My name is Ravi Akella and I have been pursuing architecture my whole life. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be an architect. I've always loved understanding how buildings are assembled and the different aspects of creating an environmentally sensible structure. Understanding how architecture works with nature and our world to create a sustainable future has been at the basis of my aspirations since I've entered college. Leaning how people interact with spaces and how this can entirely change a person's perspective has been very intriguing.
Thus far, I've worked primarily in residential, ranging from single family homes in the suburbs to interior building renovations to luxury penthouse renovations. This has proposed a variety of different situations, ranging from the most cost-efficient to the most design savvy renovations. Working with developers has challenged me to create a high-density code-compliant building. I have also worked most recently in retail as well, creating pleasant and desirable conditions for customers, while maintaining a tight timeline and budget.
Hambrecht Oleson Design Inc., Ridgewood, NJ, US, Project Manager
Worked for Hambrecht Oleson Design Inc on construction drawing
sets for retail projects including storefront system and code compliant
construction plans. Projects primarily include renovations of mall retail stores.
Ralph Michael Beiran Associates LLC, Somerville, NJ, US, Project Manager
Worked as a project manager for RMBA on high end residential luxury
renovations primarily based in Manhattan. Managed several small and medium
scale projects, ranging from single apartment to six-story building renovations.
Collaborated and coordinated with team members and consultants to deliver
construction sets on tight schedules. Managed client expectations, including
budget and timeline, as well as assisting with material and fixture selections.
Created 3D models, renderings, and worked with the office staff to create VR
walkthroughs of the projects.
Wellisch Architects, Mountainside, NJ, US, Architectural Intern
Worked as an intern for Wellisch Architects on single family homes. Assisted
with the production of construction drawings, including architectural, structural,
electrical, and plumbing plans and details. Accompanied project managers on
site visits, including site measures and client meetings.
New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Newark, NJ, US, BArch, Architecture
Attended NJIT for the 5-year Bachelor of Architecture program. Enrolled in several sustainability courses, in addition to innovative building technology courses.
NJIT Masonry Competition, 1st Place
Member of the winning design team of the 2013 NJIT masonry competition. The focus of the studio was to design a train station for the Harrison station near NJIT. Once the train station was designed, we created a 6 ft. x 6 ft. x 8 ft. design for a masonry build, which was to include components of the train station design and was built by masons at our direction. This challenge in the early years of our education taught us how designs and our drawings were to be implemented in construction.
