Inside The Mind of CJ Duff

WHAT IS MY DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?

HOW WILL MY WORK BE DEFINED?

WHY AM I UNIQUE?

CJ DUFF

HOW WILL I CHANGE LIVES?

HOW DO I MEASURE SUCCESS?

PLEASE, SEE FOR YOURSELF.

Christopher J. Duff Architectural Designer

INFO

EDUCATION

ADDRESS 530 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, USA PHONE 321-900-7266 EMAIL chrisjohn.duff@gmail.com

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, BACHELOR OF ARTS Major: Architecture Minor: Computer Science GPA: 3.81 AWARDS Presidents List - Spring 2022, Fall 2022 - Spring 2023, Fall 2023

SKILLS

INTEGRATED PATH TO ARCHITECTURAL LICENSURE (IPAL) COHORT

ADOBE CREATIVE SUITE Photoshop Illustrator InDesign 3D DIGITAL MODELING Revit, Rhino, SketchUp Enscape, Lumion, Twin Motion DIGITAL DRAFTING Autodesk AutoCAD PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES C, C++ HTML JavaScript

REFERENCES BRYAN BEERMAN Professor at Clemson University Email: bmbeerm@clemson.edu CLARISSA MENDEZ Professor at Clemson University Email: cmendez@clemson.edu

HOBBIES Furniture Design Graphic Design Product Design chrisjohn.duff@gmail.com 01

PROFILE

EXPERIENCE

OBJECTIVE To gain professional experience and practical knowledge that can translate into an enhancement of my academic studies. I am seeking opportunities to learn from experts on executing inspiration, innovation, and elevation of the human experience through architecture.

GREENVILLE DRIVE, SUITE ATTENDANT MAY 2021 - SEPT. 2023 Provide top-tier service to suite guests, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience by promptly attending to their needs, offering suggestions, and accommodating special requests.

DESIGN STATEMENT Design, in my eyes, is the chance to enhance the human experience. I get to immerse myself in the viewpoints of diverse individuals, with the goal of transforming the intangible essence of ideas into tangible spaces that resonate with the human spirit. Rather then creating something merely physical, I work to have my designs embody ideology, shaping the environment with a profound sense of meaning.

Managed all aspects of food and beverage service, from taking orders to serving dishes and drinks, maintaining knowledge of the menu items, and adhering to quality standards.

Consistently maintained punctuality and reliability, ensuring that suite service operated smoothly during all game days and special events.

Facilitate actions for resolving issues promptly to maintain overall guest satisfaction.

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01 02 03

5 - 14

UNI (t)FIED | A COLLABORATIVE WORKSPACE

SHIFTING INTO IMMERSION | A CIVIC ARTS CENTER

PROJ

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3 04 05 35 - 42

STEPS TO SUCCESS | AN INSPIRATIONAL SPACE

SHAPING AND SHADING | A WATERSPORT PAVILION

AROUND THE VALLEY | AN ABSTRACT SPACE

JECTS

45 - 54

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01 SPRING 2023 2nd Year Studio

SHIFTING INTO IMMERSION A CIVIC ARTS CENTER

Professor Bryan Beerman Solo Project

In the heart of Cayce, South Carolina, a vibrant transformation is underway as the Civic Arts Center takes shape. This visionary project seeks to rekindle the flames of creativity and reignite the love for art within the community. Rooted in the history of Cayce, the center is designed to not only be a haven for artistic expression but also a vital catalyst for the town’s renewal.

The interior of the Civic Arts Center is dedicated to nurturing artistic growth and passion. A multifunctional studio space provides artists of all ages and backgrounds with the resources they need to explore and create. From traditional visual arts to cutting-edge digital media, the center aims to be a creative hub where talents can flourish, and new skills are honed. The design includes an open plaza that connects the center to the surrounding streets, inviting residents and visitors to gather, interact, and enjoy the arts. A bustling calendar of events, exhibitions, and workshops will offer opportunities for people to come together, share their love for art, and build lasting relationships.

