Forest Service.
In response, this studio invites innovative architectural exploration to confront these pressing climate challenges, particularly wildfires. Focusing on the intersection of architecture, urban design, and climate science, this project emphasizes resilience through advanced mitigation and adaptation strategies. The resulting architectural solutions aim to reimagine urban spaces to withstand and adapt to the shifting climate dynamics impacting Dallas and similar urban environments.
Analysis of Urban Conditions
STRENGTHS
1-Strong Community
Pleasant Grove thrives on community bonds and a spirit of volunteerism, continually working to enhance the neighborhood.
2-Location
Pleasant Grove, situated on the outskirts of Dallas, offers a convenient 18-minute drive to downtown.
3-Material
Approximately 75-80% of residences are constructed with brick, a material known for its non-flammable properties.
WEAKNESSES
4-Material
About 20% of residences are built or include wood in their construction, a material known for its flammability.
5-Crime & Safety
Pleasant Grove is somewhat safe with receiving a crime score of 6, 1 being low and 10 being high.
6-Trees
Pleasant Grove is known for cottonwood trees which is considered flammable
OPPORTUNITIES
7-Population Growth
Dallas, with a current population of 7.8 million, is expected to grow at a rate of 8.64%.
8-Up to Date Buildings
Structures feature cutting-edge materials for innovative and lasting design excellence.
9-Networking
Connecting with locals, business owners, and civic leaders reveals tailored opportunities based on interests and skills.
THREATS
10-Fire Hazards
It is in a moderate level, there is still a potential for fire due to vegetation, electrical equipment, or natural causes
11- Hurricane & Flooding
Dallas, prone to hurricanes and heavy rainfall, experienced its most severe event in 2006, reaching a maximum speed of 90 mph.
12-Drought
Dallas currently experiences moderate water stress, with projections showing an expected increase by 2050.
Issues and Solutions
ISSUE
1-Fire Hazard
SOLUTIONS
1-1
Switching to a non-combustible or ignition-resistant roof, along with regular gutter maintenance , is recommended
2-1
Clearing a 0-5 ft zone around the house from debris and using fire-resistant materials is crucial Consider removing or trimming bushes and trees within 50 feet for enhanced wildfire safety
3-1
Opt for dual-paned windows with tempered glass to minimize fire risk Limit windows facing dense vegetation and enhance ember resistance by adding screens to all usable windows to reduce radiant heat
4-1
Build or renovate walls with ignition-resistant materials such as stucco, fiber cement siding, fire-retardant treated wood, or approved alternatives, especially vital when neighboring homes are within 30 feet.
ISSUE
2-Hurricane & Flooding
SOLUTIONS
1-2
Strengthen a home's foundation with metal connectors (hurricane straps, clips, or ties) during construction for enduring structural integrity in all weather conditions.
2-2
Fasten the roof deck to the frame by nailing the sheathing with ring-shank nails. These nails ensure that wind and pressure changes won’t tear the roof off.
3-2
Elevating your home is a proactive measure to mitigate the risk of flooding and safeguard your property from potential water damage.
4-2
Engaging in a type of dr y flood-proofing, applying coatings and sealants to your foundation, walls, windows, and doorways can effectively avert the seepage of floodwater through cracks in your house.
ISSUE
3-Drought
SOLUTIONS
1-3
Integrate a rainwater collection and storage system to capture and retain rainwater for non-drinking purposes, such as watering landscapes and flushing toilets.
2-3
Consider cool roofs or reflective materials to reduce heat absorption, mitigating the urban heat island effect and lowering outdoor water usage for cooling
3-3
Utilize permeable materials for driveways, walkways, and parking lots to enable rainwater to penetrate the soil rather than forming runoff.
4-3
Dr y wells reduce storm water runoff and pollutants, mitigating downstream problems like erosion, flooding, and issues with water quality and stream habitat
Project Location
Precedent Studies: Aesthetic
Bjarke Ingels
“King West Tower”
Toronto, Canada
2016
Pixelated Façade: Inspired by Habitat 67, creating a staggered, terraced look with private, green-filled balconies and visually dynamic, giving the building a distinct, shifting appearance.
Integration of Nature: Lush terraces and balconies filled with greenery enhance the building’s organic feel. Biophilic design connects residents to nature in an urban setting.
Curved, Sinuous Form: Stacked, twisting volumes create a soft, cloud-like silhouette. Curves reduce the building’s visual bulk, harmonizing it with the streetscape.
Light and Transparency: Extensive glass façades maximize natural light and city views. Transparency contrasts with greenery, adding visual depth.
