Aneena cheriyan

I'm Aneena Cheriyan, a passionate and dedicated architect and a Town planner with a deep appreciation for the art of spatial design and a keen eye for detail. My journey in the world of architecture has been an exciting and transformative one, marked by various milestones and experiences that have shaped my skills and perspectives. Let me take you through my professional journey, expertise, accomplishments, and aspirations.  

Work Experience: 

 Intern Architect (2018 May - November) - Art Home Architecture Studio, Kochi, India:  Contributed to residential and commercial projects, creating 2D drawings, sections, and detail working drawings using AutoCAD. Employed Sketchup and Lumion for photorealistic visualizations to enhance presentation and marketing strategies. Assisted the project manager in cost estimation and reporting, gaining insights into project management.

 Intern Architect (2020 November - 2021 July) - Safco Architects, Thrissur, India (On-site):  Engaged in the design and development of hospitality projects, from initial structures to project completion. Conducted site visits for measurements and observations, providing valuable data to senior architects. Excelled in creating accurate technical drawings and performing 3D modeling tasks. 

Practicing Architect (2022 November - Present) - 5 Elementa Designers, Kerala, India (Online):  Collaborated on residential and commercial projects, contributing throughout project phases, from conceptual design to construction documents. Led project teams, facilitated design development, and maintained effective communication to ensure project progress.

 Education:  

Bachelor in Architecture (2015-2020) - Nehru School of Architecture, Coimbatore, India.

MSc. Spatial Planning with Sustainable Urban Design (2021-2022) - University of Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom .

Involvement and Expertise:  

Proficient in software tools like Sketchup, Lumion, AutoCAD, Photoshop, Revit, Adobe Illustrator, Microsoft Office, and Adobe Lightroom. Accomplished in creative thinking, visualizing designs, critical problem-solving, effective communication, time management, and teamwork.

 Accomplishments: 

 Awarded "Best Thesis" at Nehru School of Architecture for the topic "Film City" in Kochi, India.

 Workshops Attended:  

"The Architect in Practice" (Nehru School of Architecture) 

"Architectonic Paradise" (Nehru School of Architecture)

 "Concept Development" (Nehru School of Architecture)

 "Clay Modelling and Wire Sculpture" (Nehru School of Architecture) 

"LAURIE BAKER Approach in Architecture and Building Science" (Laurie Baker Center for Habitat Studies and Centre of Science and Technology for Rural Development)

 "Advanced Research on Built Environment" (Nehru School of Architecture) 

"Atelier 16 Tect 360" (Prahar School of Architecture) 

Profile:

My architectural journey has been a dynamic blend of creativity, innovation, and practicality. I find immense joy in transforming abstract concepts into tangible structures that not only serve their functional purpose but also evoke emotions and tell stories. Each project I undertake is a unique canvas where I combine my technical skills with a strong aesthetic sensibility to bring visions to life.

My academic pursuits have served as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of urban dynamics and sustainable design. Earning an MSc. in Spatial Planning with Sustainable Urban Design from the University of Dundee has provided me with a profound toolkit to address the intricate challenges that contemporary cities face. My fascination with spatial planning goes beyond architecture; it extends into the realm of town planning, where I am deeply committed to creating holistic urban landscapes that seamlessly integrate human needs with ecological harmony.

Through my involvement with diverse architectural firms such as Art Home Architecture Studio, Safco Architects, and 5 Elementa Designers, I have honed my ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, communicate complex ideas, and deliver solutions that align with client aspirations and project goals. From designing intimate residential spaces to envisioning large-scale urban redevelopment projects, I thrive on the exciting blend of innovation and pragmatism that architecture demands.

As an advocate for sustainable and socially responsible design, I am intrigued by the interplay between spatial planning and social prescribing. My dissertation on exploring social prescribing in England and its relation to spatial planning has deepened my appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between built environments and human well-being. I believe that architecture has the power not only to shape physical landscapes but also to influence the quality of life and cultural fabric of communities.

In my pursuit of excellence, I continuously seek opportunities to expand my horizons. I am an avid participant in workshops and seminars, where I engage with fellow architects and industry experts to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and design philosophies. I am also committed to fostering the growth of future architects and designers, and I have had the privilege of mentoring aspiring talents, sharing my insights and experiences.

Whether crafting intricate floor plans, orchestrating harmonious interior spaces, or orchestrating the transformation of urban environments, I am dedicated to making a positive impact through architecture. My specific interest in spatial planning with sustainable urban design positions me as a forward-thinking town planner who seeks to shape communities that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally conscious and socially inclusive. Together, let's pave the way for a more sustainable and vibrant urban future.

Art Home Architecture Studio, Kochi, Kerala, India (May - November 2018)

 During my time at Art Home, I had the opportunity to dive into both residential and commercial projects. I put my skills to work by creating detailed 2D drawings using AutoCAD – you know, those floor plans, sections, and intricate working drawings. But it didn't stop there. I also got to flex my creative muscles with Sketchup and Lumion, crafting stunning photorealistic visualizations that were not only impressive for presentations but also played a crucial role in our marketing efforts. Plus, I collaborated closely with the project manager, assisting in cost estimation and reporting, which really added depth to my skill set. 

 Safco Architects, Thrissur, Kerala, India (November 2020 - July 2021) 

My time at Safco Architects was a whirlwind of growth and learning. I took the lead in designing a resort from scratch – starting with conceptualization and guiding it through each phase until it stood tall and proud. On-site visits were a regular part of my routine, where I meticulously took measurements and observed the site's unique characteristics. I'm pretty proud of the detailed technical drawings and the 3D models I created – they brought my designs to life! Being part of team inspections and coordination further polished my abilities and helped me contribute meaningfully. 

 5 Elementa Designers, Kerala, India (November 2022 - Present)

 I'm currently thriving at 5 Elementa Designers, where I'm wearing multiple hats. Leading project teams through conceptual design, design development, and construction documentation phases has truly refined my project management skills. Coordinating with team members and participating in site inspections has added a practical edge to my expertise. It's a dynamic environment where every day brings something new and exciting. 

I hold an MSc in Spatial Planning with a specialized focus on Sustainable Urban Design. My academic pursuits have significantly enriched my understanding and knowledge base. Notably, my dissertation was centered around the intricate realm of social prescribing in the context of England.

  My research encompassed an in-depth exploration of social prescribing as a holistic approach to healthcare, while also encompassing a comprehensive analysis of policy implementation dynamics. Moreover, the research sought to establish the nuanced relationship between spatial planning strategies and the efficacy of social prescribing interventions within urban landscapes.  

This academic endeavor showcases my keen interest in elucidating the interplay between urban planning strategies and public health initiatives, underscoring my commitment to the advancement of well-informed urban development paradigms.