ARCHITECTURAL
PORTFOLIO KHUS HI PATEL
CONTENTS.
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LAKËR
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DREAMSCAPE
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FLUKE
BEACON
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This co lle ct io n co ns ist s o f pro j e ct s cre ate d in undergradu ate archite ct ure st udie s t h at we re complete d in t h e ye ars 2 0 2 2 , 2 0 2 3 , and 2 0 2 4 .
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06 SKETCHANDSTRUCTURE
DRODEL
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All pro j e ct s we re co m po s e d u s ing a var iet y o f soft wa re including Rev it , Rhin o, A d o b e P h o toshop, Ad o b e I llu st rato r, A do be I nD e s ign , Lum ion, and 3 D S M ax .
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BEACON
NORT H C HA RLESTON COMMUNITY STATION In this adaptive resue project, the objective was to create a civic space for the nearby flourishing community. The goal was to create a space that redefined the relationship between law-enforcement and the community by fostering a sense of trust and accessibility. Located on this unique site, the station is not only a functional police building but also a space for community engagement. The architecture itself aims to make the station feel more approachable and welcoming, breaking away from traditional enclosed designs that can create a sense of separation. By using transparent materials and open layouts, the boundary between police station, and the community is blurred and encourages the public to feel both welcomed and safe within the space. The building’s design includes a variety of community oriented spaces, allowing the station to serve dual purposes. It helps to uphold safety while actively engaging and involving community members.
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E NTRY PE R
RSP EC TI V E
I NTE R I O R MAI N SH OWC ASE 5
EXISITING STRUC TURE
The existing structure in Charleston is a military engineering building that was considered advanced for its time. Its custom concrete panels showcased cutting-edge technology while conveying a sense of strength and security.
FIGURE GROUND MAP
The site is located in an industrial zone with the water to the east and housing development to the west. There is a beautiful open green park directly north of the site, and a variety of other industrial structures to the south.
CRIME RATE MAP
From research, it was concluded that since there weren’t as many civic spaces in the region, the population density decreased. In the same areas, the crime rates were higher. By introducing a civic space on the site, population in the area would go up as well as crime rate going down.
SITE ANALYSIS
Further research helped to identify wind direction, sun path, key entry points, heavy traffic ways, etc. this research helped to guide where the entry points to the police station would be most significant. Also, the most important views were identified to help guide the orientation of the structure.
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SITE PLAN
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1. Main Entry 2. Front Desk 3. Lobby 4. Restrooms/Changing Rooms
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LEGEND
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5. Resource Center 6. Waiting Space 7. Kiosk Display 8. Gathering/Lounge Space 9. Children’s Play Area 10. Public Art Display 11. Auditorium 12. Meeting Rooms 13. Workshopping Classrooms 14. Fitness Center
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FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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25. Library/Media Space 26. Computer Lab 27. Open Work Space 28. Children’s Quiet Play 29. Lounge Area 30. Storage
SECOND FLOOR PLAN 4
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31. Staff Cubicles 32. Reporting Areas 33. Records Room 34. Lockers and Evidence Storage 35. Administrative Spaces 36. Conference Rooms 37. Leaseable Office Spaces
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FOURTH FLOOR PLAN
15. Operational Space 16. Dispatch/Control Rooms 17. Recreation/Lounge Space 18. HIgh Security Spaces 19. Briefing/Meeting Rooms 20. Staff Offices 21. Canine Facility 22. Loading Deck 23. Utilities 24. Admin
These elevation studies explore the balance between transparency and security, examining how materials, proportions, and details can create facades that are both inviting and protective. These explorations focus on how vertical elements define the character of a structure, interact with light, and respond to the surrounding context. Each iteration refines the relationship between openness and privacy, crafting elevations that harmonize functionality with aesthetic. intent.
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The dual solar panel and green façade, enhances the buildings, aesthetic appeal while also generating renewable energy on site. The green façade improves air quality and adding to the buildings visual warmth. Water will be collected on site from the rain gardens and the permeable roofs of the building to be collected, filtered, and reused within the building’s plumbing systems. The opening takes advantage of natural wind flow to implement cross ventilation throughout the building. To promote this air circulation, the tower functions as a solar chimney, creating an upward draft that draws cooler air in from the lower levels. Overall, this design is a commitment to enhancing the public perception and relations b y creating a police station that isn’t just the center of law-enforcement, but also a neighborhood hub where the relationship between officers and residents can be strengthened.
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T R A N SV E RS E S EC TIO N
SOLAR SCREEN
WATER COLLEC TION
CROSS VENTILATION
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The facade model, shown above, subtly displays the integration of old with new. The exisiting building heavily contrasts with the new transparent and light facade that has been added on to highlight the community based spaces in this new design.
