Arch 2001 Final Portfolio

CHRISTOPHER JAMES ARCH 2001: DRAW, WRITE, BUILD, CODE, REPEAT LSU School of Architecture | Doyle + Kelsch

CHRISTOPHER JAMES ARCH 2001: DRAW, WRITE, BUILD, CODE, REPEAT LSU School of Architecture | Doyle + Kelsch

Bachelor of Architecture Candidate 2018 e: cjame32@lsu.edu m: 727-366-3963

1

1:1 Study Kiosk

Dot-the-Dot Historical juxtaposition

p. 4-11

2

p. 12-13

Rhino Modeling Analog translation

p. 14-15

Architecture of the Levee Water Campus Bus Stop

p. 20-25

Connecting to the River

Baton Rouge Pump Station

p. 26-35

p. 36-45

3

ARCH 2001: DRAW, WRITE, BUILD, CODE, REPEAT LSU School of Architecture | Doyle + Kelsch Christopher James, Catherine Bourg, Ariana Farrar, Brianne LeBlanc, and Natasha Sachania

1:1 | Study Kiosk | Crossroads LSU’s Quad is a crossroads. Paths, people, and stories all intersect at this beautiful junction to create an energized and dynamic environment unparalleled by any other space on campus. Naturally, students congregate under the stately oaks to converse, rest, play, and study. It is an interchange of ideas, a hub of activity, and a point of crucial decisions. With that in mind, this project sought to inhabit the dynamic crossroads condition of the Quad by providing a unique “kiosk” for students to study in. The construction parameters were to utilize a pre-determined kit-of-parts as well as touch a 10’x10’x10’ envelope on all sides. The resulting design embraced the idea of a crossroads in all its forms, including the intersection of two separate spaces within the structure, the siting of the structure on a major walkway in front of Atkinson Hall, and the collaborative exchange of ideas and efforts within the group during the design process.

The project began by exploring the limitations of the kit-of-parts through model making. Using basswood sticks and sheets to resemble the allotted 2’x4’s and plywood, design proposals were constructed and analyzed for their spatial qualities, their use of material, and their structural integrity. Initially, two spatial typologies emerged from the group’s models. The first was a closed layout, where habitation occurs within the surrounding structure. The second was an open layout, where habitation occurs around a central structure. As the design progressed, the group decided to develop the open plan further, for it was the most efficient use of materials and allowed for a more interesting dialogue between inside and outside space.

The project’s success lies in its ability to address the needs of its users – shade, seating, and desk space – while embracing the Quad as an integral part of the dynamic fabric. At every critical decision during both the design process and the construction project, the objective remained the same – thoughtfully and beautifully inhabit the crossroads.

4

5

Test Models (analog)

Test Models (digital) 10'-0"

6'-2"

4’-0”

1'-2"

4'-0"

2'-2"

2'-10"

°

6'-8"

10'-0"

3'-6"

4'-1"

°

10

45

Section A 6

10'-0"

4'-0"

1'-3"

2'-2"

1'-0"

1'-4"

1'-8"

1'-4"

1'-7"

7'-9"

6'-8"

7'-6"

8'-0"

10'-0"

10째

45째

Section B

A

10'-0"

4'-8" 1'-8"

6"

1'-10"

1'-4"

10'-0"

3'-4"

6'-2"

2'-7"

1'-4"

B

3'-4"

4'-0"

1'-4"

B

A

N

Plan 7

Site Analysis | Inhabiting the Crossroads Additional qualities were considered as the design moved forward, specifically shade and functionality. To block mid-day sun, the design positions two pitched roofs on different axes to block harsh sunlight in multiple directions. To promote an environment conducive to studying, sufficient seating and desk space were prioritized by the group. Multiple benches facilitate independent users as well as groups of people. In regards to the structure, variations of lap joints were chosen to connect the wooden components, and a cantilever roof was employed to create a dramatic profile that maximizes open space underneath.

