Bailey McMahon Portfolio

PORTFOLIO

bailey mcmahon 2023

I am Bailey McMahon, an Architectural Designer with a profound love for the art of creating spaces. I earned my Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree from the Graduate Program at North Dakota State University, and my educational journey has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to bring innovative design concepts to life.

My design philosophy is deeply rooted in a fusion of art, nature, and human experience. During my free time, I enjoy hiking, skiing, surfing, traveling to new places, tending to my plants, exploring hands-on creative outlets, and immersing myself in the natural environment. These cherished pastimes serve as vital sources of inspiration, profoundly influencing my design process and broadening the spectrum of projects I am genuinely passionate about.

PAINTED CANYON VISITOR CENTER

theodore roosevelt national park advisor kristi hanson, faia 2022 & 2023

OVERVIEW

This project focused on re-designing Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s Painted Canyon Visitor Center to incorporate biophilic and biomorphic design elements, with the aim of enhancing the park experience for visitors and benefiting the overall ecosystem.

By incorporating biophilic design, which emphasizes the integration of natural elements into the built environment, the visitor center fosters a deeper connection with nature. Incorporating biomorphic design elements, inspired by organic shapes and patterns found in nature, creates a sense of harmony and tranquility. This redesign provides numerous benefits to both the park and its visitors.

Firstly, it creates a welcoming and immersive atmosphere, promoting relaxation and well-being. Secondly, the integration of natural materials and green spaces enhances indoor air quality and contributes to the overall sustainability of the building. Lastly, the center serves as an educational hub, raising awareness about the importance of conservation and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the park’s unique natural heritage.

VIEW HINDERING ENTRANCE

Delayed gratification was a prominent factor in the design and orientation of the proposed structure. It was important in the interest of the visitor experience aspect to keep the views private until the full picture could be seen at once.

As you navigate the site to the entrance, you are greeted with a large plaza-like staircase riddled with native vegetation. Descending down the stairs, or winding down the ramp, you are able to see all directions except for that of the picturesque landscape beyond the building.

CIRCULATION

Following your entrance to the center, you catch a small fragment of the grand view through a long corridor. The vast open atrium, similar to that of the immense expanses of sky among the prairie-scape, allows you to feel as though you are outdoors while still being sheltered by the undulating roof of the structure.

Wandering the circumference of the main floor, you’ll be captivated by the textured walls that artfully mimic and speak to the rugged coal veins that run through the Painted Canyon. The lush greenery surrounding the seating area provides a comforting atmosphere, with the colors of the furniture blending in seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

LOCAL MARKET SPACE

As much as the center serves as a celebration of the stunning natural environment that surrounds it, it also honors the vibrant community that thrives within it.

Local artists, vendors, and small business owners are embraced through the local market spaces, providing a platform for their unique perspectives, skills, and products to shine. The result is a dynamic tapestry of creativity and commerce, interwoven with the rich cultural heritage of the region.

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE AREA

The education resource areas within the center offer a gateway to connect with nature’s essence through the beauty of art and the power of knowledge. These serene spaces provide a sanctuary for inspiration, fostering creativity and learning in visitors of all ages, as they immerse themselves in the marvels of the natural world.

Within the classrooms, skilled instructors guide students through interactive lessons on ecology, wildlife, and geology, encouraging handson experiences that cultivate a deeper connection with the park’s diverse ecosystem. Together, these resources create a pathway to discovery, an invitation to behold the magic of nature and to find harmony within its rhythms.

GRAB & GO CAFE SEATING AREA

The visitor center offers a variety of seating areas where visitors can regenerate and recharge. Whether you prefer a quiet spot tucked away from the crowds or a place with breathtaking views, these seating areas provide a sense of calmness and rejuvenation.

With soft lighting, comfortable chairs, and warm colors, the spaces are inviting and soothing, creating a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of the park. Take a moment to relax with a book, catch up with friends over a cup of coffee, or simply sit and reflect on the wonders of nature. These seating areas are scattered throughout the visitor center and offer a peaceful retreat.

EVENT SPACE

From the floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, to the meticulously crafted details that reflect the natural beauty of the park, every element of this space has been thoughtfully designed to inspire awe and elevate the senses. The space retains an air of warmth and intimacy that is sure to make every guest feel welcome. Whether you are celebrating a wedding, hosting a corporate gathering, or simply seeking a striking setting for your next special occasion, this event space is sure to exceed expectations.

Moving to the upper level, the flexible event space boasts an atmosphere that perfectly blends the splendor of the great outdoors with the refinement of a luxurious venue.

NATURE DECK

The nature deck offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding natural beauty. Without any confines to the wildlife of the park, the native animals are able to come within close proximity. The floor to ceiling spider glass curtain system offers a unique opportunity for visitors to view these animals up close while still taking precautious safety measures.

CROSS VENTILATION

cross ventilation is a passive strategy that cools and circulates air, which improves indoor air quality and greatly reduces the need for a mechanical cooling system in the summer months.

