Portfolio · 2024–2026
Models, observational drawing, watercolor, printmaking and furniture — seven projects made between Dubai and London.
The inspiration for my project was the marine theme: the structure of the ship, sails, and so on. I wanted to create not just a restaurant, but a space where architecture combines relaxation, play and functionality.
The space is divided into several zones: the main hall, the second floor — a bar, a small beach and a children’s area. My project creates a unique space for family recreation.
This coffee table was made by me as a project in architecture school. Initially, the idea was to combine a person and furniture, so I got the idea of a face that squeezes the boards. The table is quite functional and comfortable because of its holes inside.
Living in Dubai, I have a great opportunity to see modernist elements of architecture. After visiting The Royal Atlantis Hotel, I took some photos that I would use to create works in different techniques. I tried to find the right angles, and by the end I started to get it right. In total there were about 50 photos; I chose the best six based on the right light and harmony.
My personal photos of the Atlantis hotel
I chose to sketch, to make the idea clear to myself and then reflect on it. I’ve learned how to make a quick sketch from direct observation, which I think will help me show my architectural ideas quickly in the future.
I see the sketch as the foundation of any work: the basic lines create an overall image of the composition. There are no details on the sketch; I decided to just show the basic features of the work.
For experimental work, I chose two techniques in which I have never worked. In the first one, I tried to make a collage based on a photo, but the limitation in this work was the background of material and color.
For the second, I chose linocut — the first time working with the technique, and I think I got a good experience. I think this technique can be used for larger projects where you need to show color contrast.
I like to work with detail, and black and white shadows. My graphics practice helps me develop my technical drawing skills. It also allows me to create quick sketches of buildings, allowing me to understand the architect’s ideas and the structure’s main features.
A second work on a larger sheet with more details, shown beside my reference photograph.
Working with watercolor is my favorite painting technique. I like working with colors and conveying life and emotions through such works.
This was a challenge at the architectural school I attended. I had to combine the incompatible by adding children’s toys to a Gothic cathedral.
These are the stages of work and the raw model of the cathedral. On the left I used polystyrene insulation board for the arch and glued the toys to the shape. On the right I glued the arch to the rest of the foundation of the cathedral, where I used cardboard and plywood to create it.
By spray-painting everything black, I created harmony between them.
In this project, I created a sketch of a building, inspired by the work of another artist. I purposely chose to depict a building of the same architectural style as my reference artist.
I tried to show both perspective and shadows, while keeping the features of the work of the artist I chose. I had a little difficulty creating perspective in the drawing on the right.
This work was a group assignment in England. We chose a territory and had to create landscaping for it. This model features a park with a café and a recreation area with a fountain and shelter from the sun and rain.
The most difficult task in this project was to find a suitable territory and suitable facilities for it.
Quick studies drawn on location — from five-minute pencil sketches to a ninety-minute watercolor.
I study architecture and live in Dubai. I work across physical models, observational drawing, watercolor, printmaking and furniture — and I like projects where the idea is tested with my hands before anything else.