CV+WK CURRICULUM VITAE + WORK SAMPLES Update 01.09.22 Alejandro de Miguel Solano alejandro@demiguelsolano.comwww.demiguelsolano.comLondon/Madrid07754146926/609611513
HOW TO READ THIS DOCUMENT Front cover How to read this document Written CV ProjectsProjectsProjects OthersAcademicProjectsProjectsOthersAcademicProjectsProjectsCompetitionsCompetitionsCompetitionsProjectsProjects Competitions BackAcademicCompetitionscover Academic Academic ProjectsProjectsProjects OthersAcademicProjectsProjectsOthersAcademicProjectsProjectsCompetitionsCompetitionsCompetitionsProjectsProjects Competitions AcademicCompetitions Written CVDiagrammatic CV 01 [CV] 03 SUMMARY[PR] 05 SUMMARY[CO] 07 IN[PR]DETAIL 15 IN[PR]DETAIL 23 IN[CO]DETAIL 31 IN[CO]DETAIL 39 SUMMARY[CO] 09 IN[PR]DETAIL 17 IN[PR]DETAIL 25 IN[AC]DETAIL 33 [OT] 41 SUMMARY[AC] 11 IN[PR]DETAIL 19 IN[PR]DETAIL 27 IN[AC]DETAIL 35 [OT] 43 IN[PR]DETAIL 13 IN[PR]DETAIL 21 IN[CO]DETAIL 29 IN[AC]DETAIL 37 [CV] 02 [CV] 04 SUMMARY[PR] 06 SUMMARY[CO] 08 IN[PR]DETAIL 16 IN[PR]DETAIL 24 IN[CO]DETAIL 32 IN[CO]DETAIL 40 SUMMARY[CO] 10 IN[PR]DETAIL 18 IN[PR]DETAIL 26 IN[AC]DETAIL 34 [OT] 42 SUMMARY[AC] 12 IN[PR]DETAIL 20 IN[PR]DETAIL 28 IN[AC]DETAIL 36 [OT] 44 IN[PR]DETAIL 14 IN[PR]DETAIL 22 IN[CO]DETAIL 30 IN[AC]DETAIL 38
projects
WORKSAMPLE SUMMARY OTHERS CV WORKSAMPLES IN DETAIL
professional activity.
each relevant project, competition or academic work
The structure of this document is divided in three sections: The CV section includes a diagramatic description of the key milestones in my and These will be further detailed in written form in the extended CV. The Worksamples section includes a key image of that I have The Worksamples: In Detail section expands some of these further.
training, teaching
undertaken.
Assistant & Guest Teacher 3 Architecture schools 3 Master Programs Partnership with architect Ignacio Borrego 6 competitions 2 prizes Architect. B. Arch & M.Arch. Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM) (ETSAM) Graduated with honours Architectural Design & Research Institute Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT). China Grant: Future Magazine Grimshaw Architects (On secondment) Heathrow Expansion LaPuerta Arquitectos Design & Technical / on-site Lead Architect. 5 built projects 6 competitions Master in City Sciences Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM) Grant: Red.es Final thesis ICCS Project Manager Prince2 Foundation & Practitioner Certification Academic coordinator Master in Collective Housing. UPM - ETH Zurich 4 editions Lifschutz SandilandsDavidson Architect (ARB) 1 masterplan 2 projects Assistant Teacher Alison WorkshopBrooksMaster in Collective Housing. UPM - ETH Zurich 3 editions20202019201820172016201520142013 [TR] TRAINING[PB] PUBLIC + [PC] (ATIONS) [AC] ACADEMIC [PR] PROFESSIONAL 2022 COMPUTER SKILLS LANGUAGE SKILLS [TR] 10/1507/16to [PR] 04/1507/17to [TR] 10/13 [TR] 01/20 [AC] 01/13--/20to [PR] 05/1408/14to [PR] 10/14to11/13 [PR] 04/1507/17to [PR] 01/19--/20to [TE] 01/17--/20to [TE] 07/18--/20to The Conscious Architect Instituto Juan de Herrera Architecture and Nature. Two Positions When Designing in the Natural Environment. Universidad Francisco de Vitoria Accessibility in Public Transport & Buildings Ministerio de Fomento Correlations in the ISO 37120 Ministerio de Fomento European Energy Strategies Ministerio de Fomento City & Cinema. Smart City concepts in recent film history Universidad del Desarrollo. Chile Frits van Dongen. 25 years / 25 works TC Cuadernos Microstation, AutoCad, Revit, Rhino, Adobe Pack (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), SketchUp, Microsoft Office, Presto Spanish. Native Speaker English. Profficient user. Certified Level C2 French. Independent user. Certified Level B1 DIAGRAMMATIC CV Alejandro de Miguel Solano Madrid, 1989. Based in www.demiguelsolano.comalejandro@demiguelsolano.comLondon 07754146926 (UK) / 60961513 (ES) [AC] Key: Interview BookLecture Article Project team coordination Competition team coordination Management of construction & technical packages On-site management Project team coordination Stakeholder engagement package Feasibilitydeliverystudies delivery Project visualization delivery 40-hour module design for the past four Coordinationeditionsof15 to 20 different speakers per edition Lecturing in the introductory class each Coordinationyearof the yearly module publication Final Degree Project awarded Honors (10/10) Overall Academic Record of 67.8/10mentions in drawing-related subjects and design studios Design Studio Assistant while Mentoringstudying Program member Project management experience certified with Prince2 method. MADRIDLONDONLONDONCHINAAECOM Senior Urban Designer. 2 large scale strategic projects BroadwayMalyan Senior Urban Designer
SingleHomeinAravaca. Architecture DeLaPuertayCampo.Madrid.
