Archinect
Melissa B. Griffin

Melissa B. Griffin

LaPorte, IN, US

 

About 

Native Hoosier, design fanatic.  Graduated in 2002 from Purdue University College of Technology in W. Lafayette, Indiana with a degree in Computer Graphics. After working for several years in the homebuilding and construction industries, left the industry to attend graduate school at Syracuse University, receiving a Master of Architecture degree in 2010. Love everything design, from modern architecture to graphic design and photography. Passionate about sustainability and green design, graphic design, and furniture design.

Employment 

The Facets Magazine, Lead Graphic Designer

• compile work from all contributors into final published document
• create graphic layouts by converting a written article to a visual communication device
• create design templates and standards to unify designs for a cohesive appearance for the magazine

Apr 2011 - current
 

Larry Bowne Architects, Intern Architect

• created digital model using SketchUp software for renovation project;
• match existing conditions and proposed changes according to site photographs and CAD documents;
• prepared model for viewing as visualization tool for client, contractor and designer
• create portfolio and project documentation; organize, manipulate and update images from design process, construction phase, and finished work.

Sep 2010 - current
 

Syracuse University, Graduate Teaching/Research Assistant

• conducted desk crits, exams and tutorials
• UPSTATE: 194X Legacies of the Modernist City in Central New York;
HOUSING THE AMERICAN DREAM: Single-family Dwellings by Marcel Breuer in the United States credited as editor for both publications

Aug 2007 - May 2010
 

CG Visions, Inc., Steel Panelization Specialist / Consultant

• used BIM to convert architectural plans to 3D;
• collaborated with engineers to update drawings/models;
• customized steel panels for large apartment buildings and multi-family units;
• created shop drawings for panels in preparation for manufacturing

May 2006 - Nov 2006
 

AFG California, LLC, Project Manager / Architectural Drafter

• provided technical guidance in development of newly created panelization division;
• contributed to development of patented equipment for the production environment;
• used BIM to generate digital models, construction documents and shop drawings;
• participated in site visits to ensure proper installation of wall/floor panels;
• contributed to value engineering meetings

May 2004 - Apr 2006
 

Structural Concepts, LLC, Designer / Consultant

• created BIM solutions, shop drawings for residential steel framed construction;
• contributed to value engineering meetings

Jun 2004 - Feb 2005
 

CG Visions, Inc., Designer

• used BIM to convert existing residential plans;
• updated plans and models for building code compliance;
• created lot-specific house plans and models;
• generated renderings using Photoshop for marketing materials

Jan 2001 - Mar 2003
 

Scienda Building Sciences, LLC, Intern

• used BIM to create construction detail library for light-gauge steel wall and floor panels

May 2001 - Aug 2001
 

Builder Solutions, LLC, Intern

• created BIM models from architect's hand sketches;
• used BIM to produce marketing materials using Photoshop

May 2000 - Jul 2000
 

Education 

Syracuse University, MArch, Architecture

Thesis | Fear in Suburbia: Fear as a Strategic Motivator in Suburban Development
Ghost Lab Design + Built Internship | MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects | Nova Scotia, Canada
Syracuse University Abroad | Madrid . Amsterdam . Florence

Aug 2007 - May 2010
 

Purdue University, Bachelors, Computer Graphics Technology

Computer Graphics Technology, Specialization in Construction Graphics (BIM)

Aug 1996 - Dec 2002
 

Awards 

Syracuse Works: Student Visions for the City Exhibition, Award

Exhibition: Syracuse Works: Student Visions for the City

Project: Urban Salvage Park

Description: An exhibition of 20 student (or alumni) projects designed for Syracuse, presented at the new Storefront for Syracuse, a renovated storefront Downtown. The exhibition is intended to open a dialogue between architects, and the citizens of the City for which they are frequently designing.

2011
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills