Portfolio_24_Lauren_Major

portfolio

lau r en ma jo r

se l ec te d work s 2 0 21 - 2 024

the research center

Winter + Spring 2023 | Professor Brent White |

The Savannah College of Art and Design

Project Brief:

As part of the 2023 AIA COTE competition for students, this studio “challenged students to submit projects that use a thoroughly integrated approach to architecture, natural systems, and technology to provide design solutions that protect and enhance the environment.” The Savannah College of Art and Design firstyear M.Arch class was tasked to create a highly sustainable coastal research facility on Hunting Island, South Carolina.

Conceptual Intent:

Designing structures to be developed on an almost entirely undeveloped coastal state park brings many challenges, both physically and morally. Facing countless unique challenges, however, presented many opportunities to embrace change and sustainability through as many means as possible. The design of The Verge is intended to highlight the natural qualities of the site that make it attractive to others, rather than physically and visually disturbing the area. While each facility is unique to program needs, site restrictions, and aesthetic considerations, they all follow the same guiding principles behind the COTE Framework for Design Excellence aiming to create sustainable design opportunities and prioritize user experience throughout. To create harmony between the developed and undeveloped, preservation was vital throughout the duration of the design. The essence of bifurcation found in the existing environment inspired the design of each structure.

the verge

where convergence and divergence intersect

The Verge is a series of immersive research facilities along the southern tip of Hunting Island, SC. Each research facility focuses on one of the primary ecosystems that make up Hunting Island: ocean, salt marsh, and maritime gain access, exposure, and immersion in the unique natural features of

This architecture will explore the symbiotic relationship between the natural environment and the built environment by developing an architecture that honors the simple, yet complex ecosystems of which they are a part through a bifurcated architectural response to form responding to the environment, designed for people, and with intention to add value to the natural site.

The protected state park is composed of varying ecologies, habitats, and micro-climates. Each ecosystem has its own unique set of needs to ensure a thriving environment, however, they all depend on one another to create the dynamic Hunting Island. Each building is dedicated to researching the needs and relationships of each individual ecosystem through field studies and technical research unique to each ecosystem.

Distribution of Prevalent Ecosystems on Hunting Island

The salt mash of Hunting Island typically lies in between the beach and maritime forest. The conditions here are fairly moderate, as wind and sunlight is slightly diminished. The salt marshes are very dewy and retain much water in the soils.

The maritime forests create significant shade for the island, especially as one travels inland. This creates a less windy and cooler environment because of the height and density of the vegetation.

Beaches generally feel several degrees cooler than an inland climate. Due to the lack of protection from wind, the gusts are stronger and create a cooler feel for occupants. The sun however, provides direct heat due to the lack of inhibiting factors.

Salt Marsh Maritime Forest

As one travels along the southern point of Hunting journey and aims to enhance the user’s experience

Hunting Island, the user will experience three starkly different ecosystems. The Verge responds to this experience by providing research, learning, and immersive opportunities in each ecosystem.

02 - OCEANOGRAPHY RESEARCH FACILITY

03- SALT MARSH SCIENCES FACILITY

FORESTRY

The forestry facility assesses animal ecology, vegetation, and soil quality within the Maritime Forest. The studies help gain insight into the dynamic ecosystem, researching to develop sustainable solutions to preserve the ecosystem. The animal ecology lab studies the interaction between animal populations and their ecosystem through field tests, observation, and DNA analyses. Vegetation and soil samples are collected to evaluate soil quality data and assess damage to forest lands. The facility is immersed into the dense forest and provides direct access to the environment.

OCEANOGRAPHY

The oceanography research center will use a combination of laboratory experiments, field measurements, and theoretical analysis to research air-sea interaction and ocean surface processes. Programs of study include sea wave dynamics, air-sea fluxes, and ocean turbulence. Human and environmental impacts are explored from these findings and how they relate to the other ecosystems present on the island. The building is accessed by the existing pier which remains open to the public, yet allows the facility access and visual connectivity to the program of study.

SALT MARSH SCIENCES

The salt marsh sciences research facility serves as the primary research facility of The Verge. The ecological lab focuses on the species that inhabit the salt marsh by researching patterns and collecting data to improve the vitality of the salt marsh ecosystem. The environmental lab primarily studies the water patterns within the marsh and analyses the carbon sequestration that occurs throughout. As the central facility, this building serves as the hub for The Verge and includes private offices, open work environments, large terraces, and direct access to the salt marsh ecosystem.

