Patrick D Dillon: Graduate Portfolio

PATRICK D. DILLON

GRADUATE PORTFOLIO

MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE 2024

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURAL STUDIES, STRUCTURES OPTIONS 2024

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURAL STUDIES 2021

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

SPRING 2023 FINAL REVIEW AT THE CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE CENTER

CONTENTS

PEBBLES

POSTPARTUM CARE FACILITY

Healthcare / Hospitality

THE GENERATOR

BUSINESS INCUBATOR

Office / Research

AER-0 CENTER

ADAPTIVE REUSE

Research / Educational

FLOW

MIXED-USE HIGH RISE

Hotel / Condominium

PEBBLES

Chicago, Illinois

Partner Project with Landscape Arch. Student

Professor Aneesha Dharwadker

A postpartum care facility near the Northwestern Medicine Campus in Streeterville to challenge the status quo of postpregnancy care in U.S. healthcare.

In the United States, there is a lack of sufficient postpregnancy support as families transition to life with a newborn. This interdisciplinary studio aimed to design a Postpartum Care Facility that promoted healing, bonding, and support through thoughtful architectural and landscape design. It was an exercise in fusing the support and resources found in a medical setting with the comfort and amenities offered in a hotel setting. The building was envisioned as a sculptural element within a park, enhancing its therapeutic environment while maintaining site connections. The facility featured 54 guest rooms, care team stations, guest and staff amenities, and commercial spaces, to accommodate families during the critical first 6 to 8 weeks.

VIEW FROM N. FAIRBANKS COURT & E. ERIE STREET

1.

Limited degree of pedestrian connections.

Terracing provided at multiple levels.

Opportunity for singly-loaded corridor oriented toward courtyard.

Curvilinear form softens the massing - Divine Feminine.

Consistent floor plans and core location with rotation.

Upper floors have more natural light exposure.

Separate towers for each primary use.

Central amenity podium connected through skybridges.

Architecture within an urban park.

More conscious of creating pedestrian connections.

Interior circulation can become inefficient depending on massing organization.

Guest wings float across park atop amenity podiums.

IDEAS

JENGA

4. BRIDGE

3. VILLAGE

2. CLOVER

LURIE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL & PRENTICE WOMEN'S HOSPITAL

THE MAGNIFICENT MILE

CONNECTION

NORTHWESTERN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

LAKEFRONT TRAIL

OHIO STREET BEACH PARKING

LEVEL 1

EARLY FAMILY EDUCATION CENTER FAST CASUAL RESTAURANT

BABY STORE

COFFEE SHOP

CIRCULATION

PRAY ROOM

SALT CAVE CO-OP GROCERY STORE LOADING DOCK & STORAGE

CHILD CARE CENTER

CONSULTANT OFFICES FACILITY CHECK-IN

ADMIN OFFICES ENTRY ATRIUM

WOMEN’S WELLNESS CENTER FITNESS CENTER

MEN’S SAUNA

LEVEL 2

YOGA STUDIO PHYSICAL THERAPY

STAFF AMENITY SPACES

GUEST AMENITY SPACES

TERRARIUM

CARE TEAM STATION

GUEST AMENITY SPACES

TERRARIUM

GUEST ROOMS (54)

SERVICE & LOADING DOCK FACILITY DINING

BRIDGE

LEVELS 3 - 5

LEGEND:

FINAL SITE STRATEGY PROGRAM DIAGRAM

GUEST AMENITY SPACES STAFF BREAK ROOM

SOCIAL BAR

STAFF AMENITY SPACES

ROOF

EL. 87’ - 4”

LEVEL 5 - GUEST ROOMS

EL. 72’ - 10”

LEVEL 4 - GUEST ROOMS

EL. 58’ - 4”

LEVEL 3 - GUEST ROOMS

EL. 43’ - 10”

RAISED FLOOR SYSTEM

2’ - 10”

LEVEL 2 - GUEST CHECK-IN

EL. 23’ - 0”

ENTRY ATRIUM

EL. 0’ - 0”

ELEVATOR PENTHOUSES

LEVEL 3 - TERRARIUM

- 10”

LEVEL 2 - SKY-BRIDGE

NORTH-SOUTH PERSPECTIVE

EL. 23’ - 0”

EL. 43’

EL. 100’ - 6”

HURON STREET

ERIE STREET

FAIRBANK COURT

SALT CAVE

COFFEE

BABY STORE

PHYSICAL MODEL: MIDTERM MASSING

PHYSICAL MODEL: FINAL MASSING

PHYSICAL MODEL: FINAL MASSING WITHIN SITE CONTEXT

McCLURG COURT

COURTYARD

To create a sculptural element in the park, the four podiums were envisioned as pebbles, with guest wings bridging across like sticks. This concept influenced the structural and facade materials: reinforced concrete for the podiums and mass-timber for the guest wings. Structural elements were prominently featured on the facade to provide a consistent rhythm, breakdown scale, and, in the case of the inclined columns, to enhance the visual connection with the ground plane. Proportional curvilinear forms with wood solar shades, mullions, and spandrel panels served as unifying elements.

