James Van Westen 2024 Architectural Portfolio

JAMES VAN WESTEN

SUMMARY

James Van Westen

507-841-3848

vanwestenjames@gmail.com

I am James Van Westen, a Master of Architecture Student and Graduate Assistant at South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota. I have a passion for architectural design and strive to maintain growth both professionally and personally.

EXPERIENCE

GRADUATE ASSISTANT

South Dakota State University Brookings , SD August 2022 - Current

• Track attendance, projects, labs, reports and other class and student metrics.

• Aid professors with research and publications while conducting my own.

• Lead discussions and provide oral presentations on architectural theory, history, software walkthroughs, and contemporary practices to broaden students’ understanding of the field.

ARCHITECTURAL INTERN

CO-OP Architects Sioux Falls , SD May - December 2023

• Collaborated with owners, organizations, and local governments to develop designs for the betterment of the Sioux Falls, South Dakota community.

• Tackled theoretical and actual projects through a variety of techniques.

CONTRACTOR & COMMERCIAL SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER

Menards Watertown , SD September 2021 - July 2022

• Fulfilled guest needs regarding their building projects.

• Compiled and cost estimated guest material lists for their projects through the use of schematic architectural drawings, sketches, and site visits.

CONSTRUCTION LABORER

KH Construction Tea, SD January - August 2021

• Installed structures or fixtures using hand or power tools per plan drawings.

• Read plans, instructions or specifications to determine work activities

• Coordinated phases of construction projects from inception to completion.

ARCHITECTURAL INTERN

Stone Group Architects Sioux Falls, SD June - August 2020

• Worked as a summer intern to help move projects forward through design stages with the capabilities of programs such as Revit, Bluebeam, and Excel.

• Completed projects through physical and digital means.

AWARDS

• 2023 Recipient of the Tau Sigma Delta Honor Society, Bronze Metal

WORK FEATURED IN

• Surreal Transcendence: Exploration of The Sacred and Profane through Artificial Intelligence - Dr. Nesrine Mansour, 2023

SOFTWARE SKILLS

• Autodesk Revit

• Adobe Photoshop

• Lumion

• Rhino 3D

• Adobe Illustrator

• Adobe InDesign

• Midjourney AI

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Masters of Architecture

South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD

Expected May 2024

• Dean’s List

• 3.8 GPA

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Architecture

South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD May 2020

• Dean’s List

• 3.5 GPA

High School Diploma

Jackson County Central Highschool, Jackson, MN

REFERENCES

Tom Hurlbert

Principal Architect CO-OP Architects co-oparch.com 605-334-9999

Dr. Nesrine Mansour

Assistant Professor

Department of Architecture

South Dakota State University nesrine.mansour@sdstate.edu 605-688-4841

Todd Stone

Principal Architect Stone Group Architects todd.stone@stonegrouparchitects.com 605-274-2893

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LITERARY PROVOCATION: FALL 2023

Master’sDegree

Pages4-10

THE 89: SUMMER 2023

ArchitectureInternshipwithCO-OPArchitects

Pages10-13

TECHNICAL VIGNETTES: SPRING 2023

Bachelor’sDegree

01

02

03

CONVERGENCE: SPRING 2023

Bachelor’sDegree Pages14-15

Pages16-21

SACRED & PROFANE: FALL 2022

Bachelor’sDegree

Pages22-27W

THE LIVING FILTER: SPRING 2019

Bachelor’sDegree

04

05

CHAPEL OF HIRED FEET: FALL 2018

Bachelor’sDegree Pages27-29

Pages30-33

06 07

(Middle) Towards the priliminary stag- es of the study the poem was dissected in its entirety, investigating its pyscho- analytical, literary, allegorical, and structural qualities through various matrix exercises.

(Far Right) It was very important to chart and understand the sensory qualities that were described through- out the entirety of the poem if a visceral connection were to be drawn in the architectural translations through speculative drawings.

(Middle) Towards the priliminary

of

(Far Right) It was very important to chart and understand the sensory qualities that were described throughout the entirety of the poem if a visceral connection were to be drawn in the architectural translations through speculative drawings.

The interdisciplinary exploration between architecture and literature is at the forefront of this study, aiming to harmonize these seemingly disparate art forms. This project seeks to convey a compelling narrative that fosters self-reflection, transcendence, and spiritual awakening by intertwining architectural design with the poetic and allegorical depth found in Dante’s magnum opus, The Divine Comedy.

At its core lies an exploration of Dante’s magnum opus, The Divine Comedy, a poetic journey through Inferno, a hellish landscape of torment and terror, Purgatorio, a

(Top Left) These images relay the sensory artifacts that were created through a variety of different hand sculpting techniques. The objective was to capture the overall essence of Inferno (left) and Paradiso (right.) Many of these sensory elements were taken directly from the poem’s passages and the Midjourney AI image iterations that were investigated throughly throughout the primilinary stages of the project.

stages

the study the poem was dissected in its entirety, investigating its pyschoanalytical, literary, allegorical, and structural qualities through various matrix exercises.

(Top Left) These images relay the sen- sory artifacts that were created through a variety of different hand sculpting techniques. The objective was to capture the overall essence of Inferno (left) and Paradiso (right.) Many of these sensory elements were taken di- rectly from the poem’s passages and the Midjourney AI image iterations that were investigated throughly throughout the primilinary stages of the project.

(Bottom Left) Inferno Prompts that were specifically used in artificial intelligence ideation include, “architectural elements, fragmented, photorealistic, raw abstraction, darkness, twisted forms, grotesque images, barren, frozen land- scapes, screams, echoing lamentations, roaring flames, chains, whips, burning, sulfur, putrid odors, brimstone, acrid, smoke, bitterness, burning, frigid air, whipping winds, rough stone, sharp twisted branches, icy touch”

(Bottom Left) Some Purgatorio Prompts that were specifically used in artificial intelligence ideation include, “architec- tural elements, fragmented, photorealistic, raw abstraction, ascending terraces, harmonious chanting, soothing

(Bottom Left) Some Paradiso Prompts that were specifically used in artificial intelligence ideation include, “architec- tural elements, fragmented, photorealistic, raw abstraction, ascending terraces, harmonious chanting, soothing waters, joyful voices, sorrowful rustle

mountainous climb of redemptive spirit, and Paradiso, a celestial journey of transcendent nature. This fictional epic, rich with allegory and vivid landscapes, serves as the narrative backbone for an architectural manifestation. The intention is to transmute Dante’s spiritual odyssey into architectural design, employing form, sequence, and atmosphere as tools to convey a parallel narrative capable of profoundly affecting the human psyche. The project embarked on a meticulous analysis of The Divine Comedy, employing matrices to dissect its liter-

ary, psychoanalytical, and narrative structures. However, a deeper connection with the reader’s experience was sought. Phenomenology, focusing on conscious experience and perception, became pivotal. By identifying the sensory qualities such as smell, taste, auditory, tactile, and visual within each realm of the poem—Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso—the aim was to evoke emotional responses and potentially induce transcendental experiences within the users of the architectural design.

Speculative architectural drawings provided an expansive canvas for exploration, enabling the portrayal of architectural facets such as light, form, and sequence in an ambiguous manner. Diverging from conventional floor plans or section drawings, these illustrations exist in a realm of ambiguity, awaiting interpretation by the designer. This interpretive freedom fosters in-depth conversations exploring architectural attributes and delving into phenomenological interpretations.

Further developments incorporated

project seeks to not only dissect and explore the source material but also foster collaboration for a narrative-driven architectural project capable of evoking profound emotional response.

Though “The Divine Comedy” hails from the 14th century, this study aims to contemporize its architectural and phenomenological essence for a modern audience. It represents an innovative convergence of literature and architecture, offering an immersive experience that resonates across temporal boundaries. The research for this study is currently ongoing.

(Top Left)

(Middle Left)

and jagged forms find an- chored within a deconstructed structural system. Light and shadow.. .

(Bottom, Middle) Purgatorio Repetition and structure are far clearer and more concise in Purgatorio, yet a terraced ascending system warns of future struggles. A redemptive Climb takes place in this portion of the poem depicted in the sculpture.