This exploration highlighed the scale of the structure in comparision to the natural environment. While elevated per code, the structure still remains relativley insignificant compared to the natural landscape -- a goal from the very beginning.

Photos taken from the Salt Marsh Sciences physical model.

COTE applications

While each facility is unique to program needs, site restrictions, and aesthetic considerations, they all follow the same guiding principles behind the COTE Framework for Design Excelence aiming to create sustainable design opportunities and prioritize user experience throughout.

design for integration

DRIVING FORCES

To create harmony between the developed and undeveloped, preservation was vital throughout the duration of the design. By reusing structures and paths previously developed and being conservative with the proposed construction through square footage and material selection, a foundation was laid to minimize site disturbance. Additionally, the elevation of the structures dictated by code provided the unique opportunity to reintroduce native low-light, low-maintenance plants under the site, creating a shaded ecosystem of its own and bringing new life under the buildings which infringed on it.

COTE STRATEGIES

design for energy

SOLAR STRATEGIES

The buildings were designed to maximize natural daylighting to reduce the demand for artificial heating, cooling, and lighting throughout the year. To compensate for the energy required to fully support the building, photovoltaic panels will be placed on a roof face of each structure to capture energy for use inside.

Located in climate zone 2A, the structures will be expected to withstand and perform in hot, humid conditions. Southern-facing roof eaves are extended to protect the building from excessive heat gain and Low-E coatings on glass surfaces improve solar control performance throughout the year.

The clerestory above the common area brings in supplemental daylighting that is refracted back into the main area to decrease the need for artificial lighting and unnecessary energy consumption.

Radiant ceiling panels circulate hot or cold water through concealed copper tubing and provide sustainable heating and cooling for the occupants of the spaces.

ONSITE GENERATION:

1,175 kWh per month

LOCALLY SOURCED MATERIALS

design for economy

SINGLE-SPAN STRUCTURE

The single-span structures designed are a cost-effective approach to construction. This allows for the structure to be supported entirely through load-bearing walls, with the exception of two columns that support an LVL beam for the span directly under the clerestory.

REUSE

By relying on previously developed aspects of the island such as the Nature Center and Hunting Island State Park Pier, a more conservative approach to design and economy were possible.

design for well-being EXPOSURE TO NATURE

Each facility prioritizes the occupant’s access and exposure to the natural environment both indoors and outdoors. Large, expansive openings provide clear views and sufficient natural light to directly connect interior users to the exterior. Additionally, private and semi-public decks provide generous opportunities to interact with others and nature.

design for ecosystems

100% NATIVE VEGETATION

design for water

STORMWATER COLLECTION

Based on occupancy need calculations, rainfall will be collected from the roof and directed to the underground cistern through a series of rain leaders. Excess water will be routed to the surrounding micro-bioretention swales in close proximity to the structures. This assists in protecting the natural waterways and provides an opportunity to create spaces of heightened natural vegetation.

Marsh facility per every 3 months:

10,800 gallons roof rainfall

6,480 gallons needed for

4,320 gallons excess

The underground cistern will hold up to 7,500 gallons of water. The excess water will be transferred to the two microbioretention zones

design for community

CONNCECTION TO NATURE

This secondary exit provides a direct route from the office space down into the salt marsh on the island. While acting as a second means of egress, this also creates greater access to nature for the users of the building.

BIKING AND CARPOOL

The primary materials of The Verge were based on a series of standards to improve sustainability and efficiency. The materials were specifically chosen and sourced locally to reduce transport emissions prior to construction and carbon emissions post construction.

Cypress trees are native to the lowcountry southeast. Cypress trees harvested for construction will be repurposed for the exterior cladding of the buildings.

EPD: fermacell gypsum fibre board

Estimated 75% construction waste diverted from landfill design for resources

The elevation of the structures provides the opportunity for native, low-light plants such as hop sedge, wood reed grass, white turtle head, and virginia wild rye to grow and flourish. The preservation of the land below reduces the impact that human intervention has on the natural ecosystems.

design for change

ELEVATED STRUCTURE

With projected sea level rise due to climate change, longevity of projects on coastal sites are at extreme risk. To counter the dangers possible from sea level rise and volitile weather, the structures are proposed to be elevated 14’ from sea level.

This reduces the impact of construction on the undisturbed site. Native, low-light plants will be reintroduced underneath the structure in an effort to preserve the natural ecosystems found in this region.

