horizontal, vertical, oblique horizontal, vertical, oblique

“There are 360 degrees, so why stick to one?” – Zaha Hadid

2020 / Academic Project

Architectural Design Studio 2B

with Professor Duane McLemore Professor Hans Herrmann Professor Richard Chenowith

As an introduction to this semester, we began using Rhino 3D to study the limitless possibilities that parametric design offers. The professors challenged us to use these tools to produce a stair that may not otherwise be achieved through conventional design methodology. Additionally, we were tasked with creating a stair that would facilitate a secondary function. This could be as simple as engaging with the handrail or providing a light-filtering device.

For my stair, I aimed to capture the image of a large ribbon cascading down a hill. This produced a largely organic form that suddenly evolved into something much more than it began. I quickly realized how easily it could act as a modular system. This pushed me to break the entire stair into multiple pieces that could take on different configurations. Steps began to flow into larger platforms and

For my stair, I aimed to capture the image of a large ribbon cascading down a hill. This produced a largely organic form that suddenly evolved into something much more than it began. I quickly realized how easily it could act as a modular system. This pushed me to break the entire stair into multiple pieces that could take on different configurations. Steps began to flow into larger platforms and bench seating, creating breakout spaces that took on a more communal function. bench seating, creating breakout spaces that took on a more communal function.

With a “kit” of parts set, I began to explore different methods of assembly and practical materials to help inform a production process. In the spirit of parametrics and innovative technologies, I pushed myself to consider options other than cast in place concrete. I settled on CNC routed CLT for the occupiable modules. As an infrastructure, I designed seats for the modules to attach to that would in turn slide into place on a tract of rebar steel. This specific method of assembly would be used for exterior spaces where the infrastructure could be channeled into the ground, leaving just the wooden modules exposed.

This could easily be adapted for an interior stair. The modules could cantilever out from a load bearing wall using a series of metal brack-

This could easily be adapted for an interior stair. The modules could cantilever out from a load bearing wall using a series of metal brack- ets, similar to the installation of floating shelves. ets, similar to the installation of floating shelves.

We finished this exercise with a tutorial in 3D printing. Many of us had to get creative in the way that we oriented and broke apart our stair to make a file that could be feasibly printed. It required us to think in a way that is specific to a certain construction method, which I believe helped me further develop a highly valuable skill that can be applied to many different situations in the architectural field.

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