Portfolio-Yuxuan Shen by Yuxuan Shen

MOTIVATION

In my undergraduate thesis, I delved into the theoretical realm of utilizing mycelium-based materials in architecture, envisioning their potential to revolutionize the construction industry. However, I am eager to transition from theoretical exploration to practical implementation. The pressing environmental issues associated with conventional building materials during the construction and demolition phases have ignited my passion for exploring sustainable alternatives. Bio-based materials, such as those derived from mycelium, hold immense promise in mitigating environmental pollution while offering innovative solutions to the construction sector's sustainability challenges. My enthusiasm for pursuing advanced studies in architecture was fueled by my exposure to a specialized studio at University College London (UCL), where I witnessed the remarkable potential of bio-based materials. The captivating models and conceptual designs showcased during the studio's graduate exhibition left a lasting impression on me, inspiring a deep-seated desire to contribute meaningfully to this burgeoning field.

Moreover, my critical observation of the disconnect between contemporary architecture and natural climatic processes has motivated me to seek a deeper understanding of how architectural design can better integrate with the surrounding environment. Modern buildings often prioritize artificial climate control systems, such as HVAC systems, which contribute to energy inefficiency and create a disconnect between indoor and outdoor environments, detracting from the holistic human experience. I am determined to explore innovative design strategies that prioritize environmental harmony and optimize natural climatic conditions by studying Architecture MArch at UCL, fostering a more symbiotic relationship between built environments and their surroundings. In a word, my decision to pursue advanced studies in architecture is driven by a passionate commitment to exploring sustainable building materials, fostering innovative design approaches, and reimagining the relationship between architecture and the natural environment. I am eager to embark on this academic journey, equipped with a strong foundation in theoretical research and a fervent desire to effect positive change.

A TOWN UNDER ONE ROOF WHITTIER, ALASKA, US

OTHER WORK

CONTENTS 01 02 03 ISLAMIC ART COMMUNITY CENTER SUNNISIDE, SUNDERLAND, TYNE AND WEAR, UK

YEAR 3 - eVolo 2024 SKYSCRAPER COMPETITION - WORK EXPERIENCE & TEAM EXPERIENCE (group work)

ISLAMIC ART COMMUNITY CENTER

SUNNISIDE, SUNDERLAND, TYNE AND WEAR, UK

"...the local rainy marine climate as a catalyst for art community development...The basic elements in the building should respond to the local natural environment, thereby helping people to mobilize their senses and connect with the surrounding environment and society."

YEAR 3, 09.2022-05.2023 (AMENDE/IMPROVE 07.2023-09.2023)

STUDIO THEME: SOFT ARCHITECTURE AND SUPPORT STRUCTURE

COMMUNITY ISSUE

SUNDERLAND which is a port city in Tyne and Wear, England, was renowned for its manufacturing and resource extraction in the past, however since the 1980s these industries have diminished, resulting in unemployment and abandoned buildings. ISLAMIC SOCIETY does not have a long history here. But unlike the quiet atmosphere of the entire town, the entire community exudes an atmosphere of vitality and unity, whether online or offline.

Mosque in Interfaith Chaplaincy Centre Hendon James Masjid Main City Muslim population in the UK High Low

RIVER WEAR 200 400 0 m

In addition, Sunderland has a marine climate, with abundant precipitation and windy weather throughout the year. Although there are open green spaces around the site, few people want to stay here for a long time. The whole neighborhood looks lifeless

Recidence Area Green Area Bus Station Parking Area Metro Station Railway Station

AGED 15 OR UNDER 33% 4% 63% AGED 16-64 AGED 65+ AGE GROUP 20% 29% 18% ARE 'ECONOMICALLY ACTIVE' FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT 16-24 YEAR OLD MUSLIM WOMEN IN EMPLOYMENT 16-74 YEAR OLD MUSLIM WOMEN LOOKING AFTER FAMILY MUSLIMS AT WORK 1971 1981 1991 2001 2011 2017 2021 4M 2M 3M 1M NUMBER OF MUSLIMS IN UK LEICESTER UNREST,2022 11 MUSLI EXTREMISTS ARE JAILED FOR A PLOTTING TERROR ATTACK INVOLVING SUICIDE BOMBERS, 2013 AN ANTI-RACISM DEMONSTRATION IN CENTRAL LONDON ,2017 LONDON BRIDGE ATTRACK, 2017 ANTI-MUSLIM HATE CRIMES SOAR IN UK AFTER CHRISTCHURCH SHOOTINGS, 2019 More than a third of UK residents think Islam is a threat to the British way of life 18.1% people in the UK support banning Muslim immigration Road Street Path Sun Path & Wind Direction Main Life Route Abandoned Building Car Repair Shop Entertainment 1 Future development area 1,Central Business District 2,Student Village 3,Sunderland Station & Holmeside 4,Fawcett Street 5,Nile + Villiers 2 3 4 5 SITE ANALYSIS - SUNDERLAND