(Bottom, Right) .Paradiso

The same rhytmic qualities articulated in Purgatorio evolve into melodic chorus, swirling ornate forms, reflecting the overall language Dante uses within the last portion of the poem..

(Bottom, Left) Inferno Fragment physical models were created in the attempt to capture specific architectural qualities such as form and movement. Architectural scale was not explored in these studies leading to sculptural human figures that blend and morph into the forms they inhabit. .Twisted

(Right) Inhabitable Speculations: Inferno Speculative drawings composed from various modeling explorations help high- light key views, translating the narra- tive and sensory aspects of the poem into diagrammatic architectural drawings one can begin to envision themselves within. .Twisted and jagged forms find anchored within a deconstructed structural system. Light and shadow

Inhabitable Speculations: Paradiso Composed from various modeling explorations help highlight key views, translating the narrative and sensory aspects of the poem into diagrammatic architectural drawings one can begin to envision themselves within..

Inhabitable Speculations: Purgatorio Composed from various modeling explorations help highlight key views, translating the narrative and sensory aspects of the poem into diagrammatic architectural drawings one can begin to envision themselves within..

The

The proposed project aims to revitalize the 10th and 11th street viaducts in Sioux Falls, transforming them into a dynamic hub with an indoor market area featuring a brewery, coffee shop, restaurant, and indoor garden. Outdoor spaces, including a large greenspace, provide opportunities for community gatherings and events, complementing the viaduct’s aesthetic with materials like wood, steel, and brick. The year-round market on the first level adapts to seasonal changes, fostering a variety of activities and community events.

Inside the market, the use of wood, steel, and brick integrates with the existing viaduct structure, allowing the Sioux Falls Farmers Market to operate yearround. This facilitates community engagement and connection throughout the year. The extension and elevation of the 10th street viaduct over the intersection of 10th Street and Franklin Ave reduce traffic disruptions and create a visual connection to the north. The bridge design incorporates materials that correspond with the viaduct’s aesthetic, resulting in a contemporary look. Two pedestrian connection points at the 10th and Franklin intersection link to the proposed Riverline District.

Collaborators:

Cheyenne Miller: Architecture

Kelsey Gustaf: Interior Design

Shea Bailey: Graphic Design

A study conducted by the F&C project in the summer of 2023 focused on enhancing pedestrian accessibility to the viaducts, aiming to connect downtown with nearby neighborhoods and the Sioux River. The goal is to transform the currently inactive area by creating well-designed pathways for both pedestrians and cars, introducing mixeduse areas for a vibrant and dynamic space. Observing the larger Sioux Falls area, the space around the viaducts is underutilized, lacking vitality, community, and connections to downtown,

the Whitter neighborhood, and the proposed Riverline district. Despite effectively handling vehicular traffic, the viaducts isolate the site, hindering pedestrian walkability and future development. Current vehicular traffic flows east on the 11th Street viaduct and west on the 10th Street Viaduct. Pedestrian and bicycle access points are scattered, resulting in unsafe experiences and lengthy walkways without shelter against the elements. The proposed traffic strategy aims to enhance pedestrian walkability and connectivi-

ty by continuing two-way traffic across the 11th street viaduct and eliminating vehicular circulation along the 10th street viaduct. This improves safety and enjoyment for pedestrians, with more access points towards the central areas of the site.

The development of the Riverline District at the intersection of Cliff Avenue and E 10th St highlights the need for enhanced connectivity and pedestrian-friendly flow. The collaborative effort to rejuvenate the site aligns with shared principles of connectivity, ver-

satility, accessibility, and vibrancy between the Riverline District and the project. These principles are also reflected in the 2035 downtown plan, a master plan for downtown Sioux Falls derived from public and private conversations. The plan emphasizes improving pedestrian walkways and connections, particularly over the river. While connection is crucial, the proposal also seeks to create a destination, aligning with public interest in a year-round market .as a family-friendly amenity.

(Top Left) An areal perspective of the site helps showcase the various programs that could exist with the proposed design including a large central green space, brewery, coffee shop, year-round indoor market, greenhouse, and restaurant. The entire stretch of the viaduct is also covered in a steel and timber envelope to offer visual aesthetic and safety.

