Ruby Li Architecture Design Portfolio Selected Wrok 2020-2023
BUTTERNUT WOODS VILLAGE Aboriginal Cultural & Affordable Living Community OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA
Luchen Ye & Ruby Li 2023 Design Research Design Concept Scheme Design Graphic
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The Canadian government’s 19th-century cultural assimilation policies, which suppressed Indigenous practices, governance, and child-rearing rights, continue to impact Indigenous heritage and well-being due to a lack of sensitive interventions. This historical context parallels the contemporary struggles of single mothers, who grapple with housing, financial burdens, and childcare. Recognizing these shared challenges, this project aims to support both Indigenous families and single mothers. It offers affordable housing, children’s daycare, and a community center, fostering a unified community that addresses poverty, eases child-rearing responsibilities, and enhances mutual understanding, thereby preventing the isolation of these vulnerable groups.
Canada
Ontario
Ottawa
Ward 16 - Confederation Heights
Aboriginal’s Brief History in Ottawa BRIEF ABORIGINAL HISTORY IN OTTAWA
Resident ial S cho ol f
Propsal Based on Research
m ro
1857: The Gradual Civilization Act is passed by the Parliament of the Province of Canada, targeting the assimilation of Indigenous peoples.
1600
1700
1800
1900
Arrival of the Europeans
European traders and settlers begin to establish more permanent settlements in the Ottawa Valley.
Increased European settlement leads to significant changes in the traditional lifestyles of Indigenous peoples in the Ottawa area.
The Canadian Constitution is amended to recognize and affirm existing Aboriginal and treaty rights.
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1701: The Great Peace of Montreal treaty is signed, ending conflicts between the French, their Indigenous allies, and the Iroquois Confederacy.
2015: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada releases its final report, calling for action across numerous aspects of Canadian society.
2000 2008: The Canadian government formally apologizes to former students of residential schools. Ongoing efforts and discussions around reconciliation.
Aboriginal Population in Canada
Ottawa’s Housing Condition
Site Analysis
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Bus Stop Total Site Area: 90625m2 Proposed Gross Area: 10100m2 Total Number of Units: 1056 Total Residents: 1854 ppl. Units Per Acre: 47.16 People Per Acre: 82.81
Bus Stop Bus Stop Residential (Single Bedroom) 8-10 Levels, 14,300 m2 208 Units
Mooney’s Bay Station
Residential (Single Bedroom) 8-10 Levels, 24,000 m2 370 Units
Community Center-Private 1 level, 800 m2
Community Center-Public 1 level, 2,700 m2
Residential (Multi-Bedroom)
Hotel & Office
Protected Wood Area
8 levels, 16,600 m2
2023
Endangered Species - Butternut Tree 30 m setback Home to numerous native plants integral to Aboriginal culture including the butternut tree.
Bus Stop
Children’s Center
Low-rise Res.
High-rise Res.
Walking Entrance
Children’s Center
Community Center
Residential (Multi-Bedroom)
Site Stradegy
4-6 Levels, 17,300 m2 171 Units
The gradual reduction in building height ensures that all structures enjoy scenic views of the Rideau River, blend harmoniously with the existing cityscape, and improve overall visual appeal and livability. Birds View
GROUP
Residential Units
Central pedestrian pathways and peripheral vehicular routes in the design support a tranquil, aboriginal art-themed communal garden encircled by buildings. Residential Unit Pie Chart
3B2B
2B2B
Accessible 1B1B
1B1B
2023
01 - BUTTERNUT WOODS VILLAGE
2-3 levels, 17,300 m2
Driving Entrance
01 - BUTTERNUT WOODS VILLAGE
GROUP
6-10 Levels, 31,000 m2 307 Units
Studio BACHELOR 3B2B
13.6%
18.2%
ACCESSIBE 15.6%
2B2B 27.3%
1B1B 25.3%
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04
GROUP
2023
01 - BUTTERNUT WOODS VILLAGE
2023
01 - BUTTERNUT WOODS VILLAGE GROUP
Plan - Residential Ground Level
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Plan - Residential Typical Level
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A
B
C
ROOF TOP 27000 L9 24000
Vignette - Community Garden
L8 21000 L7 18000 L6 15000 L5 12000 L4 9000 L3 6000
Vignette - Community Gathering Space
L2 3000 GL 0 PARKING P1 -2800 PARKING P2 -5600
Often used for medicinal, ceremonial, and practical purposes.