GUEST WING: TYPICAL CORRIDOR

QUEEN SIZE BED

BEDROOM NURSERY

LIVING ROOM

KITCHENETTE

BATHROOM

MUD ROOM

GUEST ROOM: LIVING AREA

The Guest Rooms were designed to blend the comfort and amenities of a hotel suite with reimagined, hospital-like support spaces. These latter set of spaces incorporated an expanded, subdivided bathroom, in-unit laundry, and a nursery accessible from both the living area and bedroom .

GUEST ROOM: BEDROOM

The exposed mass-timber structure along the exterior wall and ceiling plane in tandem with the millwork and soft blue furniture accents cultivated a warm, soothing atmosphere. The truss system’s fenestration layout mimicked tree branches, strengthening the concept of the facility floating across the park below.

PHYSICAL MODEL: FACADE SECTION - EXTERIOR

PHYSICAL MODEL: FACADE SECTION - INTERIOR

SOUTH

THE GENERATOR

Chicago, Illinois Partner Project

Professor Tom Leslie

An incubator and accelerator located at the 78 Development to align with the mission of the new Discovery Partners Institute (DPI)

The challenge was to design a building to serve entrepreneurs and the public while complementing the new DPI building. The concept sought to foster collaboration through a central circulation spine on each level that connected two stair atriums. These “Stairiums” would feature informal meeting spaces to encourage spontaneous discussions. Three design themes: structural expressionism, spatial flexibility, and innovation within Chicago’s architectural style, were integrated into the building’s aesthetic. This multifaceted approach cultivated a bold design through structure that enhanced the architecture, new vernaculars synthesized with historical elements, and spaces that seamlessly interact with the 78 Development and beyond.

PROGRAM

Ensure efficient access to labs

LATERAL SYSTEM

Encloses the vertical circulation

STEP BACK

Yield to the human scale

STEEL PODIUM

Opens the ground plane

RELINQUISH

Correspond to DPI’s height

CONCEPT DIAGRAMS

MASS-TIMBER

Promotes health and wellbeing

STRUCTURAL DIAGRAMS

LEVEL 5: NORTH STAIRIUM

The concept aimed to enhance collaboration by establishing a central circulation spine on each level, linking two stair atriums, or “Stairiums.” These Stairiums were positioned at the building’s north and south ends. To enhance collaboration through circulation, each level’s social and meeting spaces were located at these nodes. The Stairiums were envisioned as the principal means of vertical circulation, fostering movement between open-office and lab levels. This dual function of circulation and collaboration positioned the Stairiums as vibrant social hubs on and between levels.

MECHANICAL LEVEL

LEVEL 11

OPEN OFFICE (INCUBATOR)

LEVEL 10

OPEN OFFICE (INCUBATOR) LEVEL 9

OPEN OFFICE (INCUBATOR) LEVEL 8

OPEN OFFICE (INCUBATOR) LEVEL 7

WET LABS LEVEL 6

MAKER LABS / WET LABS

LEVEL 5

MAKER LABS

LEVEL 4

AUDITORIUM / OPEN OFFICE

LEVEL 3

OPEN OFFICE (ACCELERATOR )

LEVEL 2

FOOD HALL

LEVEL 1

SOUTH STAIRIUM

LEVELS 4 - 10

NORTH STAIRIUM LEVELS 2 - 10

NORTH-SOUTH PERSPECTIVE SECTION

The trusses on Levels 2 and 4 integrated with the architecture by dividing spaces and demarcating pathways while efficiently transferring column loads. This multifaceted design facilitated the use of masstimber above, minimized columns below, and demonstrated innovative architectural integration.

The first level played a crucial role as a seamless link between site features and building’s use. Long-span trusses were employed to minimize the number of columns. The southeast side was anchored by the pitch space and the food hall was positioned along the west half to capitalize on the future Riverwalk.