(Top Right) A perspective render from Fawick Park helps establish better visual connection across the Sioux River. Pedestrian connection and crossing is also cleaned up with the removal of vehicular traffic.

(Middle Right) The two renders help showcase some of the programmatic use towards the center and the proposed yearround indoor market system beneath the viaduct.

Towards the beginning of the Spring 2023 Building Studio we investigated various detail drawings or technical vignettes. After choosing from a list of various pre-existing buildings I was drawn to a the Research and Development Center in Dogern, Germany by Ludloff + Ludloff Architekten. The specific use of an exterior fabric system that offered various transparent elevation views was an interesting and challenging technical quality to investigate and reproduce through technical drawings.

The various illustrations shown to the right showcase the final technical drawings that were completed in the preliminary stages of this building studio. They help address the ground and foundation connection, wall and fabric system assemblies, and roof composition of the pre-existing building. The use of specific line weights and shading textures was integral to completing technical drawings that were easy to understand and reflected the language and composition of the pre-existing building in Dogern, Germany.

Materials

30 mm strand board, 120/360 mm glue-lamitated timber rafters

Polyurethane spray sealant, colored blue 2 x 100 mm mineral fiber thermal insulation bitimus vapour barrier

Aluminum gutter/roof drainage system, 40 mm mineral fiber thermal insulation

Suspended ceiling support brackets and equitment

10 mm plasterboard, perforated on wood aluminum supporting structure

10 mm gypsum board

Rigid insulation

40 mm cellulose thermal insulation

Vapor barrier

Polyester and glass-fibre sarking felt, polyarcylate-coated

Triple glazed glass in aluminum-wood frame

In the pursuit of creating a harmonious space where diverse religions, cultures, and theologies converge with hope and respect, our architectural vision takes center stage. The core philosophy of our design revolves around merging regulating lines, axes, and structures to form unique spaces that serve as educational platforms, allowing visitors to engage with and understand various beliefs. This convergence is embodied in an alterrepetitive sequence of forms derived from the regulating lines of the site, resulting in a journey that transcends physical spaces and delves into the realms of spirituality and cultural exchange

The very essence of our design lies in the deliberate fusion of regulating lines, axes, and structures. This intricate weaving creates spaces that transcend the physical and offer a platform for individuals to educate themselves about, and introduce others to, the rich tapestry of different beliefs. The alterrepetitive sequence of forms, carefully constructed from the site’s regulating lines, becomes a visual representation of the cultural convergence we aim to achieve.

Collaborators:

Jack Walsh

Aubrielle Prewitt

Megan Lawler

An exterior render of the building shows the transparent use of fabric and steel , mixing within the curvatures of the design to make visible the convergence of various site contours and axises.

CONVERGENCE

As the building unfolds, a symbolic transformation takes place. The pattern of forms is rotated to be perpendicular to Mecca, not merely as an architectural maneuver but as a profound gesture. This rotation alters both structural and regulating lines throughout the building, paving the way for a convergence of patterns towards the entrances of multipurpose and spiritual areas. This intentional alignment reflects a respect for diverse religious orientations and signifies a harmonious blending of cultural influences. The programmatic layout of the building is meticulously planned to enhance the overall experience. Spiritual, multipurpose, and exterior garden areas find their place below ground, providing a sanctuary where exterior sounds are muffled, and a heightened sense of verticality is achieved. The office and classroom spaces, strategically placed on the above floor, are interconnected for accessibility while maintaining separation from the more contemplative spaces. This careful arrangement ensures a balance between functionality and spiritual contemplation.

The architectural narrative unfolds as visitors embark on a carefully orchestrated sequence. Descending from the west entrance, visitors are guided to continue straight towards the spiritual and multipurpose area, turn right to explore the exterior garden space, or ascend to the ground level where offices and classrooms reside. This intentional arrangement reflects the thoughtful organization of the building into three noticeable forms, symbolizing the body, mind, and soul of its visitors—a holistic journey that transcends the physical and engages with the essence of humanity.

Fabric is an integral component of our design, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes. Externally, it imparts a translucent appearance to the structure, creating a play of natural and artificial lighting characteristics that contribute to the building’s visual allure. The exterior fabric not only offers pedestrians trans-

(Top Right) A perspective interior render of the large sacred space shows the interesting use of fabric, steel, glass, and light. The interior use of fabric not only gives a transparent sense of materiality but also an etheral qaulity to the space. Various regulating lines of the site converge on the floor.