Often used in smudging and symbolizing wisdom and natural unity.
Often used in spiritual ceremonies, its sweet scent symbolizes positivity and harmony.
Practical uses include medicinal teas, traditional food flavoring, and insect repellent.
Medicinal and ceremonial uses.
Culturally Significant Plants in Indigenous Traditions Cross Section - Community Gathering Space
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Incorporating nature, a vital element of Aboriginal culture, into the community is a key focus. We plan to achieve this by integrating native plants, significant in Aboriginal culture, into both the community garden and interior spaces.
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LEGEND BEAM CORE COLUMN FOOTING
Roof Top 24000 L8 21000 L7 18000 L6 15000 L5 12000 L4 9000
Structural Detail
L3 6000 L2 3000 GL 0 PARKING P1 -2800 PARKING P2 -5600
Wall Section Detail
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Site Location
Axo - Community Center The community center’s design boasts a double-height ceiling in both the entrance lobby and performance space. Near the residential area, it offers private spaces such as meeting rooms and Aboriginal artist workshops. Alongside the hotel, the center features a library, providing convenient access to research resources.
Plan - Ground Level
Plan - Level 2
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Structure Detail
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Site Location
Vignette - Children’s Center Gathering Space Plan - Ground Level
Plan - Level 2
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Section - Children’s Center
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RESEARCH CENTER OF TRUTH Entertainment Company in the Future HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES, CA, USA
Luchen Ye & Ruby Li 2023 Design Research Design Concept Scheme Design Graphic
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Neil Postman’s 1985 work, “Amusing Ourselves to Death,” astutely observes that our contemporary reality bears a striking resemblance to Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World,” where the population willingly surrenders their rights and critical thinking abilities, succumbing to their addiction to amusement. This relentless prioritization of amusement has eroded our ability to think objectively over time. This project seeks to explore how future entertainment companies can profit by capitalizing on people’s insatiable desire for entertainment. In a world where critical thinking often takes a backseat to entertainment, the Research Center of Truth “tend” to provide people with a reliable source of unbiased information. Imagine a future where entertainment reigns supreme, and people can wholeheartedly rely on the authenticity of the events they embrace, placing their bets on the genuine outcome of these thrilling moments.
USA
Califonia
LA
DTLA
Intrroduction Int
Site Histor History
Storytelling, an age-old form of entertainment, has evolved in numerous ways, one of which is the enduring allure of celebrity gossip. Recognizing the public’s unending thirst for such entertainment, the Research Center of Truth decided to harness this phenomenon. They aimed to use celebrity gossip not only as a means to captivate audiences but also to foster addiction to entertainment. Moreover, they introduced an innovative twist: gambling on the outcomes of celebrity stories before the pre-arranged truths were revealed, thereby engaging people even more deeply in the world of celebrity news.
History of Entertainment
Site Anal Analysis
Storrytelling as the For m of Sto of Ente Enterr tainment
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Program Cir Circulation
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Combined Strade Stradeg y
GROUP
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2023
02 - RESEARCH CENTER OF TRUTH
2023
02 - RESEARCH CENTER OF TRUTH
GROUP
Prototypes
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Office
Theater
Lottery Cafe
High Rollers
History of Entmt. Display
Ticket
VIP Theater Room Cafe BOH
Cafe BOH Bar
Lobby
Office
Short Film Display Screen
Live-Streaming Theater Souvenir Shop
Casual Player
Entrance Lobby
Ground Level
Underground Level
Live-stream Studio
Resturant
Live-Stream Overseeing
Second Level
Third Level
Celebrity Live Streaming Space
Lottery Cafe Getting a coffee along with a lottery ticket is what I like to do before work. The drive-through window makes this so easy.
I saw them live streaming today; they are so professional! It must be real!
- Visitor
- Visitor
Driving Through Exhibition
This is so much fun. It’s like going to a 3D theater!
- Visitor
Theater
Casino
Let’s see what people are doing here.
- Manager
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“Let’s bet on what color dress this movie star will wear tonight.”
- Gambler
“White” “No must be green”
“Red” “No Way”
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ARTPARTMENT Affortdable Housing for Artists WILLIAMSBURG, BROOKLYN, NY, USA
INDIVIDUAL WORK 2023
Williamsburg, once a haven for struggling artists seeking affordable housing, thrived with their youthful energy and creative spirit. However, due to its close proximity to Manhattan and the neighborhood’s rapid development, it has evolved into an upscale, less accessible place for many creative individuals. In response to this evolving landscape, the Artpartment has embarked on a mission to address this issue with a groundbreaking economic model that fosters a unique synergy between our physical space and visitors, harnessing the immense potential of cutting-edge VR, AR, and building technologies. With these powerful tools at our disposal, the Artpartment is poised to make a significant impact on the sustainability of Williamsburg’s vibrant artistic community, empowering artists to not only persist in their residence but also invigorate and enrich the entire neighborhood.