Map Scale 1:1000 N SITE

CITY CENTER

Site

SUNNISIDE

SUNDERLAND

MOWBRAY PARK Sunderland University Masjid

A stroll through the neighborhood reveals a plethora of auto repair shops that have taken the place of the old shipbuilding industry. There are many CLOSED SHOPS on the streets. Yet, the city is gradually embracing the prospects of the future. SCAFFOLDING can be seen everywhere on the street. Many buildings are being renovated and some new buildings are being built. During our site inspection, we found that some GRAFFITI on the walls did not look friendly. Some ignorant young people would write "Muslims get out" on the walls of the mosque. These graffitis make the whole street look insecure.

DESIGN BRIEF

The combination of arched elements of Islamic architecture and local red brick elements makes the community buildings emphasize cultural interaction in appearance and structure. The design also encourages people to observe and participate in local climate activities to promote communication.

BLOCK GENERATION STRATEGY

SEEING FEELING HEARING SAYING DOING EXISTING WEATHER ABANDONED RED BRICK BUDILING ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE ELEMENTS AECH EXISTING WALL WINDOW STRUCTURE SUNLIGHT RAINHARVEST NEW EXTERIOR WALL PRINCIPLE Collection Area Collection Tank Pump Filtration System Sanitation Tank Ready to use Existing Red Brick Building Main Route/Entrance New Extension Part (load bearing structure) (glulum frame structure) Carved out Open Public Area Added Main Circulation Added Facade Introduced Green Roof and Landscape

GF 1F 2F 3F N Site Plan Scale 1:200 HIGH STREET WEST NILE WEST VILLIERS WEST E CROSS STREET SUNDERLAND STREET 20m 10m 0m

•

(brick size 250*100mm with steel mesh)

INTERMEDIATE FLOOR

• 25mm oak flooring

• 50mm timber battens

• Underfloor heating in heat reflective trays

• 100 rock wool insulation

• 150 CLT Floor

• 300*100mm glulam beam (in elevation)

• Service void

• 300*80 Timber battens

• Sprinkler system

• 15mm plasterboard

•

• 50*30mmbatten

• Sound insulating rubber pad 25mm

•

• Cross joist and service cavity 200mm

• Wood fibre board25mmm

•

PERMEABLE PAVING

• 220*75mm concrete pavers

• 15mm sand bedding course

• 100mm Open-graded base reservoir

• 300mm stone sub-base

• 100mm Under brain

• Soil sub grade

Ground floor Plan Scale 1:200 First floor Plan Scale 1:200 Second floor Plan Scale 1:200 N N N 28923 6034 3940 2095 11654 1770 3430 B B A A 28923 6034 3940 2095 11654 1770 3430 28923 11654 1770 3430 A A B B A A B B 0m 4m 8m 0m 4m 8m 0m 4m 8m 2717 3318 6034 29225 9310 3360 1389 5625 3030 1000 5510 29225 9310 3360 7014 4030 5510 29225 9310 3360 11044 5510 27296 3160 4840 3850 7600 7846 27296 3160 4840 3850 7600 7846 27296 8000 3850 7600 7846 27296 3160 4840 3550 9200 4000 2546 27296 2225 6465 1925 9200 4000 2546 935 27296 2225 4840 1925 9200 6546 935 1625 Exhibition Area Rain Harvest Cafe Shop Kitchen &Storage Art Studio (Local Artists&Staff) Lobby Handcraft Studio Countryard Lobby Art Studio Creative Art Area Lobby Lecture Area Toliet Toliet Art Studio Outdoor Space TECHNICAL SECTION 1:20 12000 3790 510 315 3375 315 325 415 2955 285 CONCRETE STRIP FOUNDATION • 100mm Concrete pond • 25mm oak flooring • Service trunking in galvanized steel trays • 20mm underfloor heating pipes • 100mm concrete screed • Vapor control layer • 150mm foam glass rigid insulation • Damp proof membrane • 300mm concrete ground floor slab • 200mm hardcore • 75mm rigid insulation (down to concrete footing) • 500*300mm rainscreed concrete footing EXTERNAL WALL • 20mm plasterboard • 40*40 timber counter battens • 150mm CLT 4:300*300mm glulam frame (in elevation) • Vapor control layer • 150mm rock wool insulation board • Sheathing • Water membrane • Air space • Flat tension profile & intermediate tube • Wire Mesh Panels • Double glazing open-able window (wooden frame) • Flexbrick

