I am Melissa Arias, a highly motivated Architect with a track record of designing over 190,000 sqft (17,650 sqmt) across various countries. With six years of experience in architectural and interior design, my expertise lies in crafting corporate spaces that seamlessly blend creativity with functionality. I am involved in every stage of a project, from conceptualization to construction, with meticulous attention to detail and a strong focus on efficiency.
My approach to work is rooted in creativity and proactivity. I believe in the power of knowledge sharing, collaborative teamwork, strategic planning, and innovative problem-solving. My goal is not just to meet but often exceed expectations, delivering results that leave a lasting impact.
“We are in constant dialogue and interaction with the environment to the degree that it is impossible to detach the image of the self from its spatial and situational existence”
-Juhani Pallasma
¡HELLO!
CONFIDENTIAL CLIENT C-SUITE
TYPE: Professional
STATUS: Under construction
LOCATION: Toronto, ON
ROLE:
Interior Designer - Conceptual Design, Look&feel, Finishes selection, Renderings and visualization, 3D modeling, Construction documents.
SIZE:
37.000sqft - 2.500sqmt
A project that defies convention, embodying a narrative of strength, success, and enduring stability. In this iconic space, art takes center stage, interwoven with the essence of truth, creating a memorable and impactful experience.
A blend of timeless design elements, and a seamless integration of the bank’s history, this project stands as a testament to the power of design to inspire, differentiate, and leave a lasting impression. It’s a place where history meets modernity and where every detail contributes to the creation of a differentiated and memorable environment.
This is a design story that invites dialogue, celebrates progress while honoring tradition, and ultimately, delivers a unique, unforgettable experience.
CONFIDENTIAL CLIENT
Elevators Lobby
Reception Lounge
Reception
Corridors
Boardroom
Lounge Bar
Lounge Room
GILEAD
GILEAD SCIENCES
TYPE: Professional
STATUS: Under construction
LOCATION: Mississauga, ON
ROLE:
Interior Designer - Conceptual Design, Look&feel, Finishes selection, Renderings and visualization, Construction documents.
SIZE:
31.500sqft - 2.000sqmt
The design of this project embodies a concept that transcends mere aesthetics. It is a celebration of the relationship between humans and nature, nurturing a profound connection with our environment. Meandering paths within the space encourage contemplation, much like a leisurely stroll through the natural world. This deliberate slowing down allows us to engage our senses, becoming finely attuned to the subtle nuances and rhythms of the surroundings, fostering a heightened appreciation for the intricate beauty and complexity of nature.
By creating spaces that beckon us to wander, to pause, and to fully immerse ourselves in the sensory experience of nature, we facilitate a deepening of our understanding and reverence for the natural world. In doing so, this design philosophy inspires a profound sense of connection and stewardship towards our environment. It is more than just a design; it’s a philosophy that invites us to reconnect with the world outside.
Reception
Forum
Open Collab
Elevators Lobby
Breakroom
Library
Quiet
Library
Quiet
OTPP NY
ONTARIO TEACHERS` PENSION PLAN
TYPE: Professional
STATUS: Under construction
LOCATION: New York
ROLE: Interior Designer - Conceptual Design, Look&feel, Finishes selection, Renderings and visualization, Construction documents.
SIZE:
5.000sqft - 500 sqmt
The interior design of OTPP NY embodies a timeless, refined, and enduring aesthetic, setting the stage for a New York-style loft apartment inspired ambiance. The designed is sophisticated while embracing an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. Functioning as a welcoming and hospitable drop-in center for both guests and team members alike, it seamlessly merges elegance with comfort.
Designed also to foster collaboration and connectivity, offering an array of versatile meeting areas and dedicated focus spaces. By promoting an atmosphere of inclusivity and creativity, OTPP NY encourages meaningful interactions and the exchange of ideas, ensuring that it serves not only as a place of work but as a vibrant hub of innovation and shared experiences.
Reception
Pantry
Boardroom
OTPP LONDON
ONTARIO TEACHERS PENSION PLAN
TYPE: Professional
STATUS: Under construction
LOCATION: London, UK
ROLE:
Interior Designer - Renderings and visualization.