The existing parking lot at the Hunting Island Nature Center has sufficient parking spaces for the users of each structure, however, as Nature Center guests fluctuate throughout the year, these spots may not be entirely sufficient. 18 bike racks are proposed for the project to discourage unnecessary travel by car, especially for those traveling alone as many users of The Verge would do.

design for discovery

POST-OCCUPANCY

Post-occupancy evaluations would be vital to the success and longevity of the project. User support and community engagement is to be discussed and measured throughout the lifespan of the buildings to ensure quality and sustainability measures are continuing to be met post-construction

02

the retreat

Fall 2023 | Professor Hsu-Jen Huang |

The Savannah College of Art and Design

Project Brief:

“You are asked to design the sanctuary – Theater of Art and Architecture after thoroughly examining theories in architecture and movements, from classical architecture and its principles to modern architectural technologies. This studio design project explores a new interpretation of architecture in the new era.”

This studio was largely explorative and poetic, driven by our own interpretations of the intersection of music and architecture.

Conceptual Intent:

Nostos is a musician and writers retreat situated in the Eastern Kentucky Appalachian Mountains - a region that is often stereotyped in a derogatory way. The people of Appalachia, however, identify their community and region in an honorary way. The shared culture, heritage, ways of life, and landscape create a unique community of individuals who take pride in the region they are from and celebrate the beauty of the Appalachian culture and history.

NOSTOS

the return to light and life / the accrument of honor and glory / a celebration or song of homecoming

Nestled in the Appalachian peaks, this retreat calls visitors to indulge in the mountains’ rhythms, tales, and textures. Immersed in the land’s drastic contours, one flows through moments of solitude and gathering, taking in the moments where culture, art, and nature converge.

Central Appalachia is often stereotyped in a derogatory way. The people of Appalachia, however, identify their community and region in an honorary way. The shared culture, heritage, ways of life, and landscape create a unique community of individuals who take pride in the region they are from and celebrate the beauty of the Appalachian culture and history.

The essence of a place is not found in facts or figures. It lies in the collective experience - the sights, sounds, and emotions imprinted over time. This essence is multilayered – ever-evolving with new perspectives. Music becomes the conduit to share these stories, conveying the spirit of a place to those who have lived it, longed for it, or are completely distanced from it.

To outsiders, these tired foothills are faded and forgotten. Empty shops on dismal streets. Whispers of poverty and addiction that ossify into prejudice. An enduring shadow casts over the region.

Beyond the murmurs, the true spirit of Appalachia exudes.

Whenever music is played, light breaks through the darkness and the soul of these hills resonates. The mountains are the instrument - deep, rolling, enduring.

Music weaves people together. Memories dance in harmony even as buildings crumble with time. Though some dismiss these hills as worn and poor, the music tells a richer story that words alone could never capture; a story of sweat and sorrow, grit and grace.

RECORDING STUDIOS

LODGING

REFLECTION

GATHERING PIT

REFLECTION CORRIDOR LIVING / DINING LOUNGE BUILDING SUPPORT ENTRANCE

Public and private spaces are delineated through materials and geometric explorations to control acoustics. Strategic use of absorptive versus reflective surfaces shapes soundscapes, creating a range of lively gathering places to peaceful personal retreats. Variations in form provide sheltering havens, enclosing inhabitants in silent refuge.

SOLITUDE

ABSORBED NEUTRAL AMPLIFIED

the mixed-use complex

Spring 2022| Professor Michael Jacobs |

University of Kentucky

Project Brief:

Following research to understand the interrelationships of the building and its environment, 7 teams of 2 will develop a portion of the existing 17-acre Rupp Arena Parking lot to create an overall mixed-use masterplan. Each proposal will intend to offer multiscaled explorations of the relationship between part and whole, difference and repetition, and architecture and site. Through site analysis, building assemblies design, and environmental systems research, each team worked to generate a holistic, integrated architectural proposal.

Conceptual Intent:

Our design aimed to optimize user interaction among residents and community members and maximize the efficiency of the elements of our proposal. With a focus on comfort, connectivity, and inclusivity, we aimed to create a lively residential and commercial environment that meets the needs and desires of the Lexington community. We desired to create an environment that was both modern and timeless, private and public, as well as functional and unique.

