Sanyukta Bhagwat

Proof Of Concept_Summer Studio 2021 at CCA

1:1 scale pavilion in making at the CCA backlot with Redwood planks.

Urban Sketch

My Urban Sketch of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (A World UNESCO site), on my one day visit to the ciy of Mumbai, India

ABout Sanyukta

First, and foremost- I simply love to design! The conventional education in Architecture and Urban design has eventually connected me to my natural tendencies! I call myself an artist, passionate about the art of making places! A visionary believer in creativity and imagination to invent and re-invent the environments we live in; bringing a positive impact to society. I have a deep inclination towards architectural design, urbanism, master planning, the public realm, and sustainability. I really enjoy traveling my way around, sketching, reading books on Architecture, Cities, Astronomy; and watching nature documentaries.

What did you do before you came to CCA? Why did you decide to study Urban Works?

I formalized my passion for design and art through my education with Bachelor’s of Architecture; followed by Masters in Urban Design. Before CCA, I took on these endeavors in India and London; coupled with professional experience as an Architect/Urban Designer. As I shifted to the States in 2020, I thought to broaden my horizons to a more regional context. And then I found the Urban Works Agency (MAAD) program perfectly tailoring to my interests of built environment and urbanism in the Bay Area. This was ideal for an aspiring designer like me having an experience from different parts of the world. I was intrigued by the very core of the Agency as a ‘Think Tank’ for shaping and strategizing ‘Just’ cities.

Can you describe your time at CCA? What were some of the projects you did or were involved in that meant the most to you, and what did you learn from your time here?

My CCA journey was incredible and of ‘New-normal nature with mixed emotions. The 100% remote education was daunting but gradually opened the possibilities of online learning model. I had my 2 semesters (Fall and Spring) fully remote and the Summer studio as a hybrid one on campus. But, I have always felt the creative vibes through design discussions, desk crits, peer collaboration within all of my studios. When I reflect back on my all work at CCA, I somehow feel a sense of achievement! Some of the projects I am proud of are the ‘AcDU’s as Social Activator (Property in Crisis), The Ripple Effect (Urban Ground studio), P3’s (Urban Seminar). I believe that as a professional I could more understand the significance of effective designing and adaptability in our ever changing built environment. Though it could be through pandemic or societal politics.

ACDU’s as Social Activator

A plan depicting the 'Community Oasis' of Accessory Community Dwelling Units 7th Street, West Oakland.

The Ripple Effect

A glimpse of the human-scale experiences and entwined thresholds along the Mandela Parkway, West Oakland.

Prototyping and Mobility

A ‘Kit of Parts’ as Mobile Architecture strategy to bring in regenerative design back to the community.

The Hulaloop

An illustration unpacking the layers and materials of a seamless, undulating ring form Pavilion on CCA backlot.

The Gibson Residence

A front view of the formal mansion designed with a French Country Estate architectural style. (Professional Project)

The Gibson Residence

An exploded view of the main mansion across the floors showing different programs. (Professional Project)

The Hillside House

A contemporary single-family house along the hill slope with a concept of Outside-In. (Professional Project)

Pop-Urban Strip

An illustration of place-making and street repurposing for a Park-(ing) day in Pune, India.(competition project)

The Horizon

An elevation of a boutique resort designed along the Varsoli beach hills, India with panoramic views of the Arabian sea. (Individual Project)

What kind of work have you done since you graduated? How has your education and experience at CCA related to that work?

Since I graduated from CCA; I have been working as an Architectural Designer in the Bay Area. I am majorly involved in High-end residential projects both traditional and contemporary in nature. What I can draw out from my education and experience with CCA’s studio is the intertwining of design and the politics of spaces. Though the course of my current work has narrowed down in terms of scale; but serves the same purpose of impact community with effective design and consideration as that of the academics at CCA. The ever-questioning nature of program, the limitless creativity, providing solutions is all the same as a working professional.