SIZE:
40.000 sqft - 4000 sqmt
The design of OTPP London is a testament to a timeless, refined, and elegantly enduring aesthetic. With a vision that marries sophistication and functionality, the new welcome area stands as a social haven, dedicated to hosting guests and prioritizing the art of hospitality. This space sets the tone for an atmosphere where every visitor is made to feel valued and welcomed.
Open collaboration spaces are accentuated through multifunctional furniture solutions, offering a versatile canvas for a diverse range of collaborative activities and solo work options. This dynamic approach to workspace design not only fosters interaction but also recognizes the importance of providing a flexible environment that empowers individuals to choose how they work, further enhancing productivity and creativity.
Reception
Open Collaboration
Work Lounge
RED HAT
RED HAD - LATAM HEAQUARTERS
TYPE: Professional
STATUS: Under construction
LOCATION: São Paulo, Brasil
ROLE: Melissa Arias - Lead Architect Designer
SIZE:
37.700sqft - 3.500sqmt
Incorporating Red Hat’s corporate identity and embracing local aesthetics, the 37,700-square-foot offices were meticulously crafted to adhere to both local building regulations and stringent North American standards, including LEED and ADA compliance.
Throughout the design process for both floors, we adhered to the fundamental principle that space truly comes to life through human interaction, and it undergoes a transformative journey when influenced by external actors. This approach ensures that the Red Hat offices not only reflect the company’s ethos but also provide a vibrant and functional space that inspires creativity and collaboration.
........25th Floor
........24th Floor
LOOK & FEEL
Lobby- 24th Floor
Render
Photo
Open Office - 25th Floor
Render Photo
Open Collab - 25th Floor
Pantry- 24h Floor
Photo
Photo
The design strategy for the Red Hat São Paulo offices revolves around a hybrid open office model, organized into distinct “neighborhoods.” Within these neighborhoods, various workstations are strategically placed, including traditional sit-to-stand desks, diverse meeting spaces, areas dedicated to fostering collaboration among employees, and multifunctional spaces. This approach transforms the office environment into a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem, fostering energy and interaction among its occupants.
COLLABORATIVE SPACES
Organic Lighting installation
Mobile Whiteboards
Modular Furniture
Modular Millwork with vegetation
MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES
Multifunctional wall installation
Modular furniture
MEETING SPACES
Organic Lighting installation
Interactive wall installation
Booths
Modular Furniture
Ceilings with natural vegetation
High Seating postitions
Phonebooth Enclave
Meeting Room
Multifunction Room
Collaborative/Enclave
Collaborative Space - 25th Floor
GLOBANT HEADQUARTERS
First place design competition+Design
Development+Construction
TYPE: Professional
STATUS: Under construction
LOCATION: Buenos Aires Argentina
ROLE: Melissa Arias - Lead Architect Designer
SIZE: 110.000sqft - 10.000sqmt
The design of Globant Headquarters in Buenos Aires, Argentina, spanning 110,000 sqft, ingeniously explores the synergy between nature, inspired by Argentina’s National Parks, and technology, the core focus of Globant’s business. Across the 10 floors of this project, each floor mirrors the ambiance of a distinct Argentine National Park, weaving an immersive and experiential design narrative. This approach not only ensures a stimulating work environment but also prioritizes employee wellbeing through cutting-edge automation and environmental enhancements.
The building’s diverse and multidirectional circulation pathways emulate the organic rhythms found in natural exploration experiences, guiding occupants to various spaces within the project.
Rooted in promoting well-being, the design incorporates natural elements and has achieved both LEED and WELL certifications, underlining its commitment to sustainability and a healthy, thriving workplace.
28 Floor - Auditorium
Talampaya Dessert National Park
THE CONCEPT
The Grid
The classic corporate model, obstructs creativity, wellbeing and collaboration with spatial stiffness.
Nature
Incredible and diverse natural landscapes from Argentina´s National Parks as an opportunity to introduce a renovation to the classical model.
