JOHNATHAN TAN // PORTFOLIO 2022 by jtan.design

P ORT F OL I O

Selected Works in Ar chitecture JOHNATHAN TAN EDITION 2022

Section model for a 3rd Year Project

RES UM E E D U C AT I O N

INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

VIRGINIA TECH // Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) AUG 2017 - MAY 2022 (Tentative) // USA DALAT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL // HS Diploma AUG 2011 - MAY 2015 // MALAYSIA

S O F T WA R E P R O F I C I E N C Y MS Office Suite Adobe Photoshop Adobe InDesign Adobe Illustrator Adobe Premier Pro Adobe After-Effects

SketchUp Autodesk AutoCAD Autodesk Revit Vray Lumion ArchiCAD

OTHER ROLES MENTEE // Gensler University Connect Program FEB 2021 - PRESENT // USA PRESIDENT // Mixed Martial Arts Club at Virginia Tech AUG 2021 - PRESENT // USA

A B O U T + PA S S I O N S Born in Singapore, raised in Malaysia. I have spent a majority of my life immersed in different cultures and take pride in identifying myself as a curious global citizen. In my spare time, I enjoy pursuing a range of interests in martial arts, fitness, culinary arts, screen-printing, and a newfound love for snowboarding.

AWA R D S 1ST PLACE // Solar Decathlon 2021 Design Challenge Office Building Division // APR 2021 FINALIST // AIA Virginia Prize Challenge // JAN 2022 DEAN’S LIST // Virginia Tech // S 2022, F+S 2021 CONTACT EMAIL // jtan7@vt.edu PHONE // +1 (609) 721-8397

ARCHITECTURAL SUMMER INTERN // KGD Architecture MAY 2021 - AUG 2021 // USA >> Supported the multi-disciplinary firm as a paid intern in Washington D.C. while exploring new methods of conveying architectural ideas (VR, AR, graphic design, etc.). >> Responsible for site surveying, 3D printed model making for clients, and marketing packets for project proposals. >> Designed two award-winning boards for the 2021 AIA Awards. MARKETING DESIGNER // Virginia Tech Integrated Security Education + Research Center (ISERC) // JAN 2021 - MAY 2021 // USA >> Worked directly with the department director to re-brand the department to promote new university programs to students and strengthen relationships with partnering companies. ARCHITECTURAL INTERN // Park + Associates Pte Ltd. SEP 2020 - DEC 2020 // SINGAPORE >> Supported the award-winning firm as a paid intern in both an architectural and graphic design capacity while learning about industry processes and norms during site visits and client meetings. >> Responsible for design development and project documentation in multiple resort, residential, and tower projects for high-profile clients. CREATIVE CONSULTANT // Virginia Tech Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning // NOV 2018 - SEP 2020 // USA >> Developed an identity system for their annual CHEP event that connected well to target audience and remains used to this day. >> Crafted responsive day-to-day branded stationery for everyday use. FREELANCE CREATIVE CONSULTANT // Couch Design Creative Consultancy // AUG 2013 - PRESENT // INTERNATIONAL >> Founded my own business with a specialization in branding and identity design development, including multiple instances of marketing. >> Helped most recent client gain a 83.3% increase in social media engagement and 73.3% increased revenue in the 6 months post-project. >> Completed a number of volunteer branding and publishing design projects for both non-profit charities and educational organizations. OPTICAL SUPPLY IC // Singapore Armed Forces Artillery Logistics OCT 2015 - JUL 2017 // SINGAPORE >> Lead a logistics team maintaining and distributing multi-million dollar optical equipment for artillery unit training and overseas deployments.

IN PERPETUAL PURSUIT OF DESIGN THAT IS INTENTIONAL, RELEVANT, AND IMPACTFUL NO MATTER THE AUDIENCE OR SETTING.

This is a portfolio. Not just any portfolio but one consisting of the best examples of many opportunities during my design journey. My hope, is that this sample will provide a brief overview of my qualifications and experience, as well as my technical proficiencies and multi-cultural background. Through it, I aim to display my strengths and range which can in turn contribute to the success and growth of your firm. Thank you for taking this first step in pursuing this connection and even if we do not make that final decision to continue together, I hope this work brings inspiration to countless projects in the future.

Joh n T .

