ANNEKEE GROENINX VAN ZOELEN
Graduated as an Architectural Engineer from the Master of Architecture, Urbanism & Building Sciences at Delft University of Technology, I possess a profound passion for design. I am dedicated to creating research-based solutions, where aesthetics and sustainability are key. My ambition is to make a positive impact on the world, benefiting both people and the environment. I am deeply passionate about nature and am keen to more closely integrate it with architecture. Challenges are opportunities I eagerly embrace, always seeking to broaden and deepen my knowledge across various fields. Interacting with new people, maintaining an open mind, learning different languages, and pursuing personal development, both creatively and technically, are aspects I highly value.
As an aspiring architect, my ambition is to develop skills across various domains. Characterised by my eagerness to learn, proactive approach, enthusiasm, and commitment to engaging deeply with content, I enjoy tackling complex design challenges. Sustainability and nature-inclusive solutions are of paramount importance to me, with a focus on the interaction between various scales and the end-user. My approach is research-driven and analytical, with a fondness for experimentation and integral creation.
I seek to join an architectural firm with a collaborative and innovative culture. My ambition is to be part of a motivated, passionate, and dynamic team, where mutual growth is achieved and we elevate our projects to new levels.
In 2019, I had the opportunity to design and oversee the renovation of a top-floor apartment for an elderly couple, marking a significant step in my practical experience. This project placed a considerable amount of responsibility on my shoulders, where I served as the primary point of contact for all parties involved. Through close collaboration with the builder, we achieved a mutual understanding that was crucial for the project's success. My tasks included redesigning the kitchen and bathroom, which necessitated attentive listening to the clients' desires, creating functional and aesthetic designs, selecting competent contractors, and negotiating costs. Throughout this project, I encountered numerous challenges, each providing valuable lessons. This experience notably enhanced my design abilities, my capacity to collaborate with construction professionals, my client communication skills, and my project management expertise.
BEFORE
AFTER
aE Journal is a scientific publication of the Architectural Engineering department at Delft University of Technology. aE Journal provides insight into the master's programme and shows recent work by students of the Architectural Engineering studio, led by professor Thijs Asselbergs. As the student assistent of the Architectural Engineering Graduation Studio 2022-2023, I designed and edited this journal, mainly together with Mo Smit and Annebregje Snijders. All issues of aE Journal can be downloaded for free from the website books.bk.tudelft.nl.
During the lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic, my brother and I started a small clothing business as a hobby: KePi Designs. My brother is interested in entrepreneurship and marketing, whereas my enthusiasm lies in entrepreneurship and design. This venture has developed into a small business that sells eco-friendly streetwear with our own designs printed and embroidered on it. This journey has been immensely educational, particularly in enhancing my entrepreneurial skills, including engaging with suppliers and recognising my value. Moreover, it has enriched my understanding of planning, collaboration, task allocation, responsibilities, customer engagement, and marketing strategies.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I realised the significance of pursuing activities that truly bring joy. The dream of building my own camper van, had long been with me, and this was the perfect time to start. I developed practical skills, including the fitting of windows, the installation of solar panels and electrical systems, and the crafting of furniture. I had to plan and design carefully to make the best use of such small space. It is still an ongoing project, but I have been exploring Europe with great pride and joy in my tiny house on wheels.