Portfolio Example 7 — ‘Architecture that Heals’

Arkoun Merchant is a strong believer in architecture that heals. “Designing spaces, regardless of program, should positively improve the lives of its inhabitants,” he says. “This dictates the development of space and programs within a design.”

Merchant entered the three-year Master of Architecture program at Carleton University in Fall 2021. He had also been accepted to Calgary University.

Here are some examples of work from his application portfolio.

“The work shares a theme of emulating the patterns and forms found within our built and natural environment, allowing them to communicate with the site and its context,” he says.

Merchant completed a Bachelor of Architectural Studies at Carleton University in the Conservation and Sustainability stream in 2020.

“I was very interested in the Conservation stream when applying for my BAS, and Carleton was one of the only schools that offered a specialization in heritage,” he says.

“My time doing my bachelor’s degree, as well as the amazing faculty, encouraged me to return for my master’s.”

All images: Courtesy of Arkoun Merchant