This portfolio showcases my journey through architecture, from my early explorations to my most recent projects. It reflects my growth, creativity, and achievements over four years of study, highlighting my passion for design and innovation.
Welcome to my studio—where creativity meets purpose. Each element in this space reflects my journey in architecture and design, from treasured projects to cutting-edge technology. They say your surroundings tell your story, so here’s a glimpse into mine. Enjoy exploring my world!
Every object in this space tells its own story, but a few resonate more deeply with me. For instance, 1 there’s the first architectural art piece I ever made when I was just 12 years old—it marks the beginning of my journey in architecture. 2 Nearby sits the T-Rex skull, a testament to my skills in 3D modeling and printing, crafted right here at home. 3 My passion for travel is reflected in my photography of architectural structures and vibrant street scenes, capturing the essence of each destination. 4 Technology also plays a crucial role in my workspace; it’s the tool that helps me bring innovative designs to life and express my vision 5 The company stamp you see? That’s a symbol of ambition and collaboration; co-founded with two friends, our design and construction firm is our playground for managing projects and gaining invaluable real-life experience.
Education:
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Expected Graduation: May 2026
HET PATEL
I genuinely want to make a difference, and that’s why I aspire to be an architect. I hope to create something that’s not only tangible but also truly experienced by people. I’m passionate about leaving a positive impact on this world, which is why I’m dedicated to designing sustainable and practical buildings. I believe that architecture shapes the backdrop of everyone’s life, and I want to be a part of making that backdrop meaningful and thoughtful.
Institute of Design, Planning & Technology, Sarvajanik University, Surat Current CPI: 9.28/10 (Highest in Class of 90),
High School Diploma, Graduation: June 2021
12th Grade, Metas Adventist School, Surat (Percentage: 92.6%)
Design Software:
2D Drawing | Autodesk AutoCAD, Rayon Design.
BIM Modeling | ArchiCAD, Autodesk REVIT.
3D Modeling | Rhino, SketchUp, Blender.
Post Production | Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign.
Personal info
Contact Details
hetjitendrapatel@gmail.com +919979232924
Nationality | Indian
Location
Surat, Gujarat, India
Visualization | Enscape, Lumion, V-ray, D5, Twinmotion.
Analysis | Autodesk Forma, Ladybug, Insight,
Others | 3d slicers, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Adobe Aero. Gravity Sketch (AR/VR).
Language Proficiency
English Gujarati, Hindi, Spanish(beginner)
Key
Experiences:
President | 2023-2024
IDPT-SAC | Student Activity Council at IDPT, Sarvajanik University,
Event Management & Volunteering | 2021-2024
◊ Infinity 2 | architecture and interior design showcase event by IIA and IIID
◊ Set Design and Implementation |Charity Theatre play by SCOPA,SU.
◊ Project Surat | volunteering at local NGO.
Interior design | 2023-2024 (freelancing)
3BHK at Nova Shantinath, Surat.
Start-Up | 2021-2024 (on going) founded a small scale design and construction company SevaaConnect Solutions Pvt Ltd.
◊ Delivered , Office Container - June 2024
◊ Delivered prefabricated Cafe Container (Dockyard, Surat) - August 2024
◊ Prototyping modular office cum residential container (ongoing)
Internships | 2024 (on going)
Work experience at S2 Design, Surat.
Practical Skills:
Craftsmanship & Construction Skills
Site Management | Project Management | Power Tool Operation| Welding | Carpentry
3D printing
Prototyping | Understanding of various Materials | Fixing bugs
Coding languages
JavaScript | Arduino-based projects.
Reference:
Dr. Nehal Desai | Faculty at IDPT, Sarvajanik University. +91-9825119810 nehal.desai@scet.ac.in
Mitesh Chaklasia | S2 Design +91-9825094758
studied case studies explored places traveled to
typology: public pavilion site: surat, gujarat, india area: 1400 m2 builtup area: 150 m2
city installation pavilion design
The Fabric Fort Pavilion is an architectural celebration, strategically located in the bustling city square of Surat. This project seamlessly integrates the cultural heritage and economic significance of Surat, renowned for its textile and diamond industries. The design of the pavilion is inspired by these industries, reflected through the use of fabric and patterns that echo the intricacies of textile design, paired with structures that pay homage to the precision and brilliance of diamond cuts. This pavilion not only serves as a public space for community interaction and events but also stands as a tribute to the local economy and its global contributions.
The pavilion features a slender roof suspended on a single column, creating a versatile space in the plaza in front of the Surat Fort. This thin roof is adorned with fabric panels, nodding to Surat’s twin economic pillars: textiles and diamonds. The roof’s design is dedicated to the diamond industry, reflecting the city’s stature as a global diamond hub, while its fabric elements celebrate Surat’s rich textile heritage. This synthesis of materials and themes makes the pavilion a landmark of cultural and economic identity.
This painting portrays Surat Fort, a key historical landmark where British traders first entered India, highlighting its importance to Surat and the nation. The adjacent pavilion’s design reflects the fort’s historical significance, offering a space for locals and visitors to engage with Surat’s rich, often forgotten history. This setting encourages exploration and appreciation of the city’s storied past, deepening connections to its cultural heritage.
The site for the pavilion is the public plaza in front of Surat Fort, located in a bustling area of the city. This plaza is surrounded by several historical structures, enhancing its cultural and historical significance and providing a vibrant backdrop for the pavilion.
site of the pavilion
The design of the pavilion is such that from the entrance, the structure of the fort and pavilion seamlessly merge. Without the fabric panels, the pavilion appears as a floating roof, providing a shaded area that is ideal for hosting public events and gatherings in this historically rich setting.
merging the old and the new
Originally named Suryapur, also known as the Sun City, Surat is renowned for its flourishing textile and diamond industries. Reflecting this heritage, the pavilion’s roof features cut-outs in the shape of the sun, composed of six diamonds. This design not only pays homage to local traditions but also integrates Surat’s economic symbols into the architectural aesthetic.
the rising sun
plan of the pavilion
The pavilion is centered around a single column and features movable, customizable fabric panels that display traditional arts. These panels are intricately woven with paintings and images that narrate Surat’s historical evolution. As visitors move in a circular path within the pavilion, the panels guide them from the city’s past to its future plans, providing a comprehensive view of Surat’s rich heritage and developmental trajectory.
The pavilion is designed with a simple, floating roof that provides shaded space, encapsulating the essence of minimalistic design. The primary design challenge was devising a structural system capable of supporting the entire structure on just a single column. To address this, I developed and prototyped a tension roof concept specifically tailored for this project. This innovative system ensures that from the ground, the structural elements are virtually invisible, maintaining the illusion of the roof effortlessly floating above the plaza. This approach not only meets the functional requirements of the pavilion but also preserves the visual cleanliness and openness of the design.
fabric panels
multiuse-partitions
The partitions of the pavilion are crafted from textile materials, designed to be removable and customizable depending on the function of the space. This flexibility allows the pavilion to seamlessly transition between various uses, such as an art exhibition space, a performance area, or a public information center. By simply altering the pattern and arrangement of the partitions, the character and purpose of the space can be adapted to meet different needs, making it a versatile venue for a wide range of cultural and community activities.
structural system of the roof
The pavilion features a sleek, composite roof that lends a dynamic aesthetic to the structure, supported by a single column. To achieve this design, I developed a counter-tensile structure that supports a rigid, thin frame for the roof, allowing it to cantilever gracefully from just one point of support. To further reduce the weight and enhance the visual appeal, the roof incorporates multiple cutouts in the shape of the sun, lightening the structure both physically and visually, while symbolically connecting to Surat’s identity as the Sun City.
roof design of the pavilion
The distinctive form of the pavilion’s roof is directly influenced by structural necessities and local symbolism. A significant opening on the left side of the roof reduces the cantilever load on the supporting column and symbolizes Lake Gopi, Surat’s first man-made lake and the historical starting point of the city’s development when it was known as Suryapur. Additionally, sun-shaped cutouts throughout the roof not only lighten the structure by 30% but also enhance the thematic connection to Surat’s heritage as the Sun City.
detail section of the roof
1.oculus
2.column
3.compressive frame
4.tensile frame
5.primary support
6.secondary support
7.tension cable
The roof is engineered with a dual-layer system—a compressive upper layer and a tensile lower layer—enhanced by pre-tensioning from above for added rigidity. Tension members, anchored to the column with tensile cables, support the cantilevered design, ensuring both stability and aesthetic lightness.
