Fanan Alshaiji _ Degreee Project by FananAlshaiji

PHOENIX AETERNUM

CYCLES OF FLAME AND REBIRTH

Director of Advanced Architecture Studies

Karen Nelson I Dean of Architecture

A Big Thank You To The Design Cri cs:

Karen Nelson

Robert Gillig

Ian F. Taberner

Pa y Zerheusen

David De Celis

Amy Van Lauwe

David Eccleston

Fanan Alshaiji

April 30, 2024

Bachelor of Architecture

Final Review: April 18th, 2024

Instructor: Amy Vanlauwe

Fanan Alshaiji Student

This project is dedicated to MY GRANDMOTHERS, one who graces this world with her presence and one who watches over me from beyond.

You are my angels and my guiding lights. Your hearts of gold and the boundless love and care you show, despite all the pain and hardship, truly inspire me.

The strength and resilience you have both shown, facing every challenge with love and compassion, is very touching and inspiring.

Thank you for TEACHING ME THAT TRAUMA DOES NOT DEFINE US, that pain does not shape us, and that we can still choose to love and care deeply regardless of the hardships we encounter.

A HEARTFEALT THANK YOU!

TO MY PARENTS,

This is only possible because of your constant support and boundless love. Throughout this journey, your belief in my abilities has been the wind beneath my wings, lifting me towards my dreams. Your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed, and every page of this work is imbued with the strength and inspiration you’ve provided. Thank you for being my first teachers and my constant guides. This achievement is not just mine, but ours.

TO MY SISTERS,

You are the source of my strength, my inspiration, and my joy. Your belief in me shapes the person I strive to become, and living up to the vision you have for me is my greatest aspiration. I am immensely proud of each of you and forever grateful for your support and love. Thank you for being more than just my sisters; thank you for being my guiding stars.

TO MY FAMILY,

Thank you for your wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering support. Your influence has been a guiding light in my journey, and I cherish the strength and joy you bring to our family.

TO MY FRIENDS,

Thank you for the laughs, the late-night talks, and the unwavering support through every up and down. Your friendship has been a light in the darkest times, making this journey not only possible but enjoyable. I am so grateful for each of you.

TO MY SESAME SEEDS,

You’ve both been my cheerleaders and confidants, sharing in my challenges and celebrating my victories as if they were your own. I am very grateful for your love and support, which is the reason I am here today! I am grateful for every moment of laughter and every word of advice that has helped guide me to this point.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY:

I believe in the transformative power of design to unite people and communities. Architecture, to me, is not just about creating structures; it’s about crafting experiences and journeys. A successful design prioritizes the human experience, aiming for inclusivity and integrity. As I near the conclusion of my studies at Boston Architectural College, my focus is on personal growth as a designer. I am driven to explore the ways in which design can influence individuals and society, with a commitment to placing human experience at the forefront of my work.

My aspirations lie in civic architectural projects, where I can dedicate myself to serving the public and enriching the broader community. I envision creating buildings and spaces that address public needs, from government buildings to schools and community centers, thereby enhancing the quality of life and fostering a sense of identity within cities and towns. Furthermore, I am passionate about mentorship and leadership.

I aim to become a guiding figure for future generations, supporting them in their growth and development. Giving back to my community through mentorship and volunteering is a priority, and I eagerly seek opportunities to teach and assist others in various academic and professional settings.

REFLECTION:

I was initially drawn to architecture due to its visual and aesthetic appeal, focusing on the external beauty of buildings. However, as I progressed through my education at Boston Architectural College, I came to realize that architecture encompasses far more than just appearances.

Being an architect means having the power to shape experiences and narratives. Buildings have the ability to communicate and influence those who inhabit them. Like humans, each building has its own story to tell, rooted in a concept or idea that it seeks to express. Whether it’s reflected in the structure, facade, or program, there’s always a deeper layer to explore when it comes to understanding a building and the intricacies involved in its design.

In a recent project, I set aside my personal biases and prioritized the journey as the driving force behind every design decision. By placing the narrative at the forefront, I crafted a design that challenged my own preferences but simultaneously captured the essence of designing from the inside out. The result was a project that could only thrive within its specific context, weaving a compelling story and guiding visitors through a truly unique experience.

INTRODUCTION:

- Signature

- Dedication

- Thank You note

- Design philosophy

- Table of contents

SITE ANALYSIS:

- Site history / context

- Zoning and codes

- Climate study

- History of fire

CONCEPT:

- Project overview

- Form creation

- Precedent

- Trauma analysis

- Form - Program

- Circulation

DESIGN:

- Perspectives

- Site Plan

- Plans

- Sections

- Elevations

STRUCTURE:

- Structural Plans

- Structural Details

- Wall Assembly

SITE HISTORY / CONTEXT

From 1858 to the present, Portland, Maine, transitioned from having seven districts vertically separated by streets to six, each with its own distinct programming:

1. WEST END: Characterized by Victorian neighborhoods, century-old brick homes, and iron fencing.

2. ARTS DISTRICT: Known for its vibrant arts scene, cobblestone streets, monuments, museums, galleries, and the Maine College of Art (MECA).

3. EAST BAYSIDE: Home to Portland’s hidden gems, rooftop bars, diverse restaurants, and food trucks.

4. EAST END: Among the city’s most historic districts, featuring landmarks such as the Portland Observatory.

5. OLD PORT: The bustling heart of Portland, renowned for its waterfront, shops, and restaurants.

6. BAYSIDE: Primarily residential in nature.

Our site is strategically situated between a planned commercial development, potentially serving as a secondary downtown hub, and the historic Old Port sector, symbolically bridging the city’s past and future.

https://luminatocondos.com

https://portlandme.maps.arcgis.com

ZONNING AND CODE

Our site is a crucial hub for tourists arriving by cruise ship and residents commuting downtown. Positioned at the intersection of two bustling peninsula roads, it holds significant importance within the city’s vibrant landscape.

MINIMUM LOT SIZE: None

MINIMUM FRONTAGE: None

FRONT SETBACK: None

SIDE SETBACK: None

REAR SETBACK: None

SETBACK FROM PIER LINE: 25’ From Edge

https://portlandme.maps.arcgis.com

CLIMATE STUDY

In Portland, the climate varies significantly throughout the year. Summer months (June to August) are the best time for visitors, offering warm temperatures and clear skies, despite being somewhat humid. Winters are harsh with significant snowfall and very cold temperatures from December to February, leading to less favorable conditions for tourism. The highest rainfall occurs in October and November. This comprehensive climate overview, detailing temperature fluctuations, precipitation levels, and sky conditions, serves as a valuable guide for residents and visitors planning their activities in Portland.

https://www.portlandlandmarks.org/great-fire-of-1866

The Portland, Maine fire of 1866 was a catastrophic event that reshaped the city’s landscape and psyche. Beginning on July 4th, the fire quickly spread through the densely populated wooden structures of Portland, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. By the time it was extinguished, over 1,800 buildings had been reduced to ash, leaving a significant portion of the city in ruins and thousands homeless.

The fire’s impact was profound and far-reaching. Not only did it cause immense physical destruction, but it also led to significant trauma and hardship for the residents of Portland. Many lost their homes, businesses, and possessions, and the city’s infrastructure was severely damaged. The aftermath of the fire prompted a period of rebuilding and reconstruction, during which the city began to modernize its fire prevention and response systems.

TIMELINE OF EVENTS:

The Great ﬁre of 1988

The Portland fire of 1866 is remembered as one of the most tragic events in the history of Maine, serving as a stark reminder of the destructive power of fire and the importance of disaster preparedness. It led to lasting changes in the city’s urban planning and firefighting practices, and its legacy continues to shape the collective memory of Portland’s residents to this day.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

THE WHAT?

My Project focuses on the Exploration Of The Concept Of Trauma and Healing Through The Lens Of Portland, Maine.

It aims to immerse visitors in the intricate and multifaceted experience of healing from loss and trauma.