8

Middelton Library

Atkinson

N

Sun Study: 12pm

Sun Study: 2pm

Site Plan

Sun Study: 4pm

9

Installation| Practical Improvisation On October 7th, 2014, the study kiosk was constructed in LSU’s quad. The team was challenged to work together as well as adapt to unexpected problems. For example, the initial cantilever design was altered to accommodate unexpected weight loads by adding another vertical load-bearing member. Also, adjustments were made to some of the wood joints that were not functioning properly. The difficulties during construction clearly demonstrated the importance of considering assembly during design. The exploded axon (right) illustrates that process.

10

A1

A1-A2

C1 C2

B1

B1-B2

A2

B2

C1-C2 Exploded Axon with joint details 11

ARCH 2001: DRAW, WRITE, BUILD, CODE, REPEAT LSU School of Architecture | Doyle + Kelsch Christopher James, Catherine Bourg, Ariana Farrar, Brianne LeBlanc, and Natasha Sachania

Dot-the-Dot | Historical Juxtaposition Started by a group of young faculty at the University of Texas School of Architecture in the mid-1950’s, Dot-the-Dot is a collective drawing game where participants contribute to one, continuous drawing over an extended period of time. These contributions consist of plans, sections, elevations, and perspectives of famous architecture throughout history. The beautiful challenge of the game is to devise a way to connect these drastically different drawing types to create a cohesive whole.

This studio has taken Dot-the-Dot as an opportunity to improve hand-drawing skills as well as learn about important architects throughout history. Every week an additional architect’s work is added, producing a unique juxtaposition of buildings and styles that are not seen in the real word.

The architects whose work was represented include: Rem Koolhaas, LeCorbusier, Mies van der Rohe, Peter Zumthor, Diller Scofido + Renfro, Renzo Piano, and finally SANAA.

12

13

ARCH 2001: DRAW, WRITE, BUILD, CODE, REPEAT LSU School of Architecture | Doyle + Kelsch Christopher James

Rhino Modeling | Analog Translation Rhino 3D Modeling Software is a powerful tool for thinking three-dimensionally. In the program, designers have the ability to create with precision, building models that can be used over and over again without depreciation.

To further understand how Rhino works, these physical models were constructed to illustrate various commands within the software. The “smooth” command (top)averages the values of points in a mesh to create a softened face. “Heightfield” (bottom) imports an image, converts the pixels to grayscale values, then assigns a vertical position for points within a field based on those values. Kinetic in nature, the models demonstrate the power and usefulness of these commands over time.

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ARCH 2001: DRAW, WRITE, BUILD, CODE, REPEAT LSU School of Architecture | Doyle + Kelsch Christopher James

Architecture of the Levee | The Water Campus Can infrastructure be beautiful? Can the Louisiana Landscape dominated by flood control structures be reimagined at a human scale, transforming what was once inaccessible into something habitable? From massive monolithic levees surrounding urban areas to natural oyster reefs on the outer fringes of the Gulf Coast, every effort is made to preserve the livelihoods of Louisiana’s inhabitants from the impending threats of flooding and land loss. According to the 2012 Louisiana Coastal Master Plan, approximately $50 billion has been appropriated to future infrastructural projects that address coastal restoration, flood hazard mitigation, and water management. However, there is still a separation between the infrastructure and people it is protecting. This project seeks to resolve that disconnect in an urban context, specifically for the future Water Campus in Baton Rouge.

The Water Campus is a large-scale development that will be the future home to numerous research organizations that strive to protect and manage earth’s most valuable resource - water. The site of the campus lies south of downtown Baton Rouge on the banks of the Mississippi River. It is a peculiar condition, for numerous natural and infrastructural barriers block access to the Mississippi River, dividing the site.

These edge conditions drove this design to resolve the fragmented landscape into a cohesive fabric by utilizing transit (p. 20-25), catalyzing circulation (p. 2635), and activating infrastructure (p. 36-45). Together, the three structures embrace the edge conditions of the site as design drivers rather than barriers. Through architecture, the infrastructure that separates becomes a beautiful thing that unifies.

