Hi, I’m Avery, a third-year student at the University of Waterloo School of Architecture in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. I’m seeking a 4-8 month work placement from January 2025 to August 2025
I am driven by the desire to make a real difference in communities through architecture, striving to create spaces that foster positivity and meaning. My choice in studying architecture stems from a commitment to addressing issues of climate and social justice. Drawing inspiration from the people and places that surround me, I weave my personal experiences into the fabric of my designs.
Outside of my architectural pursuits, I enjoy experimenting with art, expanding my knowledge in various fields, and exploring the outdoors. I’ve always had a passion for exploring different cultures through travel, and it’s something I hope to continue pursuing in my career—finding a role that allows me to nurture these passions while also learning and growing in an environment that’s both stimulating and inspiring.
Please enjoy this collection of my academic and professional work!
CURRICULUM VITAE
WORK EXPERIENCE
SvN
Architects + Planners
Toronto, Ontario
• Doors Open Toronto
Designed and fabricated laser-cut tree identification cards and landscape matching games for event visitors
• Indigenous Project (Confidential)
Conducted bilingual research (English and French), emphasizing cultural sensitivity and Indigenous vernacular to gather project background
Developed diagrammatic mappings for internal coordination and client briefings.
• Project “Heineken”
Ensured client confidentiality
Created interior design schematics and renderings
Prepared construction annotations and schedules during Design Development (DD)
Created client presentations showcasing design concepts and project progress.
• IO Project
Utilized mapping software to annotate proposed public transit routes with census data for analysis
EDUCATION
University of Waterloo School of Architecture
September 2021 - Present
Candidate for Graduate with a Bachelor of Architectural Studies (Class of 2026)
Excellent Academic Standing 4.0 GPA
Candidate for the Rome Design Studio (Fall 2025)
Dam & Partners
Nederlands Architectenbureau
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
• Anthony Fokkerweg
Conducted codes, regulations, factors, and decisions.
Constructed materials and details
Created refined design options Prepared detailed and elevations (CAD) software. Contributed visuals, renderings, showcase stakeholders.
Conducted research on materials, building regulations, and sustainability and analyzed data to support design
Constructed physical models using various to communicate design concepts details effectively.
refined 3D models to explore various options and spatial relationships. detailed drawings, plans, sections, elevations using computer-aided design software.
Contributed to presentations through renderings, and diagrams to design concepts to clients or stakeholders.
concept diagrams and renders.
Supported the design process through 2D visualizations and graphics.
Organized and shared information with consultants.
Attended site visits and collected information and measurements.
Prepared drawings for feasibility, costing, and Design Development (DD) drawing set.
Modeled full-scale projects in 3D with attention to detail and accuracy.
Collaborated with team members to ensure clarity and quality of concept.
Developed, modified, and reviewed drawings, ensuring the incorporation of design intent and firm standards.
• University Avenue Masterplan
Prepared concept diagrams and renders 3D modelled project.
Created master site plan with organized phasing.
Analyzed client requirements
Performed site visits and produced deficiency reports
Adhered to the Ontario Building Code
Prepared drawings for costing
Modeled in 3D
Prepared cost estimates
• Mass Timber Pilot Studies
Researched mass timber precedents and structural details
3D modeling
Created structural diagrams
• DTAH’s Green Sustainable Standards
Designed a self-assessment for previous projects outlining community impact and sustainability. Compiled a comprehensive report or document detailing the assessment findings, methodologies used, successes, challenges, and lessons learned. Presented findings to firm.