NEW EXTENSION BUILDING OLD EXISTING BUILDING REPAIRED EXTERIAL WALL

Existing brick wall 400mm

Cavity 50mm

•

Breather membrane

Bitumen impregnated board 20mm

Rigid wood fiber thermal insulation board 150mm

•

Wood fibre board 18mm

Vapor barrier

•

Service cavity

fibre board INTERNAL

30mm • Wood

FLOOR

Recycled wooden pallet flooring 20mm

• Counter floor 20mm • Floor joist

150mm CLT

Insulation 150mm

glulam

FOUNDATION

300*100

beam

Existing

Damp proof course

Rigid insulation

Screed floor 50mm Section BB Scale 1:20 300 0m 2m 4m SCALE 1:20 PLAN

foundation 300*400mm •

•

100mm •

GLULAM STRUCTURE NEW EXTENSION BUILDING OLD EXISTING BUILDING Glulam Timber Coloum（300*300mm） Metal Coloum RAIN HARVEST

Structure Model

WALL DETAILS Flexbrick （brick size 250*100mm） AXONOMETRIC DRAWING

Rainharvest

EXTERIOR

ART STUDIO

EXHIBITION AREA EXHIBITION AREA LOBBY

LOBBY

THE PROJECT is the repair and expansion of the original buildings on the site. Most of the old existing buildings on the site will be retained, and only the sloped roof on the south side and internal wall will be removed. Building materials from the demolition, such as concrete and bricks, will be recycled for use in the construction of the new development. The new building uses Glulam Structure and Flexbrick for its facade, which echoes the original building in materials and colors.

ART STUDIO

Islam is one of the largest religions in the world. Due to immigration issues, the Muslim population in Europe has grown rapidly in recent years. The United Kingdom is the main destination for ordinary Muslim immigrants, therefore Islam began to spread widely here. However, there are many prejudices against Islam in today's society, causing some local residents to develop Islamophobia. Although nowadays more and more new mosques have been built in the UK, a soft, open, and friendly Islamic community is almost rare.

THE PROJECT interacts with its occupants through their senses to respond to its natural surroundings. People's artwork in studios is the process of visualizing and recreating the natural information received by the senses. The process of receiving information and creating expression can promote the cooperation and communication of community residents and enhance community feelings, thereby mitigating local religious conflicts and unfriendly remarks.

ISLAMIC ART COMMUNITY CENTER Creative Art Studio Countryard Green Roof

A TOWN UNDER ONE ROOF

WHITTIER, ALASKA, US

"You have this bay, and then these giant mountains... The views in front of the window are brilliant and incredible. Some people love the town because it can be really social, and some people love it because it can be reclusive. You gonna be good with being by yourself, but you also have to learn to live with others at close quarters at the same time..."

10.2023-11.2023 INDIVIDUAL WORK eVolo 2024 SKYSCRAPER COMPETITION

SITE ANALYSIS - WHITTIER ALASKA

Whittier is a city at the head of the Passage Canal in the U.S. state of Alaska. It was established by the U.S. Army during World War II as the location was nestled amidst mountains and blanketed by thick cloud cover making discovery of the port city difficult. It is notable for its extremely wet climate for the fact that almost all of its residents live in the Begich Towers Condominium, earning it the nickname of a "town under one roof".

SITE DESCRIBE

DATA OF THE COMMUNITY

In this small town, everyone's needs are compressed under one roof, so most of the space, both personal and private, is mixed together, and people's individual needs cannot be fully met. For instance, children require more play facilities, while adults struggle to balance the private and public spaces between home and work. Additionally, elderly residents seek more entertainment spaces and opportunities for gardening.

