Professional Architecture Portfolio - Oweena Fernandes by Oweena Fernandes

A R C H I T E C T U R E

portfolio OWEENA FERNANDES 2015 - 2023

O w e e n a

Fernandes

As an architect fueled by a passion for creativity and spontaneity, I find joy in the beauty of design and the unexpected twists of life’s journey. Beneath my composed exterior lies a vibrant soul, eager to embrace novel experiences. Recently, my adventurous spirit led me to the world of trekking, where I’ve discovered a newfound love for exploration and perseverance. My design philosophy is firmly grounded in the local context, drawing inspiration from the diverse cultural and environmental landscapes of each project’s setting. I treasure the authenticity found in regional traditions, materials, and techniques, weaving them into designs that resonate with a sense of place and identity. Detail is at the heart of my craft. I recognize the profound impact that even the smallest elements can have on a space’s overall quality and character. From material selection to spatial arrangement, from light dynamics to shadow play, I meticulously consider every facet to ensure a seamless and cohesive outcome. In essence, my design ethos celebrates diversity, blending tradition with innovation, simplicity with complexity, and meticulous attention to detail. By remaining true to fundamental principles while embracing new opportunities, I enjoy creating spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also deeply meaningful and responsive to their environment.

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Pr o f e s s i o n al p r ac ti c e ; w o r ks a t Kamat & Ro za r i o Ar c hi te c tu r e

Vern acu lar pract ices im plem e n t e d in Con t e m porary bu ildin g s

T h e P l a tf or m : Re v i t a l i sati o n o f m i n i n g j e t t y a t Cu r c hor e m , G o a

Ou t on t he Tow n : Refig u rin g u rban t ran sform at ion s in Pan j im , G oa

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& 16/1, Balaji Layout, Cooke Town, Bangalore 560084 ; kamatrozario@gmail.com; www.kamatrozario.com; (080) 40931455

LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION It is my pleasure to recommend Oweena Fernandes to your organisation. She joined us in February 2021 as a junior architect and was with us for a period of two and a half years. I have known and worked with Oweena closely during this time, and I am happy to mention that I have seen a smart, diligent and hard working person in her. In her capacity at our firm, Oweena handled a diverse range of projects, ranging from restoration projects, apartments, villas, and schools. Her ability to thoroughly research the background, site conditions, and materiality for each project was commendable. She handled all aspects of the project, starting from research, conceptualization, design, detailed construction drawings to coordinating execution on site. In addition to her efficient planning, Oweena showcased the ability to infuse each project with meticulous attention to detail. These details were not merely aesthetic but served functions as well. She ensured smooth communication and coordination with clients, contractors, consultants, and vendors. Oweena was consistently able to manage timelines and reach targets with ease. Oweena has shown some very promising qualities during her tenure. Her ability to handle complex projects and issues with calmness was an inspiration to everyone in the office. On a personal level, it was always a delight to work with Oweena. She has the ability to take-on a concept and develop it independently and she never shies away from trying out a new idea. It has been a pleasure to have her with us and witness how she thrives on and derives joy from her work. She is very hardworking, meticulous, and one of the most earnest people I know. I would highly recommend her to your organisation, and she will be a valuable asset without a doubt. I wish her the very best in all her future endeavours. Warm regards, SmrutiKamat Partner Kamat and Rozario Architecture th

14 Feb 2024

photo by Ananya Gupta

Professional Practice Kamat and Rozario Architecture, Bangalore Project Architect

RESIDENTIAL VILLA Architectue & Landscape design 41,000 sqft. plot built up 6000 sqft. | Alibaug Ongoing Design Drawing & detailing Located a few kms from the sea, the challenge of a high water table has been ingeniously addressed in this design through strategic landscaping which plays a pivotal role in managing monsoon floods. The exterior showcases a combination of exposed basalt stone walls and large, strategically placed windows that frame the lush surroundings. The use of basalt stone as an architectural material as well in landscaping, not only celebrates the local geological richness but also embodies a commitment to sustainable building practices, creating a timeless and resilient living space.

Professional Practice Kamat and Rozario Architecture, Bangalore Project Architect

RESIDENTIAL VILLA (renovation) Civil + interior design 4500 sqft. | Bangalore Ongoing Design Drawing and detailing Material and furniture selection Execution This home in Bangalore undergoes a transformative journey, where the existing load-bearing structure becomes a canvas for innovation. The ground floor walls were gracefully demolished, ushering in an era of open planning and a seamless flow of spaces. Metal sections take center stage in this structural symphony, providing both strength and a contemporary aesthetic. The staircase, is a sculptural metal masterpiece, defying conventional norms. Experimentation becomes the guiding principle, pushing the boundaries of design, structure, and material.

photo by Ayesha de souza

photos by Ayesha de souza

Professional Practice Kamat and Rozario Architecture, Bangalore Project Architect

HEMMERSBACH DORMITORY Architecture + interior design 5300 sqft. | Bangalore On hold Design & research Drawing and detailing Material selection The dormitory is divided into two sections based on construction method: the dormitory and the service wing. The dormitory, designed to be temporary with potential for reassembly, contrasts with the permanent service wing. The goal was to create a comfortable, occupant and budget friendly temporary structure, unlike typical ones, while also considering material reusability. The construction includes steel framing with steel trusses, wood-framed cement board panels for flooring and partitions, and galvalume sheets for the roof and externally, a layered composition of Mangalore tiles, glass panels, SS fly mesh, and precast concrete panels which responds to harsh sunlight from the south. Interior spaces follow a grid design influenced by the construction typology.

Professional Practice Kamat and Rozario Architecture, Bangalore Project Architect

RESIDENTIAL VILLA Architecture + interior design 3100 sqft. | Bangalore Completed Facade, interiors - design & detailing Material selection Execution With an unconventional layout, this home was put together for a couple and their two dogs. The living room, with its sliding folding door, not only provides a seamless connection to the garden but also blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, giving the dogs plenty of room to roam and play. A central courtyard incorporated in the design adds a touch of tranquility in the master suite, as the bedroom, the walk-in wardrobe and the bathroom wrap around the courtyard. Using local sadarahalli stone for the facade not only ties the home to its surroundings but also treats the exterior as one cohesive block while letting in that warm Bangalore sunlight.

photo by Syam Sreesylam

photos by Syam Sreesylam

photos by Ananya Gupta

photo by Syam Sreesylam

photo by Ananya Gupta

photo by Syam Sreesylam

photos by Syam Sreesylam

photo by Ananya Gupta

Professional Practice Kamat and Rozario Architecture, Bangalore Project Architect

APARTMENT BUILDING Architectural design 15,000 sqft. | Bangalore Ongoing Design Drawing and detailing Execution A charming 4-story apartment building in Bangalore, where the design seamlessly integrates the existing ageold mango tree. This being a unique challange benefited us as that cutout helped to maximize natural light and ventilation which was necessary. The building is split between builders and owners, with the ground floor dedicated to common spaces and parking. Each of the upper three floors houses a combination of builder-designed units and ownercustomized apartments. The units were planned strategically to maximize natural light and ventilation while ensuring the majestic mango tree remains a focal point.

Professional Practice Kamat and Rozario Architecture, Bangalore Project Architect

RESIDENTIAL VILLA (1) Civil & interior design 3900 sqft. |Near Nandi Hills Ongoing Design Drawing and detailing

RESIDENTIAL VILLA (2) Civil & interior design 3300 sqft. | Bangalore Ongoing Design Drawing and detailing Execution

RESIDENTIAL VILLA (1)

RESIDENTIAL VILLA (2)

Vernacular practices implemented in Contemporary buildings A case of Vietnam and Goa

Dissertation Thesis 2019 - Year 5

While the concerns of sustainability are driven by countries in Europe and America (RobecoSAM, October 2018), there are many other obscure places such as Vietnam (UNDP Vietnam) which has also taken lead role in showing the world how to move towards sustainability. Therefore, this study looked at the kind of sustainable practices adopted in contemporary buildings of urban Vietnam as well as looking at a similar tropical region like Goa, whether it is moving towards technology driven futuristic approach or the local vernacular which is the concern of the study. It is the contemporary practice that is geared towards addressing the issues of sustainability but using vernacular elements in their architecture which is central to this. The results of this study indicate that the selected contemporary buildings in Vietnam and Goa is creatively adapted to the local natural conditions and uses various climate responsive strategies. Through this study, the most frequently used strategies were derived. Though some of the buildings use vernacular elements as addons, Vietnam and Goa having hot and humid climate, strategies like natural ventilation and lighting were prioritized and to some level played a fundamental role to achieve sustainability.

Case Studies in Vietnam and Goa

The Betania project is a residential complex dedicated for social educative needs. The building is designed to reduce the impacts of solar radiation, wind and rain on the interior spaces. Betania uses it’s region’s vernacular knowledge combined with green design trends to achieve an accomodation that’s both homey and modern. Typical solutions in the Vietnamese vernacular include solar courtyard, mediating space, envelope shading device, air vent, and surrounding greenery which is seen in this building design. This construction received the gold medal at the Vietnam Green Building Award 2018, in Hanoi (archdaily,2017).

by Tropical Space Studio

Cuckoo House, Da Nang, Vietnam

The chapel has a deep rooted connection to its location while having a contemporary approach. The building seamlessly blends well with the surrounding vegetation and complements the hill slope on which it sits. The site has been left more or less undisturbed with the entire hill slope conserved and the rocky hill slope integrated into the building design. The building with natural stone textures has been built in the most environment friendly manner. The chapel uses local knowledge for a better passive design solution.

