PORTFOLIO
Sophia Lai Graduate of Architecture
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Architecture, to me, is the careful design of space which ignites imaginations, catalyses dreams and encompasses memories within its users - it creates a platform to enhance what it means and feels to be human
About Me Sophia is a Graduate of Architecture with 3 years professional experience in commercial, interior fit outs, defence and transport projects within Australia and Hong Kong. She is self motivated and takes great pride in producing high quality industry standard documentation while paying careful attention to details. Always keen to try new things and learn, Sophia is constantly on the lookout for the next challenge to fulfil her curiosity in a nurturing and collaborate environment with industry experts.
Experience GRADUATE OF ARCHITECTURE GHDWoodhead, Brisbane Australia 2019 - Current ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT KplusK Associates, Hong Kong 2016 - 2017
Education MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE The University of Melbourne 2017 - 2018 BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN The University of Queensland 2013-2015
Phase 1 Foyer - Artist impression
Phase 1 Multimedia stair - Artist impression
Phase 2 Entertainment room Artist impression
Shaw Movie City LOH AS Par k, HK K p l u sK Asso c iates Phase 01 of Shaw Movie City project consisted of creating the interior fit out for the reception entrance. Phase 02 of the Shaw Movie Project consisted of ballroom interior design and entertainment hall interior design. Responsibilities included • CAD drawings and detailing • SketchUp modelling • Contacting suppliers • Assist in the preparation of documentation sets for meetings and submissions • Assist in developing an updating schedules • Create shop drawings for bespoke screening elements
Drop off/ Pick-up
Clubhouse Interior
Woolamai SLSC P hil l ip I sl and , V I C
The vital sense of place which gives architecture its meaning has been lost in the process of globalization. By designing architecture that expresses specific nature, geography, local materials and cultural patterns of the site, situationally adapted architecture can be created. Situationally adapted architecture is a theory devised by Pallasmaa which provides grounding for architecture that helps us recognize our identity and existence as a human being in the world. The project is to expand the Woolamai SLSC clubhouse in a sensitive way. Greater meaning can be obtained when elements of the past are learnt and evolved to align with present circumstances, creating continuity. Thresholds architecturally represent this connection as spaces of transition which simultaneously encourage and resist progression while referencing the past sequence. They mediate passage through boundaries while associating specific sociocultural behaviors that create greater awareness of one’s relationship to their surroundings. The project uses thresholds as the focus of designing situationally adapted architecture as it creates continuity through dialogue between inland and beach conditions through visual, tactile and audial cues.
Restaurant Entrance
Amenities Entry
Princes Pier Po r t Phil l ip, V I C
The 580m long pier welcomed an influx of immigrants and returning soldiers during the first half of the 19th century. Since then, the accelerated transformation of Melbourne city has resulted in the reduced use of the pier as a social platform despite its close proximity to the CBD. Currently, only its 1936 gatehouse and a third of the original size remains accessible with its entire length displayed in full glory through its original timber pylons. This project aims to revitalize the pier as a vibrant social space for all ages through the introduction of programs such as cafes, restaurants, public toilets and BBQ areas. This proposal begins with the natural phenomena known as the ‘edge effect’ whereby people gather along the sides of a large space. In order to create greater connection to its surroundings and allowing room for the insertion of new program, this ‘edge’ has been rotated and lifted. The intervention ‘arms’ are designed as guides through the site while framing the gatehouse. Additionally, through false perspective, we aim to accentuate and dramatize the horizontal character of the site.
‘ Edg e Effec t ’
Rota te d E d ge
Pro gra m
1:500 physical model (Sophia Lai)
Sitting Area (Jenny Mao)
Security Check (Jenny Mao)
Studio Anti-Wall Gaza S t r ip
This project tackles issues on physical, psychological and cultural barriers. The intervention is along the Gaza Strip border, where numerous forces are at play. Problems identified at this site include the lack of sanitary facilities, long wait times and little shelter. Hence, this project aims to tackle these issues while creating an enjoyable, less monotonous experience through the checkpoints. Working in a group of 3, the project focusses on dissipating tensions along the Palestinian/Israeli border. This project looks to create a proposal which encourages a secured, yet permeable border situation to aid the ‘breakdown’ of the fortified border through the integration of playgrounds as neutral areas of interaction between the two entities. Program was decided based on current border security requirements and additional activities included which cast political agendas aside such as a playground.
Border Tensions -Pascal Marie
Embraceable You - Moonassi
The Cube - Moonassi
Skyscraper M e l bo u r ne, V I C
Working in a group of 2, the task was to design a high rise building in a corner site between Exhibition Street and La Trobe Street, Melbourne CBD. The task was broken down into three sections; podium, tower and crown. Assignment submission requirements included a 1:500 model (pictured right) and a drawing package as follows: • Overall concept design ideas for the stacking, structure and envelope • GA plans, sections and elevations • Details
View from Staff House Road
Recital Hall Interior
Bar/ Entry Foyer
UQ School of Music UQ S t Lu c ia Cam p u s, Q L D
With increasing student numbers and desire to publicise student works at the School of Music, a larger practice and performance facility is required. This project features a 250 audience recital hall, a rehearsal studio, and multiple practise room. The design aims to dramatise the entry into the recital hall through a tall, open promenade overlooking the lake. The prime location is utilised by incorporating bookstores and cafÊs for general public’s enjoyment. The circulation paths are clearly visible from the exterior to emphasise the desire to connect the student body with the wider public and to dramatise the passage to the Recital Hall space.
Connecting existing paths
Utilizing green space
Kokoda Street View
Between residential wings
Outside view of entrance hall
Beenliegh Aged Care Center B e e nl ie g h, Q LD
The current aging population has sparked the need for new facilities that focus on self-reliance and aspects of aging in place. Located on a corner site, this project explores the need to create a ‘connected hub’ to encourage social interaction within the aged care facility and the wider society. Cul-de-sac was the main concept as it creates smaller communities within the greater, therefore encouraging passive surveillance and social activity within smaller groups. Active pastimes and green space were important aspects to create a healthier living environment while engaging the elderly’s senses with the built environment. Other programs such as day-care center was integrated to bring activities of the wider public and the attached emotions these programs have into the center so that the elderly do not feel completely disconnected from the workings of society.
Sophia Chek-Yiu Lai E: s oph i a .l a i0 5 @ g m a i l .co m M: +61 4 233 8 60 43 W: linkedin.com/in/sophlai