Meta Title: Yebin Chang Portfolio — Selected Architectural Engineering Work and Design Concepts from the University of Waterloo (2025)

About the author and the study journey

Yebin Chang presents a curated portfolio reflecting a student’s progression through Architectural Engineering at the University of Waterloo, with a focus on understanding how buildings perform, how they come together, and how engineering supports architectural intent. The collection highlights early experiences that sparked an interest in the interplay between design and construction, including time spent with industry professionals and on-site observations that revealed how performance can influence space perception. [Page 1]

Yebin’s introduction to architecture grew during internships and site visits, such as those at RDH Building Science, where witnessing project development firsthand demonstrated how form and function shape user experience. This exposure nurtured a curiosity about why spaces feel a certain way, beyond mere technical feasibility, and motivated a deeper exploration of the creative side of architectural engineering. [Page 2]

Beyond academics, Yebin emphasizes a collaborative streak, contributing to teams like Warrior Home and the Waterloo Steel Bridge project. These roles involve coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to balance aesthetics, structural performance, and constructability, underscoring a design philosophy that privileges performance while remaining open to innovative ideas. [Page 3]

The result is an approach to design that is grounded in empirical performance but continually adventurous, seeking opportunities to learn from peers and project experiences. This mindset informs both the execution of technical work and the exploration of new design strategies. [Page 4]

Looking ahead, Yebin expresses a clear enthusiasm for pursuing additional opportunities in architectural engineering, with an intent to apply a blend of hands-on experience, analytical thinking, and collaborative practice to future projects. [Page 5]

Core qualifications, expertise, and tools

As an Architectural Engineering student, Yebin demonstrates a solid grasp of core engineering principles and how they translate into architectural outcomes. The portfolio notes extensive hands-on experience in producing precise technical drawings and blueprints, reflecting strong attention to detail and a disciplined approach to documentation. [Page 6]

A broad skill set spans several industry-standard software and analytical tools, including BIM platforms, computational design environments, and performance simulation programs. These skills support rigorous analysis, effective communication, and the ability to translate complex ideas into implementable solutions. [Page 7]

In addition to technical proficiency, there is emphasis on clear communication and collaboration, essential for coordinating with team members, consultants, and trades. The ability to work independently when needed and to contribute meaningfully within a team structure is highlighted as a key attribute. [Page 8]

Education, software proficiency, and methodological approach

At the University of Waterloo, Yebin is immersed in the discipline of architectural engineering, combining design sensitivity with an engineering mindset. The training encompasses structural thinking, building science, and the integration of performance goals into project execution. [Page 9]

Technical fluency spans Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, and a suite of building science and data tools such as Flixo, THERM, Ladybug, Python, and related software for simulations, energy modeling, and environmental analysis. This toolbox supports a rigorous approach to evaluating envelope performance, daylighting, and comfort in design choices. [Page 10]

Beyond software, the portfolio notes capabilities in data management, modeling, and documentation practices that facilitate effective project coordination, progress tracking, and timely delivery. These competencies align with professional expectations for coordinating complex construction documents and ensuring alignment with project milestones. [Page 11]

Professional experience and roles

In 2025, Yebin joined RDH Building Science Inc. as a Building Enclosure Engineering Assistant, where on-site work included evaluating building enclosure components, performing performance tests (air leakage and water penetration), and examining existing structures to document conditions and propose rehabilitation strategies. The role emphasizes practical assessment, field notes, sketches, and photos to support informed repair recommendations. [Page 12]

During Sept–Dec 2024, as a Special Projects Engineering Student with PCL Construction Ltd., the focus was on coordinating documentation within the project manager’s scope, collaborating with consultants for site reviews, and keeping deficiency logs up to date. Safety pre-mobilization, quality documentation, and closeout deliverables were part of daily operations, with participation in meetings to capture minutes and support planning. [Page 13]

From Feb–May 2024, as a Structural Intern with Dillon Consulting Limited, responsibilities included preparing and revising AutoCAD and Revit drawings, assisting field staff with construction reviews, compiling field information, and participating in contract administration tasks such as shop drawing reviews, RFIs, and progress payments. This experience highlights a hands-on blend of design documentation and field execution. [Page 14]

Awards, interests, and extracurricular engagement

Yebin’s involvement with the Warrior Home Design Team, as a working member since September 2023, centers on integrating building science, interior design, and sustainability to prepare deliverables for competitions. The work includes researching emerging materials and technologies to inform sustainable home design and ensure projects reflect the latest industry developments. [Page 15]