Full dissertation link : https://issuu.com/meleeva.fernandes/docs/dissertation_study_of_vernacular_practices_impleme

The Platform Revitalisation of mining jetty at Curchorem, Goa

Design Thesis 2020 - Year 5

In 2012, mining was shut down all over Goa. This affected all the workers and local community that were directly or indirectly dependent on mining, as mining was the second most income generating source in Goa. Unemployment is one of the major concerns that needs to be addressed. Curchorem is on such place affected and the site was chosen because it is the only town in Goa that offers a unique situation where railway, waterway and roadway coexist in close proximity with each other. However, due to mining activities associated with it has caused a lot of problems in the town, in terms of economic after its ban. Although, it still functions as a mining transportation hub, it does not provide enough job opportunities and comfortable living conditions to the residences. This thesis seeks to improve the living and economically distressed conditions of people directly or indirectly affected due to ban on mining. Following natural disaster or conflict, architecture plays a critical role in not only reconstructing lost infrastructure but also responding to the need for comfort and safety for those affected. This project fulfills these needs with flexibility in terms of function and infrastructure. It acts as a catalyst in providing a reliable sustainable food source for the community, while engaging them to learn about agriculture, food, and ultimately influences a shift in the way food is viewed, furthermore, becoming an example in the future development.

General Guidelines :

Consideration of the mining jetty area as a public civic space; Enhancing the connection of the river and city; Redesigning of the railway for better pedestrian; Retaining the mining transport for future.

Key Features :

First floor common area

Second floor looking into the canteen area

second floor with north light roof

The building is designed to reduce the impacts of solar radiation, wind and rain on the interior spaces which include, mediating space, envelope shading device, air vent, and surrounding greenery. In this tropical climate, use of double skin facade with outside steel and terracotta louver jaali and inside glazing provides flexible control in all-weather condition. Double skin façade are used on all the facades wth foldable panels to maximize ventilation and light because of larger surface area and to capture cool winds. As a result, even without the assistance of mechanical systems, indoor air temperature is remarkably comfortable. Rainwater is gathered in large roof collector and drops along the facades throughout large vertical canals.

Constructive Axonometry

1. Natural light maximization through roof. 2. Natural water management strategy. 3. Solar panels and reflecting steel roof for sun shading and energy management. 4. Natural light maximization through double skin façade (See Master Section)

Axo-metric section through the office – kitchen – hydroponics block

Out on the Town Refiguring urban transformations in Panjim

Urban Design 2019 - Year 4

In the present age, cities undergo a rapid deteriotion of ecological systems and raise issues of social justice. In this design studio we seeked to refigure these transformations in the city‘s urban landscape. The city of panjim functions as a lab for students for design interventions as students try to integrate resilient local enriching programs within the realities of current neoliberal capitalist ventures within the city and to figure an identity for the city of Panjim. The studio seeked to figure out the following : 1. what is so special about panjim , in terms of morphology , including its urban form and people. 2. what is the identity of panjim which makes it unique , and where is it leading to in the future ? 3. critically figure out the scale of architectural interventions to be done including policy making , embracing local and regional concerns, developing healthy social and pedestrian networks and spaces 4. form

address and

the

issues architectural

urban aesthetics

The Hub The open ground floor plan of the ferry terminal allows a visual connection between the city and the riverfront. The existing panjim jetty is used for larger ferry boats to stregthenthe public waterways transporation system. The programmatic division of space allows for new activities to be intergrated with the old Panjim Betim ferry. The arcade elements borrowed frm the existing architectural language in Panjim create an interactive facade, which breathes new life into the previously impermeable waterfront.

The open ground floor plan allows a visual connection and free public movement between the city and the riverfront. The existing panjim jetty used for larger ferry boats, stregthens the public waterways transporation system. The main material used for construction is glulam for future possibilities.

DOCEXDOCE India 54 hours Competition Oct 2020 Honorable Mention This year’s topic gave the oppotunity to rethink the replica of eiffel tower in Tianducheng China, which resembles foreign historical landmarks. The aim was to activate this ghost town into a spirited and memorable affair. The dragon, seen as a positive light and associated with life-giving rains and water sources. A sloped roof structure effortlessly winds around the urban park, elegantly merging the traditional Chinese culture with the contemporary. A reimagined Eiffel tower forms the core and gives this town a new life. Team: Mark Vas, Gyles Ferrao, Ritu Kittur, Oweena Fernandes

@meleeva.fernandes@gmail.com