CHARLES A. SANCHEZ Architecture. Portfolio
About I have been passionate about architecture from an early age and I began to study design over seven years ago in the Dominican Republic. For the past two years I have been working on various architectural disciplines, including construction documents, design, and 3D visualization. I have always seen architecture as a means to improve lives and provide happiness. I also believe that we, as architects, have the important role of protecting our environment at the same time. It is exciting to be in a career where I can not only improve individuals’ quality of life, but also combine my passion for architecture with sustainable design to improve the quality of the natural world. The seamless marriage of architecture and the environment has been an important goal in my creative designs, minimizing the carbon footprint on the sites I work on. Throughout the course of my career, I will continue to advocate for solutions to create sustainable architecture that will enhance our landscapes, rather than negatively impact them.
After graduating from New Jersey Institute of Technology with a Bachelors of Architecture, I joined the Inglese Architecture team in East Rutherford, NJ. While working as a part of this team, I’ve had the opportunity to work on urban designs located in areas lacking green spaces and often suffering from contamination due to previous buildings on site. While gaining the skills to remediate sites such as these, I simultaneously developed my passion for environmentally responsible architecture. These insights have had an instrumental role in shaping my mindset as an architect, and I am grateful to have worked with such a talented group of people and impressive array of projects at Inglese. I have already completed my required IDP hours, and I’ve registered for the Architect Registration examination. I plan to become LEED certified in 2017.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CABIN RETREAT, CATSKILLS, NY
MICRO-UNITS APARTMENTS, JERSEY CITY, NJ
PABST DEVELOPMENT, IRVINGTON, NJ
MIDTOWN LOFTS, EAST ORANGE, NJ
HARVESTING FOR THE FUTURE, JERSEY CITY, NJ
CABIN RETREAT, CATSKILLS, NY
WEST PERSPECTIVE VIEW
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This proposal for a family retreat balances nature and modern design. The slope of the site combined with its abundant vegetation was a starting point for blending the cabin into its surroundings, and highlighting the landscape’s natural beauty from all angles. The building is positioned on a hillside overlooking a private lake with mountain views. Double height ceilings and plenty of natural light create a sense of openness into nature without disruption by other elements, while a building composition of wood, concrete and steel tastefully provide a modern contrast. Minimal landscaping work will be done, preserving the site’s scenic allure.
EAST PERSPECTIVE VIEW
SITE AND THE SURROUNDINGS
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Natural cross-ventilation and a lot of glazing allows for a minimized use of mechanical equipment for heating, cooling and lighting during both summer and winter months.
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
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SECOND FLOOR PLAN
WEST PERSPECTIVE VIEW
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EAST
SOUTH
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EAST ELEVATION
SOUTH ELEVATION
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MICRO-UNITS APARTMENTS, JERSEY CITY, NJ
This proposal for new apartment towers in Jersey City is to create an organized modular system of micro-units that maximizes the amount of natural ventilation, green escape and access to sunlight. The five different types of floors are rotated, creating varied conditions and allowing for usable space between the modules. As residents move around the central circulation space, they will experience different moments influenced by exterior city views along with views of the dynamic spaces within the modular framework. The design intention here is to create a fluid connection between the lobby space and the vibrant city life on Jersey City’s Washington Street. Moving upwards, residents will appreciate the transitional effects enabled by the circulation within the towers above the fifth floor. These interior spaces are designed to maintain this same connection to the surrounding city, affording views of the Hudson River and the stunning New York City skyline.
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[13] SITE
STREET PERSPECTIVE VIEW
UNITS ROTATION DIAGRAM
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MICRO-UNIT FLOOR PLAN
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The amenity space will be located above the parking deck, the placement of which provides its users both with privacy during use as well as a clear lookout on Jersey City and beyond, allowing the same urban experience as in the lobby and residential floors..
COMMUNITY ROOM & GREEN ROOF
The modular structure of the building is arranged around a central core, while the surrounding modules are configured in a variety of positions, producing voids in the spaces between them. The modules function both as a unit and with the whole, their floor plates carrying their load to the structure below. Void spaces will be utilized as balconies, exterior terraces, and communal green spaces, encouraging interaction amongst residents. Natural light illuminating the central core will filter through these spaces on every floor. [16]
PHYSICAL MODEL
NATURAL LIGHTING AND VENTILATION DIAGRAM
PARTI DIAGRAM
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PABST DEVELOPMENT, IRVINGTON, NJ Located on the original site of the Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery in Newark, New Jersey, the concept for this proposed mixed use redevelopment includes approximately 200 dwelling units and 20,000 square feet of retail and commercial space. The concept pays homage to the site’s industrial history by the extensive use of exposed steel, wood, masonry, and glass. The subdued color scheme was chosen to reflect a modern industrial character. The proposal also promotes infill development with townhouses on scattered sites between existing structures. The development is anticipated to accomodate a diversity of age groups with units for families and seniors. Important to the proposal is the integration of design principles that promote community development, sustainability, walkability, and placemaking. The high density design at the intersection of Grove St. and South Orange Ave. creates a sense of place by creating an active entrance to the development indicative of the original Pabst Brewery entry. The retail space will encourage activities around the perimeter of the building, and an outdoor plaza will allow residents to congregate and interact with each other and passersby near the pedestrian friendly walkways, further fostering a sense of community. PLAZA (SOUTH ORANGE AVE.) [18]
GROVE STREET VIEW
GROVE STREET PARKING VIEW [19]
1 BEDROOM APARTMENT UNIT
2 BEDROOM APARTMENT UNIT
3 BEDROOM APARTMENT UNIT
SOUTH ORANGE AVE. CORNER VIEW
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MIDTOWN LOFTS, EAST ORANGE, NJ
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This proposal for a mixed-unit residential complex is to be located next to the historic Brick Church train station in East Orange, New Jersey. The building’s L-shaped geometry is an extension of the existing street grid, providing views from every unit and a direct visual connection to the train station. The site boasts green spaces surrounding the building, for use both by residents as well by commuters and close neighbors. On the interior, the same L-shaped geometry lends itself well to a central courtyard filled with natural light and level changes. The building will be constructed of hybrid materials, poured concrete and steel framing, with large amounts of glazing for maximum natural light to filter into the units
The ground floor will house commercial space facing the main street along with two-story townhouses facing inward at the sun-soaked green spaces of the courtyard. The residents of these homes will benefit from feeling connected with both pedestrians and residents using the courtyard, fostering a feeling of inclusion in their neighborhood rather than isolating them from it. The top floor will be reserved for amenity spaces, maximizing views of Newark and New York City. Along with the internal courtyard, an exterior plaza will help to promote a sense of place and community among residents of the complex, while the direct axis circulation will encourage gathering and interaction with locals and visitors of the surrounding area.
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The axial entrance will welcome residents, shoppers and visitors to experience and use the dynamic outdoor space, which may host performances and farmers’ markets during summer months. These two spaces will function in tandem to meet residents’ needs: the courtyard serves as a private area for residents only and the plaza allows for interaction with the larger community.
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The site is situated near the access road for I-280, and 275 parking spaces will be available on-site. This, combined with the location of the train station just feet from the building, makes a commuter’s haven.
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IRONBOUND SENIOR BUILDING, NEWARK, NJ
Located in Newark’s celebrated Ironbound neighborhood, this proposal for senior living apartments aims to create an environment in which seniors can interact with each other and the vibrant community around them. The building’s exterior is clad in wood, fiber cement, and metal panels – the combination of simple lines and a volume helps to portray an inviting aesthetic throughout.
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An outdoor space consisting of community gardens and a courtyard with projection screen movie theatre will encourage residents to gather for group activities and enjoyment. Window planters in each unit will compliment the outdoor gardens, further contributing to the green space and promoting interaction with the natural environment and each other.
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HARVESTING FOR THE FUTURE, JERSEY CITY, NJ
In a city where concrete rules, nature can become an object of curiosity. This proposal will not only bring nature into an urban area, it will activate a public space employing vegetation and a community vegetable garden to provide access to organic food. As globalization expands our world and population growth simultaneously shrinks it, we set out to learn new information and expose ourselves to new materials. The gardens and greens spaces of the future must meet these demands. Designed and constructed with the idea of using green spaces to bring the natural environment into an urban backyard, with limited materials and limited space in an outdoor setting Every raised-bed was designed to provide versatile space for the grower: vegetables in the summer, perennial flowers in other seasons. The water fountain adds a Zen-like tranquility, while the surrounding foliage fills out the space with natural elements.
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Any urban home lacking in outdoor space will benefit from gardens similar to this. They can be assembled anywhere: wood, concrete and gravel were the only materials used in this construction. They promote beauty and allow residents to grow food sustainably, which is a concept many around the world are becoming more familiar with in the face of increasingly limited resources.
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These drawings were created using different types of media; from charcoal to colored pencils and pastel, I find enjoyment drawing in my free time. Two of my favorite media are watercolor and charcoal, as they allow me more room for creative freedom, commanding less need to be exact as I sketch what’s on my mind.
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HAND-MADE PHYSICAL MODELS, CRAFT & DETAILS
The unique receptors in our eyes allow us to see light and color. The idea for this abstract lantern came from the study of light’s role in enabling us to see. Color enriches our lives in so many ways. It can set a mood, tell us if our food is ripe or let us express ourselves with clothing or home decorating. Light helps us appreciate the beauty of our planet. The way our eyes perceive color is based on how light reflects off that object. If there is no light, there is no color.
This proposal for the new Santa Fe Museum is to create an environment where history is merged to form a single unit. All the interior spaces will interconnect, creating a sense of fluency. As a viewer moves towards the building, the landscape blends into the space’s geometry, a sort of nature within nature. A reflecting pool allows the building and the natural elements of the site to reflect the sky, building and traditions of the past.
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Land is a holistic living system that, through simple design techniques, can be revitalized by focusing on natural elements to complement the landscape for the present and the future. This idea for the Rutherford Boat House proposes a relationship between nature and humans that can improve and enhance the urban context. Site: Preserving natural resources and reshaping a landscape that can respond to both current and future users while forging a relationship with the city of Rutherford. Program: The installations can be built, rearranged and adapted to specific needs in an easy manner with the a minimal amount of impact on the site, maintaing a light footprint.
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CHARLES SANCHEZ
I am a design architect with experience in project management who thinks creatively and consistently delivers within strict timelines as - a top priority. I have a passion for exceptional architecture, strong skills in creating physical models, and a great sense of design. I have a diverse background in a variety of projects, ranging from commercial to residential, and I am capable of managing oversees planning board submittals sets as well as coordinating projects from conceptual schematic design through the construction stage. With a full year of experience in the industry, I am both a team leader and a team player looking to dedicate my time, passion, energy, and innate talent to working with and continuing to learn from the right team of gifted professionals.
CONTACT 117 Mcadoo Avenue Jersey City, NJ 07305 (347) 712.0417 Charlessanchez1984@gmail.com http://issuu.com/sanchezportfolio/docs/sanchez_charles_portfolio_higher_re/1
CREDENTIALS Bachelor of Architecture New Jersey Institute of Technology 2010-2014 Cum Laude Dean’s List Exceptional Academic Achievement Award Interior Design Associates Fashion Institute of Technology 2009-2010 Architecture Technology Universidad Technologica de Santiago (UTESA) 2002-2005
EXPERIENCE
Assistant Project Manager Inglese Architecture & Engineering 06.2014 - Present oversees & manage schematic sets for planning board submittals, drafting construction documents, digital renderings, & materials selection for projects Freelance Architectural Model Maker Modelshop.com 06.2012 - 11.2013 Constructed physical models utilizing materials, i.e; various wood , plexiglass, chipboard, etc. Construction Supervisor Diaz Design 09.2009 - 07.2010 Managing construction workers, interpreting construction drawings & ensuring all work met specifications. Construction Supervisor Talleres Pedro 09.2000 - 05.2005 Oversaw & participated in the construction, assembly, & installation of operable/fixed aluminum and glass windows.
TECNICAL - AutoCAD - SketchUp Pro. - Rhinoceros 3D (4.0-5.0) - Adobe Photoshop - Adobe InDesign
PERSONAL - Adobe Illustrator - Flamingo Render - V-Ray Render - Microsoft Office Suite
- Bilingual (Spanish & English) - Visual Arts - Sketch -Physical models
EXTRA CURRICULAR Study abroad/Travel: (University of Siena/Rome). In Summer of 2013 studied in Italy to explore its architecture and the different architecture typologies and styles of Italy. Outside of my studies, my passion for architecture has driven me to travel to Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, China, Hong Kong, and many other countries.
REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
CHARLES A. SANCHEZ e: charlessanchez1984@gmail.com c: 347-712-0417