CAPSTONE PROPOSAL

Capstone Proposal & Pre-Design Report 0.0 Cover Sheet Firm name: BELT (Tightening Communities) Project Title: The Tangerine

Inspiring Branding / Imagery:

1.0 Project Description & Rationale

Our team is proposing a Mixed-Use Building situated at 4125 Perraton Ave NW, Calgary, Alberta, within the University District community. The building will feature a commercial main floor, an office space on the second floor, and residential units on the upper floors, reflecting our commitment to creating a dynamic and multifunctional urban space.

For the ground floor, our vision involves curating commercial spaces that seamlessly integrate with the University District's urban lifestyle, fostering a strong sense of community and interconnectedness among businesses and residents.

In response to the community's expressed need for office spaces, identified in the concept map for the University District, our second floor is dedicated to fulfilling this specific requirement. Despite the designated use as commercial-office, we are proposing Land Use Relaxation to introduce residential units above. We believe this innovative approach will significantly benefit the community by addressing housing challenges faced by families and students who struggle to find affordable accommodations in proximity to the university.

Our design philosophy emphasizes contributing to the alleviation of housing issues, especially for students. We plan to achieve this by providing well-designed, smaller residential units that optimize space usage, resulting in a greater number of available units compared to traditional buildings. The inclusion of two-bedroom units with thoughtful layout designs further accommodates small and starting families, promoting diversity within the building and the community.

Aligned with the community's master plan, our commitment extends to the selection of environmentally sound materials and the implementation of energyefficient designs. This dedication underscores our goal to create a sustainable and socially responsible urban development.

2.0 Firm / Team Our team comprises four dedicated Architectural Technologist students from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, united by a shared commitment to address the pressing housing issues affecting many Calgarians. Our primary objective is to contribute innovative designs and employ materials that not only expedite construction but also offer cost-effective solutions to the housing challenges faced by the community. Additionally, we are dedicated to minimizing our environmental impact by incorporating sustainable building materials.

Recognizing the urgency of the housing issue, our approach involves redefining traditional norms in construction. We strive for quicker construction processes through strategic design and materials, ensuring a more efficient use of resources.

Our emphasis on cost-effectiveness aims to provide viable housing solutions that align with the economic realities faced by residents in Calgary.

In our pursuit of sustainable development, we are meticulous in the selection of materials that have a reduced environmental impact. We prioritize eco-friendly solutions to ensure our project aligns with broader sustainability goals and leaves a positive mark on the environment.

Our commitment to innovation extends to the design phase, where we explore unconventional spatial solutions to maximize efficiency and comfort. By deviating

from traditional unit designs prevalent in the market, we aim to pioneer a fresh approach to housing that optimizes size and space, offering a distinctive living experience.

Beyond addressing housing challenges, our vision encompasses community development. We aspire to shape the community intentionally by positioning our building as a catalyst for positive change. Furthermore, we are dedicated to fostering diversity within the community, designing spaces that cater to a wide spectrum of needs and lifestyles.

3.0 Biographies Minyong Lee Minyong's professional interest revolves around the technical aspects of architectural design, placing a particular emphasis on utilizing REVIT software. He derives immense satisfaction from witnessing a project evolve and inch closer to completion through the intricate capabilities of REVIT. The dynamic nature of the software, coupled with its perpetual opportunities for learning and innovation, continually draws Minyong toward its technical intricacies.

His fascination with REVIT stems from the perpetual evolution of efficient and intelligent approaches to tasks within the software. The constant quest for mastery and exploration of novel techniques fuels his enthusiasm for REVIT. Moreover, Minyong's interest extends to the documentation and regulatory facets of architecture, where navigating the complexities of bylaws and codes feels akin to solving a puzzle. He is intrigued by the challenge of optimizing project elements within the constraints of regulations, contributing to the overall effectiveness of a design.

Within a team context, Minyong believes his key contributions lie in the ability to deliver organized and visually appealing drawing sets. He considers himself a creative thinker, adept at generating unique ideas and innovative solutions for project challenges. His genuine passion for Architectural Technology is evident in his consistent dedication to refining and improving ongoing projects.

Since his youth, Minyong has harbored a deep interest in living spaces, particularly in the creative utilization of small spaces. This interest aligns seamlessly with the team's focus on providing housing units for students and small families, presenting an exciting opportunity for him to contribute meaningfully to addressing the housing issue in Calgary. Minyong's commitment to consistently pondering project enhancements and problem-solving reflects his genuine passion for the field.

While he acknowledges his weakness in lacking real-life experience, particularly in detailing and understanding the building process intricacies, Minyong is proactive in addressing this gap. Leveraging the expertise of the team's industry advisor, he seeks to augment his knowledge and gain valuable insights from seasoned professionals. This collaborative approach aligns with his commitment to continuous learning and improvement, ensuring that his skills align with industry standards.

Jasmine Barcena

Jasmine demonstrates a profound interest in the technical and graphical aspects of architectural design, immersing herself in the learning curve of AutoCAD, REVIT, and various Photoshop and 3D modeling software. Witnessing a project progress and improve through the myriad features of programs like REVIT brings her immense satisfaction when utilized effectively. The constant evolution of the architectural industry and software, along with ongoing learning opportunities, consistently captivates her technical curiosity.

Her fascination with REVIT stems from its ever-evolving and intelligent approaches to tasks, fueling a continuous pursuit of mastery and exploration of new techniques.

Jasmine finds equal fascination in the documentation and regulatory aspects of architecture, viewing the navigation through bylaws and codes as akin to solving a complex problem. She relishes the challenge of optimizing project elements within regulatory boundaries to enhance the overall effectiveness of a design.

Intertwined with her technical interests is a deep passion for art. This passion serves as a wellspring of creativity, influencing her approach to architectural projects. In a team setting, Jasmine's contributions extend to delivering not only well-organized but also visually compelling drawing sets. As an organized and creative thinker, she seamlessly integrates her artistic inclination to generate unique ideas and innovative solutions for overcoming project challenges. Jasmine's consistent commitment to refining and advancing ongoing projects reflects her genuine passion for the fusion of Architectural Technology and artistic expression.

However, it's essential to acknowledge that her weakness lies in her limited experience, as Jasmine is still in the process of learning and gaining practical exposure in the field. Despite this, her commitment to continuous learning and improvement reflects her dedication to overcoming challenges and growing within the industry of Architectural Technology.

Ethan Toledo Ethan demonstrates a profound interest in the design and research aspects of projects, finding exhilaration in the creation of floor plans and immersing himself in envisioning the experiences of those who will inhabit the spaces. His process involves identifying potential issues or inconveniences, followed by a dedicated effort to implement necessary changes and iterate on the design.

His affinity for Revit stems from the challenging realization that designs may have unforeseen issues, and he thrives on the excitement of problem-solving. This drive is evident in his commitment to research and design, constantly striving for the optimal solution, which he finds positively invigorating.

Ethan's resilience and ability to overcome challenges make him a valuable asset to the team. Despite facing difficulties in his career, he has a track record of recovering from setbacks, demonstrating a commendable determination that aligns with his commitment to continuous improvement. His extensive experience in designing and adjusting floor plans since high school positions him well to contribute effectively to our team and project.

However, Ethan acknowledges a challenge in taking initiative, often stepping into a leadership role only when no one else volunteers. Throughout this project, he aims

to address this limitation and enhance his ability to proactively lead, recognizing the importance of taking charge to drive successful outcomes.

4.0 Methodology At BELT, our unwavering commitment is centered on the mantra of "keeping communities tight." We are dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by our growing population through innovative solutions, with a specific emphasis on improving access to affordable housing. Our overarching goal is to pioneer initiatives that contribute to a sustainable and ecologically responsible approach, ultimately fostering a healthier and more prosperous living environment.

Extensive research conducted by our team forms the foundation of our strategies, identifying key elements that can actualize our objectives. We prioritize factors that ensure the long-term well-being of communities, emphasizing the use of sustainable, eco-friendly, and economically viable materials in our decision-making processes. Departing from conventional construction practices, we integrate timetested methods, such as Mass Timber, combining traditional technical knowledge with cutting-edge improvements to achieve exceptional and impactful outcomes.

Situated within the university district, our vision for the development is a mixed-use structure seamlessly integrating commercial stores, office spaces, and residential units. Designed to cater to a diverse demographic, including students, beginner families, and both short and long-term tenants, the residential spaces range from 1bedroom studios to 2-bedroom units, fostering a vibrant sense of community. The development will feature diverse community spaces, enhancing residents' quality of life with outdoor gathering areas conducive to community bonding and specialized workspaces for students and focused work environments.

The ground level will host publicly accessible commercial units, ensuring convenience for both residents and visitors. These establishments will exclusively address community interests and fill any amenity gaps in the area. Our commitment extends to designing a development that caters to the public while preserving the natural characteristics of the community, achieving a harmonious integration without compromising its unique features.

In collaboration with BCW Architects, our team is poised to achieve the development's objectives. Grounded in shared goals and possessing collective expertise in the required development style, this partnership ensures a comprehensive and adept approach to the project. Together, we strive to create a sustainable and community-centric development that stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation.

5.0 Community Engagement / Industry Outreach Our project is strategically designed to foster engagement with both the local community and industry stakeholders, leveraging the mixed-use nature of our building. The residential section will be tailored to meet the specific needs of students, offering a blend of smaller units conducive to collaborative work and larger units for diverse living arrangements. Notably, we plan to integrate studio

spaces within the residential section to serve as dynamic hubs for student meetings and collaborative endeavors.

To further engage industry, our building will house a variety of commercial rental units, providing versatile spaces for businesses. From office spaces to convenience stores and restaurants, our facility is designed to cater to a diverse range of clients, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment within the community.

In our commitment to informed decision-making, we have proactively sought advice from industry experts. As part of this initiative, we reached out to BCW Architects for guidance. Recognizing their notable work on the Mustard Seed 1010 Centre, particularly their approach to sustainability and dedication to low-income housing solutions, we believe their experience will be invaluable in advising us on the intricacies of developing our own mixed-use building.

By leveraging both community and industry engagement, our project aims to create a dynamic space that not only meets the diverse needs of residents but also contributes positively to the economic and social fabric of the broader community.

6.0 Site Analysis Site Selection Civic Address: 4125 PERRATON AV NW Legal Address: Land Use Description: Direct Control (DC) 121D2020 SITE 2 Site Area: 7,520.5 sqm Lot Price: $2,960,000 Community Name: University District Community

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PARRATO N AV NW

MCLAURIN ST NW

Site Environmental analysis

EXISTING BUS S TOP

SCOPE OF WORK 4125

The sun path study reveals a generally favorable solar exposure for our project building, ensuring ample sunlight reaches the site. It is important to note, however, that the segment of the building facing Perraton AV NW may experience limited sunlight in contrast to other sides of the structure. This discrepancy is a crucial consideration in our design assessment.

In light of the substantial sunlight that the building receives, especially on sides not facing Perraton AV NW, we are contemplating the potential implementation of a sunshade system for the office floor. This proactive consideration is driven by the recognition that intense sunlight could pose a distraction to workers within the office space. Anticipating this need, a sunshade system becomes a viable solution to optimize comfort and productivity.

The blue arrows depicted in the sun path study signify prevailing wind direction.

Notably, the presence of the adjacent children's hospital serves as an effective windbreak, alleviating concerns related to prevailing winds. While prevailing wind direction is indicated, the impact on our site is expected to be minimal due to the protective barrier provided by the children's hospital.

Site Analysis

The land use designation for our project site is classified as "Direct Control" (DC).

Direct Control, represented by Bylaw Number 121D2020 SITE 2, is a customized land use designation with specific regulations and a defined list of permissible uses tailored to the unique characteristics of the property or development.

Within the regulatory framework of Bylaw 121D2020 SITE 2, our site is designated for commercial-office (C-O) use according to Section 5. However, Section 15 of the same bylaw grants the development authority the discretion to relax rules. In light of this provision, our team intends to request a relaxation of the permitted use to include commercial, office, and residential uses. To maintain compliance with the bylaw, we propose retaining both office and commercial uses within our project. In exchange, we seek permission to incorporate additional residential suites.

It's essential to note as the current bylaw does not provide regulations pertaining to residential buildings, we will refer to Bylaw Number 12D2017, previously designated to the 4125 Perraton AV NW site, for relevant residential building regulations.

Adjacent to our project site, we observe land use divisions such as M-2 (Multi Residential) and S-CI (Special Purpose Community Institution), reflecting the diverse

zoning characteristics in the vicinity. This contextual awareness guides our project considerations and ensures alignment with the broader land use context.