SKILLS DIGITAL SKILLS
Graphic and Presentation Skills
Worksite Safety Fall Protection Certification Favourite
Detail Oriented
Collaborative and enthusiastic
Strong design capabilities
Bilingual: FSL Certification
Excellent English writing and Verbal Communication
Proficiency in design software
Model Making & 3D Printing
Hand drafting
3D Modeling
Rhino 7
Adobe Suites
Sketchup
REVIT
AutoCAD
Microsoft Office
Enscape
Grasshopper
Laser Cutting
01 / COLLECTIVE ROOTS
MASTERPLAN COMMUNITY FOR KITCHENER/ WATERLOO
STUDIO 3A WINTER 2024 I I
SOFTWARE Rhino 7, D5, Adobe Suites & Photoshop I
SUPERVISOR Adrian Blackwell I
I COLLABORATORS Matthew Beecroft & Yev Stepanyuk
The Collective Roots project represents a shift in urban housing; integrating Indigenous wisdom, sustainable practices, and community empowerment . Three distinct scales of housing density create a more adaptable space that caters to a wide range of user needs. By deviating from conventional architectural norms and embracing innovative approaches to affordable housing, the project contributes to fighting housing alienation while fostering a harmonious, connected, and resilient urban community.
At its core lies the profound ethos of “ On the Land Housing ,” a concept that transcends mere shelter, weaving threads of interconnectedness and community throughout the fabric of the project. Departing from the isolated, impersonal nature of traditional affordable housing typologies, the Collective Roots vision embraces a series of interconnected housing units, linked by lush courtyards and symbolic “roots” that serve not only as pathways but as tangible expressions of unity and communal spirit. This departure from prevailing architectural norms signals a paradigm shift, where residents are not mere occupants but integral members of a thriving, interconnected ecosystem.
Collective Roots stands as a testament to the transformative power of blending tradition with innovation. It is a vision for a future where housing is not just shelter, but rather a dynamic community connected by human experiences and stewardship of the land
CIRCULATION CONNECTION THROUGH SITE “ROOTS”
Extraction:
1. Attawapiskat
2. Tomclid Iron Mine
3. Queenstown Formation
4. Collingwood Shale
5. Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Ltd (Forestry)
Manufacturing:
6. Dufferin Concrete
7. Stelco’s Hamilton Works
8. Cheltenham Quarry & Manufacturing
9. Chisholm Lumber, Roslin
Ecological Sections
Land, Water and Air
Building Section Light-Wood Framed Row House Materials: 1. Concrete 2. Steel 3. Masonry
Timber
PERSPECTIVE SECTION
LOW-DENSITY
ROW HOUSING
The northeastern portion of the block is dedicated to Indigenous housing, with a specific focus on the unique needs of Indigenous women and children. The layout features row houses encircling a protected central courtyard, designed to be adaptable for public gatherings or closed off for private ceremonies and resident activities. Corner buildings accommodate various resident programs and amenities. While each home promotes autonomy, the shared spaces foster a sense of connection and community among residents. The landscaping draws inspiration from nature’s geometric patterns, providing space for local Indigenous outdoor programming while also honouring the broader Indigenous communities of Canada.
The housing project will be owned and operated by local groups like the K-W Urban Native Wigwam Project, ensuring community involvement and sustainability.
THE LONGHOUSE
The Longhouse of Five Fires is a traditional building method of the Haudenosaunee people reflecting a profound connection between culture and the built environment. The Longhouse of Five Fires symbolizes unity and governance, embodying the collaborative spirit of the Five Nations living as extended families under one roof. These building practices showcase the significance of shared spaces in shaping relationships and cultural identity within the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, inspiring a design approach that distinguishes between private and shared areas in the low-density section of the site.
Private Dwelling Shared Space
FULL ROW HOUSING BLOCK
TYPICAL ROW HOUSE PLANS
Single family, 3+1 bedrooms
02 / ATKĀPE / RETREAT
LATVIAN YOGA HOUSE IN THE BOG
WINNER OF THE CLIENT FAVOURITE AWARD, FEATURED ON ARCHDAILY
COMPETITION SPRING 2023 I
SOFTWARE Rhino 7, Enscape, Adobe Suites & Photoshop I
I PLATFORM BUILDNER
I COLLABORATORS Matthew Beecroft
Off the shore of the Baltic Sea surrounded by lush forest, Atkāpe is a reflection of Latvian culture , spiritualism and connection to the land. Atkāpe means retreat , symbolizing the Yoga House as a sanctuary where users may retreat to nature, seek peace and rest. It is a meaningful and sustainable addition to the surrounding environment. The home provides year-round, peaceful respite for yoga and meditation practitioners while preserving and respecting the delicate ecosystem of the bog.
