DHARMA'S WHY

Art has always been my lens for understanding the world. From painting tiles to writing uplifting notes for my jump rope team, I’ve sought to connect with others through creativity. Over time, this instinct to create welcoming and meaningful spaces evolved into a passion for architecture. The ability to shape environments that respond to human needs and emotions is a natural extension of my lifelong pursuit of connection.

Architecture, like art, has the ability to transform environments through the elicitation of emotions brought upon by unique experiences and perspectives. My first encounter using artwork as a way to connect to others was while painting ceiling tiles in my high school bathrooms, which transformed a place of isolation into one of encouragement and inspiration. What started as a small initiative had grown into a project that impacted over 30 bathrooms and involved 80 volunteers, demonstrating how creativity and design can foster connection and inclusion. This experience solidified my belief that architecture is a powerful tool for improving people's lives. 

Through working at a construction firm, an interior design firm, and two architecture firms, I gained invaluable experience translating these ideas into practice. Working on commercial and residential projects, I learned to use tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and Adobe InDesign while participating in design reviews and client meetings. I witnessed firsthand the power of collaboration in fostering innovation, whether brainstorming sustainable solutions or exploring historic preservation techniques. The firm’s culture of mutual respect and curiosity reinforced my belief that great design stems from a supportive and inclusive environment, a principle I carry into every project.

This commitment to empathy and community informs my design approach. In my "Block by Block—Stacked Commons" project, I balanced private and shared spaces to foster connection and independence. Shared patios encourage tenant interaction, while smaller individual units respect privacy, reflecting my belief that architecture must meet a variety of needs. Similarly, my ADU design reimagined traditional forms to create a central covered deck that connects indoor and outdoor spaces while highlighting natural light and human interactions.

Long term, I want to create spaces that foster a sense of belonging and improve mental health. I aim to create environments that meet people's emotional and practical needs, whether through affordable housing, community centers, or public spaces. Architecture has the ability to influence not only the physical spaces we inhabit but also our experiences within them, and I am dedicated to using this power to make a positive difference. My family's duality between their background in construction and commitment to service has profoundly shaped my values and aspirations. 

During a month-long trip to India, I had the privilege of actively assisting in my grandfather's efforts to bring his dream of building a hospital to life. I contributed by fundraising, spreading awareness about the project, and assisting in preparing the facility for its grand opening. Inspired by my grandfather's legacy, I approach architecture with a purpose: to create spaces that are not only functional but also emotionally and socially resilient. By designing environments that instill a sense of belonging and adaptability, I hope to empower communities and leave a lasting positive impact on people's lives.