Shirin Al Asmi's Undergraduate Architecture Portfolio - University of Toronto

Shirin Al Asmi Architecture Portfolio Selected works 2021 - 2023

CONTENT

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The Leaf Pavilion

Bounding Box

Case Study o Tectonic Ass

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10

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of sembly

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05

Spatial Analysis in Urbanization

Flippin’ Chill

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The Leaf Pavilion

01

Tectonic System Implementation of Timber Wood at Eagle’s Nest Mountain Trail near Madawaska in Ontario

ARC380 | Technology Studio III Nicholas Hoban Academic | Group Project December 2022

The project involves the construction of a timber wood structure along the Eagle’s Nest Mountain Trail near Madawaska in Ontario. The project examines the experimentation of steam-bending wood in both one and two axes.

It explores the integration of columns and diagonal grids (dia-grids) systems to create a harmonious structure that considers both structural integrity and design aesthetics.

To connect the different systems, the project employs various joinery techniques such as the three-way lap joint, diagonal cut lap joint, scarf joint, and mortise and tenon joint. The structure overlooks the trail with three cantilevers stacked atop each other, featuring leaf-shaped floors designed to embrace the natural surroundings. The diagram on the right features one of the cantilevers and a de-construction of its tectonic assembly.

The diagram above illustrates the various types of wood bending in glulaminated beams derived from bent boards. It shows top, bottom, and longitudinal cuts of the beam. This type of wood bending was implemented in the assembly of the leaf structure.

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Physical Prototypes

ARC380 | Tech

The team tested prototypes using 3D printing for specific components and CNC machining of a part of the cantilever at a scale of 1:1.

We tested steam-bending methodologies to achieve the vertical bending of the cantilever, and we also investigated lasercut prototypes of the entire model. The aim was to find the best technique to achieve the organic form of the structure.

I was involoved in creating the graphics of the structure, constructing the steam-bended 1:1 scale prototype, and setting up and constructing the CNC fabricated 1:1 scale prototype.

3D Printed Prototype |

3D Printed Prototype | S

Lasercut Prototype | S

Lasercut Prototype | S

Steam-Bending Process Photos 06

CNC Fabricatied Prototyp

hnology Studio III

Academic

Scale 1:50

Scale 1:50

Lasercut Prototype | Scale 1:50

Scale 1:50

Scale 1:50

pe | Scale 1:1

Steam-Bended Prototype | Scale 1:1

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Renders

ARC380 | Tech

The two lower cantilevers are suitable for walking, whereas the uppermost cantilever serves as a protective structure for the ones below.

This method of layering explores the integration of columns and wooden structures to form a cohesive system rather than distinct entities.

Perspectives observed from the upper and lower vantage points of the cantilevers.

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hnology Studio III

Academic

09

Bounding Box

02

The Canada Malting Co. Silos on Toronto’s Waterfront

ARC381 | Technology Studio IV Timothy Boll Academic | Group Project April 2023

The team was tasked with renovating the Malting towers at the Waterfront, transforming them into a mixed-use building featuring a farmer’s market and a gallery/ exhibition space. The challenge involved retaining 80% of the facade and preserving the concrete structure.

To address these constraints, the team delved into Chaos Theory and explored nonlinear dynamics in a structural context. The introduction of the irregular Gyroid concept to the Northern Silos aimed to create smaller exhibition spaces. Simultaneously, by incorporating the Helicoid concept in the Southern Side of the silos, we aimed to establish more spacious exhibition areas.

Our objective was to establish a horizontal zoning that is visibly present throughout the structure, offering a contrast to the silos’ isolated vertical spaces within the interior.

Bubble Diagram of the Divisons I was involoved in creating the visuals and the diagrams of the structure, including the conceptual and non-conceptual diagrams. I also contributed to the physical model 3D printing process and the modelling process.

My teammates and I deisgned further animations that include an overview of the deisgned space, and I was in charge of the editing process.

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Physcial Prototype & Diagrams

ARC381 | Tech

The Southern Silos, showcasing grand spaces designed using the helicoid mathematical concept to accommodate large exhibitions. | Scale 1:150

The Northern Silos, showcasing mini spaces designed using the gyroid mathematical concept to accommodate small gallergy exhibitions. | Scale 1:150

Abstract Diagram 12

Typology Diagram: Northern Side

hnology Studio IV

Academic

The irregular gyroid folds onto itself to create a porous and interconnected lattice-like pattern. This folding enables the creation of adaptable positive forms and elements that can be used to create smaller exhibition spaces while maintaining a sense of connection and fluidity within the structure.

The helicoid is a simpler form extracted from the gyroid by subtracting from the space to create a negative void. The helicoid is created by looping a horizontal space infinitely on itself along a vertical axis. The repetition of the helicoid results in a wide minimal space on the vertical axis.