(Left) An exploded axonometric diagram of the building showcases the interior makeup. Higher spaces of verticality are used within the meditation and sacred spaces. Most of the programmatic spaces lie towards the central and upper portions of the building. The steel structure is also dissected.

parency and illumination into the interior spaces but also provides flexibility for shade, enhancing the comfort of both passersby and occupants throughout the day. Internally, fabric is strategically employed above to offer flexibility in natural light and shading, contributing to energy efficiency and cost reduction.

The images presented vividly depict the exterior garden space—a realm where the steel structure from classrooms, libraries, and offices seamlessly extends into the exterior spaces below. Fabric fins, intricately attached to this

structure, serve not only to provide shading but also contribute to the flowing aesthetic qualities based on wind speed and direction. Drawing inspiration from organic and circulatory patterns, the garden space provides users with a unique sense of privacy and connectivity with the natural surroundings—a testament to the thoughtful integration of nature within the architectural narrative within. Integral to the narrative are the structural regulating lines, showcased in the south elevation. These lines, originating with static motion, evolve into a flowing

convergence with the structure of sacred spaces. This visual continuity reinforces the significance of these lines within the broader project narrative, emphasizing their role in guiding the architectural journey from static beginnings to a harmonious convergence with sacred spaces.

In the canvas of architectural expression, our design unfolds as a tapestry woven with threads of cultural diversity, spiritual contemplation, and harmonious convergence. Beyond being a physical structure, it stands as a sym-

bol of unity—a testament to the belief that architecture has the power to transcend physical boundaries and foster understanding among people of different backgrounds. The intentional use of regulating lines, symbolic rotations, and innovative fabric applications reflects a commitment to creating not just a building but an immersive experience—one that encourages dialogue, fosters unity, and celebrates the richness of human diversity. In this architectural journey we’ve designed, the building becomes more than a space; it becomes a bridge connecting hearts and minds, creating a lasting legacy of inclusivity and respect.

SACRED & PROFANE

Collaborators:

Tylan Bear and Matthew Woldt

Curiosity built from artificial intelligence programming led to the exploration of creating collages that highlighted the sacred and the profane. Prompts referencing aspects of the sacred and the profane developed powerful images that gave a distinction between what was sacred and what was profane.

Furthermore, case studies relating to transcendence and light showcased

a vast variety of architectural spaces that brought about diverse lighting relationships and transcendence sequences. With the combination of both AI images and case studies relating to the sacred and profane, we progressed in our research and explored different forms of natural and artificial lighting within these spaces and how the use of lighting made these spaces either successful or unsuc-

cessful in terms of accentuated the architectural forms. With analysis of these studies throughout the semester, we then had to create an allfaith meditative space within the town of Brookings, SD. The buildings aim was to synthesis the work explored in previous studies and apply it within our building.

Many of the most awe-inspiring images we developed through the use of study examples exhibited forms that

“The abyss that divides the two modalities of experiencesacred & profane.”

- Mircea Eliade

(Top Right) This image shows the floorplan, elevations, and a couple sections of the building. From the build up of these drawings we can see how the exterior and interior spaces fit within their context.

(Bottom Left)

crescendo from the entrance into spaces with high verticality. This sense of journey was very powerful in our eyes and was a key aspect we wished to explore within our design. Along with these analysis’s, we also found that unique, organic forms also added to the sense of contemplation and wonder within these spaces; which was another key concept we mutually agreed to explore more. Moving forward, we created regulating lines from influential components within the surrounding context of our site, and organized our

(Top Left) This image shows the model which was made by cutting contour line layers at every 1/16” of our digital model. These 80 layers were then cut from chipboard, lathered in wood filler to fill gaps, and sanded until smooth. Once smooth, they were coated with several layers of spraypaint and then sanded to create the illusion of concrete. In the image, the top is removed to showcase the interior spaces and the journey on takes

(Top Right) This image shows the floorplan, elevations, and a couple sections of the building. From the build up of these drawings we can see how the exterior and interior spaces fit within their context.