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Direct connection from the streets of Cayce to the art center.

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Rotation to enable shifting experience.

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Direct connection.

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Experience of immersion into art after ascending from level I.

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Stacking to enable moment of appreciation.

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Activation of the immersion into art.

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Front Elevation: Directional encouragement to explore the site.

Section A: Rotation of stacked forms.

Back Elevation: Visual connection between space on the site and space in the art center.

Section B: Circulation between the three levels.

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The entirety of levels II and III are completely comprised of glass to not only create an excellent gallery space but to create a connection to the town.

People experiencing the entirety of the site, walking through the town, or simply driving past the building get a unique opportunity to experience a visual connection with the people inside.

Materiality change from brick to glass.

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The orientation of the ground level allows users of the space to organically circulate in what feels like an outdoor lobby. With overhangs and a skylight created from level II it creates a great undefined space where people can move about in a theatrical, episodic way. It allows for a space to linger, enjoy the environment, spark impromptu conversations, etc.

Level I Level I space for more private and secluded activity.

Experience of entering the site through the “outdoor lobby”.

Level II spa

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Level II

ace for community engagement in art.

Level III Level III space for embracement of Cayce and the surrounding site.

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02

UNI(t)FIED A COLLABORATIVE WORKSPACE

FALL 2023 3rd Year Studio

Professor Clarissa Mendez Duo Project: William Coulter

UNI(t)FIED emerges as a beacon of innovation designed to celebrate the kaleidoscope of human differences. Comprising 13 distinct units, each meticulously crafted to resonate with diverse personalities. This architectural marvel of 53 units transcends the conventional office space. The designs core ethos lies in fostering an environment that not only acknowledges but actively celebrates individuality. UNI(t)FIED is a dynamic ecosystem where extroverts can thrive in collaborative spaces and introverts find solace in secluded areas designed for contemplation. From the creative visionary to the analytical thinker, they have a tailored space that resonates with their unique needs and preferences.

What sets UNI(t)FIED apart is its transformative capability. The design is not confined to a static purpose, the adapdability ensures its relevance in the ever-changing landscape that is New York City, demonstrating the power of design to anticipate and accomodate the fluidity of human activity. UNI(t)FIED is a testament to the beauty of human diversity and stands as a living example of architecture’s ability to shape lives. The problem is never that people are different, it is that their differences are not celebrated.

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The Artist “An artist’s wisdom lies in their ability to transform chaos into beauty, to capture the ineffable, and to provoke thought without uttering a single word.”

The Designer “If design was a person, it would be me. Two hours of sleep, coffee in hand, I am feeling great.”

The Artist “An artist’s wisdom lies in their ability to transform chaos into beauty, to capture the ineffable, and to provoke thought without uttering a single word.”

The Designer “If design was a person, it would be me. Two hours of sleep, coffee in hand, I am feeling great.”

The Oldschool “Navigating the modern world with a touch of class and a sprinkle of nostalgia.

The vintage ways never go out of style!”

The Oldschool “Navigating the modern world with a touch of class and a sprinkle of nostalgia. The vintage ways never go out of style!"

The Innovator “I don’t just think outside the box; I have built a new box entirely. I redefine the game one move at a time.”

The Innovator “I don’t just think outside the box; I have built a new box entirely. I redefine the game one move at a time.”

The Tech Wiz “Tech is my playground and binary is my game. I dance with circuits, play hideand-seek with data, and occasionally, I even make electrons do the cha-cha!”

The Tech Wiz “Tech is my playground and binary is my game. I dance with circuits, play hide-and-seek with data, and occasionally, I even make electrons do the cha-cha!”

The Global Citizen “Fluent in cultures, a citizen of the world, and always ready for the next international escapade.”

The Global Citizen “Fluent in cultures, a citizen of the world, and always ready for the next international escapade."

The Trendsetter “I’m here to break the mold, set the vibe, and lead the way into the next big thing.

Who’s ready to join the movement?”

The Trendsetter “I'm here to break the mold, set the vibe, and lead the way into the next big thing. Who's ready to join the movement?"