To grasp and address the structural forces for my design, I crafted multiple 1:20 scale models. Initially skeptical, my professor was convinced of their viability after seeing the innovative solutions and stability these models demonstrated, which effectively illustrated the practical application of my theoretical knowledge.
The final 1:20 scale model, showcased at the college exhibition, featured detailed structural and fabric elements. This model incorporated magnetic fabric that could be easily removed and reconfigured, mirroring the adaptability of the original design.
typology: modular housing site: world 2024 area: 509 600 000 Km2 builtup area: 899 900 000Km2
improbable design pavilion design
In the Improbable Studio, we embraced the utmost creative freedom, tasked with constructing a narrative and a corresponding world. This project allowed us to design architectural spaces that directly respond to the environments we envisioned. For this assignment, I crafted a dystopia world set in the year 4020, a stark landscape shaped by humanity’s over reliance on technology and a collective neglect of the consequences of our actions. This scenario explores the repercussions of technology-dependent societies, offering a space to critically examine potential futures and the role of architecture within them.
the design is of the year 4020 and how life will change for everyone and is created on a hypothesis and we had to create a world for our improbable architecture to exist in and this is a middle class housing unit
the floppy disk as a central artifact, symbolizing the technological advancements and their unintended consequences in the dystopia world I envisioned. This world, shaped by mankind’s relentless pursuit of progress without regard for its fallout, serves as a cautionary tale of rapid change and transformation. Inspired by this narrative, the design of the floppy disk was distinctly futuristic, reflecting the themes of evolution and technological integration. To enhance the presentation and accessibility of my work, I embedded a QR code on the floppy disk that links to a dedicated website, allowing viewers to explore the project’s concepts and designs in depth.
Post-World War III, after a devastating nuclear event termed the Great War, humanity finds refuge in a drastically altered Earth called the New World. Here, Delta Corporation, the only remaining conglomerate, dictates every aspect of life—construction, energy, media, and pleasure. This society is heavily stratified: the elites enjoy a lavish, real-world existence, governed by an AI CEO; the middle class lives a life of synthetic joy, tethered to digital reality chairs that provide artificial experiences, disconnecting briefly every three days for essential nutrition and dialysis; the lower class exists merely as biological energy sources, their nervous systems contained and manipulated to convert glucose into electricity, unaware of the real world.
Amidst this control, the architecture is specifically tailored for survival. Living units are modular, designed to withstand the hostile, toxic atmosphere with advanced air filtration and liquid cooling systems to combat exterior temperatures of 50-65°C. Each unit features a robotic docking station for waste management and life supply logistics, mirroring the efficiency of space station systems that recycle water from bodily outputs.
This narrative framework not only critiques the extreme uses of technology and power but also integrates an architectural solution that potentially shields the remnants of humanity in a controlled, yet oppressive new societal order. These details, along with the implications of such an architectural endeavor, are open for deeper discussion during the interview.
new world block
1011010001110110
In my design, I developed a modular system capable of evolving into an expansive urban grid, mirroring the organic growth of crystal formations. This futuristic cityscape is autonomously constructed by robots that methodically assemble new modules while integrating the remnants of old city ruins, ensuring a structured yet adaptive urban development over time.
modular living unit of the future
This image provides a close-up view of a single modular unit. When connected with others of its kind, it collectively forms a larger, cohesive structure, showcasing the interconnectivity and scalable design of the urban grid.