LOUVER SYSTEM

designed to mitigate direct heat gain, the louver system significantly improves energy efficiency and reduces cooling costs throughout the facility by strategic sun shading.

STRAW BALE INSULATION

made from tightly packed straw bales, this natural, eco-friendly material maintains a comfortable indoor environment while improving sound quality and providing fire resistance.

The nature deck offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding natural beauty. Without any confines to the wildlife of the park, the native animals are able to come within close proximity. The floor to ceiling spider glass curtain system offers a unique opportunity for visitors to view these animals up close while still taking precautious safety measures.

The principles of biomorphism and biomimicry hold a vital place in national park architecture, as they allow designers to seamlessly incorporate the essence of the natural world into the built environment. By drawing inspiration from the rhythms and forms of nature, architects can craft spaces that evoke a sense of balance and unity with the surrounding landscape. Through this approach, buildings can become an integral part of the ecosystem, and visitors can connect more deeply with the natural environment they came to explore.

MASTER PLANNING

medora, north dakota advisor kristi hanson, faia spring 2022

OVERVIEW

The studio group lead by Kristi Hanson, FAIA, was tasked with preparing the city of Medora, North Dakota for the influx of visitors in wake of the newly announced Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. By meeting with the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation board members on a regular basis, we were able to articulate a new branding package, land plan, and several architectural programs to accommodate the small town. I, in particular, took the opportunity to design a hotel villa complex and a much-needed filling station that would celebrate the existing western identity of the surrounding area.

TRAILBLAZER RIDGE

Trailblazer Ridge is a complex that hosts a handful of ammenities to serve both the local population and also the visitors. Offering an upscale dining experience at The Barrel, a night in one of the villas nestled in the butte, or renting a bike to explore the trails, there is an opportunity for all.

HOTEL VILLA + RESTAURANT + OUTFITTER

1 The Barrel Restaurant

2 Kitchen

3 Restaurant Patio

4 Hotel Lobby

5 Hotel Patio

6 Storage

7 Outfitters

DENNIS LANZ

fargo, north dakota advisors

+ cindy urness + emily guo + niloufar alenjery + paul gleye

2021

OVERVIEW

The Dennis Lanz Design Competition was a group opportunity to desgin a system of pavilions along the banks of the Red River in Fargo, North Dakota. Our group of eight decided to honor the history of the Red River and use the culutral importance to aide in our design and narrative. With 5 fellow architecture students, one landscape architecture student, and one graphic design student, we were able to encapsulate the heritage of the area into 5 pavilions, earning us first prize for the competition.

The Red River History Walk is an immersive pathway winding up the river, conceptualizing timelines of five cities along the river’s bank. Steam boats and railways along historic trade routes strongly influenced cities on the river. Each pavilion is a representation of each city and how the river has shaped its history.

The ‘Whapeton Departure’ pavilion is the spearhead for the Red River History Walk. Representing the start of the Red River, ‘Wahpeton Departure’ showcases the history of the steamboats and the beginning of their northbound trading route. The path flows through the center of the pavilion, mimicking the curvatures of the river.

WINNIPEG DELTA

The ‘Winnipeg Delta’ represents the end of the Red River emptying into Lake Winnipeg. It reflects on the previous pavilions with a mural wall of the river on the inside of the structure. The pavilion itself is built into the landscape with removable glass panels placed to accommodate annual flooding.

CORMORANT LAKEHOME

cormorant lake, minnesota advisor kristi hanson, faia 2022

OVERVIEW

The Cormorant Lake Home is a product of the Marvin Windows Competition. In the two week time period, we were to design a home for professor Kristi Hanson and her partner Dean Bresciani on Middle Cormorant Lake in Central Minnesota. This design project in particular was pivitol in my design career thus far, as we used a substantial manfacturer in the industry, a real client in mind, and an existing site.

N SITE PLAN

ROOKE RESIDENCE

marfa, texas advisor cindy urness spring 2020

OVERVIEW

Located in the heart of Marfa, Texas, the Rooke Residence is a visionary residential project that redefines modern desert living. This dwelling represents a harmonious blend of innovation and local authenticity. Its minimalist facade features clean lines and a combination of natural materials, such as locally sourced stone and weathered wood, that complement the surrounding desert environment. Inside, the dwelling offers a spacious and open living experience, with large windows that frame breathtaking desert vistas.

This Rooke Residence is more than just a home; it’s a testament to the unique spirit of Marfa, providing residents with a tranquil retreat while fostering a deep connection to the desert landscape and the artistic community that makes Marfa a renowned cultural destination.

1 Covered Outdoor Patio

2 Office & Guest Room

3 Utility

4 Mud Room

1 Covered Outdoor Patio

2 Master Bedroom

3 Secondary Bedroom

4 Living

INK WORK

micron pen ink + fly - 2020 + jones - 2018 + funky fish - 2019

COLORED PENCIL