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The Networker The Networker

“Whether it’s people or “Whether it's people or I thrive on making ideas, I thrive on making ideas, connections that spark and build connections that spark innovation communities." innovation and build communities.”

The Spirited The Spirited

“Life is a grand adventure,“Life is a grand adventure, and I am here to savor every splended and I am here to savor every moment!” splended moment!”

The Fashionista

“Living life one runway atThe Fashionista “Living life one runway at time, because darling, a time, because darling, atrends may fade, but style trends may fade, but styleis eternal." is eternal.”

The Self-MadeThe Self-Made

“From rags to riches, I have “From rags to riches, I my own written my own story. Lifehave iswritten story.

Life is a crazy adventure and I am the a crazy adventure and I amauthor.” the author.”

The Hustler “Turning dreams into a The Hustler reality is my 9 to 5, and“Turning dreams into a reality is my 9 to 5, and I I have got the passion tohave got the passion to make it happen. I buy the rumor, and I sell the make it happen. I buy the news.” rumor, and I sell the news.”

The Scholar The Scholar “In the pursuit of “In the pursuit of knowledge, knowledge, wisdom, and a good cup of coffee, of wisdom, and a good cup course." of coffee, of course.”

Representation of diversity and individuality through meticulously designed units.

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MEP System

Structural Framing (Steel)

FInishes (Walls, Partitions, Glass, Doors, etc.)

Floor Plate

Representation of pre-fab production and on-site assembly.

Relationship between floors.

Experience of being inside a personalized workspace.

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Permanence

Impermanence

Beam

Column

Office

Retail

Cross Brace

Wall

Gallery

Dwelling

Floor

Door

Education

Sports

Interior Stairs

Window

Gym

Cafe

Facade Material

Representation of the transformative capability and adaptability within the units themselves.

Clinic

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Experience of an event being held on the rooftop plaza.

Experience of a bystander approaching the celebration hub that is UNI(t)FIED.

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Experience of the occupants escaping from the workplace through the exterior staircase.

Primary Pod Frame Tube Tool

AAC Block in Lightweight Filling

Clip Angle

External Cladding

Systems Box

Recessed Light Fixture and Linear Diffuser

Line of Finish Floor

Steel Beam

Suspended Ceiling

Composite Corrugated Steel Deck

Representation of relationship between the core, hallway, and units.

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Relationship between the site, units, balconies, and exterior staircase.

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03 FALL 2022 2nd Year Studio

AROUND THE VALLEY AN ABSTRACT SPACE

Professor Kendall Roberts Duo Project: William Hough

In our architectural exploration project, we embarked on a creative journey inspired by the intricate patterns found in human fingerprints. The natural unique and mesmerizing patterns served as the foundation for our design philosophy.

As we delved into the project, we crafted multiple iterations of the topography, seeking to distill and refine the essence of our initial inspiration. Amidst this iterative process, a captivating valley and swirl emerged as the focal point of our architectural vision. This central element, reminiscent of the arcs and valleys in fingerprints, became the heart of our design. We remained resolute in our commitment to accentuate this central valley, shaping the entire spatial experience around its beauty. We sought to strike a harmonious balance between the interior and the outdoor environment, creating a holistic and enjoyable living space for the occupants. The central valley, a fluid and engaging feature, seamlessly integrates the interior and exterior, allowing for an immersive connection with nature. It is a celebration of the intricate beauty found in the world around us, inviting occupants to experience a living space that is both visually stimulating and deeply fulfilling.

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Relationship between form and screened-roof element.

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Experience of traveling around the valley through bridge element.

Experience of connecting to the site while in an interior space.

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Through the creation of an intricate 3-layered roof users are provided a balance of light and shade to improve the experience when meandering around the space.

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Experience of visualizing the marvel of the site through multiple mediums; in the topgraphy, on the topography, and above the topography.

Section A: Cantilevered portion of the space to provide a moment above the topography.

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Section B: Secluded portion of the space to provide a moment inside the topography.