NeighbourhoodPlanning DesignCodes&Masterplanning AECOM.AcrossUK. 2021 MasterplanVisioning VisionDocuments&Masterplanning BroadwayMalyan.AcrossUK. 2022 HeathrowAirportExpansion UrbanDesign&Architecture GrimshawArchitects.London.
2015
BArch & MArch (Hons) Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM). Distinction (10/10) in Final Degree Thesis. 7.8/10 Overall Academic Record. RIBA Chartered Member Membership Number: 20040585. ARB Registered Architect Registration number: 089753A. BTF Triathlon Coach Level 1 British Triathlon Federation.
Architect Architectural Design and Research Institute of Harbin Institute of Technology. Harbin. 2013-2014
2016
PROFESSIONALHISTORY 2022todate 2018-2022 2019-2020 2017-2018 2014-2017
MSc. Master in City Sciences (Hons) Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM). Distinction (10/10) in Final Degree Thesis.
QUALIFICATIONS ARCHITECTURE&URBANDESIGN
2020
Designed the general layout, street and block typologies and elaborated the corresponding Design Code and the Design and Access Statement for the development. Undertook the role of masterplan guardian to oversee the general layout integrity of the two brownfield sites destined to provide circa 1,500 new homes in South Bristol.
Architect / Project Architect De LaPuerta y Campo Arquitectos. Madrid.
Senior Urban Designer in Grimshaw Architects On secondment while in AECOM as part of the Heathrow Expansion Project Team.
2015
Produced a reference framework for the masterplanning of a number of sites in Milan that incorporated local regulations and other strategic requirements. This framework also devised viable and standarised design solutions that could be implemented across other large industrial sites in the city. Implemented those guidelines in a pilot site masterplan.
WRITTEN CV Alejandro de Miguel Solano Based in London. SW15 alejandro@demiguelsolano.com
KEYPROFESSIONALPROJECTS
ScaloFarini-ValtellinaMasterplan Masterplanning&Architecture AECOM.Milan 2019 4 HomesinPuertadeHierro. Architecture DeLaPuertayCampo.Madrid.
PROFESSIONAL
Senior Urban Designer Housing & New Neighbourhoods Team. Broadway Malyan. London.
As part of the wider Grimshaw Architects team, delivered the Development Consent Order (DCO) application for the expansion of Heathrow Airport. Focused on the visualization of impact mitigation measures towards surrounding communities in the different stages of expansion, as well as on the design and visualisation of new community facilities.
As the Project Architect, I developed both the concept design and the technical documentation for construction of this 4 dwellings project, 600 sqm each (GEA), in one of the most exclusive residential areas of Madrid. Throughout the process, I kept direct contact with the client and led a team of five architects. On-boarded subcontractors and supervised construction on-site.
HengroveParkMasterplan DesignCodes&Masterplanning LifschutzDavidsonSandilands. Bristol 2017
Produced Design Guides and Codes for parishes across England, as well as masterplanning options for selected sites. Completed work for the following parishes /villages: Puriton, Market Bosworth, Beyton, Leavenheath, Stutton, Englefield Green, Hemsby, North Crawley, Kinver, London Colney, Ickleford and Earl’s Colne.
Senior Urban Designer Masterplanning Team. AECOM. London.
As part of the UK Housing and New Neighbourhoods Team in Broadway Malyan I apply a designdriven approach to unlock key sites for development for a variety of clients across the UK. I utilise both digital and hand sketching techniques to produce layouts, diagrams, and illustrations that build a compelling case to present to Local Authorities.
As the Project Architect on site, worked with the different subcontractors to guarantee the success of the construction, a high-end 600sqm (GEA) dwelling, while maintaining a safe and collaborative environment. Worked directly with the client, communicating the team’s vision and the design possibilities, which fostered his further engagement in the design process during construction. English. Fluent. Certificate of Proficiency in English. C2. French. Conversant. Diplome d´Etudes en Langue Francaise. B1. Spanish. Native. 2015-2016 2007-2013 OTHERQUALIFICATIONS 2022 2020todate 2020 2017todate 2015
Rhinoceros User Design and Digital Fabrication Rhinoceros, V-Ray and Grasshopper. ControlMad Lab. Madrid.
Prince 2 Foundation & Practitioner Project Management qualification. Revit Advanced User Revit Training Course. Advanced + Quantity Surveillance Revit Course. 24StudioLab.Madrid.