EXISTING BUILDING - BEGICH TOWER

Due to limitations imposed by the harsh winter weather and limited land availability, all community functions are condensed within this 14-story building blending individual and private spaces together. All the residents of the town try to create their comfortable community and living environment within this building, despite its age and antiquity.While not all needs are fully met, they have a lovely and unique community.

SITE 1072m 13m 0m Shakespeare Shoulder Whittier City Passage Canal N Alaska (USA) Canada Gulf of Alaska Whittier Gulf of Alaska Prince William Sound 160°W 140°W 70°N 60°N 60°N 61°N 148°W 146°W 0 20 40 (kilometers)

Weather Topographic Map Road Building N S W E Wind Direction & Sun Path Average Wind Speed Average Hours of Daylight Average Temperture 14.9mph 0.0mph 7.5mph 20.0hrs 0.0hrs 10.0hrs 70F 45F 0F Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec SITE SITE Creek Walking Path Walking Path Parkview Rd GlacierAve EasternAve Whittier St Railway ShipTerminal ShipTerminal SITE BlackstoneRdDepotRd ReserviorRd W Camp Rd 50 50 50 100 100 150 200 250 150 200 250 Passage Canal City Park Mountains Mountains SITE Tsunami Evacuation Routes COMMON NEEDS PERSONAL NEEDS Historic Population House Data Locals & Tourists Under 18 years old 18-65 years old 65 years old and over 15% 73% 12% 800 0 400 200 600 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 0 20 40 60 80 100 Occupied Housing Units Vacant Housing Due to Seasonal Use Vacant Housing Units 0 100k 200k 300k 400k 500k 600k Residents Tourists per year 700,000 273

Over the past few years, the town's population has steadily increased Being a tourist destination, the annual influx of visitors far exceeds the town's residents. Therefore, there may be a need for additional seasonal residential spaces Housing Units Condo Suites (Hotel) Living area Community area commercial area Others Public Space Living Area Community Area Commercial&Office Area Outdoor Seasonal Activities

The whittier seaman's mission 197 Housing Units June's Whittier Condo Suites A covered garden A small movie theater A small Baptist church Indoor playgroud Gym US Post office Two grocery stores Restaurant A clinic Town Office Wildlife conservation center National forest hike Cruise Kayaking

As the connecting platform of the twin towers, the commercial and office areas also play a functional role in dividing public and personal spaces. As the building goes up, the spatial functions tend to become more personal.

a.Mixed-use

The main functions of the mixed space are a historical museum, a center for town future planning, a viewing platform, and a public reception hall serving the hotel above.

b.Office

The office space for urban residents is located independently below the living space, which solves the original problem of mixed office and living spaces.

c.Entertament Area

In addition to providing convenient services to local residents, such as supermarkets, restaurants, etc., there are also travel agencies, fishing clubs, hiking adventure centers, etc. for tourists.

LIVING & COMMUNITY UNITS

Space is hung in the form of unit boxes on each structural element. The unit boxes serving as community spaces will be connected, but in the residential space, each box will be relatively independent to ensure privacy.

a.Residence & Hotel

The residential part includes houses and hotels, which will serve town residents and tourists respectively. And independent residential structures will meet the expansion needs brought about by future population growth.

b.Community & School

On the left side of the Twin Towers is a community activity center for residents, and on the right tower are schools and art centers for young people.

The facade of the building has weakened the intensity of snow to a certain extent, which is another layer of protection facing the extreme wind and cold weather of residents. At the same time, the material of the metal network enables the climate to gently enter the interior of the building, to alleviate residents’ feeling of being trapped in reinforced concrete during the extremely cold winter months

In addition, the white luster of the metal, the shape of the water ripple also makes the building visually integrate into the harbor and snow mountains.

