Archinect
Aliza Mehnaz

Aliza Mehnaz

New York, NY, US

 

About 

I am an architectural urban designer and space planning strategist with over 5 years of experience at the intersection of design, data, and development. Skilled in multiscalar design, urban analysis, strategic visioning, master planning, project management, and community engagement. From concept to completion, I have worked on diverse projects ranging from residential, housing, commercial, and mixed-use developments, to community, campus planning and public realm design.

Deeply committed to culture, community, and craft, I focus on ecologically responsive and people-oriented design. Adept at navigating complexity and fostering engagement, I am driven to transform urban landscapes into sustainable, inclusive, and resilient living environments through the art of innovative placemaking, landscape urbanism, and climate-responsive design strategies. I aim to have an impactful career in urban design with the possibility to collaborate in the development sector.

Employment 

Columbia University, New York, NY, US, Graduate Teaching Assistant

Provided crucial support to faculty, teaching associates, and students by coordinating studio activities, managing digital archives of studio work, and facilitating group communication to ensure project alignment and efficiency. Additionally, collated, curated, and produced the studio catalog for publication, contributing to the dissemination of studio achievements and promoting a cohesive academic environment.

https://issuu.com/gsapp_digitalpublishing/docs/msaud_fall_2023_aap3_final_publication_issuu

Sep 2023 - Dec 2023
 

Anant National University, Ahmedabad, IN, Research Associate - Space Planning Strategist

Spearheaded initiatives that redefined academic space utilization and post-pandemic environments, enhancing the user experience for students and faculty. Expertise included strategic planning, spatial data analysis and management, transition optimization, and community outreach, ensuring the successful adoption of changing academic environments and policies.

Conducted research on empathetic strategies to engage students in
learning environments through spatial arrangement and space planning

Orchestrated a number of administrative and research activities ranging from - Documentation of academic activities, semester planning, managing special projects and developing learning tools for students, as well as maintaining inter-departmental and intra-departmental coordination.

Taught 'Visualizations and Representation', community immersion module, and 'Thinking on paper - Technical drawing and representation'

Nov 2018 - Jun 2022
 

Shatotto Consultants, Dhaka, BD, Architectural Designer

Contributed to campus planning for the 17-acre Aga Khan Academy for 1,200 students by developing innovative design concepts, zoning analysis, placemaking strategies, and landscape designs, including courtyards and community green spaces. Organized data and modeled information to support key decision-making, planning, and project management. Developed comprehensive client reports with advanced visualizations and compelling narratives, enhancing stakeholder understanding and informed decision-making. Simultaneously managed multiple projects, including a public amenity, an international-level education academy, a multi-family residence, and a public park redesign, conducting feasibility studies and cost estimation.

Mar 2016 - Mar 2017
 

Shammanay Architectura and Landscape design, Dhaka, Bangladesh, Landscape architectural designer - Short term project based collaboration

Creatively refined design concepts for urban park revitalizationproject through a blend of hand sketches, digital renderings, and physical models, ensuring each idea embodies innovation and functionality. Conducted meticulous site assessments, to understand the environmental, cultural, and social fabric in design process. Leveraging advanced software tools, crafted compelling solutions that merge technical precision with artistic vision. strategically enhanced playgrounds, sports facilities, and scenic trails.

Feb 2016 - Mar 2016
 

Matharoo Associates, Ahmedabad, IN, Architectural Designer

Orchestrated design development for over 3 residential projects, producing detailed architectural and working drawings utilizing advanced skills in AutoCAD that streamlined construction processes and enhanced functionality, livability, and aesthetic appeal. Produced 3D visualizations using Rhino and Sketchup for client presentations. Maintained seamless on-site coordination with MEP teams and contractors.

Project: Cut, fold, blend house.
https://www.dezeen.com/2022/12/23/matharoo-associates-cut-bend-fold-play-house/

Aug 2014 - Aug 2015
 

THAL, Dhaka, BD, Extern | architectural designe

Participated in a design competition to design a 55,000 SFT office for the Unilever HQ integrating agile work culture and brand standards producing 2D and 3D drawings, Orchestrating overall visual presentation and narrative

Feb 2014 - Jul 2014
 

Morphogenesis, Delhi, IN, Intern Architect

Contributed to 11 different projects varying from housing to commercial development within 5 months of internship optimizing schedule and resources, while ensuring smooth coordination with internal team members for various projects.

Nov 2011 - Apr 2012
 

Education 

Columbia University, New York, NY, US, Masters, MS. ARCHITECTURA AND URBAN DESIGN

a rigorous and innovative STEM designated studio-based course that integrates advanced design techniques, urban theory, and practical applications. The program focuses on addressing contemporary urban challenges through sustainable and equitable design strategies.

May 2023 - May 2024
 

Anant National University, Ahmedabad, IN, Post Graduate Diploma in Built environment

Activities and societies: Year-long Live-Action project

A year-long multidisciplinary post-graduate diploma program on the Built Environment in the context of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

The scope to ‘develop the imaginative empathy with a broader perspective of real-life impact and explore entrepreneurial skills in the real context of built fabric’ was the catalyst for me to apply for Anant Fellowship. Anant Fellowship seems a great platform to involve in diversified discussion, explore different perspectives of urban built environment and to participate into the communication process that this specific subject requires.

2017 - 2018 | Anant Fellowship Live-action project

As part of the Live-Action project, teamed up with 4 more Anant fellows for a year-long community development project. Conducted intense research-based, Community Oriented Work for Sustenance (C.O.W.S) at Affordable housing, Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA), Thaltej, Ahmedabad, India.

- Designed and implemented an action plan for community Immersion and waste management by leveraging the synergy of different stakeholders’ efficiency.

- Operated clean-up drive and community tree plantation drive at the designated site.

- Collaborated with concerned N.G.O. for the community development and awareness drive.

Sep 2017 - Aug 2018
 

BRAC University, Dhaka, BD, BArch, Bachelors in Architecture

5 year-long degree program providing exposure to responsive, contextual and inclusive design ethos by exploring different typologies of architectural design exercises.

Jan 2008 - Jan 2014
 

Awards 

Anant Fellowship, Award

Awarded to the Team of C.O.W.S for the Best Live-action project of the year. Honored as an emerging professional in the fields of planning, built environment, and community service.

2018
 

Anant Fellowship Grant, Grant

Fully Funded Scholarship granted by Anant Fellowship, Anant National University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat to study one year Post Graduate Diploma in Built Environment.

2017
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills