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MacKayla Dean

MacKayla Dean

Los Angeles, CA, US

 
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About 

Born and raised in the vibrant community of Long Beach, California, I've cultivated a diverse background that reflects my passion for creativity, exploration, and continuous learning.

My educational journey led me to the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture. Graduating magna cum laude, I delved into minors that fueled my curiosity—Furniture Design, Design for Sustainability, and Architectural History. This multidisciplinary approach laid the foundation for my holistic understanding of the architectural realm.

Eager to further specialize, I pursued a Master's degree in Architectural Conservation at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and graduated with Distinction. This international experience not only broadened my academic horizons but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for diverse architectural traditions and preservation practices.

Professionally, I honed my skills as an Architectural Technician III at Harrison Design in Los Angeles. Working on diverse residential projects, from new builds to intricate restorations, allowed me to apply my knowledge in real-world contexts. My role involved extensive collaboration with project architects, utilizing tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Lumion, and Adobe Suite to bring designs to life.

Beyond architecture, my interests paint a colorful canvas of my personality. Soccer has been a lifelong passion, shaping my teamwork abilities and work ethic. I also work in charcoal art, expressing my creativity on paper. Traveling serves as both an escape and an education, offering me the chance to explore diverse cultures and architectural wonders worldwide. Additionally, delving into the intricacies of car mechanics not only fuels my technical curiosity but also provides a hands-on outlet for problem-solving.

Employment 

Harrison Design, Los Angeles, CA, US, Architectural Tech III

(INTERN / JUNE 2018 - SEPT 2018, NOV 2018 - JAN 2019, JUNE 2019 - SEPT 2019)
Work alongside project architects to design, permit, and construct residential solutions, including new builds, restorations, and additions
Use AutoCAD and SketchUp for design and drafting, including construction detail drawings
Render projects in 2D and 3D using Lumion, VRay, and Photoshop
Organize multiple projects and communicate with clients, suppliers, and contractors
Supervise and train new hires and interns

Sep 2021 - Sep 2022
 

Education 

University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, GB, Masters, Architectural Conservation

Graduated Honors with Distinction

Sep 2022 - Nov 2023
 

Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, GA, US, Bachelors, Architecture

Minors: Architectural History, Furniture Design, Design for Sustainability
Graduated Magna Cum Laude
Distinguished Scholar Award

Sep 2017 - Jun 2021
 

Skills