AARON KOOPAL

I’m a designer currently attending Iowa State University while pursuing a Bachelors degree in Architecture. My approach to architecture is as a generalist – with interests spanning from technical practice to written theory, construction, and more. Through my studies, I’ve found that all of these aspects intersect each other in suprising ways, each serving a distinct purpose in creating meaningful design.

I have a broad range of experience in architectural publications, building construction, critical theory, and model-making.

+ ABOUT ME

The following is a selection of various works and ideas I’ve produced during my studies:

+ VIGIL & THE GREEN MAN
+ DIA: ARTIST RESIDENCY
+ PART & WHOLE
+ E-63 LAND ARCHIVE
+ CAVERN PAVILION
+ DATUM: JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURE
+ OTHER COLLECTIONS
AARON KOOPAL

Bachelors degree in Architecture from Iowa State University. My approach to architecture is as a generalist – with interests spanning from technical practice to written theory, visual media, construction, and more. Through my studies, I’ve found that all of these aspects intersect each other in surprising and unexpected ways, each serving a distinct purpose in creating meaningful design. My work aims to shed light on this multidisciplinary process.

I have a broad range of experience in architectural publications, building construction, critical theory, and model-making.

+ ABOUT ME

The following is a selection of various works and ideas I’ve produced during my studies. Please note that some media may take time to load.

+ 12 x 10 x 10 PROJECT
+ VIGIL & THE GREEN MAN
+ DIA: ARTIST RESIDENCY
+ PART & WHOLE
E-63 LAND ARCHIVE
+ CAVERN PAVILION
+ OTHER COLLECTIONS

koopal.aaron@gmail.com
1 515 313 6638

HONORS & EXPERIENCE:

2018 – present, Iowa State University DATUM Journal of Architecture:
Helping to facilitate the curation of projects, graphics, essays, and manifestos in a yearly journal publication by ISU architecture students. Currently serving as the journal’s co-editor for the 2022 to 2023 journal issue.

2023, Substance Competition Finalist:
ISU Department of Architecture Competition – 5th year Studio, Fall.

2022 – 2023, Iowa State University Department of Architecture lecture poster(s):
Developed the Department of Architecture’s Lecture Series posters. Work included both the graphic language and layouts of both Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semester.

2022 Iowa State University Rome semester exhibition:
Assisted in the design and development of Iowa State University Department of Architecture’s yearly exhibition of student work produced during the 4th year Rome semester. Exhibition included print media, models, and videography.

2021, DLR Competition Winner:
ISU Department of Architecture Competition – 4th year Studio, Fall.

2021, Young Architects Competition Finalist – Artic Hotel Design:
Internationally hosted architecture competition to design a modest hotel and cabin complex at a remote site in Lapland, Finland.

2021, BWBR Competition Finalist:
ISU Department of Architecture Competition – 3rd year Studio, Spring.

2021, Richard F. Hansen Competition Finalist:
ISU Department of Architecture Competition – 3rd year Studio, Fall.
EMPLOYMENT:

2022, Pickard Chilton Architects Internship:
Assisted in the design and further representation of complex architectural projects. Gained beneficial experience at different stages of project development. Specific tasks included physical model-making, massing studies, digital modeling, and spatial analysis.

2021 – present, Public Programs Commitee – ISU, Department of Architecture:
Working for ISU to facilitate the curation of architectural exhibitions, the publication of department events, and provide overall logistical help for architecture professors at the university.

2021, Research Assistant – ISU, Computation and Construction Lab:
Provided key assistance with research in architectural computation as well as the maintenance and installation of fabrication equipment. Worked to improve the capabilities and overall efficiency of the lab while gaining knowledge in computational fabrication and material assemblies.

2021, Reinaldo Correa Studio Assistant:
Assisted in the on-site design and construction of a public art piece for the new Johnston Iowa City Hall. Provided experience in parametric assemblies and small-scale constuction.

2019 - 2020, Breiholz Construction Internship:
Worked as a general laborer at a variety of construction sites while collaborating with a wide range of professionals. Gained valuable hands-on experiences with historic building renovations, concrete construction, construction logistics, and various material assemblies.