Archinect
Crystal Giard

Crystal Giard

Syracuse, NY, US

 
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About 

I am an aspiring architect with a Bachelor of Architecture from Syracuse University and a minor in Medieval and Renaissance history. With a passion for art and design, I have contributed to various projects that emphasize community engagement and historical preservation. I am most passionate about redesigning the ways in which we live through the integration of play and work. My experience in the field thus far has led to a background in construction documentation,  details and FF&E. I am dedicated to fostering inclusive environments through clear communication and simple yet beautiful designs. 

Employment 

Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, US, Undergraduate Teaching Assistant

I provided support for professors by leading class seminars for an architectural theory course. I facilitated class discussions to help students navigate complex theoretical readings and coordinated with professors to determine the best teaching environment. Additionally, I advised students on project proposals and provided writing suggestions, offering individual workshops as needed.

Jan 2024 - May 2024
 

Bureau V, Brooklyn, NY, US, Intern

BVA is a small firm handling a variety of projects, from residential renovations to community center designs and new constructions. Under the direct supervision of the principal and co-founder, Peter Zuspan, I gained valuable experience in client engagement, contractor and manufacturer communication, and navigating city regulations and document submittal with the DOB. My primary responsibilities included site analysis and drafting plans and sections in AutoCAD. I also managed occupancy, egress, and FF&E scheduling in accordance with NYC zoning regulations.

My proficiency in BIM and software was recognized at BVA, leading to my involvement in transitioning the firm from Revit to ArchiCAD. I was given the opportunity to help set up the foundations for the firm’s process in using this new application, including developing an auto-generating scheduling system unique to BVA that streamlined schedule building.

Aug 2022 - Aug 2023
 

CSPE Architetti, Florence, IT, Intern

This was an unpaid position that I volunteered for during an abroad semester in Florence, Italy. During this opportunity I was mentored by one of the lead architects, Giulio Felli, who noticed my talent in design and drawing and sought to develop my design intuition through individual drawing sessions. Because of this, I developed strong skills in architectural drawing and I learned various techniques for visual representation and communication.

Feb 2022 - Apr 2022
 

Digital Scholarship Space at Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, US, Lab Assitant

The Digital Scholarship Space, located within the University’s Bird Library, is a workshop and lab equipped with VR technology and specialized software to support the design of virtual artifacts and experiences. My responsibilities included maintaining equipment, troubleshooting issues, and assisting students with new software. This role required a deep understanding of various software and strong communication skills to effectively teach and support users.

Aug 2021 - Dec 2021
 

Education 

Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, US, BArch, Architecture

Aug 2019 - May 2024
 

Awards 

Summa Cum Laude, Award

2024
 

SU SOURCE Grant, Grant

This grant was awarded to me and a collaborator for our thesis project. The project sought to create a new material by creating a hydrogel out of algae and 3D printing the substance into a form that was easily recreated to create a repeated structure. The final deliverable was a large-scale installation and exhibition that we both coordinated and installed.

2024
 

Romano Prize Winner, Award

Rewarded by SU's Medieval and Renaissance History Department for being an exceptional student in the history program.

2024
 

Publication on ArchiDiaries, Nomination

A group project about reimagining contemporary perceptions of the home. Sustainability and the advantage of passive environmental strategies was a driving force in the design of this project. The project was scouted by an editor from ArchiDiaries through social media posts.

2024
 

Plan NH Scholarship, Scholarship

A scholarship award whose goal is to "foster excellence in planning, design and/or development of New Hampshire’s built environment." I received this award multiple times since 2021.

2023
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills