Issuu

KENDRA NICOLAI A

r c h i t e c t u r e

o r t f o l i o

2017

K E N D R A N I C O L A I

KENDRA JOHANSON NICOLAI, AIA 217 Haverford Avenue, Apt. 1 | Narberth, PA KendraAJohanson@gmail.com | 610.724.6462

P R O F I L E • Licensed architect • Ten years of experience in all phases of design and documentation. • Broad Architectural experience in different markets including government, institutional, healthcare, and residential.

W O R K

E X P E R I E N C E

Spring 2017 -present

Freelance Architectural Illustrator | Narberth, PA

2014- 2017

Quinn Evans Architects | Washington, DC

Produced high-quality renderings used to illustrate design intent to clients during the interview process.

Extensive coordination and drawing set preparation through all phases of documentation. Generated dynamic 3D models using complex methods in Revit and Dynamo. Coordinated work between the project team and consultants. Taught seminars on rendering and modeling methods in Revit. Key Projects: • National Air and Space Museum | National Mall, Washington, DC • Hill Hall Auditorium | University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC • Van Ness, Elementary School | Washington, DC

2012 - 2014

Graduate Assistant | Virginia Tech | Blacksburg, VA

2011, 12, 14

Project Architect | Engineering Missions International

2010 – 2011

Architectural Designer | Color Drenched Interiors | Washington, DC

Maintained large-format printers, plotters, and scanners for student and faculty use. Assisted with master planning, conceptual and schematic design, while employing consideration for the customs and practices of these indigenous and rural communities. Developed and coordinated the approach for design documentation and maintained communication with the client. Key Projects: • Friends for Health in Haiti Medical Clinic and Wellness Center | Haiti • Wellspring Foundation for Education | Rwanda • New facility for FEDICE Church in Pijal | Ecuador Conceptualized cabinetry and redesigned floor plans for residential space in Arlington, VA.

K E N D R A N I C O L A I

KENDRA JOHANSON NICOLAI, AIA 217 Haverford Avenue, Apt. 1 | Narberth, PA KendraAJohanson@gmail.com | 610.724.6462

2010 â€“ 2011

Intern | Dale Overmyer Architects | Washington, DC

2008 - 2011

Field Staff | Fellowship of Christians in Universities and Schools | New Haven, CT

fall

2007

Generated plans, elevations, and 3D renderings used to communicate concepts to the client. Processed building permits, and researched zoning and code requirements in historic Georgetown. Facilitated events, talks, group discussions, and mentored students from independent high schools.

Intern | The New York Historical Society | New York, NY

Researched, fact-checked, compiled, and formatted articles for The Encyclopedia of New York City.

2007, 2008

Intern | Raphael Architects | Doylestown, PA

Spring 2007

Intern | Free Arts NYC | New York, NY

Summer 2006

Intern | Save Venice | Venice, Italy

2011-2014

spring

2013

2004-2008

Advanced site surveys and design documents for residential and institutional architecture in Bucks County. Designed and managed art projects and coordinated events for abused and at-risk children. Outlined ongoing and proposed art and architecture preservation projects in Venice.

E D U C A T I O N Virginia Tech | Blacksburg, VA Masters of Architecture

Virginia Tech Study Abroad | Riva San Vitale, Switzerland Four-month residency program

Columbia University | New York City, New York Bachelor of Arts in Architecture

Additional College-level Coursework:

Painting and Drawing | Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Graphic Design | The Moore College of Art

K E N D R A N I C O L A I 2016-2017 2014-2017 2013-2017 2013-2014 2007-2008 2005-2007 2004-2005 2004-2005

A F F I L I A T I O N S

P R O F E S S I O N A L R E G I S T R AT I O N Registered Architect | Washington, DC | 2017

P U B L I C A T I O N S

Renderings featured in: Curbed, Washington DC, “The National Air and Space Museum’s Options for Building Exterior Refresh” April 7, 2017 https://dc.curbed.com/2017/4/7/15205488/museum-air-space-exterior Washington Business Journal, “Smithsonian won’t consider building new Air and Space museum, despite $1B rehab cost” August 2, 2016 http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/morning_call/2016/08/smithsonian-won-t-consider-building-new-air-and.html

R E F E R E N C E S :

Alyson Steele, AIA, LEED AP | Principal | Quinn Evans Architects asteele@quinnevans.com | 202.591.2515

KENDRA JOHANSON NICOLAI, AIA 217 Haverford Avenue, Apt. 1 | Narberth, PA KendraAJohanson@gmail.com | 610.724.6462

S K I L L S AutoCAD Revit ArchVision Sketch-Up Adobe Creative Suite Rhino Grasshopper

Dynamo ArcGIS MicroStation Sketching Painting Photography Woodworking Drafting

A W A R D S Thesis Award | 2014

Granted for excellence in the Master of Architecture thesis.

Technology Innovation Award | Quinn Evans Architects | 2016

Granted for innovated use of technology leading to improved efficiency in the workplace.

PORTFOLIO

Online Portfolio: https://issuu.com/ kendrajohanson/docs/kjnicolai_portfolio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ in/kendra-johanson-nicolai-3036161a/

TABLE EXISTING CONC. SLAB

INTERIOR PARTITION

FRAMING BEYONG

nt 4' - 5 5/8" 1' - 9" 3"

PROPOSED 3" STONE

INTERIOR PARTITION

CAVITY 2

CAVITY 1

PROPOSED CONTINOUS INSULATED METAL PANEL WITH AIR AND VAPOR BARRIOR ON ALUMINUM COMPOSITE PANEL

INTERIOR PARTITION

EXISTING CONC. SLAB

FRAMING BEYONG

upon joint sealant between the or air from entering the return air n diagrams)

ystem allows condensation to occur INTERIOR PARTITION

CONTENTS

RESUME PROFESSIONAL WORK | QUINN EVANS ARCHITECTS National Air and Space Museum | Washington D.C.

INTERIOR PARTITION

envelope, it was determined numern as listed below: hysteresis, accelerated by spray essee Pink marble cladding that

The proposed replacement resolves the problems with the existing unconventional wall assembly by incorporating the following components: • Conventional rainscreen system with a drainage cavity (“Cavity 2 as noted on the proposed replacement diagrams), and an air and water barrier to prevent moisture from entering the return air planum (“Cavity 1” as noted on the proposed replacement diagrams). Thermally broken cladding mullions helps prevent condensation within the interior cavity • • Blast protection enhance with the incorporation of insulated metal panel and aluminum composite panel • • Increased stone cladding thickness of 3” and a durable framing system will provide a service life of approximately 100 years with proper maintenance

Exterior Addition and Renovation Interior Renovation

EXISTING CONC. SLAB

INTERIOR PARTITION

Hill Hall Renovation | UNC Chapel Hill

PROPOSED 3” STONE

FRAMING BEYONG

EXISTING 1-1/4” Tenn. Pink with 1” Spray Foam and Steel Support System

PROPOSED Isulated Metal Panel

Proposed Double Cavity Conventional Rainscreen System Section

PROPOSED REPLACEMENT

INDEPENDENT WORK

Johanson Residence | Kitchen Addition | Narberth, pa

DR AWING A ND PAINTING Virginia Tech Study Abroad | Riva San Vitale, Switzerland | 2013

GR ADUATE SCHOOL | ST UDIO WORK Virginia Tech | Blacksburg, VA | 2013

GR ADUATE SCHOOL | THESIS

Washington Alexandria Architecture Center | Virginia Tech | 2014 5

SAP2000 17.3.0

3-D View

X Y

North Combination of Mullion Tie Downs & Membrane Ties.sdb

N AT I O N A L A I R A N D S PA C E M U S E U M R E N O VAT I O N Q u i n n E va n s A r c h i t e c t s | N at i o n a l M a l l , W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . | 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 7

S 12C A L E M O D E L

EXTERIOR LIGHT STUDIES

A T R I U M

S U N

S T U D Y

A N D

B A F F L E

S Y S T E M

D E S I G N

CONCOURSE EXPANSION AND IMPROVEMENT

H SEA-AIR OPERATIONS 203

TIME AND NAVIGATION 213

D WORLD WAR II AVIATION 205

FLIGHT AND THE ARTS 211

ZONE 1

DISCOVERY ZONE CHILDRENâ€™S EXHIBIT

ZONE 7

SECOND FLOOR PLAN - ENLARGED CONCOURSE EXTENSIONS 1/16"=1'-0"

16'

1/16" = 1' - 0" SCALE OF FEET

DISCOVERY ZONE CAFE

32'

tion and axonometric drawing provided to clarify the unconventional exterior wall assembly. The proposed exterior envelope replacement if documented in the wall section and axonometric drawings located along the right side of the page.

N AT I O N A L A I R A N D S PA C E M U S E U M E N V E L O P E R E P L A C E M E N T 1 2 3 4 5

5 16 The typical exterior wall construction consists of the following from exterior to interior:

EXISTING 1-1/4" TENN. PINK WITH 1" SPRAY FOAM ON STEEL SUPPORT SYSTEM

CAVITY 1

The The NASM Mall Building Envelope and HVAC Revitalization project scope includes the replacement of the exterior wall cladding to remediate a number of issues. The existing condition is documented in the photographs below, with a wall section and axonometric drawing provided to clarify the unconventional exterior wall assembly. The proposed exterior envelope replacement is documented in the wall section and axonoFollowing extensive analysisalong conducted of the existing en metric drawings located the right ous problems must be addressed with new construction a side of the page.

• Stone cladding has developed excessive hys 4' - 5bowing,or 5/8" foam insulation applied to the inside face of the Tennes 1' - 9" was installed too thin 3" with 1.25” thickness The• typical exterior wall envelope construction Unconventional exterior system that relies up consists of the following from exterior stone cladding panels to prevent moisture and exterior to interior: planum (“Cavity 1” as noted on the existing condition d PROPOSED CAVITY 2 CAVITY 1 3" STONE •1. 1.25” Tennessee Pink Stone •panels Absence of a spray thermalfoam break in the cladding framing sys with insulation within the wall assembly PROPOSED

on backside CONTINOUS INSULATED METAL PANEL WITH AIR 2. Steel AND VAPOR framing BARRIOR ON ALUMINUM COMPOSITE PANEL 3. Steel column 4. Air Cavity (Return Air Plenum) 5. Interior metal stud wall with gypsum sheathing

nvelope Replacement 4' - 5 5/8"

4' - 4 5/8" 1 1/4"

1' - 9"

1' - 8" 3"

PROPOSED 3" STONE

EXISTING 1-1/4" TENN. PINK WITH 1" SPRAY FOAM ON STEEL SUPPORT SYSTEM

CAVITY 2

CAVITY 1

INTERIOR PARTITION

PROPOSED CONTINOUS INSULATED METAL PANEL WITH AIR AND VAPOR BARRIOR ON ALUMINUM COMPOSITE PANEL

EXISTING CONC. SLAB

INTERIOR PARTITION

3 4 5

FRAMING BEYONG

Following extensive analysis conducted of the existing envelope, it was determined numerous problems must be addressed with new construction as listed below: • Stone cladding has developed excessive hysteresis, accelerated by spray 4' - 5bowing,or 5/8" foam insulation applied to the inside face of the Tennessee Pink marble cladding that 1' - 9" was installed too thin 3" with 1.25” thickness • Unconventional exterior envelope system that relies upon joint sealant between the stone cladding panels to prevent moisture and exterior air from entering the return air planum (“Cavity 1” as noted on the existing condition diagrams) PROPOSED CAVITY 2 CAVITY 1 3" STONE • • Absence of a thermal break in the cladding framing system allows condensation to occur within the wall assembly PROPOSED CONTINOUS INSULATED METAL PANEL WITH AIR AND VAPOR BARRIOR ON ALUMINUM COMPOSITE PANEL

INTERIOR PARTITION

EXISTING CONC. SLAB

INTERIOR PARTITION

PROPOSED 3” STONE

FRAMING BEYONG

EXISTING 1-1/4” Tenn. Pink with 1” Spray Foam and Steel Support System

PROPOSED Isulated Metal Panel

or:

Existing Single Cavity Unconventional System Section

STING CONDITION EXISTING

CONDITION

Proposed Double Cavity Conventional Rainscreen System Section

PROPOSED REPLACEMENT PROPOSED REPLACEMENT

H I L L

H A L L

Q uinn E vans A rchitects | U niversity

R E N O V A T I O N

N orth C arolina , C hapel H ill , NC | 2014

1.1

1.3

1.4

STAIR #2 ST2-1

1.5

154 SF

12' - 6 7/8"

305 SF

OFFICE

CIRCULATION 11' - 9"

102A

5' - 3 1/2"

7' - 5 1/2"

101A

103 1109 SF

KITCHENETTE 104A

147 SF

502' - 5 1/4"

41' - 11"

10' - 1 1/2"

SOUND & LIGHT LOCK

3' - 6 7/8"

DRESSING RM

500' - 8 3/4"

113A 86 SF 100 58' - 8 1/2"

SOUND MIX 113B 5478 SF 7' - 7 1/4"

499' - 10 1/2"

DRESSING RM

LOBBY

TOILET

500' - 3 1/2"

1447 SF DN

HILL HALL RENOVATION

503' - 2 1/2" Â±

SOUND & LIGHT LOCK

UP 3' - 9"

113C 85 SF STORAGE

120

OFFICE

106

106D

219 SF

344 SF 505' - 0"

QEA # 31309100 OWNER # SCO ID 12-10105-02A RECEPTION 105D 233 SF 17' - 10 5/8"

268 SF

ACCOUNTING OFFICE 106E 172 SF

BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER'S OFFICE OFFICE 105F

105C

13' - 3 5/8"

106F

105E 44 SF

CHAIRMAN'S OFFICE 105B 408 SF

27' - 9 5/8"

106C 252 SF

19' - 5 1/2"

CORRIDOR

1/8"

8' - 0" ELECTRICAL ROOM

18' - 0"

9' - 10 3/8"

1' - 3 1/4"

8' - 7"

11' - 10" RECEPTION

OFFICE

9' - 8 5/8"

18' - 8 1/8" 500' - 3 1/2"

220 E Cameron Ave Chapel Hill, NC 27599

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CLOSET

35' - 9 1/8" 11' - 0 5/8"

59 SF

153 SF

2' - 9 1/4"

505' - 0"

503' - 2 1/2"

17' - 9 7/8"

106G 274 SF

6' - 0"

CORRIDOR40' - 1 3/4"

8' - 6 7/8"

105A 1:12

10' - 0"

121

6' - 10"

SOUND & LIGHT LOCK

1:48

REGISTRAR'S OFFICE

1:12

6' - 10"

10' - 1 1/2"

502' - 0 1/8" 500' - 3 5/8" 502' - 10 3/8" 501' - 1 7/8" DN

13' - 7 1/2"

500' - 8"

WWW.QUINNEVANS.COM

CLASSROOM

14' - 0 5/8"

497' - 4 1/2"

202 298 6700

102

90 SF

2121 WARD PLACE, NW FOURTH FLOOR WASHINGTON, DC 20036

40' - 2"

167 SF

CLOSET

1.7

9' - 9 1/2"

18' - 0"

24' - 0"

20' - 11 1/2"

101

5' - 11 5/8"

27' - 8 1/2"

CLARINET STUDIO

13' - 3 5/8"

12' - 8 3/8"

1.6

F.5

U N D ER CON S TR UCTION ...

N A R B E R T H , P A

K I T C H E N

J o h a n s o n F a m i l y K i t c h e n A dd i t i o n

and

A D D I T I O N

E x p a n s i o n | N a r b e r t h , PA | 2 0 1 6

A N A LY T I C A L

A R C H I T E C T U R A L

D R A W I N G

A r c h i t e c t u r e S y s t em s L a b | V i r g i n i a T e c h S t u d y A b r o a d | R i va S a n V i ta l e , S w i t z e r l a n d | 2 0 1 3

A N A LY T I C A L

A R C H I T E C T U R A L

D R A W I N G

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LIBRARY IN RIVA SAN VITALE, SWITZERLAND

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“On the fringe of mass Suburbia, even the advantages of the primary neighborhood group disappear. The cost of this detachment in space from other men is out of all proportion to its supposed benefits.” -Lewis Mumford, The City in History: Its Origins, Its Transformations, and Its Prospects, 1961.

Density

P I E D M O N T Theory

C I T Y :

C O N T R O L L E D

S P R A W L

U r b a n F o r m | W a s h i n g t o n A l e x a n d r i a A r c h i t e c t u r e C e n t e r , V i r g i n i a T e c h | A l e x a n d r i a , VA | 2 0 1 3

This proposal for the Piedmont Region is based on the practice of controlling sprawl through government regulations, designs features, strategic placement of infrastructure and preservation of existing landscape. As a response to the congestion and problems of Northern Virginia, outside of DC, this proposal embraces decentralized urbanization, while protecting against the negative qualities often associated with sprawl. The goal is for Piedmont City to develop over time, however, sprawl is an evolving process that cannot always be predicted. The single-family detached home is going to remain in high demand as long as people have access to it, so strong physical and legislative boundaries and intelligent management through good design are critical to guiding future growth while allowing for flexibility. With the concession that exact planning and definitive growth patterns are unpredictable, this plan creates guidelines for the future, in hopes of promoting responsible development. In order to protect the beauty of the mountain regions, height restrictions and floor area ratio standards are based on the location of the development. As a result, Piedmont City will inevitably grow outward from the various nodes and then because of FAR restrictions on the hilltops and higher elevations, the density will begin to increase on the inner nodes, as the city begins to grow“outward and inward”. Government and University buildings are exempt from this height restriction, however, allowing them to become

Growth direction

focal points in the landscape. Urban Agriculture is fostered and maintained around the primary roadways, with the option of future development regulated by governing bodies dedicated to land preservation Using the topography as a natural barrier to continued sprawl, hilltops, highways, manmade reservoirs, agricultural preserves, transportation lines, and the Blue Ridge Mountain Range aid in the design of the city. Piedmont City will be divided into sub-regions, or districts, bound by the highways that connect the towns of Sperryville, Warrenton, and Culpepper, VA. Within this bounded region, there are three proposed districts, each with it’s own unique character and attractions. In addition, historic towns and sites are incorporated into a contemporary urban fabric. The districts are comprised of multiple neighborhoods and surround a central park that ties them all together, acting as a unifying community feature. The three districts, the Museum/University district, Arts/Entertainment, and Civic/Business, have residential and commercial development throughout, so as to prevent “dead zones”. Concentrated around mixed-use “main streets”, the neighborhoods will offer a range of housing choices and will be accessible by public transportation, green ways and bicycle paths. The designation of distinct districts makes each region a destination and opportunities to live, work and play, make them economically and culturally stimulating, increasing the vitality of the various parts of the city.

CROSSROADS CENTER:HOMELESS MISSION AND TRANSITIONAL HOME M . A r c h T h e s i s | W a s h i n g t o n A l e x a n d r i a A r c h i t e c t u r e C e n t e r , V i r g i n i a T e c h | A l e x a n d r i a , VA | 2 0 1 4

ABSTRACT My thesis is an exploration of sacred space in architecture. The vehicle for this exploration is a homeless mission and transitional shelter in Alexandria, Virginia. The design of this type of building is often purely practical, in an attempt to get the most number of people off the streets and into a safe place. While this is an admirable cause, the inhabitant’s perception of the place is rarely considered. This design practice can result in a dehumanizing and degrading experience for homeless men and women. In my exploration, I concentrated on the positive idea of how to create a HOME, rather than focus on the negative sense of homelessness. I believe that the transitional home has the potential to be a sanctuary, a refuge and a place that doesn’t necessarily define its residents but enhances individual identity. When the design of this type is

thoughtfully considered, the building can provide an isolated and safe space, while also allowing the residents to share in a community of other urban inhabitants. I hope to answer the following questions: How can the built environment enhance one’s understanding of his/her value? What does the word “home” mean and can this definition be associated with a building that is constantly in transition? What is the distinction between a basic shelter and a home? How can issues such as identification, physical health, security, positive purpose, entertainment, and hygiene be fostered in architectural design? I do not think a building can solve the problem of homelessness but I do think it can provide a place of healing, encouragement and dignified living, that may serve as a catalyst for a productive future off of the streets.

SITE DEVELOPMENT This site includes a unique passage through the city block with a walking/biking path, significant greenery, and a small stream. While on the path, it is easy for one to forget that they are in a busy city, as the sound of the stream and the visual wall of trees provide a sanctuary from the traffic and commotion. In addition to being a physical manifestation of a sanctuary, the site supports the idea of transition from one part of the city to another. This area of Alexandria was home to a thriving com-

munity with a rich and unique history from 1796 until 1915, when it was annexed with Alexandria. As an important intersection of major trails and trade routes, the area was home and workplace for butchers, bakers, millers and other tradesmen, who established businesses aimed at serving the needs of travelers on the road. Historic West End Alexandria marked an important crossroads along the journey of many travelers, providing rest, sustenance, and sanctuary when it was needed.

P R O X I M I T Y A N A LY S I S Building Site Road Access Building Density Metro Access School Bike Paths Public Parks

and

Gardens

P R O G R A M D E V E L O P M E N T HOMELESS I N A L E X A N D R I A , VA 2 0 1 4 Total Persons: 416 Total Singles: 264 Number of Families: 52 Number of Persons in Families: 152 Total Adults in Families: 58 Total Children in Families: 94

I may believe in groundless nostalgia, but I still believe in the feasibility of an architecture of reconciliation, an architecture that can mediate ‘man’s homecoming’. Architecture can still provide houses that enable us to live with dignity. And, we still need houses that reinforce our sense of human reality and the essential hierarchies of life. --Juhani Pallasmaa

At its best, architecture not only reflects but also serves society; it has a duty to provide for those with the greatest need and the fewest options. Thus architecture should do more than provide homeless people with shelter: it must sustain their hope and their dignity.” --Sam Davis

From the top of the staircase, one can hear the sounds of people from the common room talking and laughing- this is something that they will have experienced regularly; being adjacent to community, and yet not a part of it. After talking with several homeless people in the shelter system I found that, in their opinion, the hardest part about living on streets is the feeling of isolation amidst so many people. One man said that when so many people passed him every day and pretended that he didn’t exist, he began to believe it himself.” This sentiment must be considered in the design of shelters; providing space for gradual transition and socialization. The central staircase is an important threshold within the framework of the building. Wrapping around the fireplace in the “public” portion of the main building, the stairs promote a social continuum, linking each floor to the

next, with a series of overlooks and landings. The harmonic proportions, both physically and audibly, were important considerations in the design. The materials are essential to making the common room a comfortable, yet dignified space. The limestone-clad fireplace provides a structural base for the travertine and oak staircase. The sound of the materials under one’s feet enhances the experience and signify the use of that particular part of the stairs: The stone steps indicate a space dedicated to pausing and reflecting, while the wooden steps produce a rhythm, encouraging the procession to the next landing. Whether you are moving up or down the steps the landings are places for gradual transition and also act as a valuable mediator of space, allowing the resident to acclimate himself/herself to the new environment without being overwhelmed.

Ekphrasis: Experiencing the Building Through the Senses “I get to my apartment and my hand grasps the cool brass doorknob. As I push the door open, I am overcome by the comforting smells of my familiar space. “This is the smell of home,” I think to myself. I pass through the thick threshold of the doorway and put my things down on the plush window seat. A weight is immediately lifted. My hands reach for the bookcase and my fingers graze my possessions, which are proudly organized on the tiered surfaces. I don’t have much, but I appreciate the space to display my story. I can feel the sun setting through the window and realize that I only have a few hours to read by the water. Before I leave, I embrace the scent of the flowers that are growing in the planter outside my window. The squeak of the door has become a precious gift after years on the street. As I leave the safety of my fortress, into the

public corridor, I can sense the anticipation of reaching my favorite oasis. The steps of the meditation garden have been a respite from the commotion of the shelter, but I am reminded that I must be mindful of each step. This awareness forces me to consider each decision that I make, to feel for the next step and take it with confidence that there is a path laid out for me. The gaps between each step are tangible beneath my feet and render each step as significant as the one before it. My foot becomes my eyes as the sound of my footsteps against the slate stone guides my every move. Finally, I find the perfect step for meditating. The sun has warmed the stone and it is wonderful. I reflect back on my journey, both to this place and in life, and I am comforted. This building and the people within it have accepted me, guided me, and formed me; It will remain my home long after I move from it’s walls.”