(Bottom Left) This series of images is from our Midjourney priliminary investigations of scared interior spaces. We can we the natural light interior images reflected above while the artificial lighting sequences are showcased below.

(Top Left) This image shows the model which was made by cutting contour line layers at every 1/16” of our digital model. These 80 layers were then cut from chipboard, lathered in wood filler to fill gaps, and sanded until smooth. Once smooth, they were painted with several layers of paint and then sand- ed to create the illusion of concrete. In the image, the top is removed to showcase the interior spaces and the jour- ney on takes.

This series of images is from our Midjourney priliminary investigations of scared interior spaces. We can we the natural light interior images reflected above while the artificial lighting sequences are showcased below.

organic forms within structured boundaries as we began developing our buildings form and layout.

The site specifically is located off of front street and 3rd street in the downtown Brooking’s context. Before choosing sites, we easily recognized and plotted prevalent issues regarding to the noise that was produced by the surrounding context. The sacred being placed in the profane environment. Across the street to the north is the wild hare bar that has an outdoor space that produces intrusive noises.

To the south across the street is the train tracks that has frequent train traffic coming through. Then not to mention the urban noise that is created by cars and people in the general area.

Through extensive discussion and research, we found that the best solution to block out the intrusive sounds was to use thick concrete walls to not only diminish out the sound, but to create a journey upon arriving to the structure. On the south end of the building, with the train being so close, it would be impossible to fully eliminate the noise

The goal is to capture those moments created from the train going by. We want to accentuate the noise and vibrations by creating a flickering of light to create symbolism. Symbolism that the train route first established Brookings, as people experience this moment, it will allow oneself to reflect on the past, present, and future as the train will continue to be here. The creation of light models and light diagrams allowed us to fully elaborate on the lighting conditions to frame transcendent moments within the space.

SACRED & PROFANE

Inspired from the lighting works of James Terrel, we wanted to incorporate ambient task, accent, architectural, and celebratory lighting using different colors of light. From the Ai generated images, we were drawn to creating a space more for intimate meditation and reflection. The central and outdoor space is for more of an open space for people to reflect and meditate openly. We also wanted to use water to specifically trace the north oriented interior edge, accenting and eccen-

tuating the journey towards the more intimate space. This space was tucked away, behind the main space under the oculus. We specifically wanted to showcase both of these spaces in our project.

The implementation of the previous exercises and studies allowed us to collectively make design approaches that will add diversity to the city of Brookings. The beautiful and ambient, physical and lighting conditions will bring equanimity to the individual.

(Top Right) We find a dimly lit interior image of what the space would look like at night. The artificial lighting we implemented referenced the work of James Turrell, offering an aesthetic that mimicked the bar across the street. This lighting visual could help blur the barrier between the sacred and profane, a dynamic we wished to explore further in this project specifically. The lights beneath the oculus would also waver with the incoming train to the south.

(Bottom Right) The south-oriented exterior of the building engulfs the night air with the gold and pink hues of the interior.This helps accentuate the curves of the building while blending into the nightlife area.

(Left) This image shows a highlight from our intimate interior space inside the building. We find the natural light seeping through an above slit to create a clearly defined line of light that echoes with the transcendental.

THE LIVING FILTER

Downtown Brookings, South Dakota functions as a bodily enitity in the latter stages of the night. Once the sun begins to set, it’s glutunous mouth begins to feed and swallow those from the area, funneling them into the southern regions of Main Street where they are pumped into the heart of the downtown area. Overtime the public are dispersed through the bars and other nightlife attractions the area has to offer. As the hours drag by the area begins to break into an intoxicating frenzy, finally bursting in the early hours of the morning, and clumsily digesting it’s excrements towards the neighboring regions, south of the downtown area.

Here in Brookings, South Dakota we find an area without order, unfiltered as chaos drifts into the surrounding areas. What this bodily entitiy is missing is a liver, a place where architecture can aim to filter and support the surrounding region.

The Living Filter strives to find a balance for the area, still giving room and a comfortable place for these chaotic activities can take place while also finding a sense of regulation, safety and order and the residences of Brookings are condenced through the area.