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LONGITUDINAL SEC TION
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FLUKE
C E N TER FOR MARINE RES EA RCH STUDIES The Center for Marine Research Studies is a harmonious blend of modern architecture and environmental influences, designed to provide an immersive educational and observational experience centered around the Right Whale. This establishment is located by the riverside and is integrated into its natural surroundings. The building’s footprint is minimized and its orientation is optimized to offer systematic views of the river. The structure itself is a testament to the organic beauty of Right Whale’s tail, also known as Fluke, contrasting with the soft curves of a boat. The exterior facade features sweeping curves and fin-like shapes that mimic the silhouette of a whale’s fluke. Then building materials include locally sourced sustainable options, like recycled metal, chosen for its low, environmental impact and durability.
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I NTE R I O R MAI N SH OWC ASE
LEGEND
1. Lobby/ 2. Whale 3. Theate 4. Lectur 5. Assista 6. Directo 7. Break 8. Restro 9. Exhibit 10. Temp 11. Classr 12. Lab 13. Lab O 14. Stora
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/ Reception e Display er Space re Room ant Admin Office or’s Office Room ooms t Storage porary Exhibit Space rooms
SECOND FLOOR
Offices age SITE PROXIMITY DIAGRAMS
FIRST FLOOR
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The interior spaces are designed to be an extension of the exterior natural environment, consisting of large open spaces filled with natural light. The use of glass walls and a large open skylight creates a seamless connection between the indoor exhibits and the outdoor landscape. The Center for Marine Research Studies is not just the building, but it is also a monumental establishment that embodies the spirit of marine conservation. Through thoughtful designs and sustainable practices, it aims to educate, inspire, and facilitate a deeper connection between humans in the natural world, ensuring that the right whale continues to thrive for generations to come. *Focusing on the structure, a space frame was integrated to be able to achieve the organic shape of the outer shell. This custom approach to the exterior frame allows to successfully achieve the unique form and making sure the frame is sturdy enough to last for years to come.
EA ST S EC T I ON 16
SPACE FRAME CONNEC TOR
ENLARGED DETAIL OF STRUC TURAL CONNEC TION
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These iterative massing model studies explore form, scale, and spatial relationships to help refine the design to align with functionality and aesthetic intent. Each model represents one step closer towards achieving balance, coherence, and a design that speaks to the human experience.
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DREAMSCAPE
I MMERS IVE DREAM ARCHIVA L VAULT Dreamscape is an ambitious architectural exploration that melds the ethereal world of dreams with the organic beauty of our physical realm. This innovative endeavor seeks to capture the fleeting nature of dreams within a tangible and immersive environment. The ultimate purpose of Dreamscape is to invite people to transcend the boundaries of their waking lives and enagage themselves in the boundless possibilities of the dream world. This architectural structure aims to help ignite the imagination, and provide a platform for the communal sharing of dreams, furthermore inspiring visitors to explore the limitless potential of their own inner aspirations.
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PE RSPEC TI V E SEC TI O N
These conceptual posters were created as an exercise to visualize the space from a human perspective. Developing these provided an opportunity to explore the scale of the space and how different colors and textures alter emotions. Warmer tones were used to create a more comforting and inviting environment, helping to spark a sense of creativity. The ambience was designed to feel welcoming and inspiring, moving beyond the idea of a regular archive to become more of an experience.
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EXP LOD E D AXO N
C I RCU L AT I O N STUDIES
WEST ELEVATION
SI TE PLAN 23
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LAKËR
DAYC AR E AND KINDERGARTEN LEARNING ESTA BLIS HMENT Lakër Kindergarten is more than just a learning environment; it’s a sanctuary of growth, a haven where young minds are nurtured, and hearts are embraced. The fundamental concept revolves around creating a nurturing and inviting community, where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to flourish. Early experiences have a profound impact on a child’s development. The design philosophy is rooted in creating spaces that not only stimulate intellectual curiosity, but also foster an emotionally inviting environment. From the moment children step through the doors, they are greeted by an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance, where the gentle hum of laughter and learning fills the air. The design process began with the deep exploration of the values that were going to be taught at the kindergarten and the vision. Drawing inspiration from nature, child development theories and the culture in Kosovo, the idea of a space that would embody warmth, inclusivity, and a sense of wonder was developed. The process of conceptualizing and ideating began. The idea ultimately started with a very abstract building block form that not only resembled hands-on engagement for children but also a sense of growth and development. Furthermore, the idea evolved from this form into a more organic shape, from which the floor plan sprouted.