Atkāpe uniquely reflects the spirituality of the region. Latvian spiritualism places strong emphasis on balance . Atkāpe reflects this belief through its symmetrical design to evoke a sense of spiritual equilibrium . The placement of windows and thresholds is carefully considered to ensure circulation and energy flow and create an atmosphere of harmony. The form and layout of Atkāpe is inspired by the Baltic Pagan symbol of Aka . Aka symbolizes the Sun and Earth and is believed to offer protection to the home and its inhabitants and ward to off evil spirits or negative energies. The symmetrical nature of the Aka symbol and its bold division of space is used to separate areas of the home and allow for designated uses of each space. Incorporating the overall design of the Aka symbol into the design of the Atkāpe Yoga House honours the traditions and beliefs of Latvian culture and invites positive energy into the home.
Latvian design techniques have been implemented throughout the project to honour the land and culture. Historic necessity to use locally-sourced materials naturally and harvested elements is reflected by the material choices of timber and reed These regenerative building materials additionally promote the sustainability and environmental responsibility of the project. Latvian architecture is a testament to the enduring power of Baltic spiritualism and its influence on culture and traditions. Careful decisions from the overall design of Atkāpe, material choice and energy flow have been implemented in the project to reflect Latvian architecture and to inspire users to engage with the rich culture of the region.
AKA SYMBOL ROOM DIVISION CIRCULATION
LOCATION MAP
SITE AXONOMETRIC
FLOORPLANS
ORNAMENTAL DOOR T A ornamental T traditional Latvian folk costume motifs culture history welcomes
CENTRAL HEARTH
A honour ancestors, meditate or socialize A therapeutic meditative warmth comfort
A commitment to preserving traditional architecture and using natural, sustainable materials T
03 / THE POST
MASS TIMBER AFFORDABLE EVOLUTIONARY HOUSING
STUDIO 2A FALL 2022 I I
SOFTWARE Rhino 7, Enscape, Adobe Suites & Photoshop I
SUPERVISOR Adrian Blackwell I
FEATURED AT THE RIVERSIDE GALLERY ARCHITECTURAL SHOWCASE
The Post is a mass-timber, affordable cohousing proposal to address housing alienation in Cambridge, Ontario. Located in the city center, the Post project will be a gathering place not only for the inhabitants but the broader community as well. The deeply affordable, locally managed housing project draws design inspiration from surrounding structures and incorporates important landmarks including the Galt Old Post Office and the Boardwalk laneway. The project primarily houses seniors and families and
features a daycare and co-working space. The concept of the Post is sharing resources and services while maintaining a sense of autonomy in a social living environment. The social spaces and shared programs initiate informal encounters and spontaneous conversations to battle loneliness. The widespread increase in working from home and separation from others has incited a culture of isolation . Social isolation has been shown to increase the risk of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse as well as chronic conditions. Seniors and children are especially vulnerable to these risks and community is a vital element in their prevention. The Post reinspires people to embrace their neighbours and insights a philosophy of community . The Post users are essentially a large family whose support reaches beyond that of neighbours.
Creativity:
Co-living often faces stigma as a temporary, uninspiring solution. The Post challenges this by promoting autonomy and creativity. Its open floor plans act as blank canvases, allowing residents to use partition walls to personalize their spaces, adjusting them as needed. This flexibility enhances a sense of individuality and self-expression. The design includes multiple egress options, with each unit having its own front door to the outdoors, fostering autonomy and spontaneous interactions, countering shared housing stigma.
Social World:
The Post emphasizes social living for both residents and the broader community, catering to seniors and families with young children. It includes essential programs like daycare, a shared kitchen, and coworking spaces. Conveniently located downtown, it offers easy access to transit and facilities. Safety improvements include a raised crosswalk and re-routing parking access to create a pedestrian-friendly environment. These features support the primary users, promoting safe and convenient access to transit and the community.