7.0 Program Main floor Commercial Second Floor Office Third Floor Residential Suties Studio Units & 2 Bedroom Units 8.0 Sustainability At BELT Architecture, our team is dedicated to researching and implementing hybrid structural systems to achieve and maximize sustainability. Our focus lies on specific considerations, particularly mass timber and concrete, which serve as integral components in our pursuit of environmentally conscious and innovative architectural solutions.

Mass Timber Mass Timber stands as a pivotal response to the growing economic and environmental challenges we face. Embracing this material allows us to harness technological advancements while fostering a culture of innovation. Mass Timber provides ample opportunities to expand partnerships and knowledge networks, emerging as a highly advantageous option when compared to conventional practices such as steel structure systems.

Key advantages of Mass Timber include substantial cost savings, shortened construction timelines, and heightened energy efficiency. Beyond economic benefits, Mass Timber stands out as a dependable and durable building material, boasting a lower carbon footprint than alternatives. This is attributed to the sustainable nature of wood, as trees absorb carbon dioxide during their growth, contributing to a healthier environment and addressing concerns related to climate change.

In addition to its environmental benefits, Mass Timber enhances safety through its innate characteristics. It exhibits high fire resistance (1-3 hours without additional protection), resilience against pests, and resistance to moisture. The efficiency in construction time is further accentuated by the lightweight and easily manageable nature of wood.

Concrete Concrete, known for its versatility, offers a spectrum of creative possibilities in design and adaptation. It aligns seamlessly with environmentally conscious architectural practices, thanks to its recyclability and eco-friendly attributes. Its resilience against water makes it an ideal choice for diverse locations and climates.

Concrete contributes significantly to the safety and sound features of buildings.

With high fire resistance and effective sound insulation, it ensures not only the structural safety but also a peaceful internal environment for occupants. Its lowmaintenance requirements, non-reflective properties, and resistance to wear and tear from external elements contribute to an extended lifespan for structures.

In summary, the multifaceted nature of concrete makes it an indispensable choice in modern construction, combining versatility, environmental responsibility, safety, acoustic performance, and long-term durability.

Conclusion Our approach at BELT Architecture involves harnessing the strengths of both Mass Timber and Concrete through hybrid structures. While Mass Timber brings sustainability, rapid construction, and reduced environmental impact, Concrete contributes strength, resilience, and fire resistance. This combination enables efficient design, heightened structural performance, and environmental advantages, making it an appealing option for specific construction endeavors.

This approach has proven successful in various timber buildings, prompting the incorporation of new regulations in the 2020 edition of the National Building Code of Canada. The Canadian government's proactive stance towards embracing mass timber and hybrid construction methods reflects a commitment to sustainability and addressing the demand for more affordable housing.

The strategic shift towards the utilization of Mass Timber underscores the need for innovative solutions in the face of housing price surges in Calgary. This commitment aligns with our vision at BELT Architecture to contribute to a sustainable and accessible future for the community.

9.0 Case Studies Case Study #1 The Use of Space Project Name: The Peak Architects: Grimshaw Area: 33 sqm Location: Melbourne, Australia Source: https://www.archdaily.com/903712/the-peak-grimshaw? ad_source=search&ad_medium=projects_tab

The Grimshaw project stands as an exemplary demonstration of leveraging intelligent design to transform modest spaces into comfortable, livable environments. The floor plan adeptly accommodates the essential elements required for a single occupant or a couple, showcasing a judicious integration of the kitchen, couch, bed, and washroom. This strategic layout optimizes spatial efficiency, providing an open and uncluttered feel.

A noteworthy feature of the floor plan is the creation of a spacious living room area, capable of accommodating a dining table, television, or supplementary seating. The thoughtful design extends to incorporate a bookshelf and storage area adjacent to the sofa, enhancing functionality within the limited space.

This design philosophy aligns seamlessly with our team's vision, anticipating significant benefits for the target demographic, including students, young couples, and single professionals. The inherent cost-effectiveness of constructing smaller units is poised to address the escalating housing costs in Calgary, thereby offering a viable solution for tenants.

Furthermore, our strategic approach envisions a potential increase in profitability for our client by optimizing the use of available space. By subdividing a designated area into 2 or 3 smaller units, we can maintain the same overall space allocation at a fraction of the cost. Consequently, this not only caters to the affordability concerns of young Calgarians but also positions our client to realize enhanced profitability through the ability to charge multiple units, thus multiplying the revenue streams.

