LADDERS OF GROWTH
PORTFOLIO
Introduction to the Semester
project 1
I gained a deeper understanding of how tropical architecture can adapt to cultural and environmental environments by conducting a precedent research on the Blue House in Brazil. With its vivid hues and harmonious blend with the environment, the Blue House is a prime example of climate-responsive design elements including expansive overhangs and open, airy areas that encourage natural circulation. This study underlined the significance of climate adaptation and sustainability as well as the influence of cultural identity on architectural form. After giving this some thought, I can understand how architecture may represent a feeling of place and community in addition to serving a functional purpose.
Project 2
It was difficult but worthwhile to design a staircase that connects the public and private areas on a crumbling rock. The natural terrain's irregularities necessitated careful consideration of safety and utility while maintaining a smooth transition between areas. By ensuring that the staircase not only blended in perfectly with the rock formation but also provided a clear route between the contrasting private and public areas, I discovered how crucial it is to strike a balance between beauty and functionality. The project created a safe, user-friendly design that facilitated movement through a variety of places while reinforcing the need of respecting the natural landscape.
project 3
It was a creative and intimate experience to build a vacation home on the same tumblestone where the staircase stood It was a satisfy ng challenge to make sure the building suited my sister's and my needs while blending in with the untamed surroundings. Intimate and pract cal, the design had to provide private areas for us both wh le yet allowing for connect ons to the outs de world that encouraged quality time spent together In order to create an area that felt like a true retreat, I learnt how to respect the land's natural contours My understanding of how architecture can enhance interpersonal relat onships wh le blending in perfectly with the environment has grown as a result of this pro ect.
Project 1 Learning Outcomes
Drawing diagrams
I became aware of the effectiveness of diagrams in simplifying and making difficult concepts more understandable thanks to the previous study. Before this, my main focus was on axonometric and orthographic drawings, which were detailed but occasionally seemed too rigid for conceptual exploration. I was able to simplify and abstract key concepts and relationships through diagramming, which facilitated the rapid and efficient communication of design ideas. This change in strategy helped me better grasp how diagrams might be used in the design process as a tool for visual storytelling and clarity.
Precedent studies
By looking at the building's shape, context, materials, and underlying architectural ideas, I was able to understand how to conduct a precedent study methodically. I started concentrating on the building's response to its surroundings, the experience it provides for users, and how its design choices take environmental and cultural considerations into account. This allencompassing method gave me a better framework for applying findings to my own design work by teaching me how to evaluate a building beyond its aesthetics.
Project 2 Learning Outcomes
Successful Circulation
I discovered how to successfully design a building's circulation by carefully taking ergonomics, anthropometry, and floor area into account. I could create areas that not only allowed for comfortable flow but also optimized functionality by knowing the size and motion patterns of the human body. A good user experience and effective mobility were made possible by making sure that doorways, stairways, and halls were appropriately suited to the available area. I was able to design a circulation system that seemed natural and responsive to the needs of the users as well as the layout of the building by taking into account human scale in conjunction with the floor plan.
Staircase technicalities
I discovered how to successfully design a building's circulation by carefully taking ergonomics, anthropometry, and floor area into account. I could create areas that not only allowed for comfortable flow but also optimized functionality by knowing the size and motion patterns of the human body. A good user experience and effective mobility were made possible by making sure that doorways, stairways, and halls were appropriately suited to the available area. I was able to design a circulation system that seemed natural and responsive to the needs of the users as well as the layout of the building by taking into account human scale in conjunction with the floor plan.
Hierarchy Model For The Blue House
Structural support in the Useful Staircase
Introduction to Project 3
The semester's last assignment, which required us to create a vacation home by the river, was a really intimate and significant experience. With its tranquil surroundings and unspoiled splendor, the location seemed ideal for contemplating my own character and my relationship with the natural world. I worked on the design with the goal of creating a place that was both open and intimate, a haven that welcomed the peaceful presence of the river and permitted times of seclusion. I was able to combine my architectural vision with the site's character in this project, which allowed me to truly express myself and create a space that felt exclusively mine.
S u b m i s s i o n
R e q u i r e m e n t s o f
p r o j e c t 3
kucha
Presentation boards
Pecha
Model
01 DIGRAMMING
02 PROVIDING SPATIAL QUALITIES
03 PRECEDENT STUDIES
04 STAIRCASE TECHNICALITY
Project Development
Site Analysis 01
Doing the site analysis in a group was a collaborative and insightful experience. We worked together to take precise measurements, ensuring accuracy in documenting the site's dimensions and topography. Capturing photographs of the natural aspects, such as the landscape, vegetation, and views, helped us understand the unique qualities of the site. This hands-on approach allowed us to observe and record key elements that would inform our design, while also encouraging team discussions on how to best respond to the site’s characteristics. It was a valuable exercise in combining technical skills with a deeper appreciation for the environment.
Sketches 02
Creating a compilation of development sketches was a step-by-step process that allowed me to refine my design gradually. I began by sketching the overall form of the bach, focusing on the key spatial and aesthetic qualities I wanted to emphasize. From there, I moved towards developing the floor plans, carefully fitting the rooms to ensure they were functional and harmonious with the space. Each iteration brought new insights, and through continuous refinement, I was able to align the layout with both my vision and the site’s context. The progression of these sketches ultimately helped me solidify the final design.
03
Model
Building the model of the bach was a hands-on process that brought my rough sketches to life. Using cardboard to represent wood was an effective way to capture the materiality of the bach, as wood was central to the construction. The cardboard allowed me to model the structure’s form and texture while reflecting the warmth and natural feel of the wood. As I worked through the model, I refined the proportions and spatial relationships, gaining a clearer understanding of how the design would translate into a physical space. This process helped solidify my vision and gave me a tangible sense of how the bach would feel in real life.
Presentation Boards 04
Creating the presentation boards was an essential part of visually communicating my design idea. I carefully compiled all the orthographic drawings, including floor plans, elevations, and sections, ensuring each was clear and accurately represented the structure. Alongside these, I included diagrams to simplify and highlight key concepts, such as circulation flow, spatial relationships, and material choices.
PICTURES TAKEN ON SITE FOR PECHA KUCHA DEVELOPMENT
Presentation Board 1
Presentation Board 2
Presentation Board 3
Model
My Cluster
In a nutshell...
This semester has been an incredibly fruitful learning experience, shaping me into a more well-rounded individual. It taught me to think creatively while also honing my analytical skills, allowing me to approach design challenges from multiple perspectives. I learned how to implement ideas practically, balancing vision with feasibility. Working in teams further enhanced my ability to collaborate and communicate effectively. Ultimately, the journey from concept to the design of my holiday bach was a transformative process, refining my technical skills and deepening my understanding of architecture. It was a rewarding experience that not only improved my design abilities but also shaped my personal growth.