Architect Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands. London.
KEYPUBLICSPEAKING
DesigningMemory ApproachingtheArchitectureProject
UrbanDesign&LandscapeModule.MCH.UPM/ETHZurich.01/2017
Assistant Teacher to Alison Brooks MCH. Master of Architecture in Collective Housing. UPM/ETH Zurich.
PUBLICACTIVITY KEYPUBLICATIONS
UnmakingPlacemaking
MasterplanningDisciplineLectureSeries.AECOM.London. UrbanDesign&LandscapeModule.MCH.UPM/ETHZurich. 05/2021 TheCityin the Time of Coronavirus04/2020
ACADEMIC ASACOORDINATOR ASATEACHER
Visiting Teacher B.Arch & M.Arch program. Year 5 Studio.Universidad San Jorge. Zaragoza.
2014
FinalDegreeThesispresentedtoFinalYearStudio.UniversidadSanJorge.Zaragoza.05/2015
AConversationwithFritzVanDongenChapter(Interview).
TCCuadernos128/129-FritsvanDongen.25years-25Works. LaPuertaJM.,deMiguelA.,etal.ISBN:978-84-946397-7-7
2017 EuropeanEnergyStrategies Book. MinistryofDevelopment.Spain. LaPuertaJM.,deMiguelA.,etal.ISBN:978-84-697-4622-6
2017 ArchitectureandNature.TwoPositions towardstheNaturalSetting Chapter. UniversidadFranciscodeVitoria. BorregoI.,deMiguelA.,etal.ISBN:978-84-15423-83-6 2015
2017todate(6editions) 2018todate(5editions) 2016-2017(2editions) 2016 2015 2014 Module Coordinator in City Sciences Module. MCH. Master of Architecture in Collective Housing. UPM/ETH Zurich. I coordinate 5 ECTS (10 days) or 2.5 ECTS (5 days) modules covering the issues that affect cities from a scientific perspective. I structure up to 10 thematic sessions within the module, invite and coordinate up to 3 subject matter experts per session. I give the introductory lecture for each of the sessions. I have the sole responsibility for teaching, grading, and meeting with students one to one to supervise their progress.
FinalDegreeThesispresentedtoARKRITResearchLab.ETSAM.UPM.Madrid.04/2014
2017 CorrelationsintheIndicatorsofthe ISO37120Norm Book. MinistryofDevelopment.Spain. LaPuertaJM.,deMiguelA.,etal.ISBN:978-84-697-4623-3 2017
ASAVISITINGTEACHER
Past,Present&FutureCities
SociologyModule.MCH.UPM/ETHZurich.03/2019
FinalDegreeThesispresentedtoFinalYearStudio.UniversidadFranciscodeVitoria.Madrid.05/2014
NatureObservatoryinFuenfría
InternationalWorkshop.ConservationoftheIbero-AmericanCulturalandHistoricHeritage.Najera. Seminar.HowDoArchitectureStudentsDesign?TemenosResearchGroup.Madrid. 04/2014 04/2014
Onlinearticle. https://tomorrowanew.org/alejandro-de-miguel-solano/372020
NatureObservatoryinFuenfría
2013
InternationalCongressinCitySciences.UniversidaddelDesarrollo.SantiagodeChile.06/2016
BestPracticesofAccessibilityin PublicTransportationandBuildings Book. MinistryofDevelopment.Spain. LaPuertaJM.,deMiguelA.,etal.ISBN:978-84-697-4621-9
As Teaching Assistant for the architect Alison Brooks (RIBA Stirling Prize) in this 2.5 ECTS (5 days) workshop, I co-lead the production of the workshop syllabus, having a key input in selecting sites and constructing the design brief for students. I support Alison Brooks in project reviews and mentor students on a one to one basis.
Assistant Teacher MDAi. Master in Design and Interior Architecture Design. UPM.
UrbanDesign&LandscapeModule.MCH.UPM/ETHZurich.05/2018 Past,Present&FutureCities
City&Cinema:theSmartCityinFilm
NatureObservatoryinFuenfría
10BillionHumansClaimingRights
TheCityinTimeofCoronavirus
Assistant Teacher MArch. Conservation & Heritage Architecture Studio. UPM. Jury Member Final Studio Level Jury. Universidad Francisco de Vitoria. Madrid. Visiting Teacher Across B.Arch & M.Arch program. Universidad San Jorge. Zaragoza. Visiting Teacher B.Arch & M.Arch program. Year 3 Studio. Universidad Francisco de Vitoria. Madrid.