Partner: Sydney Rocha

The needs of the Lexington community for inclusive and attainable housing drove the development of this mixed-use complex. Through conscious design of both interior and exterior spaces, community interaction is encouraged and celebrated. Natural daylighting was maximized throughout this proposal through extensive use of glazing which also allowed users to experience an enhanced relationship with both nature as well as neighbors through the spanning balconies. Responding to our chosen site, we oriented the structure to maximize visual engagement of the surrounding context and respond in a way that relates to our surroundings, both built, proposed, and environmental. Our commercial portion houses a community recreation lounge with a connecting balcony to the residential unit to encourage interaction among residents and members of the community who choose to engage in this amenity.

The concept of connectivity led this design, largely present in the semi-private balconies spanning across many residential units, as well as a connection of structures. This residential complex offers a studio, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom apartment to offer functional options for single residents, couples, and small families of all demographics and income statuses.

04

the urban grid

Fall 2022 | Professor Catalina Ogletree |

The Savannah College of Art and Design

Project Brief:

Professor Catalina Ogletree’s first year graduate studio approached architecture at an urban scale. After investigating historical patterns of urban settlement and form-making, we were tasked to propose a new urban grid for the Yamacraw neighborhood of Savannah, GA that responds to the contemporary forces affecting the city and the needs of the area.

Conceptual Intent:

Yamacraw Village is a neighborhood of Savannah that is positioned directly west of the Downtown Historic District, separated by Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard. The site is primarily subsidized housing with very low density and minimal access to goods and services. Our proposal, Yamacraw2, reimagines this space as a space to encourage growth within the neighborhood. Through more intentional connections to major axes, mixed-use development, and higher density, Yamacraw2 becomes an asset to Savannah, rather than something that is ignored. The planning of spaces was inspired by the traditional Oglethorpe Plan of Savannah, attempting to respect the history of Savannah and allow for seamless integration of Yamacraw Village with the remainder of the historic district.

Collaborators:

Ellie Barberis and Emma Flathouse

Our proposal was guided by three terms that embodied the character of the existing site that we wanted to recognize in our redevelopment: adaptability, vitality, and unity.

Adaptability

Through adapting the existing conditions, such as roads, paths, and vegetation, we created a landscape that could encourage growth, economically, socially, and environmentally. Yamacraw2 adapts the current conditions of the site that have been neglected into assets that promote positive changes in the environment, at both a human scale and global scale.

Vitality

Our goal with Yamacraw2 was to generate a flexible urban grid that could encourage a diversity of outdoor spaces and built form. These intentional spaces encourage community interaction and will provide the opportunity for a lively, connected community while also encouraging small businesses and an improved economy.

Unity

The residents of Yamacraw Village have a clear sense of unity, but no resources to interact in close proximity. By implementing mixeduse development catered to all demographics, regardless of race, age, or income, Yamacraw2 encourages a sense of community among its residents, as well as visitors. Yamacraw2 removes the barrier between the neighborhood and the rest of Savannah.

the pavilion

Fall 2021 | Professor Bruce Swetnam |

University of Kentucky

Project Brief:

As part of Bruce Swetnam’s studio for third and fourth-year students, my studio explored the interrelationship between architecture and the public through a civic, cultural, and institutional scope. As a design-build studio, my team and I collaborated to design a pavilion to house a portable sawmill for workers of the University of Kentucky’s Forestry Department and then built it on their site near campus.

Conceptual Intent:

Efficiency was a primary driver in the design of this project. Being conscious of the needs of the client and the budget from the Coca-Cola grant that we received for construction, we designed a pavilion with high clearances, appropriate daylighting and ventilation, and ample-sized openings for large machinery and lumber to allow for ease in the process of milling lumber. The design was highly process-driven in hopes of providing the Forestry Department with a pavilion that not only met their needs but exceeded their expectations.

Collaborators: April Morris, Ben Rudloff, Alan Hammell, Chris Marra, Riley Day, Mohammed Alessa, Noah Martin, Bruce Swetnam

My team and I team structured our project through four phases: research, design, build, and analysis. With intentions of building a pavilion using materials that showcase the natural properties of wood, we designed and built a functional, covered space for the Lucas Sawmill and employees of the forestry department to utilize. By exploring the possibilities of wood as a sustainable material as primary and secondary means of construction, we integrated wood milled from trees on campus in our structure and designed a space intended for functionality and comfort of those who utilize it.

steel roofing

2x4 purlins

2x6 rafters

2x6 ridge boards

2x12 LVL headers

6x6 posts

3’ concrete footers

2x4 Purlins

Concrete Slab

6x6 Posts

2x6 Rafters

2x12 LVL Ridge Board

4x6 Lateral Bracing Steel Roof

06

making

The Savannah College of Art and Design

Craft is a part of the architecture field that is often not recognized or celebrated enough. The process of making holds invaluable weight. Regardless of medium, intent, or outcome, the iterative problem-solving process provides countless lessons that can be applied in future projects.

