2015 AUG - SEPT. - Volunteer @ Adopta o casa, Rosia Montana restoration and architectural heritage program
MARCH OF THE RISING TIDES
The Shenzhen Bay Square International Competition is a transformative urban design project in Shenzhen, China, launched in 2018. Covering a vast area of 147,500 square meters, the project includes 81,500 square meters of above-ground structures and 94,100 square meters of underground space. Spearheaded by the Bureau of Public Works of Nanshan District and China Resources Land, with collaboration from the Shenzhen Institute of Building Research, the project aims to redefine the urban landscape with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
Shenzhen Bay Square features several key elements, including the Life Museum, Design Museum, Nature Museum, and Technology Museum, each dedicated to exploring various aspects of human life, culture, design innovation, natural environments, and technological advancements. In addition to these cultural spaces, the square includes dining facilities, eco-friendly infrastructure, an Innovation Center, and a Public University, all designed to foster creativity, education, and environmental harmony. A substantial underground cultural complex connects the museums, enhancing operational efficiency and providing a cohesive space for learning and innovation.
The project integrates advanced construction techniques, such as 3D printing, with a strong ecological focus. Located within Talent Park, the square offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, blending seamlessly with the park’s natural environment. This combination of cutting-edge design and ecological sensitivity positions Shenzhen Bay Square as a model for future urban developments.
My role in this groundbreaking project was particularly significant during the concept design phase. I was instrumental in establishing the functional layout of the square, carefully considering how each element would interact with the others and the surrounding environment. My work involved conducting an in-depth site analysis, which was crucial in identifying the optimal placement and design of the square’s various components. also developed detailed diagrams that played a key role in shaping the overall vision of the project, ensuring that it met both the aesthetic and functional requirements while staying true to its ecological and cultural objectives.
Shenzhen Bay Square is poised to become a landmark development in Shenzhen, setting new benchmarks for sustainable urban design and cultural integration. The project not only represents a forward-thinking approach to urban planning but also serves as a model for how cities can balance the demands of modern living with the need for environmental preservation and cultural enrichment.
This investment project is focused on building a state-of-the-art chapel in Cătina, Cluj County, demonstrating the Local Council’s dedication to offering a dignified and appropriate space for religious ceremonies, particularly funerals. Situated strategically next to the Orthodox cemetery and church, the chapel will be easily accessible to both local residents and visitors, reinforcing the spiritual and cultural fabric of the community.
Objectives and Features: The chapel will provide a modern facility for pre- and post-burial ceremonies, ensuring full compliance with health regulations that prohibit the holding of such rituals in private homes. Its design includes a spacious ceremony hall, private mourning rooms, and advanced preparation facilities, all housed within an eco-friendly structure. The chapel will be equipped with essential support amenities, including restrooms, administrative offices, and serene landscaped surroundings that foster reflection. The project also aims to reduce the environmental impact and enhance the quality of communal life by integrating sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.
Personal Contribution: I played a crucial role in defining the design theme, creating detailed blueprints, and developing intricate design elements that ensure the chapel meets both modern standards and traditional values. My involvement extended to overseeing the design’s alignment with cultural expectations and legal requirements, ensuring a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. I also worked closely with stakeholders, including local authorities and community representatives, to incorporate their feedback and ensure that the chapel fulfills the community’s needs.
Conclusion: This chapel project represents a significant and timely investment that will greatly improve the quality of life in Cătina. By providing a much-needed, compliant, and culturally significant facility, the project supports the community’s spiritual needs while also promoting public health and environmental sustainability. Supported by potential government funding, this initiative will create a lasting and meaningful impact, offering a modern, respectful setting for important religious rituals and enhancing the overall well-being of the Cătina community for generations to come.
CULTURAL CENTER
Th e project involves the construction of a new Cultural Center in Hăgău, Cătina Commune, Cluj County, designed to serve as a central hub for local cultural and social activities. This facility will be a modern, versatile space that caters to a wide range of events, including artistic performances, cultural exhibitions, traditional dances, and community gatherings.
Th e building will feature a single-story design with sturdy foundations made from reinforced concrete and brick masonry. Its energy-efficient construction will include photovoltaic panels, ensuring sustainable energy use. The roof will be constructed with wooden trusses and ceramic tiles, supplemented by thermal insulation to enhance energy efficiency. The exterior will be adorned with natural stone cladding and decorative plaster, while the interior will showcase ceramic tiles, natural stone finishes, and washable paint.
The Cultural Center will be equipped with modern infrastructure, including advanced electrical and plumbing systems. It will have well-planned water and sewage connections, ample parking, and access roads made from durable concrete pavers. The surrounding area will be landscaped with green spaces, including shrubbery and seating areas, to create an aesthetically pleasing and functional environment.
Th e center aims to provide a much-needed venue for local social and cultural activities, offering a safe and comfortable environment for residents to engage in various events. It will support local traditions and festivals, and provide space for educational programs and community meetings.
M y involvement in the project spans all phases, from the initial conceptualization and architectural design to the coordination of construction and final touches. I am responsible for overseeing each aspect to ensure that the Cultural Center meets the highest standards and aligns with community expectations. My comprehensive role ensures that the facility will be both functional and inspiring, specifically tailored to the needs and aspirations of the Cătina community.
O verall, this project is set to revitalize the local cultural scene, strengthen community bonds, and significantly enhance the quality of life in Hăgău.