01.09 22 [6] [PR.04] [RIBA ST 0-3] [08/2017-12/2018] Kotva Retail Store. Prague. Czech Republic [PR.03] [RIBA ST 0-2] [01/2019 - to date] Scalo Farini-Valtellina. Milan. Italy [PR.02] [RIBA ST 0-3] [01/2019 - to date] Heathrow Expansion. London. UK [PR.01] [RIBA ST 0-3] [01/2019 - to date] Neighbourhood Plans. Several locations. UK [IN DETAIL] PG 16-17 [IN DETAIL] PG 14-15 [IN DETAIL] PG 18-19 [IN DETAIL] PG 20-21 [PR] PROFESSIONAL [PR] PROJECTS [PP] COMPETITIONS[PCO][CO]PROJECTSPERSONALCOMPETITIONSPERSONAL
01.09.22 [7] [IN DETAIL] PG 26-29 [IN DETAIL] PG 30-33 [IN DETAIL] PG 22-25 [PR.05] [RIBA ST 0-3] [08/2017-12/2018] Hengrove Park and Hartcliffe Campus Masterplan. Bristol. UK [PR.06] [RIBA ST 0-5] [07/2016-07/2017] Four Single Family Dwellings. Puerta de Hierro. Madrid [PR.07] [RIBA ST 5-7] [04/2018-01/2019] One Single Family Dwelling. Aravaca. Madrid. Spain
01.09.22 [8] [PP.01] [2021] A House in the Mountains [PP.02] [2020] A Terrace in Putney [PP.03] [2019] x Houses for x+n Triathletes [PR] PROFESSIONAL [PR] PROJECTS [PP] COMPETITIONS[PCO][CO]PROJECTSPERSONALCOMPETITIONSPERSONAL [IN DETAIL] PG 34-35 [IN DETAIL] PG 36 [IN DETAIL] PG 37
01.09.22 [9] [CO.01] [03/2017] Redevelopment of the Geneva City Waterfront. Geneva. Switzerland. [CO.04] [09/2015] Health Care Center. Salas de los Infantes. Burgos. Spain [CO.06] [03/2015] Second Prize ex aequo. Music school in Amorebieta. Vizcaya. Spain, [CO.05] [07/2015] Duque del Infantado Mahou Centre. Madrid. [CO.02] [02/2016] 34 Collective Housing Units. Almería. Spain [CO.03] [12/2015] Trygve Lies Plass. Oslo. Norway [CO.09] [PR] PROFESSIONAL [PR] PROJECTS [PP] COMPETITIONS[PCO][CO]PROJECTSPERSONALCOMPETITIONSPERSONAL
01.09.22 [10] [CO.07] [01/2015] Fuentesanta Spa Center. La Palma. Spain. [CO.08] [10/2014] Pastoral Centre, Swimming pool and Sport Hall. Dubrovnik. Croatia. [CO.07] [CO.09] [09/2014] Cerro Juli Perumin Auditorium. Arequipa. Perú [CO.09]
01.09.22 [11] [CO.10] [01/2014] Aluart Forum. Zagreb. Croatia. [CO.11] [11/2013] Firefighting Centre. Ljubljana. Slovenia. [PCO.03] [10/2019] The Low Line. London. UK [PCO.01] [06/2021] Preston Mosque. Preston. UK [IN DETAIL] PG 42-43 [IN DETAIL] PG 38-39 [IN DETAIL] PG 40-41 [PCO.02] [06/2020] Home of 2030 [PR] PROFESSIONAL [PR] PROJECTS [PP] COMPETITIONS[PCO][CO]PROJECTSPERSONALCOMPETITIONSPERSONAL
[PCO.06] [04/2014] House on the Rooftop Círculo de Bellas Artes. Madrid. [PCO.07] [10/2014] Honour Mention. IV Competition Cátedra Cerámica Madrid.
[PCO.05] [10/2014] Masustegui Neighborhood Renewal. Bilbao Txokoak. Bilbao.[PCO.04] [02/2015] De Arte Foundation. Art Exhibition COAM. Madrid
01.09.22 [12]
01.09.221 [13] [AS] AS A STUDENT [FDP] FINAL DEGREE [SW] STUDENT WORK [FDP] [RIBA ST 0-5] [07/2016-07/2017] Final Degree Project. Graduated with Honours. Nature Observatorium in the Fuenfría River Valley [IN DETAIL] PG 44-51
9.22 [14]
[PR.01] Neighbourhood Plans. Several locations. UK AECOM [03/2020 - to date] RIBA STAGES [0-2] 01.0
[PR.O1] IN PagesDETAIL14-15
As part of the neighbourhood planning program introduced in the Localism Act of 2011, communities across England are able to develop a vision for their neighbourhood and shape the development and growth of their local area. Neighbourhood plans sit alongside the local plan, allowing communities to decide where they want new homes, shops and offices to be built, have their say on what those new buildings should look like and what infrastructure should be provided, and grant planning permission for the new buildings they want to see go ahead.
I have produced design guides and codes for different communities across England, as well as masterplanning options for selected sites. I have completed Design Codes and site-specific masterplans for the following parishes, villages and towns: Puriton, Market Bosworth, Beyton, Leavenheath, Stutton, Englefield Green, Hemsby, North Crawley, Kinver, London Colney, Ickleford and Earl’s Colne. This work has contributed positively to the vision for the development of these areas, by carefully considering the character of each of them and providing design codes and masterplans that are consistent with their history and tradition and their ambitions for the future.