Addressing Housing Alientation
Shared Kitchen/ Dining
Allowing users to cook for themselves, each other and the broader community. Located adjacent to the daycare, guardians can provide meals for children and caretakers with easy supervision.
A space to gather, play and meals. All units have windows central courtyard offering South sun exposure and of a roof above benefits by allowing sunlight mid-day.
Courtyard
Shared spaces are embedded plans of each floor. room, laundry room, more, the users programs that they
for community windows facing the offering both North and and views. The lack benefits the courtyard sunlight into the space
Shared Social Spaces
embedded within the floor. From a meditation room, exercise facility and users benefit from a variety of may not have in traditional housing.
The daycare provides an enormous convenience to the users of the Post. Having affordable, nearby childcare is an asset to living in the co-house. Seniors and children are well connected at the Post with the opportunity to teach the younger generation This intergenerational connection is vital to the social ecosystem of the Post. Daycare
Diandra Williams, 63 Single Unit
Diandra, who experienced a significant loss, sought connection and community at the Post, drawn to its shared spaces and affordability. Volunteering at the daycare, she formed bonds with families, leading to shared meals and connections in communal areas. Preferring a smaller living space and spending time in shared areas, especially the greenroom, she found a sense of family among residents, becoming an integral part of the community.
The Carter Family, Ellen, Brad, Maeve, George, Ben, and Sadie, moved into the Post and expanded by purchasing a neighbouring unit to accommodate their growing family. Living together enhances care among family members and makes housing more affordable. They actively engage in communal activities: George tends to the landscaping, Ellen hosts events, Maeve performs, Brad cooks and participates in community meals, and the children run a small dog-walking business.
Cole Knockaert, 30 Double Unit
Cole, a single father to Emma, recently moved to the Post, concerned about the implications of their living situation. However, the supportive community there has pleasantly surprised him. With Emma in daycare and Cole working from home, the community setup provides affordable childcare, enabling Cole to remain close by while working. Grateful for the support, Cole feels the Post is the perfect place for their upbringing.
They moved who spends playing The supportive for her activities.
The Carter Family Expanded Unit
Halle Gerland, 40 Three-Bed Unit
Halle and Peter moved to the Post a few years ago. Recently, Halle’s mother, Evelyn, who has Alzheimer’s, joined them for safety during COVID-19. moved to a larger unit to accommodate Evelyn, spends time in the Wellness room. Peter enjoys in the courtyard and attending movie nights. supportive community helps Halle manage caring mother and child while participating in shared activities.
04 / ATELIER ALTERNATIVE
LODGE IN THE
FRENCH RIVER
STUDIO 2B SUMMER 2023 I I
SOFTWARE Rhino 7, Adobe Suites & Photoshop I
SUPERVISOR Scott Sørli I
Nestled amidst the stunning scenery of Canada’s heartland, the French River region offers a sanctuary of natural wonders, with serene waterways, lush forests, and fascinating wildlife. Atelier Alternative provides an opportunity to reconnect with nature , empowering both students and professionals to embrace their curiosity while tackling occupational burnout; reinspiring passion through nature.
In the enchanting French River area, lodges exude a charming rustic charm, harmonizing with the breathtaking surroundings. Embracing traditional log cabin designs and integrating elements of the Canadian wilderness, the lodges find their place amidst lush forests and tranquil waterways, creating a seamless connection with nature. With their inviting exteriors boasting natural materials, generous windows, and open-air verandas, guests can enjoy stunning views and fresh air. To further enhance the experience, the lodges offer eco-friendly and sustainable features, promoting a responsible approach to nature and the environment.
The primary lodge includes a spacious dining area complete with essential amenities, a cozy fireplace lounge, and accommodations for the facility’s staff. Linked by a bridge, the studio offers ample workspace where students and professionals can immerse themselves in a new environment, feeling nestled by the surrounding forest. The studio challenges conventional workspace norms, offering a fresh and invigorating perspective in a creative and engaging environment.