â€œCommunity is the free growth of many individuals, as units free in themselves, functioning together in a unity of their own making.â€? --Anat Geva

The bathroom is a place for rejuvenation, cleansing, and meditation. It is arguably the most personal and intimate part of a home, although the design is often reduced to practical concerns, without regard for a sense of place. I designed a bathroom that can be a sanctuary from the outside world, a space where one can be physically, mentally and spiritually cleansed. While it is a communal space, each decision accounts for the individualâ€™s experience of the bathroom. The thick concrete walls significantly define the entrance; the thickness and perceivable mass of the threshold suggesting a transition from common space into more sacred and protected space. The oak door has both functional and aesthetic qualities to it. It slides on metal tracks, allowing it to be left open in order to air out the space if needed. Additionally, the door is re-used from an old barn in Northern Virginia, giving the room a rustic and

comfortable aesthetic while also displaying the materials regenerative qualities. The recycled, glass tile walls also serve as a colorful reminder of adaptive reuse. Glass bottles are frequently used as a commodity among homeless populations because they can be exchanged for money. The bottles are used to create a beautiful sanctuary space by filtering the light through the various colors and textures, while the bottom of the bottle has enough texture to ensure privacy. The ceiling is raised several feet to the north and south, making room for clerestory windows on both sides. The cross breeze will naturally ventilate the space and bring in light and warmth from the south sun. The majority of natural light will come from a large skylight, located above the shower stalls. This light will warm the ceramic tiles on the bathroom floor and also enhance the serenity of this spa-like environment.

The ramp comes to life as people use it for various activities: meeting with friends, reading, or just moving from one place to another. The circular windows operate as a place to stop and rest and the varying scales are suitable for different types of people and activities. They are set into the thick walls with several inches added to the sill, creating a nice seat and the feeling of being held by the wall. The steel encasement will draw the warmth from the sun but a bent wood seat cover will protect from it being too hot to sit. The changing scales and locations take into account the array of preferences people may have. One window may be small and high on the wall for gazing, while another is large and low for lounging and reading. Located in the common space of the shelter, the ramp is a place of collaboration, community and informal meeting, spanning the entire height of the building. Made of stainless steel and frosted glass, the ramp is somewhat transparent, allowing light to pass through to the rest of the building. As many of the residents are used to living nomadic lifestyles, this portion of the structure gives them freedom to meander from floor to floor. The ramp is both a literal journey and also a beacon of what this building will hopefully become to itâ€™s inhabitants: a transition from living on the street to a sustainable and stable life. The ramp presents a smooth transition through the building, engendering sporadic human interactions along the way. A large percentage of homeless men and women are handicapped and may have trouble using the stairs but they should not be limited to using the elevator, which restricts them from experiencing every aspect of the building. The ramp is held up by a thick wall of steel beams, light gauge metal studs, insulation and drywall. Using steel as the primary structure allows for large spans and flexibility of space. The air membrane is wider than most, which helps to exaggerate its thickness. On the exterior, the wall is clad with Corten steel. This material develops a protective rust over time, each panel with a beautiful color and character, contributing to a unified exterior tapestry. It is a perfect representation of a building that contains hundreds of unique stories and experiences. Each person has faced trauma and stress, but the shelter offers them the opportunity to use that â€œweatheringâ€? to make them stronger. The heartache of their past can become the stepping stones to a bright and successful future.

BREAKING

BREAD:

SANCTUARY

The Last Supper is the final meal that Jesus shared with h i s A p o s t l e s i n J e r u s a l e m b e fo r e t h e c r u c i f i x i o n. I n t h e g o s p e l a c c o u n t s J e s u s t r a n s fo r m s w i n e a n d b r e a d. T h e s e ot h e r w i s e m u n d a n e m a te r i a l s we r e g i ve n n ew m e a n i n g a n d h ave c o m e to s e r ve a s s o m e t h i n g f a r g r e a te r t h a n t h e i r o r i g i n a l p u r p o s e. T h e s i m p l e a n d s e e m i n g l y o r d i n a r y m e a l c a m e to b e a sy m b o l of t h e g r e a te s t t r a n s i t i o n of a l l: C h r i s t â€™s p a s s a g e f r o m d e a t h to l i fe. T h e d i s c i p l e s w i t h w h o m J e s u s a te we r e r e l a t i ve l y i n s i g n i f i c a n t p e o p l e i n t h e eye s of s o c i e t y, b u t h e r e, a t t h e c o m m u n i o n t a b l e, t h ey we r e s e e n fo r w h o t h ey r e a l l y we r e. T h e i r va l u e wa s r e c o g n ize d a n d t h ey we r e g i ve n t h e o p p o r tu n i t y