EAST FACADE
WINDOWS AND DOORS SCHEDULES
AMPHITHEATER DETAILS
The Apahida Commune administration is embarking on a project to build a new nursery in Dezmir Village, Cluj County, driven by the increasing demand for educational spaces. A centrally located 2,200 square meter plot has been allocated for this purpose, ensuring the nursery is easily accessible to the community.
The architectural design of the nursery emphasizes the efficient and thoughtful use of space, ensuring the building meets all modern educational standards and regulations. The structure will span two levels, each carefully planned to address the diverse needs of children and staff.
On the Ground Floor, the focus is on creating a child-centered environment. This level will house spacious classrooms designed to foster a conducive learning atmosphere, modern and child-friendly sanitary facilities, and a multipurpose room that can adapt to various activities, from play to group learning. A dining area will serve as a communal space for meals, promoting social interaction among the children. The floor also includes essential support spaces, such as storage rooms for educational materials, a fully-equipped kitchen to provide nutritious meals, and a medical office complete with an isolation room to ensure the health and safety of all children. A dedicated meeting area will be available for parents, facilitating strong communication and collaboration between families and the nursery staff.
The Partial Attic is dedicated to staff functions, ensuring that educators and administrative personnel have the necessary resources and spaces to perform their roles effectively. This level will include areas for teaching staff to prepare lessons and unwind, administrative offices for the efficient management of the nursery, and maintenance rooms to support the building’s operational needs. Outdoor spaces are a key component of the nursery’s design, reflecting the importance of outdoor play and exploration in early childhood development. Each classroom will have direct access to the courtyard, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor learning environments. The courtyard will be developed into a series of play areas, each designed to align with the nursery’s educational program while respecting the natural topography of the land. These outdoor spaces will provide children with a safe, stimulating environment where they can engage in physical activities, explore nature, and develop social skills.
This project represents a strategic and forward-thinking approach by the Apahida Commune to address the growing educational needs of its community, creating a nurturing and well-integrated environment for early childhood development.
GROUND
This enchanting mountain house in Gura Humorului, Romania, epitomizes a perfect harmony between traditional Romanian architectural charm and modern comfort. Meticulously designed with a deep respect for the region’s cultural heritage, the home is a serene retreat set amidst stunning natural scenery.
Exterior and Architecture: The house features a captivating exterior that seamlessly integrates natural stone and wood, reflecting the classic elements of traditional Romanian mountain homes. Its steeply pitched roof, adorned with dormer windows, not only enhances the rustic allure but is also practical for the snowy winters typical of the region. A spacious balcony, accessible by a graceful exterior staircase, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, offering an ideal space for relaxation and enjoyment of the breathtaking surroundings.
Interior Design: The ground floor is a testament to thoughtful design, combining comfort and hospitality in an open-concept living area. This central space is illuminated by large windows that frame the picturesque views, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings and entertaining guests. Adjacent to this area is a modern kitchen, blending functionality with style to cater to contemporary culinary needs. The floor also includes a utility room, a small entryway for additional storage, and a conveniently located bathroom.
Ascending to the first floor, the private quarters provide a tranquil sanctuary. This level features three generously sized bedrooms, each designed to be a peaceful retreat with ample natural light and views of the majestic mountains. A dedicated dressing room adds a touch of luxury with abundant storage space. Additionally, a spacious relaxation area and a well-appoint ed bathroom enhance the comfort and functionality of this private floor.
ements with modern living requirements. Every aspect, from material selection to spatial organization, has been thoughtfully crafted to honor the cultural essence of Gura Humorului while addressing the practical needs of its inhabitants. This home is a true embodiment of the region’s heritage, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional elegance.
FRONT FACADE
RIGHT FACADE
PARACLIS SF. ANDREI
The project encompasses the renovation and expansion of existing facilities, including a candle chapel, techincal room, canteen, and sanitary units, all currently operating as single-story buildings. These structures will be refurbished and extended to meet their new functional requirements. A significant aspect of the project involves replacing the existing roof with a multi-pitched design that incorporates traditional Orthodox Bucovinian architectural elements, providing coverage for both the existing and new annexes. The facade will be enhanced with decorative features typical of ecclesiastical architecture, adding rhythmic consistency to the building’s appearance.
Due to current issues with water infiltration affecting the infrastructure, measures will be implemented to address these problems. The renovation plan includes expanding the existing buildings to create new functional spaces and connect the annexes into a cohesive architectural volume. The minimum eaves height will be 3.1 meters, with a maximum ridge height of 7 meters.
The scope of work includes comprehensive demolition, such as removing gypsum board walls, ceilings, floor tiles, masonry walls, perimeter sidewalks, and the existing roof. New construction will feature fire-resistant, sound-absorbing ceilings, moisture-resistant pipe masking, natural stone flooring, and new masonry walls and niches. Interior finishes will include wooden joinery and painting, while the new multi-pitched roof will adhere to local ecclesiastical architectural styles. The perimeter sidewalks will also be renewed.
The project will maintain the building’s structural integrity, with a foundation system comprising rigid concrete footings and reinforced concrete belts, complemented by an elastic foundation around columns. The floor slab will be made of reinforced concrete, and the superstructure will include a mix of load-bearing masonry and reinforced concrete frames. Interior installations will feature electrical lighting, low-current systems, sanitary facilities, ventilation, and heating systems. External works will involve paving for vehicles and pedestrians, alongside landscaping.
Throughout the project, I played a crucial role in measuring the existing building and contributing to the design process for its transformation. My involvement included detailed measurements of the current structures, which informed the renovation and expansion designs to ensure effective integration and functionality of the new elements. This hands-on experience was essential for aligning the project with its architectural and operational goals
