Phison Real Estate: Architectural Internship Report

1. Introduction to Phison Real Estate

Phison Real Estate, founded in Addis Ababa, is one of Ethiopia’s leading real
estate developers, recognized for its innovative design, sustainable building
practices, and contribution to urban development. Established to address the
growing demand for modern residential and commercial properties in the capital,
Phison Real Estate has significantly impacted Addis Ababa's skyline, particularly in
high-end apartment complexes and luxury villas.
Founding and Growth
Phison Real Estate was founded in the early 2010s by a group of visionaries who
sought to revolutionize Ethiopia’s real estate industry. The founders saw the rapid
urbanization of Addis Ababa as an opportunity to introduce a new architectural
approach, focusing on modern living spaces that cater to both local residents and
members of the diaspora returning to invest in their homeland.
Starting with small residential projects, Phison quickly gained a reputation for its
quality and attention to detail. Over the years, the company expanded its portfolio
to include large-scale mixed-use developments, incorporating retail spaces,
offices, and luxury apartments into their designs. The company’s growth has been
driven by a dedication to sustainability and an emphasis on community-oriented
developments.
Mission and Vision
Phison Real Estate’s mission is to create high-quality, sustainable housing solutions
that meet the demands of modern urban life while respecting Ethiopia’s rich
architectural heritage. The company envisions becoming the premier real estate
developer in the region, known for its commitment to design excellence and
environmental sustainability.
Phison’s core values include:
 Innovation: Constantly seeking new ways to integrate cutting-edge
technology and design.
  Sustainability: Promoting green architecture and energy-efficient building
practices.
 Customer Focus: Prioritizing the needs and preferences of clients, ensuring
every project is tailored to its users.

2. Company Structure and Departments

Phison Real Estate is organized into several specialized departments that work
collaboratively to deliver successful projects. The organizational structure ensures
that each stage of the development process is managed efficiently, from design
conceptualization to project execution and customer handover.
Key Departments:
 Architecture and Design: This department is responsible for the
conceptualization and detailed design of all Phison projects. The team
includes architects, interior designers, and urban planners who collaborate
on every aspect of the design process. As an intern, I worked closely with
this team, gaining insight into how architectural visions come to life.
 Project Management: Oversees the implementation of projects, ensuring
timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met. The project managers
coordinate between the construction teams, architects, and clients to
ensure smooth project delivery.
 Construction: Phison’s construction team manages the on-site execution of
building plans. They are responsible for liaising with contractors, ensuring
adherence to construction standards, and troubleshooting issues that arise
during the building process.
 Customer Relations: This department handles client interactions, managing
everything from initial sales to post-construction services. They play a key
role in ensuring client satisfaction and maintaining Phison’s reputation for
quality.

3. Client Portfolio
Phison Real Estate is known for delivering high-quality residential and commercial
properties that blend modern design with Ethiopian architectural traditions. Their
portfolio includes high-rise apartments, luxury villas, mixed-use developments,
and commercial office spaces.
Client Portfolio
Phison Real Estate caters to a diverse range of clients, from local residents to
international investors. Their portfolio includes:
 Local Homeowners: Phison primarily serves the emerging middle and upper
classes in Addis Ababa, offering modern housing solutions to professionals
and families looking for high-quality living spaces.
 Diaspora Investors: Phison has tailored many of its developments to attract
Ethiopian expatriates looking to invest in property back home. Their
marketing strategies emphasize the growing appeal of Addis Ababa as a
cosmopolitan city, ideal for returning diaspora members.
 Corporate Clients: Phison also works with businesses to develop
commercial office spaces and retail centers, enhancing the city’s
infrastructure for economic growth.
4. Role and Contribution as an Intern
During my internship at Phison Real Estate, I was given the opportunity to
participate in various stages of the architectural design process, working closely
with senior architects and project managers. My responsibilities included
preparing technical drawings, assisting in design reviews, conducting site visits,
and contributing to the development of project proposals.
Daily Responsibilities
1. Technical Drawings and Drafting One of my primary tasks was creating and
modifying architectural drawings using AutoCAD and Revit. I worked on
drafting floor plans, elevations, and sections for ongoing projects. These
drawings were crucial in communicating design intent to both clients and
construction teams. I also learned to adjust drawings based on feedback
from senior architects, ensuring that the designs adhered to local building
codes and project requirements.
 2. Design Reviews and Collaboration I participated in several design review
meetings where the design team discussed potential issues, refinements,
and improvements to ongoing projects. During these meetings, I gained
valuable insight into how architects evaluate different design solutions,
balancing aesthetics, functionality, and cost.
3. Site Visits Regular site visits allowed me to see how architectural designs
are implemented on the ground. These visits provided a deeper
understanding of construction processes and the real-world challenges
faced in executing design plans. I observed the coordination between
architects, engineers, and contractors, and how they worked together to
resolve on-site issues such as material shortages or structural adjustments.
Skills Acquired
 Software Proficiency: I developed advanced skills in AutoCAD and Revit,
learning to create accurate technical drawings and 3D models. These skills
enabled me to contribute effectively to the design team and visualize
complex architectural ideas.
 Project Management Insight: By working alongside project managers, I
gained a better understanding of the logistical aspects of managing a
construction project, including scheduling, budgeting, and coordinating
with different stakeholders.
 Team Collaboration: I learned the importance of effective communication
and teamwork in a fast-paced architectural environment. Whether it was
brainstorming design solutions or adjusting plans based on client feedback,
the collaborative nature of the team helped me grow professionally.