This final section of my portfolio is dedicated to celebrating craft. Each of the projects featured pushed my capabilities both mentally and physically, all providing me with lessons that I will carry with me in the future.

Projects Featured:

Petal + Pot Florist

- Ceramic Applications in Architecture | Spring 2023 | Professor

Jessica Broad

Pinnacle

- Digital Fabrication | Spring 2023 | Professor Michael Hill

Confab

- Digital Fabrication | Spring 2023 | Professor Michael Hill

Iris

- Responsive Systems | Fall 2023 | Professor Brent White

PETAL + POT FLORIST

a quaint florist dedicated to showcasing flowers, bouquets and unique ceramic vases/pots

literal and abstracted representations of florals through ceramic and architectural explorations

02

Architectural applications of ceramics

01 - painted tiles

02 - knobs

03 - extruded tiles

Each of these pieces were sculpted, glazed, and fired as part of a ceramics course at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Each piece was used in the final design of a floral shop.

04

pinnacle

Digital Fabrication

Spring 2023

The first half of this quarter was dedicated to form and material exploration.

Following initial paper studies and small scale fabric explorations, I selected the following form to construct at a larger scale out of muslin impregnated with UV resin, resulting in Pinnacle

Pinnacle was designed to exhibit the many possibilities found between peaks and valleys

Pinned to a peg baord, this resinous form can be manipulated to create countless forms, all with unique spatial qualities, aesthetics, and functions

craft

prepare cure exhibit

Digital Fabrication

Spring 2023

Collaborators: Emma Flathouse, Sophia Rodriguez, Sehba

Assignment:

Design and construct a thin-shelled concrete bench

Conceptual Intent:

Curved forms not only imply the movement of something stationary, but they allow for a more ergonomic design than something rigid.

Initially inspired by the traditional conversation bench, the direction of the design went towards creating a form that two people could sit on which encourages conversation and gathering in moments of rest. The form is then simplified and abstracted, to make the mirrored curvature less apparent. One module presents four seating options and can be mirrored to create a larger bench with larger spans of searing area.

Working through the concept of making a fluid bench where users can engage in conversation or sit alone, the thin-shelled bench was formed.

The process:

A waffle formwork was created from laser-cut cardboard pieces. The formwork was then covered with boat wrap and other thin plastics, to provide a smooth base and catch material. Chicken wire was connected and rested atop, concrete was mixed, poured, and finally, finished.

The finished bench measures 4'0" x 3'6" x 2'8" and comfortably seats two.

Responsive Systems

Fall 2023

Collaborators: Habiba Azlar, Ellie Barberis, Sean Devlin

This responsive systems course was dedicated to the exploration of architectural elements that are designed to respond to various factors and how each system can be used to maximize efficiency. In teams of four, each group conceptualized a desired outcome for their designed responsive system, then worked through a variety of scales and mediums to realize the project.

Following initial prototyping, we continued development to write grasshopper definitions that would communicate with a series of Arduinos and ultimatley our final fabricated model, Iris - an operable sun shading system that responds to changing light levels to maximize desired views, glare control, and optimized efficiency conditions.

When

Though hyper-efficient screen facades are able to minimize solar heat gain and light infiltration into buildings, they tend to obscure views outside from the interior. This project is a study in how these screened facades can cater to occupants on a more individual basis while maintaining their efficiency.

When the pegs are at rest, the fabric acts as a solid panel that blocks light from entering the building

As the pegs extend, the fabric begins to stretch enough to allow diffused light inside

extended, the pegs stretch the fabric open, allowing light in and views out.

A motor rotates the wooden peg 90 degrees

At rest, the fabric is in enough tension to form a simple rectangle. The forces are typical lateral forces supported at the four corners

When pulled, new points of tension are added to the fabric, warping the direction of the forces

When the pegs reach full rotation, the fabric becomes stretched enough to shrink in width, and a depression is formed at the midpoint between the

A photo-receptor measures light levels to inform motor movement

Slits within the fabric facade allow for a range of views responding to exterior light levels