01.09.22 [15]
[PR.01] Heathrow Expansion. London. UK AECOM - Secondment at Grimshaw Architects [01/2019 - 03/2020] RIBA STAGES [0-4] 01.09.22 [16] [PR.O2] IN PagesDETAIL16-17
I worked together with the Grimshaw Architects team (as a secondment role from AECOM) to deliver the DCO application of the expansion of Heathrow Airport. Within the Communities Task Order, my input focused on visualizing the impact mitigation of the airport-related construction in the different stages of expansion. In this time, I produced a study of the impacted communities, to understand how to prioritize mitigation measures to maximize their benefits.
I was a key piece in the communication of these strategies to a wider audience, as part of the consultation process.
As part of my commitment with the team, I assisted in the definition and communication of the strategic vision of airport related facilities (Re-provided Schools, Special-needs Centre and Green Corridor). My graphic and methodological approach also influenced the Heritage assessment on the surrounding communities.
[Fig.1] Pictorial Masterplan [Fig.2] Green Corridor Vision [Fig.3] GC Design Principles
01.09.22 [17] [Fig.4] Reprovided School Vision [Fig.6] Construction mitigation [Fig.7] Construction mitigation [Fig.8] Construction mitigation Stage 2 Stage 4 Stage 5 [Fig.5] Heathrow Special Needs Centre Vision
[PR.02] Scalo Farini-Valtellina. Milan. Italy AECOM [01/2019 - to date] RIBA STAGES [0-2] 01.09.22 [18] [PR.O3] IN PagesDETAIL18-19 This work consists on developing a strategy to add value to a network of existing disused railway yards that are no longer functional to railway operations. The proposed strategy integrates urban and real estate services to enhance business and community services to future masterplans and funtional utilization on those Mysites.work focused on understanding the local regulations, in particular the green land requirements, to set a base guideline for future masterplanning of the sites. It also looked at compliant design solutions that can satisfy the requirements across sites of that industrial nature in the city. The scope also included the implementation of those guidelines in a test site, which we undertook to provide our client with an understanding of the commercial interest of purchasing the site, while supporting their bid with plans and visual material. [Fig.1] Pictorial Masterplan [Fig.2] View from Scalo Farini
01.09 22 [19]
01.09.22 [20]
[PR.O4] PagesDETAIL20-21
My tasks in this project have been to coordinate the framework plans and design guidelines for the retailers that will rent the different brand mats- the spaces allocated to each brand- that differ in every floor.
My second project in Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands, Kotva Retail Centre, consists of a complete refurbishment of a 1975 iconic building in the heart of the city of Prague. 40,000 sqm will be upgraded to fit a high-end department store.
As the responsible for the framework, I tried to ensure that interior design concept proposed for each floor was described with sufficient technical detail and that the design codes showcased the proposed intervention accordingly. [Fig.1] Height restriction framework plan [Fig.2] Interior view. Level 0
IN
[PR.03] Kotva Centre. Prague. Czech Republic Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands Architects [08/2017 - 12/2018] RIBA STAGES [0-3]
The challenge has been to understand the exsiting architecture in the building to achieve a functional refurbishment that works, but also showcases the existing building structure while bringing a new air of luxury to a high-end concept store.
01.09 22 [21] [Fig.3] Interior view. Level 1 [Fig.4] Interior view. Level 2 [Fig.5] Interior view. Level 3 [Fig.6] Interior view. Level 4 [Fig.7] Interior view. Level 5
[PR.04] Park & Hartcliffe Campus. Bristol. UK - 12/2018]
Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands Architects [08/2017
Further to the design of street and block typologies and the elaboration of the corresponding Design Code and the Design and Access Statement for the development, I took the role of masterplan guardian to oversee the general layout integrity and to counteract undesired diversions related to the complexity of the stakeholder background and interests.
RIBA STAGES [0-3] 01.09.22 [22] [PR.O5] IN PagesDETAIL22-25
Hengrove
[Fig.1] Pictorial Masterplan [Fig.2] Generation sketches
My team undertook the design and subsequent planning application submission of the Hengrove Park and Hartcliffe Campus masterplan. This is a residential scheme that aims to develop two brownfield sites to provide circa 1,500 new homes in South Bristol. The development integrates a former historic runway into the core of the landscape strategy, as one of the key features of the 20 ha of a new destination park.