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E X TE R I O R PE RSPEC TI V E
KOSOVO
PRISTINA
SITE
SITE MAP
VEGETATION
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SURROUNDING BUILDINGS GREEN SPACES
ROADWAYS
KINDERGARTEN MASS
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S ECO ND FLO O R 1. Multipurpose Space 2. Faculty Lounge 3. Kindergarten Classrooms 4. Storage 5. Bathrooms 6. Stairs 7. Elevator 8. Terrace Multipurpose Space
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F I RST FLO O R 1. Lobby 11. Bathroom/ Changing Room 2. Reception 12. Daycare 3. Nurse 13. Staircase 4. Stroller Storage 14. Table Space 5. General Depot 15. Food Preparation 6. Toy Depot 16. Music Room 7. Multipurpose/ Play Room 17. Art Room 8. Sleep Room 18. Bathrooms 9. Milk Room 19. Storage 10. Diaper Room 20. Elevator
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Along with the east to west elongation to maximize sun exposure, the slope of the roof allows for the southern facade of the kindergarten to open up and absorb more sunlight. The sunlight directly flows through the corridors and into the classroom spaces. The winds that come predominantly from the northern end are blocked with the backend of the building.
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TABL E ROO M The kindergarten includes an accessible terrace, space which provides children with an unique opportunity to engage with nature, and extend their learning beyond the confines of the classroom. An outdoor learning environment is important and supporting children’s development, and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world as well as aiding in multi-sensory exploration.
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Topcap
Silicone Joint
SS Post
Aluminum Offset
SS Glass Clamp
Aluminum Vertical Support Insulated Glass Panel Gauge SS Post
Clear Tempered Glass
Cover Plate Insulated Glass Panel
Aluminum Vertical Support
GLASS RAILING
Aluminum Offset
CURTAIN WALL
EAST SEC TI O N
SO UTH SEC TIO N 29
The interplay between massing and site is shown in the model above. It demonstrates a strategic approach to integrating form and context to develop a seamless approach. The mass focuses on orientation and creates a cohesive connection between the new kindergarten and its developing site.
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DRODEL
LAYERED PERCEPTION STUDIES
The inspiration for this project was the poem “The Fall of the House of Usher” by Edgar Allan Poe. The sensations that were evoked in this poem were used to design a residential houseplan for the two twins that the classic poem is centred around. This layered perception study explores the interplay between spatial volumes and structural elements in an architectural context. By breaking down the building components into distinct layers, it became possible to investigate how multiple perspectives can coexist and interact with a single composition. This project allowed for a dynamic understanding of space by offering different views of architectural elements from various angles. Each layer represents a separate entity, yet all the components are unified in their configuration. This creates a rich spatial dialogue in which the observer can perceive depth, movement, and the interconnection of spaces.
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The Speculative Drawing abstractly illustrates an architectural vision that explores the relationships between form, space, and urban context. Through various layers of geometric shapes, lines, and structures, the drawing embodies the dynamic interaction between built environments and their conceptual framework. Each shape varies and size and orientation and interacts with the others in a way that challenges the traditional ideas of order and structure. These soft muted colors that are juxtaposed with the sharp lines and angular forms create visual tension for the audience. The abstract and speculative nature of this drawing tests the human perception.
Accompanying the conceptual poster is the main project known as the “Drodel”. The Drodel is based off of the residential home design that is intended for the twins that are mentioned in the poem. This creation is intended to be a poetic representation of the spaces found within the home. The entire idea surpasses the simple representation of an architectural space to go onto demonstrate a meticulous design approach, or leave it up entirely to the human perspective.
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SKETCH AND STRUCTURE D ESIGN EXERCIS ES A ND VIS UA LIZATION
This section presents hand drawing and hand modeling skills through a variety of projects, ranging from foundational courses to advanced studio classes. It emphasizes the ability to conceptualize and communicate ideas using traditional techniques, showcasing quality in craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail. These works reflect a continuous exploration of design principles and a dedication to traditional architectural techniques. The charette project, showcased to the right, demonstrates advanced structural design thinking and its translation into physical model making. It also highlights strong craftsmanship and effective presentation of ideas, ensuring clarity and attention to detail in both concept and execution.
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O RG A N I C
BRIDG E CH A R E T TE M OD E L
ES H E R I C K H O USE SEC T I ON MOD E L
E XI SI T I NG SIT E / ST R UC TURE S EC TION MODEL
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EN V I RO NM E NTAL CONT ROL ST UDY C ENTER MODEL
CON TEM P O RA RY LI B RA RY M O D EL
The hand sketches shown above demonstrate an understanding of a variety of structural techniques and how they can be effectively showcased through quick hand drawings. These sketches capture the essence of complex concepts, translating them into clear and concise visual representations.
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