VAN C ORT LANDT BRANCH LIBRARY 3RD YEAR FINAL PROJECT 6

AIA VIRGINIA PRIZE FINALIST 14

SOLAR DECATHELON 1ST PLACE (OFFICE BUILDING) 18

INTERNSHIP PARK + ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS 22

INTERNSHIP KGD ARCHITECTURE 30

MONUMENTALITY EVERYDAY UNDERGRAD 5TH YEAR THESIS 34

GRAPHIC DESIGN SHOWCASE COUCH DESIGN FREELANCE CREATIVE CONSULTANCY 40

STUDIO

VA N C ORT L A N DT BRANCH LIBRARY 3R D YEA R FINAL PROJ ECT

THE BRONX, NY SPRING 2020

ABSENCE AND VOID : AN EXPLORATION OF THE EMPTINESS WITHIN THE MASS.

This project examines the issues of community inclusion in public spaces and how the architecture of libraries adapts to an age when contents of books and artwork are delivered in multiple media through the design of a branch library in a racially mixed neighborhood of Kingsbridge in the Bronx, New York City. 8

Set within a sprawling and dense cityscape, the design sought to create a space which could be seen as spacious and freeing through the implementation of light and subtraction of mass that defined metropolis. To that end, the scheme imagines the procession of the inhabitant through the space as a means to transfer a sense of tranquility and act as a reminder of the library’s sacredness. Following the analogy of the mass of site and the mass of the city, the programmatic areas of the library divided itself by functionality just as a city is zoned based on purpose. The community space rested within the site rather than in the front to maintain the element of procession in which the occupants of the space would be led to experience the space even after library operating hours. The adult, teens, and kids section were divided into spaces that would firstly cater to the appropriate mentality and secondly, create spaces in which each group could own. The voids that were cut into the mass then acted as public outdoor plazas with reflection pools to open the space up and to help transition from one level to another. By creating an architectural structure based on the architectural experience, it creates the feel of constant exploration of a dynamic space for visitors who may revisit the site time and time again. 9

Digital clay model lighting studies and section

VA N C ORT L ANDT B R A NC H L I B R A RY

TRIPLE GLAZED ASSEMBLY W/ COMPOSITE SPACER RUBBER BRACE GLASS HANDRAIL SECTION DETAIL

STEEL HOLDER ASSEMBLY REINFORCED CONCRETE INSULATION W ATERPROOFING SKYLIGHT SECTION DETAIL

REINFORCED CONCRETE SLAB STEEL TIES EMBEDDED IN CONCRETE STEEL HOLDER ASSEMBLY DOUBLE-PANED CLEAR GLAZING RUBBER SPACER STEEL HANDRAIL

STEEL MULLIONS DOUBLE GLAZED ASSEMBLY W/ COMPOSITE SPACER POLISHED CONCRETE FLOORING REINFORCED CONCRETE SLAB DRAINAGE SYSTEM CONCRETE PAVERS COMPACTED GRAVEL INSULATION

GLASS CURTAIN WALL SECTION DETAIL

The opening at the top of the adult + teen wing allows light to penetrate all 3 levels even to the level below grade. The large opening next to the kids zone ensures that its occupants remain in a well lit space as well as gain from the added advantage of increased serotonin which triggers happy emotions in the brain. The gap between the two main wings allows light to slice 11

through to signal the transitioning from one space to the next as well as bring natural lighting into the core of the building. The main plaza’s voids are designed to allow sunlight to traverse across the concrete face and create dynamic shadows throughout the day.

In order to convey the similarities of a carved mass to the library, most of the exterior is clad in cast concrete with a smooth seamless finish. Wood and painted surfaces are utilized as accents throughout the interior to lighten the mood of a space which could otherwise seem dark and enclosed. Material choice plays a major role in signifying the transition from one place to the next. This opens up the space by making the procession from one point to another more of a journey over multiple zones instead of a single continuous zone.

To supplement the use of color and material as an indicator of program, a custom branding and wayfinding system was explored. The logomark, representing the branch library, utilizes the plan view geometry of the buildings. The main colors used correlate with the 3 reading sections represented in the library and painted on the walls of those spaces. This system becomes a cost-efficient way of minimally providing indicators to navigate the site.

THE VOIDS ABOVE CENTRAL PROGRAM SPACES EMPHASIZES THE MOMENT OF REVELATION WHEN ONE TRAVERSES THE OVERHANGS INTO THE OPEN.

