ARCHITECTURE PORTFOLIO
VALERIA ZAMULA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TORRE RINALDA GALLERY
LIGHT
Reuse the Tower — Torre Rinalda
In collaboration with Anastasia Yakovets and Oleksandr Polikrovsky
Lecce, Apulia, Italy
Torre Rinalda.... At first glance, it looks like powerand steadfastness, tempered by centuries, and then like a sea breeze in the rays of sunshine. Over the centuries, it was nature that designed the new faces, cracks, and shapes of the tower. This place was completely under the elements, and now we want to transfer its energy to everyone who touches the building. The combination of history with modernity, powerwith lightness, the sun with the wind, steadfastness with the weightlessness of the place is the goal of this project. This design concept can be used for the renovation of other towers and such solution will always look new due to the uniqueness of each building.
The Evolution of Form
ACADEMIC
Unity church — Gallery of Light
Lviv, Ukraine
Inspired by Stephen Prothero’s book, “God is Not One,” I envisioned a space that transcended religious boundaries and welcomed everyone.
The church design focused on creating an open, inclusive environment filled with natural light. Large windows and monolithic vertical fins allowed diffused light to fill the space, enhancing warmth and openness. These fins also improved acoustic quality and served as sculptural elements.
Inside, the church featured flexible, adaptable areas for communal gatherings, private prayer, reading rooms, and a cozy café. An open sky garden provided a serene environment for reflection. The building was divided into loud and quiet zones to ensure different activities could coexist without interference.
This project was a deeply personal undertaking, blending my architectural skills with a desire to create a nurturing space for the mind, body, and spirit.
Fruit Tree
Scented Plants
Feature Rock
Low Growing Plants
Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor Pathway
Concrete Sidewalk
Building Section
BAM Hills
In collaboration with Robert Mytrychko and Halyna Syma Uzhgorod, Ukraine
This project comprises two- three-story interconnected cottages situated on elevated terrain in the central part of the city.
The project’s concept was inspired by the surrounding landscape, resulting in four distinct modules of varying sizes arranged cascadingly on the site. Each module features a private entrance area and a backyard with a terrace, surrounded by green spaces.
The first block, prominently facing the main road, serves as the focal point, hosting a charming restaurant and a spacious common area designed exclusively for the residents.
Surrounding the cottages, landscaped gardens and pathways wind through the terrain, enhancing the natural beauty and providing tranquil spaces for leisure and relaxation.
The entire design concept prioritizes sustainability and integration with the environment, ensuring minimal impact while maximizing the quality of life for the residents.
1. Residential building
2. Recreation area 3. Playground
Bike station
Parking 6. Outdoor terrace
Main entrance
Entance to the common area
The Evolution of Form
slope patio awning
gabion wall
glass railling terrace
facade paint
In this architectural project, the focus is on creating a residential environment that not only provides comfortable living spaces but also enhances the overall quality of life through well-integrated outdoor amenities.
Outdoor seating areas are strategically positioned to encourage social interaction and relaxation, offering residents opportunities to connect with their neighbors in a casual and inviting setting.
Equally important are the playgrounds designed specifically for children. These areas are carefully planned to ensure safety and enjoyment, providing youngsters with spaces to play, explore, and develop physically and socially within a secure environment.
The design features separate levels for active and quiet zones to ensure distinct atmospheres without overlap, enhancing resident comfort and community cohesion. These spaces are essential for promoting social interaction, physical activity, and a sense of community among residents of all ages.
BL H
In collaboration with Robert Mytrychko, Halyna Syma, Nicole Anikina Uzhgorod, Ukraine
In this project, we began by working with an existing structure but reimagined its concept to align with the client’s desire for dynamic architecture consisting of multiple volumes.
The first striking feature upon entering the space is the open layout of the kitchen and living room, visually extending into the outdoors through panoramic windows. We also improved this part of the first floor with a double-height space, reaching 6 meters in ceiling height. The cantilever that separates the floors serves as a terrace for the second floor and a canopy for the first. Beneath it, there is a barbecue area with an outdoor jacuzzi.
On the second floor, three bedrooms are located: two guest rooms with access to the roof space above the garage, and a spacious master bedroom with a dressing room and terrace access. The elongated structure of the second floor forms a canopy over the entrance area.
Speaking of the facade, it showcases a meticulous blend of materials to achieve a modern aesthetic. Wooden cladding adds warmth and texture, juxtaposed against robust concrete columns that provide stability and structure. Metal sheets introduce a contemporary edge, contributing to the overall architectural dialogue between natural elements and industrial influences.
In essence, this project exemplifies our commitment to architectural innovation and client satisfaction. By reimagining existing structures and infusing them with dynamic elements such as multiple volumes, open layouts, and integrated outdoor spaces, we have created a living environment that is not only functional but also inspires a sense of modern luxury and connectivity with nature.
Construction work of this project has already commenced, with significant progress underway. Currently, the installation of the second floor is a focal point of the construction phase. This critical stage marks the realization of our design concepts into tangible form, as the framework and structure begin to take shape above ground level.
This phase of construction not only highlights the project’s advancement but also underscores our commitment to delivering a space that harmonizes with its surroundings and fulfills our client’s vision for dynamic, modern architecture. As work continues on site, we look forward to seeing the project evolve further, ultimately culminating in a residence that embodies innovation, functionality, and timeless design.
05 ACADEMIC WORK
VAN UZH
Uzhgorod, Ukraine
Incorporating this ethos into my thesis, I embarked on designing a cultural arts center aimed at nurturing fine arts and folk culture, responding to Ukraine’s resilient spirit in the face of adversity. Despite Ukraine’s rich cultural landscape boasting around 800 cultural centers in 2020, the devastating impacts of war have tragically destroyed more than half of these essential institutions.
Guided by historical maps and archival photographs, my vision for the center unfolds strategically across the site. This comprehensive design not only pays homage to Ukraine’s diverse cultural heritage but also aims to revitalize and safeguard its artistic traditions amidst the challenges of contemporary times.
By fostering a space where fine arts and folk culture converge, the center aspires to become a beacon of creativity and community. It stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of Ukrainian society to preserve its identity through the unifying power of creativity and art.
19th century buildings footbridge terrace pavilion waterfront river
The main design concept of the recreational area is to create a comfortable space for relaxation, communication, learning, and work, promoting social interaction.
Materials and color scheme of the interiors remain neutral, as do the finishes of the facades. Concrete and light tones are predominant. Walls are covered with decorative coatings mimicking natural concrete and wooden panels. The floor is made of microcement, and the ceiling material is polished concrete. Diverse planting adds natural freshness, creating a sense of coziness, tranquility, and energy.
A decorative lighting installation serves as a focal point in the interior, made of a thin metal frame and LED lamps. The structure is suspended from the ceiling with metal cables and serves as the main source of illumination. Pendant lights and spotlights are placed around the perimeter of the room and near the elevators in the vestibule.
Stainless Steel Wire Rope
Thin Metal Frame
LED Lamps