16

17

Water Campus Group Model (1:500)

Final Review 18

pump station

connection

bus stop

N Site Plan

Site Section

Individual Water Campus Proposal (1/32�=1’) 19

Architecture of the Levee | Water Campus Bus Stop | Edge An edge is a special intersection, a delicate meeting of two disparate things to create a unique third condition.

These edges can be a fast, clear division, or a slow, muddied zone. Whatever the form, edges and their transitional character reveal themselves in every sphere, from earth’s geomorphology to the intricacies of the human experience.

Within that context, Baton Rouge’s Water Campus was realized. This 30 acre development just south of the Mississippi River Bridge will be home to the Water Institute of the Gulf, an independent research organization that offers scientific solutions to Louisiana’s deteriorating edge, facing the pressures of a rapidly changing coastline and responding with innovative and resilient intervention.

In order to facilitate that dialogue, the campus must be accessible by the Greater Baton Rouge community.

The first step towards that goal is connecting the site to public transportation, specifically the Capital Area Transit System (CATS). The proposed bus route extensions effectively link North and South Baton Rouge with the campus. Consequently, this design proposal for a bus stop seeks to create a space that encourages commuters to utilize the extended CATS system, and it will be replicated throughout the Water Campus.

The prevalent edges of the initial site informed the design. Numerous natural and infrastructural barriers exist 20

between the bus stop and the Mississippi River, including the levee, railroad tracks, roadways, and vegetation. Rather than challenge those barriers, the structure embraces them as a datum of orientation. For example, seating is situated along the curb of Terrace Ave. to provide natural circulation to and from the bus. Also, the roofs are aligned in such a way to guide the eye towards the sequence of edges while providing adequate shade. Lastly, in response to water runoff, gravel was employed as a permeable membrane around the building’s perimeter. Furthermore, the design inhabits the edge condition in a thoughtful way that encourages commuters to do the same.

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East Blvd.

Miss issip pi Riv e

r

Interstate 10

ers Int

Arches St.

Terrace St.

Oklahoma St.

0

sD ma Dr.

Nicholson Dr.

it elp

S River Rd.

e1 tat

Tho

Louise St.

E Washington St.

dD

hlan

Hig

Existing Stops Proposed Stops

r.

Route 14: Thomas Delpit (connection to CATS Terminal) Proposed Route 14 extension Route 16: Capitol Park Shuttle (connection to Louisiana State Capitol and Downtown Baton Rouge) Proposed Route 16 extension Route 47: Highland Road (connection to Louisiana State University and South Baton Rouge) Proposed Route 47 extension

Material/Texture Inventory

Design Development | Connecting the Edge The design proposal seeks to form a connection with the community, linking the resources of Baton Rouge with the opportunity of the Water Campus. Upon further study of the existing CATS transit system, three bus routes were chosen as the most effective in bringing commuters to the site. Route 14 will connect the campus to the main CATS terminal, Route 16 links the campus with downtown and the Louisiana State capitol, and Route 47 incorporates all of South Baton Rouge, including LSU. The bus stop will be the intersection of these routes, providing a space for the intersection of people, ideas, and stories.

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Proposed CATS Bus Extension

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15’-5” 3'-7"

8'-0"

4'-0"

3'-6"

3'-10"

10

3'-0"

1'-6"

2'-6”

1'-6"

7'-0"

6'-4"

7'-0"

10'-0"

8'-8"

2'-4"

°

Section B

A 21’-0” 3'-6"

4'-3"

3'-6"

3'-10"

8'-11"

2'-2"

4'0"

°

60

2'-0"

8'-

0"

4'-

0"

3'-10"

B

B 4'-0"

1'-

4" 2'-

8’-

0”

8"

A 24

N

Plan

4’x8’ plywood

B1 A1-A2

2”x4” lumber

B2

gravel concrete

C1-C2

A1-A2

B1-B2

C1-C2 Exploded Axon with joint details

9'-11" 2'-9"