CO MPETITION

AIA VIRGINIA PRIZE FINAL IST

AI A V irginia CHR ISTIANSBURG, VIRGINIA 2022

Elevation view of the drop-off side.

Plan view of the station // Cafe (1), ADA Toilets (2), Waiting Hall (3), Ticketing Stand (4), Station Staff Office (5), Custodian Closet (6)

Organization of station traffic from parking, drop-off, and exit.

FOOTNOTE // These rendered interiors reveal details of the vision for the station lobby and ticketing spaces, giving viewers a sense of place.

The Huckleberry NRV Train Station (Christiansburg, Virginia) serves as a multimodal transit hub for the NRV. A symbol of progress, the station was designed with modernity in form as its inspiration but maintains a mindfulness of its setting through the integration of organic material. Most activity is condensed together only extending a thin silhouette to limit the impact on the existing tree canopy.

Two pavilions make up the interior programs of the station and provide ample room and shelter to accommodate travelers and enhance their experience. Corten skylights installed in the ceiling reduce the station’s energy consumption by embracing light and highlights material texture. Rather than demolish the existing flora to generate progress, the Huckleberry NRV Station rests nestled between the gap of woods, acting as a safe staging platform for those who venture beyond.

CO MPETITION

SOLAR DECATHELON 1ST PLACE (OFFICE BUIL DING)

US Department of Energy A LE XANDRIA, VIRGINIA 2021

“THIS TEAM PRESENTED DIVERSE TALENT IN THIS CHALLENGE, INCLUDING VIDEO PRODUCTION...”

How do we reevaluate the performance of a building such that it becomes a living model of a resilient future? As part of the Virginia Tech’s WAAC design team, how we answered that question won us 1st Place in the Office Building Division of the Design Challenge.

Being responsible for the creation of the Design Narrative Report, Recorded Presentation, Live Presentation Slides, and Revamped Team Identity System challenged me to adapt and learn under pressure to support my team. But with the video production being noted at the awards ceremony, these challenges helped me add to my growing design skill set, opening my eyes to the appeal of utilizing the program in future projects.

PORTFOL IO

INTERNSHIP PA R K + ASSOCIATES A RCHITECTS

SINGAPORE FAL L 2020

IMAGE (Clockwise) // A rendered floor plan for the presidential villa typology in a Maldives-based resort; presented to client for review. Touring tile supplier showrooms to source finishes. The firm’s founding principal giving a guided tour of a newly constructed project with colleagues.

Since 1999, Park+Associates has grown to be a prominent practice in Singaporean and the region, boasting numerous projects from all around the world. The multiaward winning studio constantly strives to achieve a produce an environment conducive for enhancing design discourse.

2020, I capitalized on this opportunity to hone my architectural software skills, participating in design development, construction documentation, and practice management stages while being assigned to support at least 6 multi-million dollar projects ranging from resorts to office towers to residential.

Opting for an internship at Park+Associates during the height of the pandemic in Fall 24

IMAGES

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proposals for the roof terrace and main lift lobby paired with construction work in progress implementing the solutions. IMAGES (Next Page) // Rendered design proposals

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residential project in China. Construction drawings of the side gate entrance along with signage and letter box details.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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Rev Date Rev O 2020.12.01 F Tel : + 65 - 6282 0604 Fax : + 65 - 6288 0604 G 1 Email : info @ p a r k a s s o c i a t e s . com . sg 2 H THIS DRAWING IS COPYRIGHT CONTRACTORS SHALL WORK FROM FIGURED C I DIMENSIONS ONLY. CONTRACTORS MUST CHECK D J ALL DIMENSIONS ON SITE. DISCREPANCIES MUST BE REPORTED IMMEDIATELY TO THE ARCHITECTS. SECTION 02 E K Park

PROPOSED RECONSTRUCTION WORKS AND ID FIT-OUT FOR A 3 STOREY BUNGALOW AT SHUNDE, CHINA 中国顺德三层别墅改造和室内装修设计

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Tel : + 65 - 6282 0604 Fax : + 65 - 6288 0604 Email : info @ p a r k a s s o c i a t e s . com . sg

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

03 A-645 date

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Rev Date O 2020.12.01 1 PLAN 2 THIS DRAWING IS COPYRIGHT CONTRACTORS SHALL WORK FROM FIGURED C DIMENSIONS ONLY. CONTRACTORS MUST CHECK D ALL DIMENSIONS ON SITE. DISCREPANCIES MUST BE REPORTED IMMEDIATELY TO THE ARCHITECTS. E architect / person in-charge Park

PROPOSED RECONSTRUCTION WORKS AND ID FIT-OUT FOR A 3 STOREY BUNGALOW AT SHUNDE, CHINA 中国顺德三层别墅改造和室内装修设计 01 PARK + ASSOCIATES PTE LTD

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PORTFOL IO

INTERNSHIP KGD A RCHITECTURE

WASHINGTON, DC SUMMER 2021

A 3D-printed modular model presented and delivered to the client.

