Arch6100 2016 fall sheldahl awatterworth hp

NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF ARTS, MEDIA & DESIGN M. ARCH 3 2016 GRAD SKILLS STUDIO - PAXTON SHELDAHL

AVERY WATTERWORTH

In our first project, we explored creating space. Challenged to use certain parts to make two areas that were enclosed by 4 planes, the cube forced us to think about space and its definition. We moved from analog to 2D representation methods, to 3D modeling and 3D printing. It was an interesting exercise in the backand-forth between designing in reality vs. on a computer, and how to represent the object in both universes. Here, sections, elevations, and plans are shown next to photos, digital representations, axons, and a 3D model.

Our next assignment challenged us to move from an additive process to a subtractive one. Using Boolean operations in Rhinoceros, we made seven subtractive moves from an initial solid 6x6” cube to create a new object with two spaces. Then, we imagined the cube as “habitable” and represented it as such. The iterations in plan, elevation, and “isometric” axon create an interesting and informative progression.

Our next project included a trip to Harvard, and began with measuring and documenting Le Corbusier’s only North American buildingthe Carpenter Center for the Arts. Discovering the column grid, the ramp, and the volumes for ourselves had interesting impacts on our drawings, of which there were many. We then built 3D models of the building, followed by a group model of one side. In the courtyard, we were asked to create a learning space through some sort of intervention. My hope was to introduce users to a smaller directional environment that would control their arrival into the space and make it feel larger. This entrance would act as a space divider and movable furniture would allow for flexibility in the space. Our drawing skills became more descriptive, and isometric and exploded axons were something that developed nicely from this project.

A floor plan describes the relationship of the intervention to the sunken courtyard. For the first time, we developed visual representations of our projects, complete with entrouage and shadow. Still no rendering, though.

I utilized a 3D printer in order to create the small fins that undulated to allow light to permeate the space.

This was regrettable only in that the structure was rather fragile- the scale was a bit too small. However, creating the file and using the 3D printer made me comfortable with that method of output, and I would not be against using it in the future.

This project was our first taste of design, and in review I felt that there were many things I could have done to make it a more holistic project.

It was very interesting to see what other people had to say, especially when my efforts and knowledge in how and why to design were limited.

Still, I enjoyed the project immensly.

Before beginning our next project, we studied contemporary examples of thick/thin and free plan houses.

I was lucky enough to study the Fisher House by Louis Kahn. Kahn is one of my favorite architects and I learned a lot from studying his work. I think it is one of the most successful examples of the thick/ thin concept and is overall a beautiful house. Also, this was our first basswood model, a material I really enjoy working with. The task was daunting, as I did not want to leave out any important details. However, this model helped teach me not only how to make descisions about thickness and thinness, but also how to create a successful and beautiful model from basswood. It’s definitely a skill to be developed.

Our next designs all showed some influence from the precedents we studied. Our assignment was to create to living spaces with contrasting planning techniques on the same lot, for very different clients.

My houses were organied by elevation and featured a pass-through walkway that both joined and divided the structures. Private and public areas were also organized by the height of the building. Massing models and site models were used to bring another level of reasoning into the project. More advanced representation techniques were used, including more detailed basswood models, exploded axons used as diagrams, proper elevations, and all-important diagrams. Plans and site plans were also developed.

The final stage of our site contingencies project was the sequential experience renderings.

These were meant to show a process of steps that highlighted the experience of the design of one or both houses. My experience brings the viewer from one street to the other, passing through the walkway in the middle of the property. I learned a lot about color, rendering, light, and printing through these images- they look slightly different when they are up on the wall. Anyway, I had fun making these images and I think they do a good job of leading the viewer through the scenes. Hopefully they are clear and easy to understand.

These are more detailed photos of my basswood model. While I did change a few things after making this model. the work that went into it should be documented. I really tried to keep the integrity of the floor plan and windows, and I was excited when I saw something that I designed and drew come to life through my own hands. And, of course, the laser cutter.