CHRISTIAN DISILVESTRE
ARCHITECTURAL PORTFOLIO
PROJECTS
Disclaimer-
The following projects were completed during my employment at Joseph Pagac Architects and are included in this portfolio solely for the purpose of demonstrating the scope of my professional experience and skills. All designs remain the intellectual property of Joseph Pagac Architects, and my inclusion of these materials does not imply sole authorship.
I have clearly identified my specific contributions to each project, which may include tasks such as conceptual design, drafting, rendering, client presentations, construction documentation, or site coordination. These projects are shared respectfully and in good faith as part of an application for further employment in architecture.
Barn, Cabana & Pool Patio
Amagansett
While working at the firm, I contributed to the design of a comprehensive backyard renovation for a private client, integrating a pool, cabana, and barn into a cohesive outdoor environment. The goal was to create a space that balanced functionality, relaxation, and visual harmony across the different elements. We carefully planned the layout to ensure fluid connections between the pool, cabana, and barn, optimizing views, circulation, and usability. The barn served as a central hub, bridging the recreational (pool) and utility (cabana) spaces, with thoughtful transitions. This project highlighted the importance of site planning, scale, and material continuity in multi-structure design. It was a rewarding challenge to bring together distinct program elements into one seamless and inviting backyard setting.
A.I.A. Long Island 61st Annual Archi Award Winning Project - Small Firm
December 2024
2nd Floor Recreation Room Renovation
Quogue Fire Department
This renovation project focused on transforming the second-floor recreation room at the Quogue Fire Department into a more comfortable and functional space for firefighters to unwind while on call. The design process began with on-site measurements and the development of existing conditions drawings to assess what was feasible within the space. As a publicly funded initiative, each phase required clear, presentation-quality drawings for town meetings to ensure community engagement and budgetary approval.
My role included measuring the site, drafting both existing and proposed plans, and producing initial conceptual renderings, which were later refined and finalized by a professional SketchUp firm. I also prepared the pricing set used for contractor bidding. The project concluded at the pricing phase, with the team leaving the client well-positioned to appoint a contractor and manage the remainder of the process independently.
August 2024
Spec House #1
Westhampton Beach
While working at a design firm, I had the opportunity to be involved in our first spec house project. It was a unique experience different from client driven work since the design had to anticipate market needs without specific input from a homeowner. As a team member, I played a meaningful role in shaping the design, from spatial planning to material selections. Overall, it was a valuable experience that gave me insight into speculative development and helped me grow both creatively and professionally.
May 2023
Spec House #2
Westhampton Beach
The second spec house I worked on at the firm was a repeat of the initial design, but with notable variations in finishes and site context. While the core layout remained identical, this project allowed us to refine details and explore a new aesthetic direction. We used white cedar shingles (Maibec) paired with an Azek band and flared siding, which gave the design a more coastal elevation. Built on a flag lot, the house required careful consideration of privacy, access, and approach.
May 2024
New Construction Southampton
I was involved in the full redesign of a residential property that began with the demolition of an existing 1912 house. This ground-up new construction project included a custom home, pool, and pool house, all thoughtfully integrated into the site. Our process began with a thorough site analysis, which guided key decisions around orientation, circulation, and maximizing lot coverage. The design aimed to modernize the living experience while respecting the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood. My contributions spanned multiple phases, including Interior elevations and finish selections to ensure continuity between architectural form and interior character. Design detailing that supported both aesthetic goals and functional performance. Participation in the bidding process, reviewing proposals and coordinating with contractors to align design intent with budget and execution. Ongoing involvement across various technical and creative aspects, helping shape a cohesive and high-quality final product. This project deepened my understanding of the full lifecycle of residential construction, from demolition and design to documentation and pricing, while honing my skills in both architectural detailing and collaborative project delivery.
Under Construction
New Construction
Westhampton Beach
This project began with the demolition of an existing residence, while the pool house, pool, and patio were preserved. With these elements remaining, we focused on designing a new structure that elevated the overall character of the property while ensuring its elevation complemented the existing site elements.
My role spanned the full arc of the project, beginning with drafting the conceptual design and continuing through the production of the construction set. Early in the process, I was tasked with developing a SketchUp model and animation for a key client meeting. This visualization played a crucial role in shaping and finalizing the building’s massing. (See Video on right side)
While I initiated the conceptual SketchUp model and animation, I later shifted my focus toward developing the construction set. My contributions included interior layouts, electrical plans, floor plan revisions, interior trim detailing, exterior elevations, and site planning-providing continuity from concept to execution.