USA
New York State
New York City
Brooklyn
Site Analysis
Williamsburg History
Pedestrian Counts
Rent Prices
Combined Diagram
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Low Traffic
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High Rent
Low Rent
High Rent & Low Traffic
Low Rent & High Traffic
2023
Proposal
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
INDIVISUAL
High Traffic
Site Data on rental prices and foot traffic were gathered and mapped using ArcGIS. The integration of these datasets revealed that the location boasts relatively affordable rent coupled with substantial pedestrian activity.
Williamsburg’s Economy
Williamsburg Data 2023
WILLIAMSBURG
INDIVIDUAL
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
Average Rent in NYC
CITYWIDE
Household Income Distribution in Williamsburg
Due to Williamsburg’s nearness to Manhattan and its ongoing gentrification, the area is experiencing swift development through the endeavors of local residents, entrepreneurs, and government initiatives, transforming it into a more upscale and, consequently, less affordable area for numerous creative talents.
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2017-2021
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Community
Economic
Creator
Money Flow
Information
Decision
Outcome
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Scenic Perspectives from Williamsburg’s Renowned Tourist Spots
Commercial Zone Building Park & Green Land
Artists & Fleas Williamsburg McCarren Park
Subway Station
View from Artists & Fleas Williamsburg The Artist Flea in New York City is a renowned tourist attraction and one of the largest artist markets in the area. Known for its vibrant and eclectic mix of art, crafts, vintage items, and unique handmade products.
SITE Williamsburg High School for Architecture and Design
INDIVISUAL 2023
Williamsburg’s Bridge
View Study
The park stands as one of Brooklyn’s largest, serving as a favored hangout spot for locals.
View from Subway Station
INDIVIDUAL
View from Williamsburg High School for Architecture and Design
2023
The subway is the preferred mode of transportation for visitors journeying to Williamsburg.
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
View from McCarren Park
A view from the south east side of the building.
Massing Study
View from Williamsburg’s Bridge The bridge links Downtown Manhattan with Williamsburg and is a significant thoroughfare in New York City.
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④ ①
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2nd Level ① Gym ② Change Room
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④ Washroom
⑨
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⑥ ⑤ 2023
①
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
INDIVISUAL
③ Gathering Space
③
③
①
9th Level Ground Level
① Study Hall
① Exibition
② Storage
② Reception
③ Exibition
③ Office ④ Storage
INDIVIDUAL
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
②
②
2023
④
⑤ Mail Room ⑥ BOH ⑦Bike Parking ⑧ Auditorium 0
100 ft
250 ft
500 ft
⑨ Car Garage
11th Level
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1 I am Abby, an Artist living in the Artparment. I work as a graphic designer and create hand drawings in my free time.
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My work in now showing on the VR Billboard and can be seen via VR and AR devices.
I just up loaded my recent drawing on the apartment platform
2023
3 Here is a preview of it, It will be displayed once it got reviewd.
INDIVIDUAL
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
2023
03 - ARTAPARTMENT
INDIVISUAL
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Residential Circulation Common Space Office/ Management Parking
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Money received!
5 I can see a lot of complement under my post. People seem to like my work!
6 Someone asked to buy it from me.
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OVERBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER Conservation of the Current Community Center OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA
INDIVIDUAL WORK 2021
Established in the early 1900s, Overbrook is a neighborhood in East Ottawa, renowned for its affordability and proximity to the city center. This advantage has spurred population growth and heightened demand for community services. The Overbrook Community Center, expanded in 2011, is central to this development, yet it struggles to accommodate the growing number of users. To address these challenges, a conservation project for the center has been launched, focusing on sustainable community support. This project aims to enhance the center’s facilities and services, catering to the diverse needs of the expanding population, while emphasizing environmental sustainability and long-term community wellbeing.