01.09.22 [23] [Fig.3] Park Road typology [Fig.6] Living Street typology [Fig.9] The Avenue (West) B typology [Fig.12] Park Edge (West) B typology [Fig.4] Perimeter Street A typology [Fig.7] The Avenue (East) typology [Fig.10] The Avenue (West) C typology [Fig.13] Park Edge (South) typology [Fig.5] Perimeter Street B typology [Fig.8] The Avenue (West) A typology [Fig.11] Park Edge (West) A typology [Fig.14] Park Edge (East) typology
01.09.22 [24] [Fig.15] The Avenue (East) design codes [Fig.16] Living Street design codes [Fig.17] Park Edge (East) design codes
01.09.22 [25] [Fig.20] Park Edge (East) design codes [Fig.19] Living Street design codes [Fig.18] The Avenue (East) design codes
each, in
of the
exclusive
I was Lead Architect of this 4 of around 600 sqm one most residential areas of Madrid. I developed both the Concept Design and the Technical Design in close contact with the client and leading a four people team. I was in charge of dealing with the Planning Board, to obtain construction permission. I was also Assistant to the Direction of Works, during construction. The challenge was to produce modern homes in one of the most traditional neighbourhoods in Madrid. The client was concerned that an overly ambitious design would not attract buyers. In response, my team focused on extracting quality out of regular materials, such as concrete and brick. We experimented with bush hammered concrete and aligned brick heads on the dwelling facades, which lend the desired timelessness and exclusiveness to the project. The inclined roofs and layout help evoke a sense of homeliness and tradition.
dwellings project,
[PR.05] Four Single Family Dwellings. Madrid De Lapuerta y Asensio Arquitectos [08/2017 - 12/2018] RIBA STAGES [0-7] 01.09.22 [26] [PR.O6] IN PagesDETAIL26-29
01.09.22 [27]
[Fig.1] [House A] South Elevation [Fig.2] [House B] South Elevation [Fig.3] [House C] West Elevation [Fig.4] [House C] South Elevation
01.09 22 [28] [Fig.5] Horizontal roof, pergola, glass-glass and glass-brick wall details [Fig.7] Inclined roof details [Fig.6] Brick-concrete wall, brick voids, concrete wall, shutter details [Fig.8] Inclined rood and cantilever details
01.09.22 [29] [Fig.9] Selected parcelation option [Fig.11] Preliminary parcelation option [Fig.10] Facade testing
[PR.06] Single Family Dwelling. Madrid De Lapuerta y Asensio Arquitectos [08/2017 - 12/2018] RIBA STAGES [0-7] 01.09.22 [30] [PR.O7] IN PagesDETAIL30-33
As a part of the Direction of Works, I supervised the construction on-site, and made significant and impactful contributions to construction detailing of the dwelling. My solutions during the construction stage were aligned to and in some cases enhanced the original concept of the dwelling. This is the case of the concrete joints position. As the pictures show, the joints are unrelated to the levels of slabs but with the location of windows, adding to the coherence of the project. This was more difficult for the construction company to realise, but I worked closely with them to guarantee the success of the operation, while maintaining a safe and collaborative environment. Throughout the construction phase I worked closely with the client to ensure that he and his family would feel at home in the dwelling. I frequently produced renderings and quick drawings which communicated the design possibilities. This helped the client engage and take a more active role in creating his home.
01.09.22 [31]
interior
interior
interior
On-site construction & interior
On-site construction
[Fig.1] design details [Fig.2] & design details [Fig.3] & design details [Fig.4] & design details [Fig.5] design details
On-site construction & interior
01.09.22 [32]
On-site construction
On-site construction
01.09.22 [33] [Fig.6] Construction progress (above) and concrete pouring sequence & joints diagram (below)
This project is intended for intensive use during the summer months, while being able to shut tightly during the colder and more inhospitable times. White ‘mallorquinas’, a type of traditional shutters, can completely seal the ground floor seasonally, improving the perception of safety.
A small refurbishment in a second home in the mountains surrounding Madrid. The house has been linked to the family for years, this project explores how to expand it respectfully.
[PP.01] House in Mountains. Madrid project
RIBA[2021]STAGES [0-7] 01.09.22 [34]
[PP.O1] IN PagesDETAIL34-35
white concrete to hug and hold the stone facade. Additional light and views are brought into the ground floor, now a large living and cooking space, with an expanded porch to enjoy the outside.
A
the
Keeping the granite stones that make the facade and never building beyond the existing perimeter of the house constitute the initial premises for a sensitive refurbishment. Bigger and deeper voids are opened where windows were, using
Personal
[Fig.1] Ground floor
[Fig.2] floor
01.09.22 [35]
Upper
[PP.02] A Terrace in Putney Personal project RIBA[2020]STAGES [0-3] 01.09.22 [36]
This refurbishment arranges the ground floor, the public meeting level, around a central courtyard bathed with natural light. Spiraling around the courtyard, the stair climbs up to the upper rooms. They are bisected by the courtyard and organise a dynamic layout that maximises space and privacy and provides generous ensuite bathrooms to each of the rooms.
A sudden realisation from my two clients kickstarted this project. They are both high-achieving, educated and hard-working young professionals, but will never access a house on their own in their lifetime. As childhood friends, they met again in London and decided to join efforts to buy a property where they could enjoy large and generous communal spaces, as well as distinctly separated spaces of their own. They made it very clear from the outset that they did not want to share a bathroom, and that they were not a couple!