PROGRAM DISTRIBUTION
110,000 sqm 950
The Glitch
The error as the unespected revealing of nature,beauty and sensorial comfort, as the organic force that breaks stiffness.
Glitching Landscapes
A new work environment designed for productivity, collaboration and wellbeing, presents a harmony between nature and technology
30 Floor - Cataratas de Iguazú
Amenities, Chill out, game zone
29 Floor - Tierra del Fuego
Talent Scouting Center, auditorium
28 Floor - Talampaya Dessert
Lobby, gym, training rooms, music room, makers space, museum
27 Floor - Nahuel Huapi
Board, Open office, Maternity
26 Floor - Esteros del Iberá
Facilities, Open office, Servie Desk
25 Floor - Baritú Jungle
Globers Travel, Open office, Finance
24 Floor - Lanín
Open office, Recording Studio
23 Floor - Glaciares
Open office
22 Floor - Sierra de las Quijadas
Open office
21 Floor - Los Alerces
Open office
28 Floor - Lobby
Talampaya Dessert National Park
30 Floor
Cataratas de Iguazú National Park
Innovative collaborative spaces for multipurpose activities, creates a new methodology for creative problem solutions within the workflow environment.
Experiential leisure spaces for creating with diverse uses in the workplace environment, have demonstrated to help employees develop stronger creative and collaborative skills.
28 Floor - Auditorium Talampaya Dessert National Park
28 Floor
30 Floor
30 Floor - Chill Out Cataratas de Iguazú National Park
Creating Biophilic environments through natural inspired textures, like wood and vegetation, helps to stimulate the user promoting wellbeing spaces
Natural patterns can potentiate wellbeing and creativity within a flexible environment, that adapts to collaborative and individual activities.
21 Floor - Meeting Room Los Alerces National Park
24 Floor - Open Office Lanín National Park
21 Floor
24 Floor
EAN UNIVERSITY
EAN UNIVERSITY
TYPE: Professional STATUS: Built
LOCATION:
Bogotá, Colombia
ROLE:
Melissa Arias - Design Assistant
Size:
193.750sqft - 18.000sqmt
The interior design of EAN University’s impressive 10-floor LEED building in Bogotá is rooted in the innovative concept of a biosphere, housing a diverse range of physical environments and users. This visionary approach examines the intricate relationships among its users, creating an educational trophic chain that fosters a rich environment for learning and knowledge acquisition among students.
Leveraging advanced BIM tools, the construction process was optimized to enhance performance, minimize material waste, and reduce project costs. This eco-conscious strategy led to the building’s remarkable achievement of LEED GOLD certification, affirming its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Multifunctional Classroom
Cafeteria - Real Life Cafeteria - Render
Atrium
CO-WORKING NY
WORKPLACE
TYPE: Professional STATUS: On going
LOCATION: New York
ROLE: Melissa Arias - Architect Designer
Size: 2150sqft - 200sqmt
Located in New York City, I was selected as the designer for two co-working buildings.
The first, 31 Little Nassau Street in Brooklyn, caters to high-end medical and law firms, exuding sophistication through materials like leather and marble. It offers a warm and inviting space for workers.
The second project, 34N Airmond Rd in Manhattan, focuses on serving high-end clients, utilizing warm materials and diverse textures such as wood, marble, felt, leather, and distinctive ceiling fixtures to create a sophisticated ambiance that aligns perfectly with client expectations and project objectives.
-
Collaborative
space
3D View Coffee - Render Lounge - Render
31 Little Nassau St
31 Little Nassau St
31 Little Nassau St
Circulations - Render Meeting Room - Render Lobby - Render 34N Airmond Rd 34N Airmond Rd 34N Airmond Rd
Design development + construction
TYPE: Professional
LOCATION: Panamá
ROLE: Melissa Arias - LeadArchitect Designer
SIZE: 3,900sqtf - 363sqmt
The 3,900 sqft project for Moma Holdings’ offices in Panama City is a testament to the principles of harmony, equilibrium, and sensory experiential spaces. The design revolves around creating pure geometric forms and preserving a natural balance, all to offer diverse and enriching experiences for its users. This approach fosters a healthy work environment for employees while encouraging collaboration among team members.