Conceptual Sketch Up Animation
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Under Construction
Pool House
Concept & Pricing Phase
Remsenburg
This project centered around the design of a new pool house to complement an existing residence and outdoor living area. The goal was to design a structure that enhanced the property's overall aesthetic while maintaining a cohesive relationship with the existing site features through thoughtful form and elevation alignment. I was responsible for leading the design and drafting of the pricing set for the project. From the outset, I created conceptual SketchUp renderings to communicate the design vision clearly and accurately. These visuals were instrumental in aligning the team and client on the architectural direction. In addition to the initial visualizations, I developed detailed drawings that included floor plans, interior and exterior elevations, material detailing, and site coordination. Although the project did not proceed beyond the pricing phase, the process provided valuable experience in both design development and technical documentation.
July 2024
Conceptual Sketch Up Animation
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Covered Porch, Outdoor Kitchen & Shower
Westhampton Beach
This project involved the design of a covered porch addition featuring an outdoor fireplace, TV, lounge seating, an outdoor kitchen with BBQ, refrigeration, and a side-yard outdoor shower. All materials were carefully selected to complement the existing home, creating a seamless, open, and inviting extension. Key design challenges included developing a detailed reflected ceiling plan (RCP) for the paneled ceiling to accommodate fixtures and ceiling-mounted heaters in a clean, unobtrusive layout. Precise field measurements were critical to ensure alignment with the existing sliding doors and maintain architectural continuity.
June 2024
Multi-Phase Development
Southampton
This multi-phase project for a private property in Southampton involved both interior and exterior renovations. The first phase focused on a basement renovation, where I designed a custom bar, developed the electrical layout, contributed detailed design elements, and provided project management support throughout construction.
In the second phase, I assisted with the design and implementation of a new pickleball court, including a shaded seating structure. This phase deepened my experience with outdoor site conditions, zoning regulations, and local code compliance especially for large-scale landscape features. I also contributed to the integration of fencing around existing pool equipment and produced detailed drawings for the new shaded structure.
June 2024
Full Renovation & Site Transformation
Remsenburg
I contributed to the extensive renovation and expansion of a private residence in Remsenburg, NY. The project encompassed approximately 75% of the existing structure, including major interior reconfiguration and a full redesign of the exterior and surrounding landscape.
My role began with documenting the existing site and building conditions, producing accurate measurements and base plans that allowed us to explore options for architectural additions. This groundwork informed a successful reformatting of the second floor, adding valuable square footage and additional rooms while maintaining cohesive flow throughout the home. I participated in developing creative concepts for both revised floor plans and new exterior elevations, supporting the design evolution from early studies through refinement. I also contributed to the site design, working on elements such as the new pool and patio with custom paver layout, rear deck, outdoor BBQ/kitchen area, and outdoor shower enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor living.
In later phases, I assisted with the development of the construction drawing set and supported ongoing coordination between the design team, contractors, and vendors helping translate design intent into clear, buildable solutions.
September 2023
Renovation in Progress
Westhampton Beach
This ongoing project focuses on the renovation of a residence built in 1900 in Westhampton Beach. The scope includes comprehensive interior and exterior updates, while navigating zoning restrictions and tight setback requirements.
I was responsible for capturing the existing conditions, including detailed site measurements and the production of base drawings. Working with an older structure required a solid understanding of traditional construction methods to accurately document the home. To support the design process and client presentations, I also created a detailed SketchUp model illustrating both the existing structure and proposed renovations. The model helped convey the design vision clearly and allowed for more informed discussions and feedback.
I continue to assist the team with design development and coordination as the project progresses.
In Progress
Conceptual Sketch Up Animation
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Waterfront Patio & Site Enhancements
Southampton
This project involved the design of a rear patio addition and custom driveway gates for a waterfront property in Southampton, along with plans for a fully integrated outdoor kitchen as a future phase. The design preserved the home's original character by introducing minimal modifications to the existing structure, while enhancing outdoor living and maximizing views of the water. I prepared all submission drawings for the Architectural Review Board and managed the project from concept through completion, ensuring a seamless connection between the new elements, natural landscape, and existing architecture.
September 2024