Community Through Spaces
In each pair of cabins, there are communal fire pits as well as a few private ones scattered throughout, creating opportunities for socializing, group activities, and individual contemplation. The inclusion of these outdoor gathering areas enhances mental well-being by fostering a sense of community and embracing the positive social influence that comes from being part of a group.
Studio / Co-Working Space
The studio nestled in the trees contributes to the mental health of students and professionals by providing a refreshing and tranquil environment for work or study. Being surrounded by nature and greenery has been shown to reduce stress, increase focus, and enhance overall well-being. This unique setting fosters a sense of connection to the natural world, promoting relaxation and helping to alleviate occupational burnout by offering a rejuvenating escape from the pressures of indoor settings.
Access
Having direct outdoor access from cabins to water and neighbours allows users to unwind and engage in recreational activities, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. The proximity to natural elements and social interactions fosters a supportive environment, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness commonly associated with occupational burnout. This combination of nature and community enhances mental well-being, providing a refreshing escape from work-related pressures and contributing to a reduced risk of burnout.
Outdoor Activities
The site offers numerous hiking trails along the shoreline and through the woods, along with various bodies of water suitable for water activities. These outdoor activities improve mental health by promoting physical exercise, which releases endorphins to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. The calming effect of nature additionally helps reduce mental fatigue and improve mood, while fostering a connection to the natural world and promoting mindfulness, ultimately contributing to overall mental health.
Outdoor Engagement
The outdoor auditorium and gathering space can improve the mental health of students and professionals by providing a refreshing and natureinfused environment, reducing stress and boosting overall well-being. Exposure to open-air settings can alleviate occupational burnout, promoting relaxation and creativity during classes and meetings, ultimately enhancing focus and productivity. Additionally, the dynamic and interactive nature of outdoor spaces creates a more engaging and stimulating learning or working environment, fostering active participation and collaboration among attendees.
Botany
The Canadian French River region is rich in native organisms, featuring unique lichens such as the Zoned Dust Lichen and Peppered Rock Tripe on rocky surfaces. The forests are lush with species like the Paper Birch and Eastern Brackenfern, contributing to the area’s diverse and vibrant ecological landscape.
Rock Fissures
The French River region lies atop the Canadian Shield, which is mainly made up of granite, gneiss, and schist. Freeze-thaw cycles cause water to seep into rock cracks and fissures. When temperatures drop, the water freezes, expands, and exerts pressure on the rock, gradually widening existing cracks and forming new fractures.
Water Ecology
The French River’s water ecology in Canada is essential for regional biodiversity. Pristine waters support fish species like bass, walleye, and pike, crucial to the food chain. Nutrient-rich waters provide habitats for aquatic plants, insects, and invertebrates, maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.
Beach Ecology
The sandy region of the French River in Canada is vital for ecological balance. It offers crucial nesting and foraging grounds for various bird species, including shorebirds and waterfowl. Coastal vegetation along the beach acts as a natural buffer, preventing erosion and protecting terrestrial and aquatic habitats from storms and high tides.
05 / THE YORK SCHOOL RENOVATION STUDY
JUNIOR SCHOOL MASTERPLAN TORONTO, ON
KPMB CO-OP WINTER 2023 I I
SOFTWARE Rhino 7, AutoCAD, Adobe Suites & Photoshop I
My primary project while working with KPMB Architects was on a two- person team for the York School Renovation. The York School is a unique urban school in the heart of the City of Toronto. The client tasked our small team with creating and implementing designs to expand the facilities of the school, create new coworking spaces for students, propose costing studies for a variety of phases of renovation and overall increase the occupancy of the school. The expansion project required careful attention to the existing structural, mechanical and electrical facets of the building as well as designing for future use of the spaces. I primarily worked on the feasibility study and created a drawing set for costing. This included numerous iterations of orthographic drawings and renderings as the project progressed. We strove to constantly exceed the clients’ expectations and deliver weekly on-time, informative and creative reports. The renderings and design proposals that I created were used to generate over $1,000,000 of funding for the school’s renovation project and were featured throughout the school and their publications. This project provided an incredible opportunity to work directly with clients, participate fully in the proposal and design process, and articulate the design to best suit the client’s budget, desires and needs.