As a finance consultancy company, Moma Holdings’ new office design aims to reflect its close connection to clients through the use of inviting textures and warm elements. This thoughtful design ensures that the workspace exudes a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with the company’s values and its commitment to both its employees and clients.
MOMA Boardroom
The project features an organic circulation design that seamlessly connects various spaces, establishing a fluid and sequential path that transitions between collaborative and private areas.
Floor Plan
Elevation
Elevation
3D View
Elevation
Textures inspired by nature, such as wood, stone, and vegetation, are thoughtfully incorporated to craft an environment that promotes the well-being of its occupants.
Collaborative multipurpose spaces foster innovative approaches to work for employees, leading to heightened creativity and productivity.
Open Collab
Reception
COLSUBSIDIO
Design competition
TYPE: Professional
LOCATION:
Bogotá, Colombia
ROLE:
Melissa Arias - Lead Architect Designer
SIZE:
8.700 sqft - 750sqmt
The 7,500 sqft project for Colsubsidio’s offices is born from the recognition of two key elements in shaping the space. The first element acknowledges Colsubsidio and its significant role in advancing the country’s progress throughout its history.
The second element delves into a comprehensive understanding of the project’s immediate context, encompassing the city’s surroundings and the specific floor where it resides. Drawing from these foundational pillars, the architectural concept unfolds as a transformative journey that guides users to frame their life experiences through captivating city vistas.
Welcome - The Plaza
DESIGN STRATEGIES
The Plaza The Journey Floating Workstations
The representation of the public space that becomes the place of welcome and collaboration.
The circulation takes the user on a journey that frames the enriching and inspiring exterior views.
These spaces are articulated by the plaza, allowing a direct interaction focused on teamwork.
Permanent Workstations
Multiple spaces willing to develop different activities,focused on collaborative environments.
Meeting points Secuential spaces
Flexible encounter spaces, that promote creativity and cllaborative environments, improving wellbeing.
Generate new interactions, always surrounded by the visuals of a city connecting the different spaces
Floor
Plan Elevation Elevation Elevation
Open Office Open Office
Design Development
TYPE: Professional
ROLE:
Melissa Arias - Lead Designer
LOCATION: Hong Kong
SIZE: 10,764sqft - 1,000sqmt
The design of EMSD’s 11,850 sqft offices in Hong Kong is firmly rooted in the concept of Biophilic environments, which seeks to establish a direct and harmonious connection between individuals and nature within the spaces they inhabit.
Extensive research demonstrates that biophilic designs can significantly reduce stress levels, enhance positive emotional well-being, and improve concentration and recovery rates. These benefits manifest through physiological changes like lowered blood pressure and heart rate, reduced attentional fatigue, and improved mental engagement and overall happiness.
Additionally, the project’s design strategies prioritize collaboration by creating a variety of workspaces that facilitate connections among employees. The use of natural textures, such as stone and wood, juxtaposed with metal, along with the integration of natural vegetation and vibrant colors, is thoughtfully employed to evoke the essence of nature within this biophilic environment, promoting a holistic
Moodboard & Inspiration + color palette
EMSD
PROGRAM DISTRIBUTION
Brainstorm Room
Co-Working
Collaborative Space
Open Office
Pantry
Library
Collaborative Space
Open Office
Meeting Room
Co-Working
Collaborative Space
Meeting Room
Private Office
+
Open Office
Open Collab
COLLABORATIVE WORKING TYPOLOGIES
By incorporating a range of diverse typologies and workspaces, our design proposal cultivates spatial diversity. This approach effectively counters the conventional rigidity often associated with office environments, ultimately fostering a more collaborative atmosphere within the workspace.
WORKSTATIONS TYPOLOGIES
BRAINSTORM ROOM INDIVIDUAL SPACES CO-WORKING ENCOUNTER SPACE COLLABORATIVE COLLABORATIVE FEXIBLE MEETING SPACES MEETING SPACES PRIVATE SPACES 3D Axonometric
SHARED CREDENZA HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE LATERAL CREDENZA
Pantry
Open Collab