WITHIN

COMMUNITY

to b e s i g n i f i c a n t . T h e C o m m u n i o n M e a l a c k n ow l e d g e s t h a t t h e r e i s a h u m a n n e e d t h a t g o e s b eyo n d j u s t b a s i c s u s te n a n c e. I n a s i m i l a r way, I h o p e t h a t t h i s b u i l d i n g i s m o r e t h a n j u s t a s h e l te r. A r c h i te c tu r e a l o n e c a n n ot c h a n g e l i ve s , b u t I h o p e t h a t i t c a n h e l p m a r g i n a l ize d p e o p l e to r e c o g n ize t h e i r i n n a te h u m a n d i g n i t y a n d p r o v i d e a s a fe s p a c e fo r t h e m to t r a n s i t i o n f r o m t h e s t r e e t to a m o r e s e l f s u f f i c i e n t l i fe. W h i l e g i v i n g a h o m e l e s s p e r s o n a h o m e c a n n ot s o l ve t h e g r e a te r p r o b l e m, I b e l i eve g o o d d e s i g n c a n p r ov i d e a s p a c e fo r p e o p l e to b e p o s i t i ve l y e q u i p p e d a n d e n a b l e d to i nf l u e n c e c h a n g e i n t h e m s e l ve s a n d t h e r e s t of t h e wo r l d.

â€œHome is a staging of personal memory. It functions as a two-way mediator - personal space expresses the personality to the outside world, but, equally important, it strengthens the dwellerâ€™s self-image and concretizes his world order. Home is also a mediator between intimacy and public life.â€? --Juhani Pallasmaa

H e a l t hy c o m m u n a l l i v i n g i s a n e s s e n t i a l c o m p o n e n t of a t r a n s i t i o n a l h o m e. S o c i a l e n g a g e m e n t r e f l e c t s a n d d e m o n s t r a te s t h e va l u e of t h e i n d i v i d u a l a s a c r u c i a l p a r t of t h e w h o l e. T h e i n h a b i t a n t s of t h e b u i l d i n g c o n n e c t t h r o u g h s h a r e d a c t i v i t i e s l i ke c o o k i n g a n d d i n i n g, s i tt i n g, wa tc h i n g te l ev i s i o n, l i ve p e r fo r m a n c e s a n d p l ayi n g g a m e s . T h e d we l l e r s p a r t i c i p a te i n t h e m a k i n g of a h o m e to g e t h e r, n o l o n g e r d e f i n e d by t h e i r l a c k of a

h o u s e, b u t d e f i n e d by t h e l a r g e r c o m m u n i t y, of w h i c h t h ey b e c o m e a p a r t . T h e b a l a n c e b e t we e n s o c i a l i n te ra c t i o n a n d p r i va cy m u s t b e m a i n t a i n e d, h oweve r, w i t h c a r e f u l a t te n t i o n p a i d to e a c h t y p e of i n h a b i t a n t: yo u n g a n d o l d, h a n d i c a p p e d, s i n g l e, a n d f a m i l i e s - a l l w i t h d i ffe r e n t s p a t i a l n e e d s . J u s t a s e a c h p e r s o n h a s a d i f fe r e n t s to r y a n d c o n t r i b u t i o n, e a c h s p a c e m u s t b e d e s i g n e d s p e c i f i c a l l y fo r i t s u s e r.

â€œThe sacred plan, the core of the religious building, creates an earthly meeting point between human and Divine. The path consists of a spatial sequence that encompasses a transitional zone between the outside world and the inside sacred space. This spatial sequence provides a symbolic narrative for the worshipper who travels along it, increasingly anticipating the arrival at the sacred place.â€? --Anat Geva

MODEL

“The ‘space between’ is an essential element of good housing - space between the public and private, between inside and outside, between the individual and the collective, between the sheltered and the enclosed. I believe stoops, stoas, breezeways, loggias, colonnades, galleries and cloisters both as form and as type, have universal application.” --Gerry Cahill