[PP.O2] IN PageDETAIL36
[PP.03] x Houses for x+n Triathletes Personal project RIBA[2019]STAGES [0-3] 01.09.22 [37]
Exploring possibilities of prefabricated construction speculative project arranges vertical and horizontal concrete modules that act as structure and interior finishing in housing construction. concentrating structural and decorative features within the same module, production, transport and assembly costs can be substantially reduced. addition to the construction system, this housing model explores the financing possibilities of co-housing, where otherwise luxurious services are made affordable by sharing.
and cohousing system This
This particular design displays two twin houses – each containing living, dining, kitchen, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom units – that share the cost of an indoor pool, a co-housing model specially targeted to triathletes.
By
the
a
[Fig.1] Upper floor [Fig.2] Ground floor [PP.O3] IN PageDETAIL37
In
The main façade was majestic, the bricks were shining under the sun. They looked very familiar, I wondered if they could be the same bricks that some buildings in Fishergate and Church Street had, in the older areas of Preston. There were concrete arches on several levels, inserted in the facades, holding the weight of the bricks above. People were gathering outside so we decided to cross the threshold. The vaulted ceiling welcomed and carried us in, we managed to find our uncle and the rest of the family in the busy foyer, and while the women were already heading to their stairs, my father and I crossed the door at one side of the foyer onto the cloak rooms. A single longitudinal vault joined the coat, shoe and ablution rooms together. My father and I cleansed ourselves before entering the prayer hall. When we were ready, we made our way through. Expecting an exhilarating space, I was disappointed by a dark vaulted space instead, with very tight headroom. My father was preparing his book and his mat and told me to follow him. I could see light beyond the threshold ahead of me. A line of eight arches separated us from that bright space. And when we crossed it, I can’t describe my joy. A soaring space grew just in front of my eyes. Golden domes bathed the space with light, white shiny bricks on the walls and concrete on arched windows to one of the sides brought moving sparkles of light reflected on the surface of a lake beyond, and on the qibla the most delicate mosaic covered the mihrab with green. I could understand now why the low vaulted area was there, it was a buffer that prepared the faithful for this Ispace.have come regularly to Friday prayer ever since that day, and I have been able to learn many more details of the building. I know now that it was conceived as a bare cube that contained three interlocking spaces within it. The main prayer hall, at the bottom, grows over three levels and ends on a domed ceiling. The female prayer hall and the library, over the main prayer hall, grow over two levels and end on a vaulted ceiling. An additional level on top of these ones contains meeting and reading rooms. All the spaces are connected visually, so a glimpse of the sacred space is always within reach for the faithful. Tomorrow I am taking my child to the Mosque for the first time.
After a few weeks in our new city, my father brought me to the mosque for the first time. My uncle drove us and dropped us at the front whilst he went to park the car with the rest of the family within the concrete plinth on top of the hill. My father and me walked slowly up the access ramp that took us to the open courtyard above, I couldn’t help feeling as one of the pilgrims in the Hajj. When we reached the top, the square was surprisingly open. We could feel the city beyond and hear the passing cars on the motorway, but we were surrounded by tree canopies and birds and felt at peace on top of this concrete plateau, paved with stone.
On top of a hill there is a Mosque. It is a concrete cube sitting on a concrete plinth. Its minaret and bare brick walls can be seen from miles away. The first time I saw it I was inside my family’s car. I remember my parents talking excitedly, and my brothers making noise inside the car stuffed with all our belongings. We were moving to Preston! I remember how, as drowsy as I was after a long journey, I first saw the minaret appearing between the trees, as if out of a dream. I suddenly woke and could see the magnificent brick shape, lit by the sun and revealing to me as the car drew the curve along the M55. It was clear the building was squarely oriented towards Mecca and not aligned to the road, which was intriguing to those passing along the motorway and able to see its two sides.
[PCO.O1] IN PagesDETAIL38-39
[CO.01] The Low Line. London Personal Competition RIBA[2021]STAGES [0-7] 01.09.22 [38]
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[PCO.O2] IN PagesDETAIL40-41
ABuildtruly inclusive building system is one whose simplicity and flexibility makes it easy and cost-efficient to implement at a reasonably large scale. Such a system develops inexpensive housing by using sound housing dimensions and deploying regular and modular elements that can simultaneously encourage swift and innovative industrialized off-site construction and long-term user-oriented maintenance, conversion, improvement, expansion and modification.
Such a design & build system consciously avoids speculation, as the sudden rise in value of land associated to rapid development can be slowed down over time. This development model is directly linked to well-being, quality of life and personal and community responsibility, rather than to capital gain and material wealth. It makes quality housing affordable and fosters resilience, as actively engaging owners in the design and building process of their homes and public realm makes the community care.
[PP.02] The Home of 2030 Personal work RIBA[2020]STAGES [0-3] 01.09.22 [40] Design A truly inclusive design framework allows the final user to configure his or her living environment by combining a set of essential elements. The simplest of systems is proposed here. Each citizen is given a number of 3.20×3.20m modules. By arranging those on a layout, the users can independently design their dwellings and neighbourhoods. Some modules are housing components (rooms), some are street components (pavements and roads) and some are open space components (trees, benches and patches of green). Such a design method is inclusive. It can be followed and used by anyone, regardless of age and technical or artistic skill. This method is also cooperative and participatory, as agreements to the arrangement of modules are fundamental to achieve a coherent urban ensemble. This system relies on personal autonomy, maximizing the owners’ freedom of choice in the design of their properties, generating novel and adaptable homes. The system relies also on collective responsibility, to generate an open, inclusive, and green public realm for the community.