CAFETERIA RENDER - VIEW LOOKING EAST TOWARD NEW EXTERIOR
VIEW OF NEW MAKER STREET AND CLASSROOMS LOOKING TOWARD GYMNASIUM
VIEW LOOKING NORTHEAST OF NEW DAYLIT GYMNASIUM IN FORMER CAFETERIA
SUNKEN COURT
MASS TIMBER OFFICE
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
DAM & PARTNERS CO-OP FALL 2023 I I
SOFTWARE AutoCAD, Adobe Suites, Physical Modelling I
While working in Amsterdam with Dam & Partners Architecten, I actively supported the design process for the Amsteldijk Project. Situated along the picturesque Amstel, the six-story mixed-use building utilizes mass timber construction, promoting sustainability while harmonizing with the surrounding ecology. Featuring open-concept offices with timber framing, the design prioritizes adaptive reuse, fostering flexibility within the space. Inspired by nature, the building’s aesthetic mimics a water ripple, paying homage to its timber roots by intricately depicting the growth rings of trees, symbolizing resilience and natural interconnectedness.
My contributions spanned various aspects of the project. From proposing innovative ideas and suggesting precedents to collaborating closely with lead architects in the early conceptual stages, I helped shape the project’s direction. Working alongside the team, I played a key role in developing the final proposal for the client, utilizing 2D and 3D visuals to effectively communicate our design intent. Additionally, I ensured precision in project documentation by assisting in the creation of detailed CAD drawings and models, while also actively participating in client presentations, incorporating feedback to refine our iterative design process. I additionally created a detailed sectional fragment model for the proposal to further emphasize the use of breakthrough sustainable measures adopted in the assembly. The comprehensive design reveals the complex levels of the floor structure by meticulously dividing materials and paying careful attention to detail, demonstrating the firm’s thorough deliberation in their approach.
SECTIONAL FLOOR ASSEMBLY STUDY
OF FLOOR ASSEMBLY WITH DETACHABLE BALCONY
MODEL
07/ MASS TIMBER PILOT STUDY
QUEEN’S WHARF & DANFORTH TORONTO, ON
DTAH CO-OP SUMMER 2022 I I
SOFTWARE Rhino 7, AutoCAD, Adobe Suites & Photoshop I
Between first and second year I had the opportunity to work at DTAH; a Toronto based Architecture, Landscape Architecture & Urban Design firm. During my internship I assisted with a diverse range of projects. One of the main projects was a Mass Timber pilot study for two apartment proposals. Both apartments are proposed to be located in Toronto and include 50% market and 50% affordable housing.
COLUMN & BEAM PATTERN
The firm’s intention was to encourage the client to make the sustainable swap from a typical concrete building to a mass timber structure. My task was to model the structure of one of the buildings as well as an individual unit. The model diagram below demonstrates the constructional stages of the project; from its concrete core, timber column and beam structure, and lastly encapsulated with GWB. The purpose of this modeling was to demonstrate the unique layout of each floor in accordance to its column and beam pattern.
QUEEN’S WHARF UNIT ASSEMBLY
08 / UNIVERSITY AVENUE MASTERPLAN
CANADA LIFE CAMPUS AND UNIVERSITY AVENUE REDEVELOPMENT
TORONTO, ON
KPMB CO-OP WINTER 2023 I I
SOFTWARE Rhino 7, AutoCAD, Adobe Suites & Photoshop I
During my time with KPMB Architects, I worked on the Canada Life Campus Masterplan and University Ave. Redevelopment. In collaboration with local and international firms, the proposal focuses on engaging public life and establishing a social and sustainable approach to the downtown core. The project aims to reimagine the current University Avenue as University Park, and provide a space for the community to gather and reflect. For this project I was tasked to 3D model the site, modify existing plans to suit the proposal and create different iterations of the new Canada Life Towers. My scope of work for the project ranges from large scale urban development to the smallest details in modeling.