interior of the modular unit
The interior of the unit is strategically divided into three functional areas: one section is designated as the living space, equipped with storage facilities and the meta link chair for immersive digital experiences. Another room is dedicated to waste management, incorporating a disposal system. The third room houses the synthesizer, which purifies and enriches blood with essential nutrients, ensuring the inhabitants’ sustenance in a controlled environment.`
coding and programming physical model with sensors
I crafted an interactive artwork to visualize my design concept using an Arduino and a re-purposed motherboard. This piece creatively represents different elements of my dystopia narrative through mechanical and lighting effects. For example, the centerpiece features a figurine representing the CEO of Delta, concealed within a CD row that lights up and moves to unveil him when approached, symbolizing his hidden influence. When left idle, the setup emits a solitary red light, indicating its active state but also subtly pointing to the isolation within the system. This installation not only reflects the exploitation suffered by the lower class at the hands of the elite but also critiques the illusion of connection in a digitally dominated world. Creating this artwork pushed my boundaries, allowing me to explore and integrate new skills in electronics, programming, and animation, re-purposing old technology to comment on the cyclical nature of technological consumption and control.
The unit features a straightforward layout, with the third room housing the synthesizer and serving as the dock for food supply exchanges managed by robots. Adjacent to this is the waste management room, which is equipped with an external recycling unit, streamlining the process of waste conversion and resource renewal.
The external components of the unit, including the maintenance panel and recycling unit, are designed for robot access. These features allow robots to perform diagnostics and ensure the proper functioning of the human living units by supplying necessary resources and managing waste efficiently.
typology: office building site: surat, gujarat, india area: 40000 m2
builtup area: 26000 m2
co working space
office building
a modern co-working space, intended to blend high functionality with aesthetic finesse. Positioned ideally to leverage the serene ambiance of its riverside location, the structure integrates eco-friendly materials and innovative architectural strategies to enhance both the work environment and user experience. Central to its design is a unique double-roof system using triangular bamboo modules, optimized for thermal comfort and natural light. This space is crafted not just to foster collaboration and productivity but to also serve as a beacon of sustainable and innovative design in contemporary architecture.
The roof serves a crucial role, not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal but also functioning as a double roof that reduces heat gain for the building below. It is constructed using triangular bamboo modules, which are designed and prototyped in the following sections.
This design for We Work features a modern, sustainable architecture that accommodates over 1,000 individuals, blending functionality with eco-friendly elements for a dynamic co-working environment.
co-working space design optimization roof form derivation
The form of the co-working space has been computationally designed to maximize north light exposure and provide optimal shading for the central courtyard. This was achieved through detailed analysis using the Ladybug plugin in Rhino. Additionally, the double roof structure and other architectural elements were crafted using Grasshopper to enhance efficiency and functionality, ensuring that every aspect of the design contributes to an environmentally responsive and productive workspace.
upper floor working drawing setting out working drawing
Demonstrating an understanding of real-life challenges, I create setting out drawings that are both accurate and easy to execute on-site.
The upper floor houses dedicated desk areas for the co-working space, as shown earlier. It is fully equipped with fire safety provisions, connectivity, and includes a server room.
GENERAL NOTES
GENERAL NOTES
· ALL THE DIMENSIONS IN THE DRAWINGS ARE IN MILLIMETERS (MM)
· ALL THE LEVELS ARE UNFINISHED AND IN MILLIMETERS UNLESS OTHERWISE · ALL THE DIMENSIONS ARE TO READ ONLY AND NOT TO BE MEASURED
· ALL THE DIMENSIONS IN THE DRAWINGS ARE IN MILLIMETERS (MM)
· ALL THE LEVELS ARE UNFINISHED AND IN MILLIMETERS UNLESS OTHERWISE
· ANY DISCREPANCIES IN THE DRAWING SHALL BE BROUGHT TO THE ARCHITECT PRIOR TO COMMENCEMENT OF WORK · ALL THE DIMENSIONS ARE TO BE MEASURED FROM DATUM · ALL THE DRAWINGS ARE UNDER THE RIGHTS OF ARCHITECT ARE ARE NOT TO BE COPIED
· ALL THE DIMENSIONS ARE TO READ ONLY AND NOT TO BE MEASURED
· ANY DISCREPANCIES IN THE DRAWING SHALL BE BROUGHT TO THE ARCHITECT PRIOR TO COMMENCEMENT OF WORK
· ALL THE DIMENSIONS ARE TO BE MEASURED FROM DATUM
· ALL THE DRAWINGS ARE UNDER THE RIGHTS OF ARCHITECT ARE ARE NOT TO BE COPIED
DRAWING NO. DATE SCALE REV NO. GF_ECE_01 11-10-2023 R2 1:100 R0
SCHEDULE OF OPENINGS TYPE HEIGHT SILL REVISIONS REV NO. DESCRIPTION COPY
SIGNATURE
physical model
roof
module + building model
The white model, scaled at 1:200, meticulously represents the site along with the architectural structure, providing a precise physical overview. The bamboo module showcased in the model is personally designed and built, exemplifying hands-on skill in both design and fabrication. The distinctive double roof structure that crowns the building incorporates these bamboo modules, whose joinery was innovatively developed through my direct engagement with prototyping and fabrication processes. This approach not only enhances the structural aesthetics but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainable building practices.