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If the elevated Victorian viaduct identified as The Low Line was to be understood as Green, it should connect to city-wide green spaces, as it indeed does already.
[CO.03]
The Low Line. London Personal Competition RIBA[2018]STAGES [0-7] 01.09.22 [42]
Hyde Park and St James’s Park, in the west of London, and Greenwich Park, to the east, are linked via The Low Line. Trains leaving form Charing Cross Station will reach Greenwich Station in around 30 minutes, passing through London Bridge Station and making The Low Line a true functional piece of green infrastructure, beyond a mere cosmetic catalogue of micro-scale green solutions.
A multi-scale approach is needed to guarantee an truly encompassing design strategy. Within the stretch of viaduct mentioned above, roughly representing a 10km route, eight 1km x 1km frames have been distinguished. Each of them deals with one overarching topic of interest aligned with the vision included in the brief.
[PCO.O3] IN PagesDETAIL42-43
[Fig.1]
The
Folkestone Gardens action [Fig.3] Low Line general plan [Fig.2] Waterloo Boxes action
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On one side of the axis lies the Center-Residence of Scientific Research, on the other side sits the Center of Exhibition for Visitors.
In section, the walking level over the Roman bridge is taken as the reference ground level, the Research Center is built over that level and the Exhibition Center is developed under it. That way the path is always a continuous one, the visitor walks under the first building and above the second one, contacting the surroundings through the promenade– the granite rock interiors and the tree tops.
The Observatorium imbricates in the landscape as a single trace, gathering all paths that walk the valley.
The Observatorium aspires to blend in with the surrounding landscape as if it had been lying there since the Roman times, or even since the awakening of the Alpine formation that gave birth to the Fuenfría Valley, in the Cenozoic Era, 45 million years ago.
The Observatorium is composed of two separate buildings. The distinction between the two main functions of the program -research and exhibition- is the engine for all the design decisions.
The representation of the opposition and difference among the parts constitutes the design method, both in plan and section.
In plan, La Venta River functions as the axis that separates the buildings.
[AC.01] Final Degree Project. Nature Observatorium in Fuenfría River Valley Graduated[10/2013] with Honors (FDP 10/10)] 01.09.22 [44] [AC.O1] IN PagesDETAIL44-51
The Observatorium is placed along the Roman Pathway of Cercedilla. It connects with that route, anchoring to both sides of the Descalzo Roman Bridge, in the most natural way possible.
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This is a collection of 108 digital paintings that I produced in london from 2017 to 2019. The following is the introductory text to the collection catalogue: ‘I have spent a couple of hours daily in the London underground for the last two years. In this period, my understanding of this environment has become part of the reflection of myself as an element of the city and its dwellers. I remember that, particularly for an introvert, the lack of interaction felt extremely alienating at first. That shock lasted for several months after I first started my travels. That was one of the reasons I resorted to drawing.
My first sketches started with exhaustive reference lines on a colour background, to which I later added further detail with stronger digital brushes, carefully reflecting the individualities in the coach. Some of those guidelines still can be seen in the finalised drawing. The works were colourful and lively, in a way therapeutic, but they were never a reflection of the place I was living in. They were too happy, humane and circumvent. Progressively, I started to feel more prepared to face the livid monochrome passengers, and slowly began to forget the subtleties of the travellers. I no longer cared to find a prospective eagerness for interaction, only noticeable in brief eye contacts, apparently casual body posture corrections and momentary judgemental facial expressions.
[OT.01] Faceless in the tube Digital painting project 01.09.22 [52] [OT.O1] IN PagesDETAIL41-42
I can now sense the loud and pressing feeling of Londoners pouring from their grey interface in full colour while I wear my headphones and keep my head low to draw, pretending noone is paying attention.’
I don’t even need to sneak out from my ipad screen anymore.
By the end of this catalogue, I feel my most recent drawings are a much more accurate reflection of what the London underground represents for me -a place of surrounding solitude, spectrality and homogeneity- where only a vaguely sympathetic glimpse or a brief rest away from the smartphone episode reveal the internal despair and -perhaps imaginary- need for connection that make these characters alive.
Their initial stiffness and apparent disregard was no longer a seductive barrier to break. I no longer had the impulse to draw imposed colourful and fictitiously vibrant scenes. I was able to dwell into their emptiness. I now avoided the reference lines, I could just start painting the faceless without thinking on the choice of colours, the tools or sizes of brushes. I was starting to come to terms with my new ecosystem.
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Alejandro de Miguel Solano alejandro@demiguelsolano.comwww.demiguelsolano.comLondon/Madrid07754146926/609611513