As a member of the University of Waterloo Steel Bridge Team since September 2023, Yebin contributes to structural design decisions and construction planning, emphasizing safety and quality during the build phase. The collaboration emphasizes problem-solving, critical analysis, and teamwork in the context of structural engineering challenges. [Page 16]

In the Architectural Engineering Design Day Competition at the University of Waterloo, Yebin led an effort to design and assemble a functional set of furniture using limited reusable materials, incorporating engineering principles related to design, sustainability, material science, and structural development. The project earned first place among more than 90 participants, underscoring practical creativity and technical competence. [Page 17]

Selected projects and portfolio highlights

The portfolio lists several 2025 winter projects, noted as 01 ml.2025, 02 Serenity, 03 Fire Station, and 04 Conceptual Designs. These entries reflect ongoing explorations in form, function, and material strategy, with a focus on balancing performance with aesthetics and resource efficiency. The overall aim is to demonstrate how architectural engineering methods inform design decisions in real-world contexts. [Page 18]

Among the notable design explorations is a project centered on the Modern Languages Building at the University of Waterloo. This structure, initially completed in 1962 by Shore & Moffat, stands as a campus landmark with a pragmatic Brutalist influence. The current recladding initiative seeks to harmonize historical character with contemporary energy performance goals. [Page 19]

The recladding strategy prioritizes thermal efficiency and durability, aligning with North American Passive House standards. The updated building envelope targets high insulation performance, with R-values around R-65 for main wall assemblies, R-63 for glazing, and R-43 for the lower floor areas, reflecting a comprehensive approach to reducing energy demand while preserving comfort. [Page 20]

In addition to performance gains, the project introduces cultured stone cladding to enhance durability and provide a refined aesthetic that complements the campus context. A newly designed vestibule at the main entrance creates a brighter, more inviting entry experience for students and visitors. [Page 21]

These changes collectively improve occupant comfort, modernize the building’s identity, and reinforce its role as a durable, energy-conscious hub for campus life. The work is presented as a cohesive narrative of performance, aesthetics, and heritage, integrating modern envelope science with thoughtful material expression. [Page 22]

The portfolio also includes a set of visual references such as elevations, renderings, and sectional views—labeled as SOUTH ELEVATION, MAIN WALL SECTION, VESTIBULE, and other standard architectural drawings—to illustrate the design intent and the structural logic behind the envelope upgrade. [Page 23]

Through the integration of high-performance materials, precise detailing, and a careful balance of traditional and contemporary language, the recladding project demonstrates a methodical approach to upgrading a legacy building while respecting its campus significance. The result is a resilient, comfortable, and aesthetically coherent space that supports ongoing campus activities. [Page 24]

In summary, the Modern Languages Building recladding project exemplifies how architectural engineering drives improvements that affect energy performance, occupant experience, and campus identity, all within a framework that respects history and embraces sustainable innovation. [Page 25]

Closing reflections and the path forward

The portfolio situates Yebin as a growing professional who blends technical acumen with a curiosity-driven approach to design, seeking opportunities to apply rigorous performance criteria to creative challenges. The combination of on-site experience, collaborative projects, and hands-on design work positions Yebin to contribute effectively to multidisciplinary teams that value efficiency, constructability, and thoughtful user experience. [Page 26]

Looking ahead, the narrative emphasizes ongoing learning, experimentation, and a readiness to engage with new technologies and project types. The intent is to continue developing a design practice that not only meets engineering standards but also yields spaces with lasting environmental and social value. [Page 27]

Summary and key takeaways

In essence, the Yebin Chang portfolio presents a well-rounded profile of a student who combines a solid foundation in architectural engineering with practical field experience, teamwork, and a demonstrated capacity to manage complex documentation and project processes. The emphasis on building performance, collaborative problem-solving, and energy-conscious design emerges as the throughline guiding future work. [Page 28]

Key strengths include a versatile technical toolkit, a track record of internship and co-op experiences across enclosure engineering, project coordination, and structural intern roles, and a commitment to integrating sustainable principles into architectural solutions. The selected projects underscore a capacity to translate theory into tangible improvements in existing structures while maintaining sensitivity to historical context and campus culture. [Page 29]

For readers and potential collaborators, the portfolio signals a proactive, team-oriented approach, a willingness to engage with diverse disciplines, and a drive to learn from projects and mentors. The path forward is framed around continued exploration of high-performance design, rigorous documentation practices, and opportunities to contribute to meaningful, impact-driven building projects. [Page 30]

YEBIN CHANG PORTFOLIO - Flipbook by Fleepit