A selection of works infusing narrative, stroytelling. history and materiality into the built environment. I am deeply fascinated by the interplay of narrative and materiality in architecture, crafting spaces that not only serve their purpose but also tell a story and evoke emotion through their design
contact: jemima_onu@hotmail.com
07551494825
London, UK portfolio:
https://issuu.com/jemimaonugha/docs/jemima_ onugha_sample_portfolio
Part 1 Architectural Assistant
01.2020- 03.2020
MEDIOMUNDO ARQUITECTOS (Sevilla, Spain)
• Supported RIBA Stages 0–3: Developed plans usingAutoCAD and Photoshop
• Created 3D visuals for a curatorial project exploringsound and spatial experience
• Compiled booklets and visuals that secured client approval for design proposals
• Turned abstract concepts into tangible visuals, enhancing stakeholder communication
Project Assistant (Construction/ Design)
05.2022- 09.2022
MACE (London, UK)
• Aided structural assessments and technical resolutions
• Facilitated early-stage coordination with engineers andsuppliers
• Participated in site visits and design issue troubleshooting
• Improved communication flow between contractors and designers, helping avoid delays
University of Greenwich MArch Architecture
2:1
Thesis: Exploring Black British identity through the Afro hair salon and Hair shop Design project: FairyKnots- A Black British Hair Archive
University of Brighton
BA Architecture
2:1
2021 – 2024
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jemima-onugha
A multidisciplinary designer working across architecture, storytelling, and cultural production. My work bridges design, community, and narrative-shaping spaces that are imaginative and grounded.
Creative Team Member
08.2022- Ongoing ONE ROOM (London, UK)
• Currently designing a digital cultural map of Barking & Dagenham, mapping community assets to support long-term cultural planning and place-based development.
• Led community workshops and contributed to local creative policies
• Co-designed public events focused on spatial storytelling and local heritage.
Video Editor/ Creator
08.2024– Ongoing
DOCEO (London, UK)
• Produced and edited video content translating architectural workflows and soft skills into engaging videos
• Led end-to-end production independently, from scripting to delivery
• Used Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects to create platform-specific content
• Managed clients, timelines, and budgets with a structured, design-led approach
3D & BIM: Rhino, Revit, AutoCAD, Blender, Unreal Engine, Modo, Microstation and SketchUp
Graphics & Editing: Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects
Web & UX: Figma, basic HTML/CSS, user experience design
Soft Skills: Collaborative, narrative-driven, high visual literacy, public speaking, independent project management, community engagement, crossdisciplinary communication. 2016 – 2019
9 year old Jemima is getting her braids done for a new adventure
She is moving to Transdean (UK) with her family
Her father has been overseas for years, working
He has come back with a promise- to reunite her family in their home away from home
During their leaving preperations strange things occur
Jemima is lured out of her home, thanks to the hair brained schemes of the Yumbo fairies.
She gets to experience Transdean early and is shocked by what she sees
With the help of her hairy friends she tries to survive and choose whether to stay or leave.
Client facing the mirror, able to watch herself and the braider
Braider who has just finished a young client rests
Client can see the style as it progresses through the mirror. Mirror reflects what is behind the client.
and
Braider with bag still on, showing she is on the move, looking for client within the market
Lounging chair, padded, forwaiting
Tool storage holding hair pieces ready for braiding
sprays and other hair products
Storage table between braider and nail tech space, contents unknown
Music was a key part of the Windrush generations success in the UK. This object depicts the move away from the Carribeans and the music they brought with them and formed, such as reggae, ska etc. (BBC,2004)
7
Braiding hair such as expressions is added in with clients own hair to add fullness and length for certain styles.
9
Roots magazine embodied early Carribean life within Britain. Stories were shared and community flourished within the pages of this magazine (BCA, 2023)
The cutting comb is essential to Afro textured hair as it is sharp and provides precise lines within which the braider can follow to create intricate patterns.
Hair baubles are another form of accesory used as adornment. Mostly worn by young children, this object carries with it nostalgia and memories.
The paraffin lamp served as a source of heat for many Black Brit homes and also was used as a heat source for the hot comb to straighten afro hair (Page, 2023)(see chapter for more)
The project focuses on the importance of Yam in the african culture. The New Yam Festival is a of great cultural importance to the igbo tribe of Nigeria, symbolising a successful harvest and celebration of community and tradition.