The Pierce Residence is a contextual urban dwelling designed for a Fish-town site, developed through a fully hand-drafted process. Grounded in multiple site visits and neighbourhood research, the project responds to both the physical constraints of the row house typology and the character of its surroundings.
The design centers around a strong connection between lifestyle and space. Programmatically, the residence is organised to reflect the client’s identity - where movement, openness, the moments of pause are carefully balanced, Rather than dividing spaces conventionally, the layout frames experiences, allowing key elements - such as the Porsche 964 within the living environment - to become focal points within daily life.
Vertical circulation and sectional relationships play a critical role in shaping the experience of the home. Each level transitions seamlessly into the next, creating a continuous spatial narrative while maintaining distinct zones for living, rest, and retreat.
Method - Hand drafting (Ink on Vellum)
INTR 322 | Fall 2025
Model with Inserts
I created a model to communicate circulation and present further construction detail in 3D.
About the Client
Zayn Pierce is a 25-year-old founder of Valhöll Automotive, a bespoke luxury automotive startup rooted in precision, craftsmanship, and understated luxury. Originally from Dubai and now based in Philadelphia, his lifestyle is shaped by movement, discipline, and an appreciation for thoughtfully designed experiences.
The residence was designed to reflect both his personality and routines—balancing quiet sophistication with openness and connection. Influenced by automotive culture, music, and urban living, the home integrates moments of retreat with spaces intended for gathering, conversation, and everyday rituals. Rather than functioning purely as a residence, the project explores how architecture can embody identity, lifestyle, and emotional presence.