Canada
Ontario
Ottawa
Ward 18 Overbrook
Overbrook Community Center Proposed Programs
Overbrook Community Center Date of Construction: 1966 Date of Expansion: 2011 Location:33 Quill St, Ottawa, ON K1K 4E7 Architects: Ronald Ogilvie(1966), CSV Architects (2011) Main Purpose of Conservation -
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Difficulties - Max uses the original building form for conservation and to make the original users feel more connected to the building. - The new expansion should provide privacy to the neighbours in the north.
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The community kitchen, which the community worker mentioned as a desirable function, is long, narrow, and unpleasant to use by large groups of people. The circulation of the building is perplexing, with one path leading to the bathroom and the other to an emergency exit.
INDIVIDUAL
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Creating a larger, more visible, and welcoming entrance for the community. Expand the building to accommodate more functions as the population and community are growing. Renovate the building’s exterior and interior to provide the community with a more modern-looking structure. Reorganize the building’s circulation and movement to make it less confusing.
The gym lacks windows, which not only makes natural light difficult to enter but also makes the gym unrecognisable from the outside.
2023
04 - OVERBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER
2023
Residential Park Commercial
04 - OVERBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER
INDIVIDUAL
Site
Even after the expansion, the main entrance of the building remained the same, making the entrance small in comparison to the rest of the building.
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INDIVIDUAL 2023
2023 INDIVIDUAL
04 - OVERBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER
04 - OVERBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER
South East Elevation
South West Elevation
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1. 2.
INDIVIDUAL
To entice people to enter, an attractive greenhouse, supported by energy-efficient and eco-friendly systems, is located on the south west side of the building.
Enviromental Stradegy This project, which includes a greenhouse, community kitchen, and a children’s swimming pool, will use a lot of water. The building’s environmental strategy will aid in the recycling and conservation of water resources.
Legend
INDIVIDUAL
Interior Program: ① Gymnastic ② Rainwater Collecting Room ③ Storage ④ Office ⑤ Meeting Room ⑥ Director’s Office ⑦ Toddle’s Space ⑧ Children’s Library ⑨ First Aid ⑩ Family Washroom ⑪ Electrical Room ⑫ Study Room ⑬ Study Hall ⑭ Multi-Purpose Room ⑮Gym Exterior Program ⑯ Basketball Court/ Hockey Rink ⑰ Sitting Area ⑱ Children’s Swimming Pool ⑲ Playground ⑳ Life Guard
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1. Rainwater Harvesting Roof 2. Indoor Composting Room 3. Dripping Irrigation System 4. Biofilter
2023
04 - OVERBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER
2023
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04 - OVERBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER
3.
Legend Interior Program: ① Greenhouse ② Classroom ③ Storage ④ Kitchen ⑤ Cafeteria ⑥ Handcraft/ Artist Room ⑦ Dark Room ⑧ Shooting Studio Room ⑨ Rooftop Garden ⑩ Study Hall ⑪Food Wast Compost Room ⑫Mechanical Room
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SPACE FOR RAIN Obsercarion Deck
IMAGINARY ISLAND IN “THE WAY BACK” (1954)
INDIVIDUAL WORK 2020
INDIVIDUAL
2023 05 - SPACE FOR RAIN
2023
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It features a deep roof overhang for rain protection and a “wet” garden, evoking a serene ambiance. The wooden roof is designed to amplify the soothing sound of rain, while the deep eaves allow visitors to experience rain without getting wet. Central to this design is a tranquil safe zone, encircled by wood structures, offering respite amidst the wild elements outside. This architectural marvel blends functionality with an appreciation for nature’s elements, offering a peaceful place in a rain-soaked environment.
05 - SPACE FOR RAIN
INDIVIDUAL
In the 1954 story “The Way Back,” protagonists explore a damp, desolate island, encountering numerous perils. To provide a safe exploration space, akin to the rain-enjoyment experienced in Vancouver, a structure inspired by traditional Japanese architecture is proposed.
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2023
INDIVIDUAL
05 - SPACE FOR RAIN 2023
INDIVIDUAL
05 - SPACE FOR RAIN
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The Baby Elephant Marionette Individual Work 2020
This marionette was made to represent the baby elephant in The Elephant’s Journey by Jose Saramago. In this short story, the elephant understands human emotions and can react accordingly; however, its emotions cannot be understood, and are even misunderstood by other human characters. Like a human baby, the elephant struggles to make its emotions and feelings understood. In this marionette, the elephant also stands on two legs and has a ball-jointed arm, allowing it to move like a human and emphasising its anthropomorphism.
THANKS FOR VIEWING Ruby Li Architecture Design Portfolio Selected Wrok 2020-2023