Archinect
Louis Didier

Louis Didier

New York, NY, US

 

About 

Over the summer I was organizing and researching a perspective future project involving aquaponic farming in the Ivory Coast. The studies taught me that when it comes to sustainability (and design in general), the most important aspects are to think outside the box while looking to nature for guidance; not just certain elements of nature but rather the entire system and how diverse elements integrate together to create a balanced ecosystem. Buildings and developments should follow this example and function within their existing surroundings to create something new.

I am currently studying to receive my LEED Green Associate Certification.

Employment 

Luxembourg Science Centre, Differdange, LU, Project Manager

Coordinated efforts between the client and design team to expand the plan for an existing science center in Luxembourg. Used site surveys and existing topographic maps to create an accurate 3d elevation plan of the site and the existing buildings to be connected. Created a coherent connection between existing structures at varying elevations. The new 200,000 square foot structure includes exhibit space, a conference center, a museum store, cafeteria, restaurant and new workshops in which apprentices can learn about both science and craftsmanship. Created various facade designs for the new building to meet the clients demands and create something that is new but coherently connects two 20th century structures without infringing on the past of the site. Created renderings and cross sections to show how the space in the museum would flow.

Oct 2016 - current
 

Weylin B. Seymours, Brooklyn, NY, US, Assistant Architect

Assisted the principle architect with all the design process elements in creating alternative plans for a residential and commercial tower. Tasks included but were not limited to planning approval, zoning calculation, façade, sections, interior design and renderings.

Created architectural plans and managed the building of a commercial bar on the ground floor of the former Williamsburgh Savings Bank. Worked on all aspects of the project, including architecture design, interior design coordination, managing the construction team and site construction.

Acclimated to daily role changes and managed a team of 5 construction workers building a bar in a landmarked building.

Tailored elements of the building to accommodate our guests event needs. Adapted the building to aid in the coordination of events including art gallery openings, film shoots, and weddings.

Feb 2015 - Jul 2016
 

SushiSamba, London, GB, Comis Waiter

Ran food to restaurant guests.

Explained the menu and daily specials.

Kept the restaurant tidy and organized.

Cleaned the kitchen and organized the dishware.

Jul 2014 - Nov 2014
 

Groussgasmaschinn 11, Differdange, Luxembourg, Technician

Used conservation methods to dismantle, clean and restore a 1,100-ton combustion engine from the 1940’s.

Dismantled large components of the engine to clean them using modern conservation methods, then meticulously
reassembled the components based on careful analysis taken during their deconstruction.

Replaced the windows of a former factory building with sustainable windows while it was being converted into new technology
incubators.

Jun 2013 - Sep 2013
 

Carvalho Architects, Esch sur Alzett, Luxembourg, Design Intern

Created a sustainable community-oriented reuse of a 1920s cinema by conducting site visits, research and draft work.

Utilized Government surveys and resources to determine the most beneficial solution for the local community.

Jul 2013 - Aug 2013
 

Groussgasmaschinn 11, Differdange, Luxembourg, Technician

Used conservation methods to dismantle, clean and restore a 1,100-ton combustion engine from the 1940’s.

Dismantled large components of the engine to clean them using modern conservation methods, then meticulously
reassembled the components based on careful analysis taken during their deconstruction.

Replaced the windows of a former factory building with sustainable windows while it was being converted into new technology
incubators.

Jun 2012 - Sep 2012
 

Education 

New York University London, London, GB, Masters, Historical and Sustainable Architecture

This one year intensive masters program in London focused on the redevelopment of historic sites with an emphasis towards sustainable, community-oriented economic success. Coursework included adaptive reuse, architectural drawing, the economics of reuse and regeneration, low energy strategies, and structural engineering. In addition to learning how to adaptively reuse historic sites, I learned how to create comprehensive economic urban redevelopment strategies, heritage reports for historic sites, energy efficiency analyses and structural reports.

My second semester thesis focused on The Feasibility and Sustainability of Reusing Underground Spaces. I compared various examples of adaptive underground reuse ranging from successes, failures, and pipe dreams. I created case studies on sites that included abandoned tube stations and bomb shelters in London, mines in Romania and Luxembourg, and underground cities in Sweden.

Sep 2013 - May 2014
 

New York University (NYU), New York, NY, US, Bachelors, Politics

Began my college career majoring in Politics prior to having a change of heart in my Senior year and changing all of my coursework to Urban Design and Architecture. Coursework included a History of Architecture, Urban Life and Health and Architectural Drawing.

Sep 2009 - May 2013
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills