Chang Chen Portfolio 2025

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From a young age, I’ve been captivated by architecture—the balance of form, light, and structure. Though my background is in structural engineering, my true passion lies in designing spaces that embody clarity, simplicity, and purpose. Inspired by I. M. Pei’s precision and Tadao Ando’s poetic use of concrete and light, I aspire to create architecture that is both timeless and structurally profound. Blending engineering logic with artistic vision, I seek to craft spaces that are not just built, but felt.

EDUCATION

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Master of Science Architecture Master of Science Civil Engineering - Structural Bachelor of Science Civil Engineering - Structural & Construction Mgmt

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Architect Intern

Klein & Hoffman, Inc. – Chicago, IL May. 2022 – Sep. 2024 | Summer • Analyzed structural system for potential restoration and retrofit.

• Drafted construction documents using AutoCAD and Revit.

• Conducted site condition assessments, and constructed reports.

Lighting Team Lead / Architecture Team Member Illinois Solar Decathlon - Urbana, IL Sep. 2018 - Sep. 2020 • Worked with 50 teammates in Revit to design and build net-zero solar house.

• Designed lighting and appliances with industry sponsors.

• Created construction drawings, specs, and Revit model.

Graduate Teaching Assistant Material Behavior Lab – Urbana, IL Aug. 2020 – Current • Led weekly labs on metal alloys and wood behavior tests.

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The Nest

Pixel Step Cultural Center

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Hill of Urb San Pablo

Robert Allerton Center

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P . 19

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Minimal Surfaces Concrete Manufacture P . 25

Floating City P . 31

THE NEST

TEAM:

C H A N G C H E N, R Y A N C H I P

LOCATION:

C H I C A G O, I L L I N O I S

TIME:

F A L L, 2 0 2 4

The Dwell 78 apartment high-rise is distinguished by its striking architectural form and thoughtfully designed landscape. The proposal aims to create an iconic and efficient structure that is visually celebrated from all perspectives while integrating a landscape that honors the site’s history and enhances the pedestrian experience.

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THE SURROUNDING OF DWELL 78

Saint Charles Bridge

01 The structural system draws

inspiration from the bracing of the Saint Charles Air Line Bridge, located just across the river, as well as the iconic John Hancock building. The final design echoes these landmark X-shaped forms through a concrete diagrid that envelops the entire building.

Chicago Baseball Stadium

02 The surrounding area is envi-

sioned as a dynamic district integrating sports, research, nightlife, and business. The site’s corner serves as a focal point for significant pedestrian and vehicular movement between the sports stadium and commercial blocks, functioning as both a residential development and a gateway to Dwell 78.

Pre-Existing Railroad Tracks

03 The Metra line’s route diverg-

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es from pre-existing railroad tracks, which will define the building’s southern profile.

These tracks will be preserved, integrating them into the landscape design as they trace its varied sections. This preservation serves as a tribute to Chicago’s historical infrastructure and the original contours of the river in this area.

THE FORMATION OF DWELL 78 Base Shape The Metra line’s route diverges from pre-existing railroad tracks, which will define the building’s southern profile and be preserved within the landscape design.

Closet

Closet

Closet

Closet

UP

Closet

Closet

Closet

Site Circulation

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Telecom Closet

Vent. Shaft

The proportions of the tower in relation to the site block were meticulously calculated to ensure optimal floor plan efficiency while maximizing natural light and panoramic views for the residential units.

SITE PLAN OF DWELL 78

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Proportion of Tower

Closet

Elec. Room

Closet

Closet

W

Closet

D

Situated at the intersection of 15th and Clark Street, the Nest will anchor a dynamic district, with its corner serving as a focal point for movement between the Baseball stadium and commercial blocks.

Closet

Closet

Closet

TYPICAL FLOOR PLAN A

VIEW OF GROUND-LEVEL COURT

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THE STRUCTURE OF DWELL 78

Glazin

Mullio

Diagr

Insula

Concrete Slab Drop Beam

Diagrid Connection Detail

Concrete Diagrid

Concrete Perimeter Beam

Concrete Shear Wall

Structural System 05

ng System

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rid Column

ation Layer

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PIXEL STEP CULTURAL CENTER

T E A M:

INDIVIDUAL

L O C A T I O N:

L O S A N G E L E S, C A L I F O R N I A

T I M E:

S U M M E R, 2 0 2 3

The site features a central park, a museum, and a food bank integrated through a series of repeating modular boxes that create a mountain-like topography adorned with lush rooftop vegetation. Transforming the entire area into a walkable park, this design establishes a monumental social hub that provides functional spaces for each program and revitalizes and strengthens the surrounding community.

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The project draws insp its rich historical cente hoods are integrated in small squares while ada

THE FORMATION OF PIXEL STEP CULTURAL CENTER

piration from Guanajuato City, Central Mexico, renowned for er and distinguished colonial architecture. The city’s neighbornto an organic urban fabric, unfolding gracefully into charming apting to the natural topography.

Rectangular Module

Elevator

Stair

Ramp

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SECTION

THE ELEVATION AND PLAN OF PIXEL STEP CULTURAL CENTER

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

THIRD FLOOR PLAN

STRUCTURAL MODULE The structural system of the Pixel Step Cultural Center is composed of a series of prefabricated steel rectangular modules, meticulously designed to ensure both efficiency and flexibility in construction.

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HILL OF URB SAN PABLO

T E A M:

INDIVIDUAL

L O C A T I O N:

L I M A, P E R U

T I M E:

S P R I N G, 2 0 2 4

Located in Lima, Peru, this project explores high-density urban transition ar-

eas, informality, and culture to reimagine spaces of survival and belonging.

The site analysis focuses on pharmacy availability, topography, and transpor-

tation. While much of Lima, including Gamarra, has accessible pharmacies, the hill areas lack essential medical services, impacting residents’ well-being. The

proposal envisions transforming these hills into vibrant, active spaces by inte-

grating scenic trails with kiosks, markets, and solar-shaded areas. Adding playgrounds and recreational spaces could turn hilltops into community hubs and tourist attractions, fostering further development. This approach seeks to enhance urban life while respecting local culture and improving living conditions.

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TYPOLOGY OF STOPPING POINTS T SHAPE STOPPING POINT

Z SHAPE STOPPING POINT

Small Public Space without Slope Spaces in Irregular Shape No Height Difference Interrupted View

Small Public Space with Slope Spaces in Regular Shape Height Difference Interrupted View

THREE WHEEL MOTOR CAR The three wheel motor car takes people around the hill, at same time carrying products for local pharmacies and venders at each stopping points.

OBSERVATION DECK The observation deck provides a good view of the city of Lima for tourists and local residents. The deck is made of a concrete frame and wooden solar shading panels, structurally connected to the concrete slab.

Street parking is designated for three-wheeled motor cars to stop, pickup customers, and unload goods for the local pharmacy.

MAKANI WIND ENERGY KITE The Makani wind energy kite captures wind power using lightweight hardware and intelligent software. Its rotors generate significant electricity, which is then supplied to the pharmacy and library.

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ELEVATION OF I SHAPE STOPPING POINT

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YP

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OF

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U SHAPE STOPPING POINT

I SHAPE STOPPING POINT

Large Public Space without Slope Spaces in Irregular Shape No Height Difference Uninterrupted View

Large Public Space with Slope Spaces in Regular Shape Height Difference Uninterrupted View

FOOD VENDERS Local food vendors offer street foods and local goods for both the community and tourists. These food carts are versatile in terms of space and mobility, making them easy to move around.

MEDIUM-SIZE LOCAL PHARMACY A medium-sized local pharmacy stands right by the street, offering essential products and medical guidance to both the community and tourists. Its concrete structure connects with the plaza, sharing the same slab as the playground.

LIBRARY The library is situated on the ground level of the plaza, sharing the concrete foundation with the pharmacy. It offers a collection of books and a quiet reading area for the local community.

The vertical garden and playground for kids offer a spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy Lima’s cityscape.

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CIRCULATION OF I SHAPE STOPPING POINT

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STOPPING POINTS PROGRAM ANALYSIS KIOSK PHARMACY

MEDIUM-SIZE LOCAL PHARMACY

Small Public Space Few Product Options Requires Small Area Frequent Interactions

Small Public Space Fair Product Options Requires Small Area Frequent Interactions

BASKETBALL COURT The basketball court sits atop the building, catering to the local residents. As a sport, basketball requires a relatively small area and is easy to implement on the rooftop.

The designated parking for the three-wheeled motor car facilitates passenger boarding and the loading of products for local businesses.

PLATFORM FOR GATHERING & PERFORMANCE The platform is constructed with adobe brick, which is locally available and cost-effective.

Additionally, it features a solar shading device to provide relief from the sun. This platform serves as a gathering spot for local residents to engage in activities like dancing and hosting performances.

Street Market

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STREET MARKET

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The street market sits on the outer edge of the intersection, following the curve of the street. It’s constructed using bamboo sticks and LED lights. Bamboo is chosen for its lightness, easy transport, local availability, and affordability. This light structure offers flexibility for vendors, conforms to the street’s curve, and offers a panoramic view of Lima.

E S TO PP

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LARGE FRANCHISE PHARMACY

OBSERVATION DECK

Large Public Space Various Product Options Requires Large Area Less Interactions

Requires Small Area Requires Uninterrupted View Not Providing Service to Community

PLAY GROUND The playground sits right in the heart of the intersection. It’s crafted from tree trunks and concrete blocks, providing a fun and safe space for kids to play and rest.

EDUCATIONAL SPACE & ANIMAL SHELTER The educational area and animal shelter will be built on top of an existing concrete slab with a wall. It will showcase the history, culture, and local animals of Lima and this specific hill to both tourists and residents.

Lastly, it will provide shelter for local animals like cats and dogs.

The rooftop offers versatile uses, including a basketball court, solar panels, a roof garden, and a space for hanging clothes.

The paving at the intersection is designed to delineate various spaces, guiding pedestrians smoothly through the area.

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PO

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CIRCULATION OF U SHAPE STOPPING POINT

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ROBERT ALLERTON CENTER

T E A M:

INDIVIDUAL

L O C A T I O N:

M O N T I C E L L O, I L L I N O I S

T I M E:

S P R I N G, 2 0 2 3

The new Visitor Center preserves the original shape of the garden while align-

ing with its horizontal axis. Modules are organized based on their functions and circulation patterns. The mass timber structure harmonizes with the sur-

rounding natural environment. The circulation space serves as a transitional

zone between the interior and exterior, connecting the modules to the garden landscape.

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THE PLAN OF ROBERT ALLERTON CENTER

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THE FORMATION OF ROBERT ALLERTON CENTER

The center mirrors the garden’s design, aligning with its axis and Allerton’s spirit. Inner and outer boundaries feature walking platforms that link the forest and building.

Existing trees shape the center’s circulation. The walking platform links to streets and the landscape, offering seating and interactive elements.

Amenities follow a circular layout, reflecting the garden’s shape and seasonal changes. The sliding envelope connects with the landscape while enclosing functional spaces.

THE EXPLODED AXON

MASS TIMBER STRUCTURES: The mass timber structure harmonizes with the site and natural surroundings, maximizing natural light and framing picturesque views.

POND: Ponds are strategically integrated around and within the Visitor Center, creating a serene yet dynamic ambiance that complements the Japanese-inspired mass timber structure.

GLASS HALLWAY EXTERIOR: The glass hallway exterior enhances panoramic views while serving as a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

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NORTH EL

LONGITUDIN

WEST ELE

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LEVATION

AL SECTION

EVATION

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MINIMAL SURFACES CONCRETE

MANUFACTURE

T E A M:

C H A N G C H E N, A L E X A N D E R F A R R E L L

L O C A T I O N:

C H A M P A I G N, I L L I N O I S

T I M E:

F A L L, 2 0 2 3

Concrete has a high embodied energy, making its sustainable adoption a critical challenge in the built environment. To enhance its environmental viability, it is essential to minimize concrete consumption in architectural and structural applications. Minimal surfaces, derived from mathematical principles, optimize material efficiency by locally minimizing surface area. By extruding these surfaces into three dimensions, we can significantly reduce the volume of concrete required while maintaining structural integrity. Ultimately, what we build matters—but so does what we leave behind.