Community-Centered Design: Emphasis on shared and public spaces that foster social interaction. Layout resembles an urban village, creating open and inviting communal areas.
Sustainability Aesthetic: Green terraces contribute to air quality and natural insulation. Reflects BIG’s sustainable philosophy, merging functionality with beauty.
Precedent Studies: Climatic
Revolution
“The Valley”
Merida, Yucatan, Mexico
2017
Passive Cooling: The building uses natural ventilation strategies to reduce reliance on air conditioning.
Cross-ventilation design and strategically placed openings allow for continuous airflow, cooling interior spaces naturally.
Shaded Façade: Large overhangs and shaded terraces minimize direct sunlight, preventing excessive heat gain. The design reduces indoor temperatures and glare, making spaces more comfortable.
Locally Sourced Materials: Use of local stone and other materials with high thermal mass helps absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, stabilizing indoor temperatures.
Water Features and Greenery: Integration of water elements and lush vegetation helps cool surrounding air and promotes humidity control, essential in Mérida’s hot climate.
Roof and Wall Insulation: Added layers of insulation on walls and roofs protect interiors from the tropical sun’s intensity, enhancing energy efficiency.
Design for Fire
Protective Concrete Fence
Curtain Walls on Level 2
Thin Windows on Level 1
Exterior Walls on Level 1 are thick concrete
Vegetation are 50ft away from building
Tempered Glass
YAREMI MENDOZA
SIDE PERSPECTIVE
BRIDGE PERSPECTIVE
SITE MODEL 1/16”=1’-0” TEXAS
CUBO MODEL 1/16”=1’-0”
VOID HOUSE
ARCH 206 Design Studio II | Residential Design in Morro Bay, CA
Professor: Mark Clayton
Software: Rhino, Revit, Illustrator, and Lumion
Situated in Morro Bay, California, this residence occupies an elevated position from the street, affording captivating vistas of the beach. A contemporary three-story dwelling, it comprises three bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The ground floor accommodates service areas, encompassing a two-door garage, laundry facilities, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical components, as well as a waste room. On the first floor, public spaces such as the kitchen, living room, dining area, and a guest bathroom are featured, complemented by an inviting outdoor setting.
This outdoor area boasts a barbecue and pool, ideal for hosting special occasions. Additionally, two front balconies offer panoramic views of the beach, while a rear balcony grants access to the backyard.Ascending to the second floor, private quarters await, comprising three bedrooms, one of which overlooks the beach, an office space, and two bathrooms.With its stunning ocean views, this residence offers an idyllic setting for embarking on a new chapter in life.
Project Location
Site Analysis
The summer are long, sweltering, muggy and partly cloudy and the winter are comfortable, dry, windy, and mostly clear.
Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 57 °F to 107 °F and is rarely below 51°For above 112°F
The windier part of the year last for 5 months from November 14 to April 15, with average wind speed of more than 9.3 miles per hour.
Conceptual Massing
Taking the square shape and intersecting it on the site
Choosing the shape of the house
Subtracting the square shape out
Leaving with the a void of the square
Highlighting the voids HOUSE
Carving out the shape
SCHEME PLANS
Floor Plans
GROUND FLOOR
FIRST FLOOR
SECOND FLOOR
Axonometric Renderings
Axon 1
Axon 2
ARTFUL HOUSE
ARCH 206 Design Studio II | Light Frame Wood Construction
Professor: Mark Clayton
Software: Revit, Illustrator, and Photoshop
Consider a rectangular dwelling measuring 15 feet by 22 feet, featuring a gable extending along its longer side. This model residence serves as an illustrative example of the construction process. The foundation consists of a 12-inch thick cast-in-place concrete slab. The walls are erected using 2x6 wooden studs with California corners securing the intersections of the four walls. Doors and windows are framed with a 4x6 header, 2x4 trimmer and cripple, and a 2x4 base plate. A single 2x4 sill plate rests at the base of the wall frame, with two 2x4 sill plates positioned atop it. The loft is supported by 2x8 joists attached to the top plate.
The roof framework comprises 2x8 rafters, with additional studs providing support at the front and back. Collar ties connect and reinforce the inner roof structure. One side of the wall and a section of the roof are sheathed with 4x8 plywood, while the roof is overlaid with stacked shingles for visual representation. A portion of the wall is adorned with bricks.
A porch adorns the front of the residence, constructed using sturdy 4x4 wooden posts, with 2x4 wooden rafters and floor joists completing the structure. This construction project has enhanced my understanding of the building process, from acquiring new terminology to comprehending the various dimensions of lumber used.