IMAGES (From Top to Bottom) // Site visits to a project currently under construction with the KGD staff. Two projects, whose competition boards I designed, submitted to the AIA Northern Virginia Design Awards 2021 and winning the Merit Award and Award of Excellence respectively.

During my time at KGD Architecture, I had the opportunity to converse with all levels of staff at the firm and participate actively in design discussions while helping implement those changes to ongoing projects. In the context of the pandemic, restrictions had eased up compared to the Park + Associates internship which gave me the opportunity to experience on-site processes such as surveying and construction inspections. While this internship’s focus was not in the software side, working at that firm allowed me to hone my modelmaking and marketing skills, helping the firm win multiple awards and impress project owners. 33

STUDIO

MONUMENTALITY IN THE EVERYDAY UNDERGRAD 5 TH YEA R THESIS

In Progress BL AC KSBURG, VA FAL L 2021

Louis Khan defined monumentality as the following: “A [spiritual] quality inherent in a structure which conveys the feeling of its eternity; it cannot be added or changed.” We are possibly headed in a trajectory where monumental buildings segregate themselves from everyday programs and is reserved for massive structures. A shift in perception is needed to ensure their survival. Images and perceptions of past monumental structures cannot exist with the same intensity and meaning, but the lessons taught through their construction cannot be discarded as future buildings rely on them. HOW DO WE REINTRODUCE MONUMENTALITY INTO EVERYDAY ARCHITECTURE?

It’s often easier to seek a specific vision with a desire to transfer it into reality. The first step is to make that moment the seed of inspiration to form a building’s profile around it, and only then returning inward to figure out the rest of the supplementary details. This does not encourage the architect to ignore the necessity of function to inform the form but rather use these moments to set the tone of the building’s design language. 37

Exploration into studies of light, material, and monumentality through the construction of models reveal the underlying nature of this form of architecture. From there a process can be distilled, a set of rules written, that will allow one to create monumental structures at any scale.

The use of vertically sourced lighting provides tone and meaning to the spaces containing them. Natural lighting is essential in these spaces as the play of light and shadow varies throughout the day; and as the seasons change, the light fluctuates, revealing subtle qualities in the building fabric which in turn provide a more natural, nuanced experience. Noting the difference in location subjected to the light -- hence the difference in program. This aims to demonstrate that the use of monumentallyscaled natural lighting sources need not be focused on served spaces but can be successfully utilized in servant/ transitionary spaces as well. 38

Now that the research has revealed the subtle rules of monumentality, where does one go from here? In the case of thesis, the way forward lies in the power of architectural design rooted in reality and application. Along North Alfred Street in Alexandria, Virginia lies a row of residential homes. The peaceful neighborhood though vibrant multiplies its design language through copies and iterations of itself, creating a row of monotony. Disrupting that aesthetic not only through design but program is that goal. A dessert bar, still in concept, will have a modest and solemn facade, the openings not easily revealed to the passing outsider. Such separation from the outside world only lends strength to the focus on which ones has to bring when entering such a venue and to appreciate the culinary art being presented within.

PORTFOL IO

GRAPHIC DESIGN SHOWCASE COUC H DESI GN FREEL ANCE CREATIVE CONSULTANCY

INTERNATIONAL 2013 - 2022

On top of my architecture firm experience, I take pride in the over 9 years of experience that I bring as a freelance creative. Since 2013, I have had the opportunity to work with clients in bringing their businesses, passions, and vision to life and deliver exceptional work that makes an impact. A simple request from a family friend for a logo as a high schooler turned into a hobby that has expanded into collaborations with both international and local clientele, ranging from large financial institutions to mom-andpop stores, on a wide array of design projects revolving around branding and marketing.

JOHNATHAN TAN