NEW COMMUNITY AREA PLAN AXONOMETRIC DRAWING LIVING AREA COMMUNITY & SCHOOL Lift Reinforced concrete structural unit a: b: c: Floor Slab The building project, upon completing its foundational framework, offers residents the unique opportunity to customize their living spaces by adding floorboards according to their individual needs This innovative approach ensures flexibility and adaptability, allowing residents to tailor their homes to suit their lifestyles. Moreover, with the potential for future population growth, this modular design facilitates seamless expansion of living space. As the community evolves, so too can the building, ensuring it remains a vibrant and accommodating hub for its residents. In the community and school spaces, every few floors, there is a large open circular space linking each unit. This provides residents with ample activity space particularly during cold winters when outdoor access may be limited. Garden & Planting area Lift Library Hall Studio Library Studio Gym External structure Twin towers structure plan 0m 10m 20m NEW TOWER CONCEPT S H A R E D N D V I D U A L P U B L C P R I V A T E ADMINIDTRATION COMMUNITY BUSINESS LIVING TOWN OFFICE SCHOOL RESIDENCE MUSEUM LIBRARY HOTEL PLAYGROUND BAPTIST CHURCH TRAVEL AGENCY CLINIC GYM POLICE STATION MAYOR'S OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM NOTARY OFFICE US POST OFFICE MOVIE THEATER GROCERY STORES FURNITURE & FABRIC SHOP PUB RESTAURANT LAUNDROMAT JAIL MEETING ROOM MEETING ROOM STUFF OFFICE STUFF OFFICE PLANTING GREENHOUSE CLASSROOMS STUFF OFFICES ART STUDIOS ACTIVITY CENTER HALL LAB TOWN PLANNING CENTER SUITE SUITE ROOM ROOM HOUSING UNIT HOUSING UNIT FLAT FLAT SEAMAN REST ROOM STRUCTURAL DESIGN

column b.Steel Structural units BUSINESS & ENTERTAMENT AREAS

a.Central

Twin Towers + Single Base The main support struture consists of two huge reinforced central columns and nearly 30 disc-shaped structural units

central column with a diameter of 6m only serves as structural support. The escape stairs, elevators and equipment rooms will be designed between the central column and the structural unit. Each structural unit is spaced approximately 30 meters high and serves as an extension of the supporting structure to connect the main functions of the building.

OUTER FACADE

The

The new building establishes a certain distinction between private and public spaces, rather than fully segregating them, allowing for a gradual transition.The ground floor accommodates commercial and community school facilities, serving as public spaces. As one ascends, the areas gradually transition into residential quarters, with office spaces serving as intermediary zones between residential and community areas.

151.84m 20.00m 174.00m 20.31m 182.70m 70.52m 619.37m 392.91m PUBLIC PRIVATE COMMERCIAL AREA COMMUNITY AREA OFFICE AREA LIVING AREA 6m 6m 133.77m 133.95m 113.19m (Housing Units,Coudo Suites,Hotel) (US Post office,Police Station,Clinic,Notary office,....) (School,Playgroud,Church,Movie Theater,...) (Travel Agency,Restaurants,Pubs...)

Housing Units Hotel Reception Covered Garden- Community Planting Area Playgroud

Semi-outdoor Track Restaurant

Community Studio

A TOWN UNDER ONE ROOF - WHITTIER TOWER

The new tower successfully preserves the cherished close-knit community relationships cherished by residents. Through clever unit design, it seamlessly transitions between private and public spaces. Additionally, the original residential units have been transformed into flexible, modular designs, allowing residents to freely add floorboards within the basic structural framework, thereby increasing the personalization and adaptability of living spaces. This also meets the future demand for population growth.

The exterior facade design effectively shields residents from severe cold weather while maintaining an excellent visual experience. Residents can delight in views of snow-capped mountains and the port scenery through their windows, basking in beautiful winter sunshine.

Team Experience & Work Experience

• Model making and exhibition layout (group work)

• Site Visit (group work)

Street interviews with local residents & Attend local festival activities

My main work:

• Preparing questionnaires before interviews and sorting out local issues that may have been overlooked.

• Help the team members record and take photos during the interview, and ensure that the interview is relatively comprehensive, such as ensuring that people of different ages are asked about their needs for community space.

• Categorize recording materials and convert them into text

• Seaside Villa Design

As an architectural design intern at the Beijing Institute of Architectural Design Co., Ltd., I contributed to the research and design of the 'Seaside Villa Project.' This experience gave me practical insights into the architectural design process and enhanced my technical skills and professional competencies. One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was the handson involvement in drafting architectural floor plans, elevations, and sections for the 'Seaside Villa Project.' Through meticulous attention to detail and adherence to architectural standards, I developed a keen understanding of the importance of precision and accuracy in architectural documentation.