Main Tools: Grasshopper-Ladybug, Rhino, ClimateStudio, Dialux
P 04
Farragut
Housing Renovation
Fall 2022 Design Studio
Professor: James Garrison
Main Tools: Grasshopper, Rhino, QGIS, Vray, Dialux, Ladybug
P 07
Exploration : Material and Space
Fall 2020-Current
Individual Work
Main Tools: Laser Cut, Zund, CNC Miling, Resin/3D Print
P 18
Eco-Bar and Energy Hub
Spring 2023 Design Studio
Professor: Alexandra Barker (Chair)
Main Tools: Grasshopper, Rhino, Revit, Adobes, Climate Studio
P 24
Black and White Photography
2017-2023
Individual Work
Main Tools: Sony A7RII 35mm/50mm, Lightroom CC
P 31
Parametric Design Solutions
By Optimizing the building system through the integration of three Primary design drivers: Passive shading system, private-to-public interactions, and a biological system to transform a building into more efficient, sustainable, and occupant-friendly space.
1. Passive Shading System
2. Private-to-Public Interactions
The first design driver, the passive shading system, utilizes solar radiation data in Ladybug Grasshopper to calculate heat gain on the building’s surface over time. This information is then used to adapt the existing balcony slabs, resulting in a customized shading solution that maximizes energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
The second design driver, private-public interactions, employs the Horizontal Radial feature in Ladybug to measure the direct distance from each window to the nearest surrounding building. This data informs the size of window openings and transparency percentage, striking an optimal balance between privacy and openness.
The third design driver, the biological system, focuses on solar exposure and its impact on plant selection for balcony spaces. By using the Direct Sun Hours feature in Ladybug, I have assessed solar exposure on the balconies during two extreme days of the year—July 22 (hottest day) and December 21 (coldest day). those receiving more than 6 hours, between 3 and 6 hours, and less than 3 hours of sunlight per day.
3. Biological System/Solar Exposure
Afforable Housing
Farragut Fall 2022
James Garrison Pratt Institute
Shixin Wandong
Studio Project
Renovation
This project located at the Farragut Houses in Brooklyn, New York. By stepping away from New York’s traditional modular urban planning, the design introduces the City Topo Overlay Method, revitalizing the space with new dynamics. The integration of inter-building pathways enhances neighborhood connectivity, turning the site from a mere passageway into a vibrant part of the residents’ daily lives. The project redefines the Farragut Houses as a living, breathing community.
Project Rendering “Reconnect” the Community Wandong Xue & Shixin Li
Space Syntax - Topological Site Approach
By analyzing the site connectivity through the DepthMap, we can better understand the site condition and how it reacts to a bigger scale, and toggle the pain point of the site with more accuracy to make better decisions for the local community.
Our design concept is to connect the whole community. The lower level area consists of greenery, shopping malls, community hospital, kindergarten, etc, so that the community can develop and the residents can have a sense of belonging.
7F Floor Plan
On-Site Render
South Elevation
North Elevation
Wandong Xue & Shixin Li
Wandong Xue & Shixin Li
Wandong Xue & Shixin Li
Grasshopper Modeling CityMap Overlay-CNC
Using the technical skills of grasshopper has taken my skills in rhino to the next level. It makes me more comfortable with the repetitive design and adjustment of buildings.
Using the 1991 city map of Los Angeles to overlay the Farragut house, and using its planning logic to further deepen the local site planning
Beyond achieving practical design outcomes, I believe it is crucial to challenge myself and push the boundaries of traditional architectural practices by experimenting with a variety of materials and assemblies. Physical modeling serves as a tangible iteration of my studies, allowing me to express my motivations and explore the potential of specific spaces freely. This exploration is something I find particularly engaging and meaningful.
Project merges a city nightclub, swimming pools, a Waste-to-Energy (WTE) facility, and a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, creating a multifaceted urban space. This innovative project juxtaposes the vibrant social atmosphere of a nightclub with the functional aspects of waste management facilities, fostering a unique environment where entertainment and sustainability intersect. The design journey began with 2D collages, evolving into a 3D massing model that integrates these elements seamlessly, with distinct yet interconnected zones for various activities.
Long Island Spring 2023
Pratt Institute
Wandong Xue
Studio Project
Alexandra Barker (Chair)
Xier Zhu
Wandong Xue & Xier Zhu
Project Rendering Waste-to-Energy Facility Eco Bar
Wandong Xue
Interior Spacial Analysis - DepthMap
By analyzing the interior spatial configuration through Connectivity & Integration, we can understand how well different areas are linked and how central they are within the overall layout. The Connectivity Diagram highlines zones with direct access to multiple spaces, while Integration diagram identifies areas that more easily reachable, providing insighs for optimizing movement and spatial efficiency.
Why can’t the waste recycling center of queens be a Bar?
Segregates the entrances for the Waste-to-Energy facility and the nightclub, ensuring seamless navigation while preserving distinct operational zones. This foundational layer facilitates access to the multi-level interconnections above
Ground Floor Plan Wandong Xue & Xier Zhu
Detailed Chunk Render
Wandong Xue & Xier Zhu
Detailed Wall Section Render
Integrated Building System
Black and White Street Photography
In my spare time, I like to use street photography to document the relations between different cities and local people. In my opinion, this is a way to relieve stress and deepen the relationship between people and society.