LEVEL 1: FOOD HALL

LEVEL 2: OPEN OFFICE (ACCELERATOR)

EXTERIOR

CURTAIN

WALL

AIR VENT

SPANDRELS

LOUVERS WOOD

2’ CATWALK

INTERIOR CURTAIN WALL

DOUBLE SKIN FACADE AXON SECTION

The facade design posed a significant challenge, requiring a balance of natural light, exterior views, and solar heat control. The east and west elevations, with expansive glass walls for lab and office spaces, required effective light control for a suitable work environment. A double skin facade with movable internal fins was chosen to manage natural light penetration in each bay. This facade featured an exterior curtain wall with vents, a two-foot maintenance catwalk, fin assembly, and an internal curtain wall. In winter, the space could be sealed for natural heating, while in summer, vents allowed for natural cooling. The metal grates provided maintenance access and air movement. This solution preserved the strong Chicago-inspired facade while effectively managing solar heat and glare for occupants.

WET LAB SPACE - FINS CLOSED

WET LAB SPACE - FINS OPEN

1. MIDTERM REVIEW

2. DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

WEST ELEVATION

The building’s exterior sought to reflect Chicago architecture through incorporating historic elements like the Chicago window and new vernaculars with mass-timber. An emphasis was placed on expressing the structural materials to complement the structural expression on the interior. However, there was the intrinsic need for the facade to maintain cohesion. Therefore, the first step was establishing common elements like profile shapes, proportions, and curtain wall unit design. After a number of iterations, the structural material of steel, mass-timber, or concrete was framed and detailed with aluminum with matte gray and black finishes.

PHYSICAL MODEL: SOUTHEAST BIRDSEYE VIEW

PHYSICAL MODEL: WELLS STREET ELEVATION

PHYSICAL MODEL: RIVERWALK ELEVATION

AER-0 CENTER

Rantoul, Illinois Team Project Professor Scott Murray

An adaptive reuse proposal that transformed a hanger into the Center for Aerospace and Electrical Engineering Research in Zero Emission Aircraft (AER-0).

The challenge was to re-imagine a World War 2 era hanger that generated community interest and emphasized sustainability. The concept was transforming a 20th century hangar to fulfill the 21st century’s ambition for netzero emissions in both buildings and aircraft. The design proposal would provide a research facility for the University of Illinois’s ongoing research into electric aircraft.

LEVEL 2 FLOOR PLAN: INTERACTIVE LEARNING CENTER

LEVEL 1 FLOOR PLAN: RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

AXONOMETRIC FLOOR PLANS

A critical component of the research program was creating spaces for public observation and education without interference. This was achieved by retaining the distinctive sawtooth roof and brick masonry while adding a second level mimicking aircraft wings. The first level focused on research and development, while the second level hosted the Interactive Learning Center with flight simulators, immersive workshops, and an auditorium. The second level’s adjacency to the high bay allowed framed views into component testing and assembly spaces below and panoramic views of the aircraft assembly and parking hangers.

2ND LEVEL CORRIDOR

1ST LEVEL LOGISTICS PATH

The second level’s main corridor was strategically positioned above the first level’s research and logistics path. Initially conceived to enhance natural light penetration, it evolved to showcase the robust logistics required in the research and development process. Furthermore, unique views emerged at the abutment of the sawtooth roof and the second level’s exterior glass wall. These intersections developed into “windows” for Interactive Learning Center visitors to observe each stage of the process below.

Typical Column Size: W10 x 49

Typical Beam Size: WF24 x 40

Load-Bearing Masonry Walls

Saw-Tooth Roof Structure:

1. Purlins - 10” Deep Steel Channels

2. Center Beam - 18” Deep Wide Flange Center

3. Sawtooth Truss - Built-up Steel Angles

Highbay Roof Structure:

1. Purlins - W6 x 15

2. Truss - Built-up Steel Angles @ 20’ o.c.

3. X-Bracing - Built-up Steel Angles along perimeter

4. Center Girder Truss - Built-up Steel Angles

Winged-Roof Structure:

1. Purlins - W6 x 15

2. Truss - Built-up Steel Angles @ 20’ o.c.

3. Girder Truss - Built-up Steel Angles

STRUCTURAL DIAGRAM

PHYSICAL MODEL: AUDITORIUM - EXTERIOR

NEW - 2nd Level Roof R-Value = 31

Existing - HighBay Roof Upgraded R-Value = 31

Existing - Sawtooth Glass Triple Glazed, Low E Glass Upgraded U-Value = 0.25 NEW - Skylights

Existing - Skylights

- Solar Panels

Sawtooth Roof = 30 degrees

Roof = 10 degrees

BUILDING ENVELOPE DIAGRAM

Glazed, Low E Glass Upgraded U-Value = 0.25

Existing - HighBay Walls Upgraded R-Value = 25

Existing - LowBay Roof Upgraded R-Value = 31 NEW - Curtain Walls Triple Glazed, Low E Glass U-Value = 0.25

