My internship at Roth Architects, a part of the iconic Azulik brand in the Jungle City of Art, was my big step and accomplishment. It was “Proof of concept” for my passion and ambitious dream to design such a handcrafted organic shape, and the Holistic functions of the space.
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Located in the heart of the Tulum jungle, Azulik Jungle City of Arts is a unique creative ecosystem where architecture, design, and nature are in constant dialogue. It houses four departments: Roth Architecture Studio, Azulik Production, Azulik Fashion, and the Product Design Department - each contributing to a shared vision of sustainable and soulful creation.
Built entirely from natural materials and guided by sacred geometry and ancestral knowledge, the space expresses a holistic design philosophy in deep harmony with the Earth. As an intern at Roth Architecture Studio, I experienced architecture as ritual, where the wild surroundings shaped every part of the creative process.
What made this environment exceptional was its horizontal team structure and family-like atmosphere. Each person had space to self-direct, be heard, and contribute meaningfully. It was the kind of conscious workflow where I felt fully alive creatively and the kind of setting I now seek for future collaborations.
The video is from the Roth Architects website.
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Overview: During my five-month internship at Roth Architects, I engaged in a diverse range of tasks that provided a comprehensive understanding of the firm’s approach to architecture.
My responsibilities included conceptual design, material research, site supervision, technical skills development, and collaborative projects.
My Tasks:
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Initial Brainstorming Sessions:
I participated in brainstorming sessions where the team explored innovative design concepts. These sessions were characterized by open dialogue and creativity, fostering a collaborative environment. Also, sometimes I received the individual creative tasks, where I was creating different concepts, afterwards, consulted with a Design Lead architect, who we made choices with.
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Role in Ideation:
My role involved contributing design elements that incorporated mindfulness and spiritual reflection, and the most fantastic shapes, aimed at enhancing user experience.
The concepts developed during these sessions contributed to the design of
the 3 main projects:
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Azulik Residences in Tulum, Mexico.
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Azulik Villas in Tulum, Mexico.
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Azulik Holistic SPA in Kenia
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Collaboration with Artisans:
Working with local artisans, I gained insights into traditional crafting methods and explored how these could be integrated into contemporary designs.
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FabLab Integration:
A significant component of my research involved the FabLab, located within the AZULIK City of Arts. FabLab is a hub for material experimentation and innovation, featuring five distinct pods: the main office, material lab, CNC room, waterjet area, and Kuka robot room. Equipped with advanced digital fabrication tools such as 3D printers, scanners, laser cutters, CNC milling machines, and a six-axis robotic arm, FabLab supports the creation of new materials and prototypes. The facility’s emphasis on biodesign and contextual awareness aligns with Roth Architects' commitment to integrating ecological and cultural elements into their projects.
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Technical Skills and Software Development:
3D Modeling in Rhinoceros:
My internship involved extensive 3D modeling, with approximately 6-7 hours per day dedicated to creating detailed digital models of design elements. This work was crucial for visualizing and refining design concepts.
Integration with Revit:
I also focused on integrating Rhinoceros 3D with Revit software, learning how to transfer detailed models and data between the two platforms. This integration facilitated more efficient project workflows and improved coordination between design and construction teams.
Grasshopper Course:
I realised the crucial need for computational Design in my career and future, so during the internship, I was diving into Grasshopper with a team, and after that, I proceeded to the large course in Grasshopper, so for now, I know the basics. You can see my outcomes here
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Site visits:
I regularly visited project sites to observe and document the construction process, gaining practical insights into real-world challenges and solutions.
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Supervision and Reporting:
I assisted in supervising the implementation of design concepts and provided feedback to ensure that the final product aligned with the initial vision. My responsibilities included preparing reports and photographs to document project progress, which were used for internal reviews and client presentations.
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Interdisciplinary Local Collaboration:
I participated in interdisciplinary projects involving artists, craftsmen, and designers, leading to the development of unique design elements and art installations.
As well as the meetings with the engineers and the production team
I engaged in workshops designed to involve local communities in the design process, gathering input and educating participants about the firm’s architectural approach.
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1. Azulik Residences
Task #1
- I contributed to developing the facade for the bridge area between the apartment towers:
The Rooftop of Creative Harmony
Experience on the Rooftop consists of 3 main phases, which are intended to be followed by visitors in order to fulfill their potential, actively develop self-awareness, find the best opportunities based on the unique of their inner world, become a whole, bright and powerful both on individual and social levels.
Task #2
- Designing the interior for the lobby-entrance area with an elevator-staircase part:
Task #3
- I designed Yoga Shala (Pergola-dome):
2. Azulik Villas
For the Azulik Villa project, I was designing the prototype of the bedrooms
3. Azulik Kenia Wellness Complex in Natural Park
For this project, I was entrusted to design one of the experience rooms in the SPA complex:
This space offers a floating experience in coccons in warm saltwater, designed for full body releases. As your body becomes weightless, you enter a state of deep calm. An underwater sound system plays meditations, music, or guided practices audible only when submerged. This allows each visitor to choose an inner journey while sensory deprivation set up supports the mesitative state of mind.
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