6'-3" 4'-0"

1'-3"

8'-7"

10'-0”

30°

1'-6"

4'-9"

6'-8"

7'-0"

Section A 25

Architecture of the Levee | Connecting to the River | Edge The natural and infrastructural edges that exist on the future site of Baton Rouge’s Water Campus necessitated an exploration of access. Fragmented and disjointed, the site consists of parallel barriers that effectively separate the campus from the Mississippi River. As a research organization that connects people with water management resources, it is counter-intuitive for the Water Institute of the Gulf’s facilities to be cut off from one of the most critical rivers in the United States. So, connection to the river is an integral part of the Water Campus’ vision. Through multiple access points, curated views, and careful intersections with the dividing barriers, an elevated walkway was developed to bridge the gap between the city and the river. By linking the walkway to the bus stop proposed earlier in the project, access to the Mississippi River is extended to include the reach of the CATS bus system, reclaiming the riverfront for the greater Baton Rouge area.

Rather than view the walkway purely as a means of circulation, the design becomes a scenic destination, providing a new vantage point from which to view Baton Rouge. Elevated an average of 20 feet, the walkway encourages pedestrians to experience the beautiful landscape – downtown to the north, the Water Campus to the east, LSU to the south, and the Mississippi River to the west. To further their observations, cantilevered 26

seating areas are arranged adjacent to the main path as separate, intimate spaces. These spaces invite pedestrians to sit down and converse while enjoying the portion of the landscape curated by their orientation.

Since accessibility is one of the primary goals of the project, the method in which the structure engages with the ground is extremely important. There are multiple points of access connecting the walkway to areas with the highest circulation, specifically the bus stop, the bike path, the river, and the pump station. By providing multiple points of entry and exit, the number of potential users increases. In addition, stairs and ramps are employed simultaneously enabling wheelchair and bicycle accessibility.

Lastly, the intersection between the edges of the site and the edges of the walkway were very calculated in their position. For instance, the railroad, River Road, and the bike path all have minimum clearance requirements, so the walkway adjusts its elevation accordingly. Also, the ramps and stairs intersect the circulation paths on the ground in a convenient and logical way.

Resolving disconnect, the elevated walkway beautifully links the natural and built environments, encouraging pedestrians to explore the edge condition and making that pursuit accessible for all.

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Site Inventory | Spanning Edge Conditions Similar to the bus stop proposal, the prevalent edges on the site informed the design of the walkway. The circulation path is surrounded by a palimpsest of vertical and horizontal beams that increase in frequency at certain moments along the path.

These moments occur at slight changes in direction, utilizing the density of edge to define the volume through which the pedestrians walk. The vibrating quality of the layered beams also alludes to the dynamic nature of the Louisiana coast, encouraging viewers to reconsider the notion that edges are static and develop a more holistic understanding of the delta.

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Edge Conditions

Connection Elevation

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Curated Views Diagram

Structural Density Diagram

Circulation/Access Diagram 30

Precedent study: First Year studio project

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staircase to bus stop Terr a

ce A ve.

staircase to pump station

Riv er R

d.

Railr oad

seating area

Bike

Path

ramp to pump station

32

sip pi R ssis Mi

staircase to river

ive

r

Lev e

e

ramp to bike path

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80'-10"

21'-2"

22'-0"

17'-2"

20'-5"

6”x6”x1/2” HSS plywood

12”x12”x1/2” HSS

3”x3”x1/4” HSS

2”x4” lumber

3’-6”

18'-10"

16’-0”

30'-0"

30’-0”

7'-0"

7'-0"

5’-4”

7’-4”

11 0

°

7’-0”

12'-4"

10’-0”

Connection Detail Section A

4’ 22’-0”

6' 17'-2"

21'-2"

20'-5" 80'-10"

N

34

Connection Detail Plan A

15'-9"

11'-6"

7'-2"

12'-11"

3'-6"

stair tread: 11” stair riser: 6” (ADA)