Existing - LowBay Masonry Walls Upgraded R-Value = 25

Existing - 1st Level Windows Triple Glazed, Low E Glass Upgraded U-Value =0.25

PHYSICAL MODEL: AUDITORIUM - INTERIOR

The two model photos in conjunction with the building diagrams above capture how the new “Aircraft Wings” are integrated with the existing building. The Entry Atrium and the Auditorium serve as the start and end points respectively of the Interactive Learning Center. The Auditorium was envisioned as a multipurpose space particularity through the inclusion of a learning stair. This would allow the space to quickly transition from a informal research and collaboration area to large gathering space for presentations. Its location at the southwest corner directed views toward the runway as the research into electric aircraft takes flight.

NEW

FLOW

Chicago, Illinois

Team Project

Professor Paul Armstrong

A mixed-use tower that incorporated a public podium, hotel, and condos by responding to the various “Flows” present in the immediate context.

The task was proposing the next skyscraper in Chicago’s storied high-rise history. Located on one of the last open lots near the mouth of the Chicago River, this location had the opportunity to be a gateway between Downtown Chicago and the lakefront. The design process focused on how to blend the verticality of a tower and the horizontality of the Chicago River. The design proposal was rooted in the concept of “Flow” from the horizontal to the vertical. This influenced the massing by metaphorically pulling the flow of the Chicago River across the site and up the tower. This created a dynamic design that provided for a gateway and produced a high-rise unlike any other in Chicago’s Skyline.

02 CONVERGE 03 GATEWAY

2. FLOW

1. TREE TRUNK

4. INITIAL PODIUM DESIGN

3. TWO TOWERS

ELEVATOR DIAGRAM

HOTEL(NORTH BANK)

CONDO(SOUTH BANK)

*2 SERVICE ELEVATORS FOR EACH USE TOWER HEIGHT = 1050 FEET

5 FLOORS, 15’ FL to FL.

CONDOS

23 FLOORS, 12’ FL. to FL. PENTHOUSES

INTERMEDIATE SKYGARDEN

HOTEL

21 FLOORS, 10’ FL. to FL.

INTERMEDIATE SKYGARDEN

12 FLOORS, 12’ FL. to FL. LOFTED

CONDOS SKYGARDEN MECHANICAL MECHANICAL MECHANICAL

PODIUM

7 FLOORS, VARIES FL to FL

6 FLOORS, 12’FL to FL PARKING GARAGE

SKY-GARDEN

The tower is crowned with a sky-garden that captures the essence of the concept of Flow within a space. In the same way the tower was rising from the “flow” of the river, the “tree” columns rose out of the core and, like branches, the beams flowed out from the columns to form a dynamic roof canopy.

PEDESTRIAN ACCESS (SOUTH) FROM COLUMBUS DRIVE

On the south side, the podium curves away to reveal a path to Columbus Drive. In tandem with the gateway at the podium’s center, these gestures proactively engaged the ground plane to encourage human-scale movement between the plaza and Riverwalk level.

Reinforced Concrete Slab

Tapered Reinforced Concrete Super Core

Base: 70 ft. x 70 ft.

Top: 63 ft. x 56 ft.

10 in. thick slab

Tapered Reinforced Concrete Beams

Depth: 30 in. to 16 in

The concept of Flow necessitated a seamless integration of the architecture and structure to achieve the massing. It required a response to the two rotating carvings, which articulated the concept and mitigated wind forces. Moreover, floor plate spans would need to vary to meet the required lease spans: 35 feet for hotel levels and 25–30 feet for condos. The solution was a Tapered Reinforced Concrete Super Core with its integrated gravity and lateral system. This system enabled the floor plates to effectively respond to the rotating carvings and varying lease spans, while avoiding inopportune column placement.

SUPER CORE STRUCTURAL SYSTEM

LOFTED CONDO UNITS (UPPER)

LOFTED CONDO UNITS (LOWER)

TYPICAL LOWER HOTEL FLOOR PLAN

TYPICAL LOWER CONDO FLOOR PLAN

LOFTED CONDO UNIT

As condo units are placed higher in a tower, the visual connection to activity of the urban ground plane gradually fades. In response, lofted condo units were strategically introduced between the podium and hotel. This elevation placement preserved a closer connection to the vibrant life of the Riverwalk through providing residents with a unique and captivating perspective of the city’s energy. The double-height living area accentuated these views while prominently exhibiting the exposed octagon core and the articulation of the cantilever floor system.