5. Technologies and Design Tools

Phison Real Estate prides itself on using cutting-edge technology to streamline the
design and construction process. As an intern, I was exposed to a range of
software tools that are essential in modern architectural practices.
AutoCAD and Revit
Phison’s architecture department relies heavily on AutoCAD for 2D drafting and
Revit for Building Information Modeling (BIM). These tools allow the design team
to create detailed plans and collaborate more effectively with construction teams
and clients.
I used AutoCAD to draft floor plans, elevations, and sections, focusing on accuracy
and clarity in communication. In Revit, I participated in creating 3D models of
buildings, enabling clients to visualize the end product. Revit’s BIM capabilities
also facilitated more efficient project management by integrating design,
documentation, and construction data into a single platform.
SketchUp for Visualization
SketchUp was another essential tool used for creating quick 3D models and
visualizing design concepts during the early stages of project development. I
found this tool particularly useful for presenting ideas to clients who may not be
familiar with technical drawings but can better understand a 3D visual
representation.

6. Phison’s Design Philosophy and Sustainability Focus

Phison Real Estate’s design philosophy is rooted in the belief that architecture
should not only meet the functional needs of its occupants but also enhance their
quality of life and reflect the culture and traditions of the community.
Blending Modern and Traditional Aesthetics
Phison’s projects often incorporate modern design elements with Ethiopian
architectural traditions. For example, the Lebu Luxury Villas are designed with
clean, modern lines but feature traditional Ethiopian motifs in their facades and
interior designs. This blend of old and new creates a sense of continuity between
Ethiopia’s rich architectural heritage and its modern urban future.
Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability is at the core of Phison’s design philosophy. The company is
committed to minimizing its environmental footprint by:
  Using Energy-Efficient Materials: Phison carefully selects materials that are
not only durable but also energy-efficient, reducing the long-term energy
consumption of their buildings.
 Solar Integration: Many of Phison’s residential projects are equipped with
solar panels to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
 Water Conservation: Phison incorporates water-saving technologies such as
rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures in their projects,
particularly in areas prone to water shortages.

7. Company Culture and Work Environment

Phison Real Estate fosters a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive work
environment. The company values open communication and encourages
employees at all levels to contribute their ideas and suggestions.
Team Collaboration
During my internship, I was struck by how inclusive and collaborative the work
culture was. As an intern, I was welcomed into meetings and design reviews,
where my input was valued. Senior architects were approachable and eager to
provide guidance, creating an environment where interns could learn and grow.
Support for Innovation
Phison encourages its employees to think creatively and push the boundaries of
traditional architectural design. The company frequently holds brainstorming
sessions where team members can present new ideas or approaches to ongoing
projects. This culture of innovation helps Phison stay ahead in a competitive real
estate market.

8. Challenges Faced by Phison Real Estate

Like any company in the real estate sector, Phison faces several challenges that
impact its operations and growth. Some of these challenges are specific to the
Ethiopian context, while others are common across the global real estate market.
Market Volatility
Fluctuating material costs have been a significant challenge for Phison, particularly
as the Ethiopian economy experiences periods of inflation. Rising prices for
materials like steel, cement, and imported finishes can strain project budgets,
forcing the company to find cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
Regulatory Challenges
Navigating Addis Ababa’s regulatory environment can also be difficult, as building
codes and zoning regulations sometimes lack clarity or are inconsistently
enforced. Phison has invested in a dedicated team to manage regulatory
compliance, but this remains a potential hurdle in fast-tracking project approvals
and breaking ground on new developments.

9. Future Outlook and Strategic Direction

Phison Real Estate is poised for continued growth in the coming years, with a clear
strategy focused on expanding its portfolio, enhancing its sustainability efforts,
and leveraging the growing demand for high-quality real estate in Addis Ababa.
Expansion Plans
Phison plans to expand its operations to other major cities in Ethiopia, including
Hawassa and Dire Dawa, where demand for modern residential and commercial
properties is also rising. In the near future, Phison aims to launch new projects
that focus on affordable housing, a sector that has been underserved in Ethiopia’s
booming real estate market.
Green Building Certification
Phison is also exploring opportunities to pursue LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design) certification for its upcoming projects. This would position
the company as a leader in green building practices, not only in Ethiopia but
across East Africa.

10. Conclusion and Reflection

My internship at Phison Real Estate has been an incredibly rewarding experience,
allowing me to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting while
learning from seasoned professionals in the architectural and construction fields.
Personal Growth
Through my work with Phison, I have gained a deeper understanding of the
architectural design process, from initial concept development to construction
execution. I have also developed technical skills that will serve me well in my
future career, particularly in using architectural software like AutoCAD and Revit.
Phison’s Role in Shaping the Future of Addis Ababa
Phison Real Estate’s commitment to sustainable design and modern urban
development is helping shape the future of Addis Ababa. The company’s focus on
blending innovation with tradition reflects its unique approach to real estate
development, one that I believe will continue to influence the Ethiopian market
for years to come.