Using looping bridges the project symbolizes the phases of Trauma while showcasing the complexity and nonlinear path to recovery.

THE HOW?

This design creates a unique experience by using bridging and looping as a way to emulate a historical time loop and various timelines, symbolizing the cyclical and layered nature of trauma.

Through the strategic use of sequence and repetition in the museum’s design, the intention is to immerse visitors in the intricate and multifaceted experience of trauma. The story is told through a thoughtfully designed paths that offers visitors a deep and sympathetic comprehension of the historical events by reflecting the way trauma is felt and processed over time. In addition, the layout of the museum incorporates green spaces, gathering places, and water features with great symbolic meaning as they serve as powerful metaphors for healing, representing the gradual transition from pain and devastation to recovery and renewal.

The museum offers an engaging and moving experience that allows you to go through history, trauma, healing, and renewal—just like the journey of a phoenix. hence the name “Phoenix Aeternum” meaning timeless phoenix.

FORM CREATION

Utilizing the geographical footprint of the Portland, Maine fire of 1866, I meticulously mapped out its designated phases, marked by the streets and ordered by the timestamps at which each phase began burning. This approach allowed me to comprehend the fire’s progression and its echoing effect on the surrounding area. As I delved deeper into my analysis, I analyzed the axes and core points within the footprint, identifying key intersections and focal points that defined its boundaries.

In my exploration, I honed in on the interconnectedness between these core points, recognizing them as pivotal nodes that would then be used to create my form. I utilized a method of bridging and looping, seamlessly connecting these core points and interconnections to formulate the form of the building and shaping the experience in which the museum visitors would experience the events.

PHASE 4 - FRANKLIN ST.

PHASE 3 - FEDIRAL ST.

PHASE 2 - FEDIRAL ST.

PHASE 1- COMMERCIAL ST.

CUMBERLAND

CONGRESS

MIDDLE

PHASE 1:

8:00 PM: The fire begins, likely sparked by fireworks during the July 4th celebrations. At this time, the fire is localized and manageable.

PHASE2:

10:00 PM: The fire rapidly spreads and intensifies, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. It begins to engulf nearby buildings, spreading beyond its initial point of origin.

PHASE3:

11:30 PM: The fire reaches its peak intensity, engulfing entire blocks and causing widespread destruction throughout the city. Firefighters struggle to contain the blaze as it continues to spread uncontrollably.

PHASE4:

3:00 AM: The fire begins to subside as firefighters gain some control over its spread. However, significant damage has already been done, with thousands of buildings destroyed and many residents left homeless.

PRECEDENT STUDY

Exploring the Experimenta Science Center in Heilbronn, I analyzed how a journey can be meticulously designed. In this project, the design of the journey, pathways, and circulation within the building has been skillfully crafted to enhance the visitor experience. The architectural layout uses a spiraling staircase to guide visitors through the exhibits, effectively promoting a seamless flow that encourages discovery and engagement. This design not only facilitates an intuitive progression through different thematic areas but also emphasizes panoramic vistas at various points, which integrate the external urban and natural landscapes into the visitor’s journey. The spiral ascent mimics a path of knowledge, where each level builds upon the last, culminating in a comprehensive educational and visual experience. This strategic use of space and circulation serves to broaden visitors’ horizons both intellectually and visually, making the center not just a place of learning but also a place of cultural and spatial discovery.

PRECEDENT STUDY PLANS

PRECEDENT STUDY SECTIONS

TRAUMA ANALYSIS

To better grasp the complex emotions linked with this traumatic event, I embarked on a study of trauma and its influence on people’s behaviors, reactions, and their journey toward recovery. Through this exploration, I discovered that the healing process consists of seven stages:

IMPACT PHASE:

This is when the traumatic event occurs and the individual experiences intense emotions such as shock, disbelief, fear, anger, or numbness. There may be physical symptoms such as trembling, sweating, or rapid heartbeat.

DENIAL AND AVOIDANCE:

In this phase, the individual may try to avoid thinking about or acknowledging the trauma. They may deny that it happened or minimize its impact on them. This can be a coping mechanism to protect oneself from overwhelming emotions.

INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS AND FLASHBACKS:

As the denial weakens, the individual may start experiencing intrusive thoughts, memories, or flashbacks of the traumatic event. These can be triggered by various stimuli and can be very distressing.

EMOTIONAL UPHEAVAL:

During this phase, the individual may experience intense emotional reactions such as sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, or anger. They may struggle to regulate their emotions and may have difficulty concentrating or sleeping.

ACCEPTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING:

Gradually, the individual may start to accept the reality of what happened and gain a deeper understanding of its impact on their life. They may begin to make sense of their emotions and experiences.

REINTEGRATION AND ADJUSTMENT:

In this phase, the individual begins to rebuild their life and sense of self. They may seek support from others, engage in therapy or counseling, and find new ways to cope with their trauma. This can involve developing new skills, re-establishing relationships, and setting goals for the future.

POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH:

Some individuals may experience post-traumatic growth, where they find meaning, personal strength, or positive changes in themselves as a result of their trauma. This can involve greater appreciation for life, increased resilience, and a deeper sense of empathy and compassion for others.

It’s important to note that healing from trauma is not a linear process and individuals may move back and forth between these phases. Additionally, not everyone experiences all of these phases, and there are diverse paths and speeds of recovery from trauma.

Taking those feelings and experiences into consideration I started laying out a form that would take advantage of looping and bridging to create a layered experience in which the visitor would be able to explore the multifaceted nature of trauma and unique and multifaceted paths to recovery.

FORM AND PROGRAM

ACCEPTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING

REINTEGRATION AND ADJUSTMENT POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH IMPACT PHASE DENIAL AND AVOIDANCE

INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS AND FLASHBACKS

EMOTIONAL UPHEAVAL

Putting the experience center focus I started by clearly defining the parameters and frameworks in which the experience would be created. Approaching the program, I already established the importance of highlighting the nonlinear path to recovery from trauma, which would influence the circulation and experiences the visitor would experience going through the museum. Using it as the foundation for my decision-making, I wanted to concentrate on making the exhibition spaces the focal point of the space while ensuring that they are all interconnected and that each visitor would have a different experience depending on the path they choose to take.

CIRCULATION

PERSPECTIVES IN THE MORNING

The museum’s facade, constructed with vertical rainscreens, serves as a narrative driven architectural element . Starting with terracotta, the most prevalent material in Portland Maine’s urban fabric and surrounding context, the facade gradually transitions to wood, reflecting its historical significance. This progression not only pays homage to the past but also symbolizes a journey of reintegration and exposure.

As the layers of the rainscreens peel off, they unveil glazing, symbolizing openness and connection to the surrounding environment. This evolution in materials not only captures the essence of the museum’s history but also signifies its adaptability and engagement with its context over time.

AFTERNOON / EVENING

1ST FLOOR PLAN

TEMPORARY EXHIBITION:

The exhibition space serves as a tribute to Maine’s resilience in the face of adversity, drawing inspiration from the catastrophic Portland Maine Great Fire of 1866. It provides a platform for artists to delve deep into their creative reservoirs, using the fire as a catalyst to explore the intricate interplay between trauma and healing. Through a fusion of woodwork and illustrative abstract art, the exhibits offer an emotional journey through the city’s traumatic past, its present, and the hopeful promise of its future. Every sculpture and piece of art turns into a moving representation of the community’s overall trauma, expressing the intense losses and raw emotions felt in the wake of the fire.

The exhibition area becomes more than just a platform for artistic expression; it becomes an outlet for community voices. Here, the community is invited to share their personal narratives and experiences, transforming the space into a dynamic mural of resilience and healing. It becomes a collaborative endeavor, where the stories of loss and the journey towards recovery merge together, fostering empathy and understanding among visitors. As visitors move through the immersive environment, they are not just spectators but active participants in the collective process of healing and renewal.

TEMPORARY EXHIBITION

Credit for the detailed creative direction and images conceptualized goes to Fanan Alshaiji. And DALL·E, for image generation