Internship Experience

Williams and Associates Architecture

Architectural Intern

In the summer of 2023, I had the honor of interning for WIlliams and Associates Architecture in Spearfish, SD. This firm specializes in commerical, residential, and civic architecture. During my nine weeks with this firm, I had the opportunity to further explore schematic and design development. Through residential and commercial projects I worked on, I have developed a enhanced understanding of space planning and programming. I worked along side head architects and clients to develop unique and functional homes in addition to multi-use tenant spaces. By working on every aspect of construction documents ranging from floor plans to details to finishing schedules, I learned a lot about myself as a designer and as a student.

Residential Drafting + Site Plans

This two-story home, designed by Steve Williams and illustrated by Jessa McFarland, underwent several design iterations before the client selected this final plan. Given the site's complexities, each room and dimension was meticulously considered to comply with local building codes. A key requirement for the clients was ample storage space for their extensive wine collection, leading to the inclusion of two wine cellars, one on each floor. The house also offers plenty of closet storage throughout. Reflecting the tranquil and picturesque setting, the client requested an exterior style reminiscent of an English Tudor home.

Credit:

Architect - Steven Williams, AIA

Architectural Designer - Seth Harwood

Main Level

Second Level

Commercial Drafting


This project, envisioned for a dental office, has been a focal point of my internship from its inception. Designed by Jason Roberdeau and illustrated by Jessa McFarland, the initial concept was for a single-story building. However, the project evolved through numerous iterations to meet the diverse needs and requests of the clients. After thorough design development, the latest plans now envision a three-story building (with the second level not depicted). This includes a dental and orthodontic office on the main level, training spaces, additional lease spaces in the basement, and further leasing opportunities on the second level.

Main Level

Second Level

Lower Level

Credit:

Architect - Jason Roberdeau, AIA, LEED AP, BD+C

Architectural Designer - Seth Harwood

Colorado State University Material Library

Event Coordinator

Main Tasks:

  • Managed spreadsheets and communicated with representatives.

  • Collaborated on lunch and learns, and organized table tops with industry representatives.

  • Assisted in material selection and facilitated the use of the library's lightbox for project visuals.

  • Organized existing materials within the library.

  • Be a resource to those interested in using the material library.

Lunch and Learns

Several fellow interns and I collaborated on organizing Lunch and Learns, along with table tops that I had the pleasure of attending. Distinguished material representatives from industry leaders such as Daltile, Shaw Contract, Concept Surfaces, Koroseal, and Moziak Floors were in attendance. It provided a valuable platform for delving into the roles and responsibilities of these representatives, offering us a unique opportunity to both learn from their expertise and expand our professional networks.

Events

In my library role, I organized department events and assisted students. Collaborating with Dr. Scolere in ITND 210 and 310 classes, we introduced students to the library's materials and discussed available resources. Following our session with INTD 310 Juniors, I guided them in creating material palettes for their Steelcase NEXT projects. It was rewarding to help students explore and familiarize themselves with the library's diverse contents, assisting in material selection and capturing photos using the library's lightbox.

Material Librarian

The primary responsibility for the entire intern team, myself included, was orchestrating and procuring materials for the senior capstone. From mid-October until the semester's end, we managed spreadsheets, spoke with representatives, composed emails, coordinated shipments, and personally delivered materials to students. It marked the most substantial workload we, as interns, undertook throughout the semester, yet witnessing the vibrant palettes come to fruition made the work so rewarding.