20'-10"

30'-0"

1/4” steel cable railing

14'-0"

ramp slope (ADA) 1:12

7'-0"

7'-0"

Connection Detail Section B

40'-0"

6'-

0"

"

8'-0

°

130

1'-0

70°

"

10'-0"

0” 14’-

70°

6'-0"

14’-0"

N

Connection Detail Plan B 35

Architecture of the Levee | Baton Rouge Pump Station | Edge Located on River Road within the heart of Baton Rouge’s Water Campus, the Baton Rouge Pump Station prevents the flooding of the low-lying land behind the Mississippi River levee. It is an infrastructural landmark of man’s attempt to control a dynamic landscape and mitigate the dangers of riverine flooding to a community. Currently, the station is only accessible by authorized personnel, but this design proposes an interactive structure that provides glimpses into the pump machinery within and creates a local destination that educates visitors on their function.

Embracing the motif of edge established by the other projects on this site, the new pump station has a walkable, undulating roof of rectilinear forms that oscillate on the building’s short axis, creating moments where the edges do not meet up. At these moments are apertures through which visitors can view the pumps inside. The slanted surfaces continue downward, connecting with the ground in between the pumps, providing flexibility in access and an intimate interaction with the pump machinery. Rising approximately 25 feet in some areas, this roof creates a dynamic surface to inhabit, providing unique vantage points of the levee to the west and the floodplain to the east.

In addition to the existing volume that contains the pumps, interior space was added on the southeast corner to house an office for the structure’s maintenance as 36

well as any educational initiatives for the site. This space cantilevers over an outdoor lobby where the staircase to the pump station’s roof and an access point to the elevated walkway meet. As one of the busiest moments of circulation on the site, this sheltered plaza will facilitate connections between the visitors themselves and the visitors with the landscape. After ascending the stairs, the interiority of the office and the exteriority of the roof meet in a transitory foyer.

By organizing the program of the pump station vertically, visitors can experience the infrastructure from above at both a micro and macro level. The activated roof creates a spectrum of experience, ranging from a tactile proximity with the pumps at ground level to a view of the system as a whole when it ascends. The pump station is similar to a playground, encouraging exploration and creating spaces of various scales inhabit.

This design proposal argues that the landscape of levee is indeed habitable. What was once off-limits to the general public is now a civic destination that educates and inspires visitors about the levee and its role as the edge between the natural and built environments. Collectively, the three phases of the project transform the fragmented landscape into one fabric, activating infrastructure with the pump station, utilizing transit with the bus stop, and connecting the two with the elevated walkway.

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Volumetric Studies

Envelope Studies

38

Site Context

Apertures

Circulation

39

40

41

coated steel panels

glass railing

4’-7” 1’-0”

0”

0’-

≈1

structural steel truss ≈ 5’-0

”

Paneling Detail

Design Development | Activation and Panelization In order to construct the roof structure of the pump station, the surfaces were panelized into repeated components using Grasshopper, an algorithmic modeling plug-in for Rhinoceros modeling software. The paneling strategy (above) was based on I.M. Pei’s National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., and the overall form used OMA+Olin Design’s submission for the 11th Street Bridge Park Competition in Washington D.C. as inspiration.

The resulting roof is walkable, innovative, and dynamic, drving the overall design of the reimagined pump station.

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glass window and railing system

panelized roof structure

pump station volume

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134’-0” 44'-4"

72’-0” 30'-0"

39'-0"

office space

activated roof

circulation plaza

foyer

5'-0"

pump room

Section A

16’-0”

134’-6” 72’-0”

30’-0”

window

pumps bike path

River Rd.

activated roof pipes

24’-0” 12’-9”

pump room

Section B

connections to River Rd. 134'-0” 72'-0”

30'-0"

32'-0"

connections to bike path

5'-0"

B

B 50'-0"

A

A

20

'-0

"

30°

69'-9”

75'-9"

connection to elevated walkway

N

Plan 45