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Physical model to aid the understanding of proportional relationships.

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04 FALL 2022 2nd Year Studio

SHAPING AND SHADING WATERSPORT PAVILION

Professor Kendall Roberts Solo Project

As an addition to the vibrant Clemson University campus, the Watersport Pavilion serves as a compelling extension to the existing Snow Center Complex. This innovative project aims to foster the Clemson spirit of community, outdoor activity, and student interaction. Situated on the picturesque shores of the lake, this design offers a multifaceted space that not only serves practical functions but also creates an inviting environment for students to gather, connect, and appreciate the surroundings of their campus. It caters to the specific needs of students engaged in watersports, ensuring they have a dedicated space for changing, storing equipment, and freshening up. Beyond its practicality, the pavilion can serve as a social hub. It encourages students to linger and connect with one another, promoting a sense of togetherness. With unique facades to provide ample shade, and a sloped roof to shape important views, it is an ideal space to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds Clemson. This design is a testament to Clemson University’s commitment to enhancing the student experience and strengthening the bonds that make Clemson a special place for all who call it home.

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Pavilion placement based on existing site building.

With careful site analysis, the pavilion was placed to seamlessly integrate into the existing complex while also enabling a unique experience of its own.

Through screens that not only provide an interesting facade, are shaped views that allow users of the space to experience all that surrounds Clemson.

Screens: A design element to provide life to the facade as well as a more comfortable environment.

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Men

Locker room placement to create a separate, yet communal environment.

Exisiting site conditions relevant to the design.

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Experience of returning back to the pavilion after a watersport activity.

Cross Bracing: Design element to bring balance to the two facades, while maintaing a softer feeling.

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Relationship between screen, pavilion, and locker room.

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By analyzing SANAA’s Grace Farm design I was able to learn a lot about how a pavilion can shape indoor and outdoor space.

Section A: Response to the steep topography.

Section B: Relationship between staggered locker rooms.

Section C: Encouragement towards community shaded space resulting from the screen.

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Experience of traveling through the pavilion.

Experience of meandering around the pavilion.

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05 SPRING 2022 1st Year Studio

STEPS TO SUCCESS AN INSPIRATIONAL SPACE

Professor Anastasia Maurina Solo Project

This innovative architectural project works to seamlessly combine practicality and metaphorical significance. Designed as a multifunctional leisure and relaxation area for students, this unique space offers an engaging and interactive experience, allowing users to craft their own personalized spaces. At the same time, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the journey to success, symbolized by ascending platforms. The core concept is to empower individuals to take control of their environment while encouraging them to strive for personal and academic success.

The design seamlessly marries practicality, interactivity, and symbolism. The heart of the design lies in the modular platforms that make up the space. These platforms are easily movable and can be arranged in various configurations to cater to different needs, from group study sessions to solo relaxation. When the platforms are arranged in a specific configuration resembling a grand staircase, users have the opportunity to climb them, eventually reaching the top. This metaphorical ascent symbolizes the journey towards success, inspiring and motivating students to pursue their goals. This space not only elevates the physical environment but also elevates the spirits and aspirations of the students who use it.

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Section A: Moments of relaxation and privacy

Relationship between modular platforms.

Section B: Creative freedom for users to create a space they envision would be successful.

As the final iteration of this interactive wall, the space aims to foster a sense of community, creativity, a to engage with their surroundings actively. The metaphor of the staircase offers

STEPPING

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Part IV: Steps To Sucess

Elevation A: The process of manipulating the platforms to the users liking.

Elevation B: A space created to allow different mediums of interaction.

and ambition among students. By allowing them to take control of their environment, it encourages them s a powerful reminder that success is attainable with effort and determination.

TO SUCCESS

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Experience of community resulting from the interactive wall.

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INSPIRATION, INNOVATION, ELEVATION.

QUINTESSENTIAL.

AREN’T WE ALL?

321-900-7266

THROUGH COLLECTIVISM.

DID SOMEONE’S LIFE IMPROVE?

NOW, DO IT AGAIN.