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THE SURFACE OPTIONS AND SNALYSIS

SCHOEN IWP

SCHERK’S SURFACE

SELECTION PARAMETERS HUMAN USE CASTABLE ASSEMBLABLE

ENCLOSE SPACE

NOT 3D PRINTABLE

ELEVATION VIEW OF CONCRETE SURFACE

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NEOVIUS

THE GRASSHOPPER CODE OF MINIMAL SURFACE

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1

1 4 2

5 6

1 A cube of points is constructed and fed into a function.

2 Values are plugged into Millipede’s Isosurface component.

3 Bounding box sets up the restrictions for geometry.

4 XRES, YRES, ZRES: The resolution of the three-dimensional grid.

5 The ‘Isovalue’ input generates the surface in shells.

6 The resulting mesh has its vertices fused and continuous.

MODULE DESIGN I

HALF MODULE WITH INTERLOCKING MECHANISM

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THE CAST OF THE MODULE DESIGN I

RUBBER MOLD

PLA MOLD

MODULE DESIGN II

ROTATED MODULE WITH INTERLOCKING MECHANISM

INTERLOCKING DETAIL

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DIMENSIONS WITH HIGHLIGHTED INTERLOKING DETAIL

THE FINAL MOLD DESIGN

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FLOATING CITY

T E A M:

C H A N G C H E N, L U F A N X U, A L E X F A R R E L L

L O C A T I O N:

M I A M I, F L O R I D A

T I M E:

F A L L, 2 0 2 2

The floating housing design for Miami’s Biscayne Bay features one-story structures to minimize wind impact. Each modular unit is supported by a cost-effective aluminum 6262-T6 hull, engineered for buoyancy and durability. To enhance stability, the base of the hull is partially filled with halite. The building foundations are constructed using aerated concrete, providing both strength and lightweight efficiency. Additionally, rainwater collection systems are integrated into the roof design, promoting water sustainability. This approach addresses housing affordability and rising sea levels while incorporating innovative architecture and sustainable design solutions tailored for coastal resilience.

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THE FLOATING CITY FORM ANALYSIS

PLAN FOR TOKYO, 1960 Axial Layout

THE MODULAR PLAN

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PALM JUMEIRAH, 2001 Radial Layout

VENICE, 421 Canal Layout

LITTLE ISLAND, 2021 Tessellation Layout

THE MODULAR HOUSING MOVEMENTS

THE MODULAR ANALYSIS 1 MODULE 1 BEDROOM

2 MODULES 2 BEDROOMS

STREET PARK I

STREET PARK II

3 BEDROOMS

PUBLIC PARK

BASKET BALL CORT

BAR/CAFE

BRIDGE

3 MODULES GROCERY MARKET

GYM

THE VIEW OF PUBLIC AND WATERFRONT PARK

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OTHER WORKS

0

0.56

1.13

2.25

4.5 mi

BRASILIA CARTOGRAPHY The cartograph highlights key urban factors, including transportation networks, major attractions, population density, and income distribution. It illustrates the city’s development trajectory while identifying potential urban challenges such as population growth, commuting patterns between satellite residential areas and originally planned districts, and the widening socioeconomic gap within the urban population.

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The height of the steel elements represents population density within specific residential areas, while the radius of the plastic elements indicates the flow intensity to major attractions. Circulation patterns within and beyond the city are depicted through connecting lines. Additionally, wooden and red sticks symbolize the transportation system, highlighting areas prone to typical slow zones.

The plastic boards are arranged on a sliding grid system, enabling horizontal movement to symbolize population flow between satellite cities and the originally planned area. The dots on the plastic boards represent household income levels and population demographics, providing insight into socioeconomic distribution across the region.

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LA VICTORIA, PERU CARTOGRAPHY The cartograph highlights the various types and locations of pharmacies within the area. Pink diamonds indicate bus stops, while pink lines represent transportation routes. The pink-highlighted areas denote hilly regions that are home to large populations. Additionally, the mapping illustrates healthcare assemblies and typologies, exploring the potential integration of pharmacies into public infrastructure to enhance accessibility and community interaction.

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TRANSPORTATION-PHARMACY

TOPOGRAPHY-PHARMACY

The feathers symbolize pharmacies, visually connecting them to key nodes within the transportation grid through hot glue, representing accessibility and integration within the urban network.

PMMA debris represents pharmacies, connected by adjustable lines. Manipulating these lines alters the height of the pharmacies, effectively illustrating the topography of the area.

Clear pins represent pharmacies, while metal pins signify bus stops, with lines illustrating the circulation between pharmacies and key transportation points.

Nails represent changes in topography, while pharmacies are marked on the bubble wrap to illustrate their natural relationship within the landscape.

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