Project Name: Ursa Tiny on Wheels House Architects: Madeiguincho Area: 17 sqm Location: Cascais, Portugal Source: https://www.archdaily.com/966043/ursa-tiny-on-wheels-housemadeiguincho?ad_source=search&ad_medium=projects_tab

The project by Madeiguincho provides an insightful example of optimizing limited space, notable for its inclusion of two beds within a confined area. This distinction sets it apart, showcasing the designer's ingenuity in maximizing spatial efficiency without compromising essential living requirements.

Despite the compact dimensions, the design seamlessly integrates a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom complete with a shower, a functional desk area, and two beds with incorporated storage space. This exemplifies a pragmatic approach to interior design, ensuring that every facet of daily living is accommodated within the confines of the available space.

Our team recognizes the potential of this design paradigm, intending to broaden its applicability beyond the student demographic to include small starting families.

While the Madeiguincho project may appear petite for familial use, our vision involves extrapolating and adapting its principles to create slightly larger spaces that cater to the unique needs of small families.

The core strategy revolves around leveraging a creative and intelligent approach to design, ensuring that each aspect of the available space is utilized effectively. By incorporating lessons from the Madeiguincho project, we aim to craft living spaces that are compact yet highly functional, meeting the needs of small families while embracing the principles of efficiency and practicality.

Case Study #2 The Use of Mass Timber Title of Article: “4 Projects that Show Mass Timber is the Future of American Cities” Article Written By: Niall Patrick Walsh Published on: 1 September, 2021 Source: 4 Projects That Show Mass Timber is the Future of American Cities | ArchDaily

Our team conducted a thorough examination of the Timber Towers project, specifically focusing on its relevance to our own endeavor due to the shared utilization of mass timber. Notably, the Timber Towers encompass key elements integral to our project vision, encompassing a harmonious integration of residential, retail, and office spaces.

One noteworthy aspect of the Timber Towers that resonates with our objectives is the inclusion of schematic massing, providing valuable insights into their design process. The exploration of these schematics has the potential to inspire our own design considerations and serve as a catalyst for initiating our schematic process.

Of particular interest is the incorporation of a garden-like terrace on an upper floor within the Timber Towers. This innovative feature not only maximizes the utilization of retail and office spaces but also contributes to enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. The integration of such communal and green spaces aligns with our commitment to creating environments that prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of the individuals who will inhabit our project.

In essence, the Timber Towers project serves as a valuable reference point, offering insights into the strategic integration of mass timber and the simultaneous inclusion of diverse functionalities within a single structure. As we embark on our schematic design process, the lessons drawn from the Timber Towers will undoubtedly inform our decisions and contribute to the development of a thoughtfully designed and functionally optimized project.

Case Study #3 Project Name: Mississippi Workshop Architects: Waechter Architecture Area: 9550 sqft Location: Portland, United States Source: Mississippi Workshop / Waechter Architecture | ArchDaily

Our team was intrigued by a recent project located in Portland, completed in 2022.

This project stands out as the first commercial endeavor in Oregon to fully embrace mass timber construction for the entire building. Positioned as a pioneering venture,

it serves as a proving ground for the viability and merit of timber in commercial constructions within the region.

Aligned with the objectives of our own mixed-use project, this building features studio and meeting spaces on the second floor. Notably, it adopts a "flexible use" approach in the placement of these spaces. The building is structured into six equal rooms spread across three floors, termed as "plug and play units." Each room is equipped with plumbing rough-ins and outlets, allowing for a dynamic and adaptable allocation of space based on evolving needs.

On the ground floor, the building offers a variety of convenient amenities, including a cafe, bicycle parking facilities, and a service area workshop space. This diverse functionality ensures a practical and versatile use of the building's space.

An additional aspect appreciated by our team is the prominent use of wood in the project. Throughout the design, wood is visible, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of the building. The implementation is done thoughtfully, maintaining an aesthetically pleasing visual harmony.

Examining this Portland project provides valuable insights for our own mixed-use development. The utilization of mass timber, the "flexible use" concept, and the aesthetic integration of wood are all noteworthy elements that align with our team's goals. This exploration contributes to our ongoing pursuit of innovative architectural solutions.