roof module the design
The joinery for the modules, which I personally designed and fabricated, incorporates steel plates and a composite joint between the plate and the bamboo. The image above presents a top view of the triangular grid that will be constructed using these modules. This design approach not only ensures structural integrity but also enhances the architectural aesthetic, reflecting a meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to innovative construction techniques.
The initial prototypes of the design were 3D printed, revealing certain limitations that prompted adjustments towards the final model.
hexagonal steel plate is cut out
The refined design features a hexagonal joint with six peripheral joining holes and a central hole, enhancing the structural connectivity and stability. This
bamboo end joint is cut out
To connect the bamboo to the main plate, a bamboo joint was necessary. Initially inspired by a clamp-style design, we later developed a cost-effective joint from metal and concrete, providing an economical solu-
main plate double c joint
The Double C joint serves dual functions as both a movement and fixed joint, depending on the design requirements. Each plate can connect up to eight bamboos, forming a versatile building block for constructing space frames.
In this photo, Bamboo Joint Type C is utilized, showcasing its specific application in achieving the desired structural dynamics and architectural form.
The joint is ingeniously designed to offer three degrees of movement, essential for constructing the space frame structure of the roof. This flexibility facilitates the complex skeletal framework required to support the design.
typology: institution
site: GIFT city , Gandhinagar area: 40,000 m2
built-up area: 1,60,000 m2
institutional design
elon musk’s institute 04
Dedicated to advancing technology and innovation, this institute embodies a vision for the future where education and research intersect with Elon Musk’s pioneering spirit in space exploration and sustainable technology. The architectural approach integrates advanced materials and sustainable systems to minimize environmental impact and foster an interactive learning environment.
Inspired by the ambitious vision of colonizing Mars, this project integrates advanced, sustainable architectural techniques to create not just a building, but a forward-thinking habitat suitable for future Mars settlers.
This project exemplifies how terrestrial architectural principles can be extrapolated to hypothesize living solutions on Mars, highlighting a blend of innovation, sustainability, and adaptability.
Utilizes a generative design technique to optimize sunlight penetration and enhance natural ventilation, reducing the building’s energy needs.
The Cube: A central feature made of 2x2x20 meter glass modules, includes an innovative cascading water flow system that acts as a heat exchanger, improving thermal comfort throughout the facility.
The roof structure was developed using Grasshopper to create an organic space frame that maximizes strength with minimal material use.
the central public plaza landscape design
The Central Public Plaza, shaped by the orbits of Mars’ moons, reflects Elon Musk’s visionary goal of interplanetary colonization. This design merges functionality with aesthetic appeal, featuring interactive public spaces that seamlessly connect with private areas
the cube functional water body
The architectural plan for the “Elon Musk Institute” project revolves around a central theme of sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. The project is designed to seamlessly integrate public and private spaces while enhancing the functionality and aesthetic value of the environment. The Cube: This is the heart of the project, a 20x20 meter structure composed of glass modules. It serves multiple purposes, including environmental control through a cascading water system that acts as a heat exchanger. This central feature is not only functional but also a significant aesthetic and social focal point within the plaza.
the showroom and event space design
the showroom and event space are more than just areas within the institute; they are dynamic environments crafted to facilitate interaction, display innovation, and host a diverse range of public engagements, all within a design that reflects the forward-thinking mission of Elon Musk’s enterprises.