Typology Diagram: Southern Side 13

Sections and Plans

Comprising 13 floors, the following visuals depict the integration of both the gyroid and the helicoid into the structure of the silos.

The team preserved the majority of the existing vertical and horizontal planes, such as the walls and floors, to designate the spaces.

On the rooftop, the team designed an open-air restaurant for visitors to enjoy the view overlooking the silos. In the middle, there is an elevator that connects both sides together. The basement floor consisted of offices and facilities for the staff.

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ARC381 | Tech

hnology Studio IV

Academic

15

ARC381 | Tech

Renders

Exterior Renders

Semi-Open Space Renders

Interoir Renders 16

hnology Studio IV

Academic

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Case Study of Tectonic Assembly

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The Cambridge Cenral Mosque by Marks Barfield Architects (2019)

ARC380 | Technology Studio III Nicholas Hoban Academic | Group Project October 2022

The project investigates the tectonic assembly of the eco-friendly Cambridge Central Mosque, designed by Marks Barfield in Cambridge, UK. The mosque showcases a sophisticated system of interlocking timber trusses and steel connections that provide support for a series of vaulted roof domes.

Comprising 16 prefabricated timber pillars, the mosque spans across its atrium. The team deconstructed one pillar to illustrate the assembly process, starting with the vertical pieces that support the pillar and concluding with the horizontal pieces on top.

In my contribution to the project, I implemented a color-coding system for each prefabricated part of the pillar and generated 16 prototypes that could be reconfigured using these parts.

16 Reconfigured Prototypes

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Diagrams & Physcial Prototype

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ARC380 | Tech

Lasercut Model | Scale 1:50

hnology Studio III

Academic

Color-coded 3D Printed Model | Scale 1:50

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Spatial Analysis in Urbanization

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Richview Region — Kipling Avenue and Islington Avenue at Dixon Road

ARC200 | Drawing and Representation II Mohammed Sorror Academic | Individual Project December 2021

In this project, I conducted an analysis of the Richview Region, specifically focusing on Kipling Avenue & Islington Avenue at Dixon Road. Examining the rich vegetation, I scrutinized the typological divisions of houses and their relationship to Wincott Park at the center of the region.

Isometric Close-up of the Park During my visit, I observed the presence of an existing river in the region, which is gradually disappearing. Additionally, to access the other part of the region, one must traverse the park, a massive green space that disconnects the suburb as a whole.

Isometric Close-up of the Examined Typology 22

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ARC200 | Draw

Drawings & Renders

Concept Collage of the Intervention Proposal I proposed a design intervention that would interact with, and potentially alter the existing typological layout.

In response to this challenge, I proposed to introduce a river, creating a Venice-like atmosphere within the region. The primary objective of this intervention is two-fold: first, to contribute to the development of a utopian neighborhood, and second, to enhance the overall mobility within the region using boats.

Importantly, this proposal aims to achieve these objectives while paying due respect to the preservation of the landmark represented by the existing river.

I incorporated ports as another intervention to create stops for the residents to enjoy the landmarks of the region and potentially connect it as a suburb.

Isometric of the Proposed Intervention

Isometric Close-up of the Proposed Intervention 24

wing and Representation II

Academic

25

Flippin’ Chill

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Design Build of Modular Furniture at the Bentway — Toronto

ARC395 | Design Build Clinton Langevin Academic | Group Project August 2023

For this project, we were tasked with designing a modular, large-scale structure that could be reconfigured into 3-5 smaller, independent elements.

Our modular furniture concept intended to serve as a bar for the Bentway’s block party, and to have the capability of resting as deconstructed furniture pieces beneath the Gardiner Expressway during non-event periods. The design included four modular units, each catering to specific needs: a lounge, a kids’ unit, and both large and small chairs.

The bar has two distinct designs: one featuring additional shelving at a standard height, and the other offering accessibility services at a lower height. We ensured that every unit includes ample shelving, and is covered with Crezon sheets to facilitate bar services and add a vibrant aesthetic to the structure.

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Drawings & Physical Prototypes

ARC395| De

Aside from my role within the structure team, where I ensured the designs were structurally sound, I made significant contributions by constructing three of the large chairs. This consisted of building the shelving inside, covering the furniture with Cedar deckings, and adding Crezon sheets at the bottom while taking into account mobility features of the furniture. This process involved not only conceptualizing their form and aesthetics but also finalizing the structural drawings with precise dimensions.

Modular Chair Drawings 28

Construction Process Photos

esign Build

Academic

Physical Prototype | Scale 1:1 29

Shirin Al Asmi

University of Toronto John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design 2021 - 2023