A perspective view of the building gives viewers an idea of how these organic and static forms can be seen from the street where the surrounding bars can be accessed.

THE LIVING FILTER

The Living Filter is meant to be a bar and nightclub while also serving as a drug research facility. Here, the two parties can begin to play off of each other with one providing research and clients while the other provides safety and regulation for the surrounding area. Residences of Brookings will be given the opportunities to receive psychiatric and medical help from the research center while those interested in the intoxicating thrills of the nightlife have the chance to enjoy themselves and find safety and solace if need be.

This studio disected many aspects of the surrounding context to bring a contemporary idea to life through collage mapping, contextual site studies, and stylized architectural visualization.

This image, created through a mixture of collage-making, geometric and contextual interactions, helps to build a narrative and metaphorical reading of how the public interacts with the site. The project aimed to carry these bodily images, static and organic relationships, and stylized imaging to carry this narrative .

THE CHAPEL OF HIRED FEET

Soccer is a religion in Latin America. It is the emotional and spiritual anchor of millions of people across social and economic classes. In today’s soccer landscape, the most famous saints or players are products who sell products.

This project is an open-air chapel situated at the SE corner of the Estadio Centenario, a cathedral of world soccer. The chapel is designed to hold the physical remains of pre-modern soccer players. Saints that have fallen into oblivion or forgotten.

In Montevideo, another intense soccer game has ended. As the crowd piles out from the stands of the Estadio Centenario, some are overcome with the thoughts and responsibilities of tomorrow. The players will not join the crowd as they make their way to the public buses or walk home contemplating a loss or win. Saints don’t share the same ground as ordinary people.

In the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, players were earthly saints who simply played soccer. Some players worked on the docks, at grocery stores, taught at schools, or worked construction. Their life existed outside of the global professionalism that has gripped world soccer.

This chapel is a nostalgic look at a time when players were cultural products, instead of commercial bargaining chips.

At first glance, the structure looks weathered and broken the exterior concrete texture resembles a jumbled rat-nest of material. It is not jumbled, but it is messy – not the small Argentine wonder, who makes 40 million euro a year. Upon closer inspection, the concrete structure is composed of four large, concrete vaults. Each vault made up of four legs, meeting at a single point, guided upwards by a smooth interior. Their 16 concrete legs, crumble before they meet the ground of the chapel. Each vault is suspended 10 feet about the ground by 8 interconnected wooden leg extensions.

A type of prosthetic scaffolding, which grips and cups the crumbling legs. Above the same wooden scaffolding separates these large pieces of concrete, making a 10 foot wide separation between the four vaults.

A reflected ceiling plan of the chapel shows the upper scaffolding that forms a ten foot gap between the concrete pieces and the leg extensions cupping the crumbling legs.

Another view of the interior of the chapel shows the intermingling between smooth and crumbling edges. The glow of the golden light shows warmth and hopefulness for the future of world soccer and the social differences between player and fan.

As fans cast their eyes over the scaffolding, they follow the rays of sunlight that strike the public ground below. The suspended forms above and a series of burial niches that hold the remains of players organize the public ground of the chapel. At the center of this four-sided, gently sloped ground is the 1950 world cup trophy. The trophy harkens back to a time when soccer players and fans shared more similarities than differences, their fears and responsibilities were connected. In today’s world, everything that moves carries some sort of commercial message. To this effect, the sanctity of soccer itself has come under fire. A monetary divide has begun to spring-up around the sport, those on the field basking in wealthy lifestyles while many fans struggle to live.

Below is a representation of the reburial of Anibal Paz, a Uruguayan soccer player in the 1950 World Cup. Some of his family and fans have come to honor him on this dreary morning. He will be buried below next to the trophy he fought to win in 1950.

The chapel sits in the south east corner of the space occupied by Estadio Centenario. From this position it can easily be seen rising adobe the street , enhancing its mystical quality. With this installation the parking lot has been removed and a pathway , along with further vegetation has been added in its place.

Above is a representation of the nocturnal nature of the chapel. After watching a long and exciting game of soccer the descendants of Anibal Paz have come to pay their respects to their cherished hero. They become fixed in a state of nostalgia as the golden light above showers down onto them.