EVENT SPACE acts like the exit/entry for the public area
life on mars event space
Inside the Event Space and Tesla Showroom: Step into a biomimetic Mars habitat, where every element is designed to simulate the red planet’s unique environment, offering an otherworldly indoor experience.
paradise main gate
In the Garden under the Gate Structure: Contrastingly, the garden unfolds as a lush, shaded green oasis, offering a refreshing outdoor retreat that complements the indoor greenhouse ambiance.
achievements and learnings
I consider myself competitively spirited in a positive sense, consistently pushing the limits of my capabilities to achieve greater accomplishments. Grounded in a personal philosophy that we have only one life to live, I strive to fully embrace every moment with enthusiasm—living, laughing, and loving. At the same time, I recognize the importance of dedication to work, seeing it as essential to personal and professional growth. This balanced approach motivates me to pursue excellence in all areas of life.
Embracing the serene moments atop mountains with my furry friend, my love for hiking and trekking not only rejuvenates my spirit but also inspires my architectural philosophy. Committed to protecting our planet, I integrate sustainable and thoughtful design principles to ensure that my creations are as kind to the earth as they are innovative.
I have a dream of climbing Mount Everest
Speeding through life on two wheels, my love for biking mirrors my approach to learning: fast and efficient. Many late-night rides have powered me through all-nighter sessions, helping me tackle assignments with the same zest I bring to each adventure with my bike and friends.
Always saying ‘yes’ to adventure, whether it’s exploring the unknown or tackling challenges that seem daunting at first. I believe that with enough time and dedication, there’s no limit to what I can achieve
leadership elected president
Elected as President of the college student body, here I stand with the incredible team of 50 that I led in organizing various academic and extracurricular initiatives. Together, we implemented significant academic reforms in collaboration with the administration. This role taught me invaluable lessons in interacting effectively with everyone, from my junior peers to senior faculty members.
real life projects started a company
Alongside two friends, I co-founded a design and construction firm specializing in modular prefabricated buildings made from shipping containers. Our innovative projects range from offices and cafes to residences. To date, we’ve successfully completed three projects and have another in progress, achieving a total revenue of 15 lakh INR. This venture not only reflects our commitment to sustainable building practices but also our capability in transforming unique ideas into functional spaces.
Leading this team has been an extraordinary learning experience. Organizing and managing all the events provided me with firsthand experience in management, honing my leadership skills and teaching me the ins and outs of effective team coordination.
Working on small-scale projects for clients has significantly contributed to my personal and professional development. These projects have not only honed my practical skills but have also deepened my understanding of how design and implementation are equally vital. Learning to design with meticulous attention to detail and an awareness of real-life workflows and patterns has profoundly influenced my overall design approach.
In our fourth semester, we received special recognition at the West Zone awards for Ethos Transparence 17.0. The competition challenged us to re-purpose old abandoned airstrips in India. Our proposal was an animal research center that also functioned as a national animal hospital. We strategically chose a site located at the epicenter of several major wildlife parks and sanctuaries, optimizing its potential for wildlife research and care.
got special recognition group of two at national level
travel photography and experiences
I’ve always had a passion for traveling, starting my solo adventures at the tender age of 16. Each trip is a new opportunity to immerse myself in diverse cultures and stunning architectures. I’m that friend who gets lost in the details of buildings, often found capturing every intricate feature—from grand facades down to the ceilings—while my friends wonder aloud why I’m so fascinated with every little architectural detail! All the photographs you see here are personal captures from my travels, reflecting my perspective and love for architectural beauty.
A Buddhist monk contemplates the vast Himalayan expanse in Leh, India—a poignant reminder of nature’s grandeur and our humble place within it.
Captured in Leh, India, this serene moment features a Buddhist monk set against the majestic Himalayan mountain range. The towering peaks serve as a humbling backdrop, grounding both human presence and architectural elements, reminding us of the vastness and beauty of nature that dwarfs our everyday concerns.
