Tommy Chen
Modernizing History
Examining the regional, local, and site mappings of our designated historical ruins site, Fort San Marcos de Apalache, I delineated vital features and contextual nuances, including hydrological, urban, and ecological boundries.
This process culminated in the creation of a site axonometric, facilitating the strategic planning of future interventions, thereby shaping our interpretation of the site’s topography.
The narrative unfolds through the restoration of Fort San Marco De Apalache, advocating for sustainable tourism within these oft-overlooked colonial ruins teeming with historical significance. By blending historic preservation with immersive tourism experiences, my initiative breathes new life into the fort, all while reverently honoring its storied past and cultural heritage.
Vertical Dystopia
Embedded within the architecture is a narrative of dystopian intrigue, a world dominated by its own oppressive government and stratified social hierarchy.
Inspired by Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, the apex of the tower lies the seat of power—the world government— watchfully surveilling the middle and upper echelons of society, recognizing their potential ability to revolt. Meanwhile, the lowest reaches of the tower, situated at the base of this dystopia, languish in neglect and poverty, their inhabitants are marginalized by systemic indifference, although celebrating a certain sense of freedom...
Chen
Capabilities
At its core, this capability presents a visionary blueprint for a 50,000 square feet hub to accommodate a diverse array of scholars and luminaries spanning disciplines such as mathematics, engineering, theology, scientific inquiry, anthropology, and astronomy.
The deliberate integration of louvers into the facade is emblematic of a profound commitment to fostering an environment of undisturbed focus. Functioning as both guardians and guides, these architectural elements redirect perspectives, shielding the interior from external distractions while regulating the influx of natural light.
Charleston Proscenium
My architectural proposal for a performing arts institute in Charleston, North Carolina is designed to offer a welcoming and enriching educational environment for individuals passionate about dance and music, while also encouraging public engagement with its specialized spaces.
The institute features a spacious, multi-level lobby that connects all three floors, fostering a sense of openness and movement. A grand auditorium on the first floor serves as a focal point for performances, complemented by an outdoor stage that invites spontaneous artistic expression. Dedicated dance studios and rehearsal rooms provide tailored spaces for practice and learning. The spatial arrangement transitions from vibrant, public areas on the ground floor to quieter, more private spaces on the upper levels.
Visually, the building’s form and façade evoke the presence of a theatrical stage, visible from surrounding sidewalks, neighboring structures, and nearby parkland. Its dynamic, flowing roofline captures the energy and rhythm of the performing arts, embodying the spirit of the activities within.
F2
The proscenium is the part of a theater that frames the stage, providing a “window” through which the audience views the performance. This helps give the performance a more formal, framed appearance, accentuating the action within the frame and has the ability to enhance acoustics, lighting, and the overall visual experience by concentrating focus.
Tides of Resilience
Partner: Paulina Rios
Set in the year 3000 within a speculative future where sea levels have risen by 100 feet, submerging Manhattan’s streets and low-rise buildings, this project proposes an intervention situated along our core sample of Park Avenue in Midtown, featuring notable buildings such as: the Seagram Building, Lever House, and 425 Park Avenue. Designed as an exploration of urban resilience and adaptability, the proposal introduces large, modular floating structures anchored by cable-connected central support columns.
The development at 388 Hudson Street in NYC is a thoughtfully designed affordable housing project that integrats high-quality residential living with vibrant public amenities and green spaces, fostering both community engagement and individual well-being. The project contributes a new public park that connects seamlessly with James J. Walker Park, offering a welcoming environment for relaxation and social gathering.
Partner: Paulina Rios
Hudson Vista
F26 F21
Tommy Chen
Fourth-year Undergraduate Architecture Student
University of Florida
