Wi10 (Reflection of semester)

Upon the start of each semester I usually enter my elected courses with a few personal goals in mind. Having received the syllabus, I read it and gained full comprehension of the learning objectives for each class. Then I began to establish a few goals of my own based on self-assessment. Naturally, the day I entered [IAR202-01] environmental design; I felt that there were several areas where improvements were imperative. Some of those areas were:

1. Being able to articulate ideas using design language in proper context
2. Institute a personal design process
3. Discovering my niche

Realizing that these improvements would further enhance my skill-set, I approached each opportunity with a certain level of attention to these items. I relied on the structure of the class to reveal much of these industry secrets to me and be an insightful resource. The assigned readings (Shaping Interior Space, Roberto Rengel) along with the book of our choosing (Architecture and the City, Aldo Rossi) satisfied a great amount of my 1st goal. I realized that the only path to gaining industry terminology and be well versed in any field of study is to submerge in reading. What’s noteworthy is that, I was not only assigned the reading, I was expected to divulge my findings in thought provoking essays and diagrams. Additionally, I was responsible for incorporating these new discoveries into project deliverables. Upon completion of each reading assignment this usually resulted into achieving my 2nd goal of instituting a personal design process. Rengel’s writings not only illustrated extraordinary design language, much of his subject matter integrated design process. Most of the assignments involved writing, diagramming, building a model and programming; which allowed, me to explore all of these in any order desired or simultaneously. I usually found that it was best for me to write about the experience of the space following, diagramming and building a 3D model. Once I experienced the space 3 dimensionally, envisioning the atmosphere and pathways / circulation was obvious, therefore, narrating became 2nd nature. I did realize however, that regardless of which order I start my process, they all are rough drafts and become edited from start to finish. I’ve learned as a designer that I must set deadlines on top of deadlines to move on to meet the clients’ deadline. The projects felt underdeveloped; there were often more improvements to be made following new discoveries. It became evident that each project required all of these elements at some point, but they could be achieved differently for each. Confirming my thoughts were guest speakers from Eames Furniture. Given the opportunity I asked, “How does one find their personalized design process”? They replied, “personal design process can be helpful but ultimately change is inevitable depending on the many variables of a project and the client”. As I start each assignment, my confidence increases in many areas, for instance, technical drawings, rendering and designing in a conceptual manner. Therefore, regarding my 3rd goal, I’ve sharpened many skills but my niche is still being decided.

I consider accomplishing these goals a reward of perusing higher education. I feel that I’ve gained invaluable lessons throughout this semester while completing the course work. Specifically, I’ve advanced from proficient in AutoCAD to a master due to producing a number of floor plans, elevations, and sections. I’ve also been introduced to Rhino, and have become proficient, following using it to bridge information to the laser cutter to build a number of models. Other lessons I’ve learned this semester can be attributed to my time spent in Materials, Methods, and Technologies, which made it a seamless transition when recording materials and finishes in schedules and specification documents. Having worked individually and with groups allotted for teammates to share best practices and strengths with me. Initially, I was intimated by rendering with Podium, until a couple of teammates who considered helping me, a pleasure. It was also through group work that I researched ADA issues, vertical and horizontal circulation, and egress requirements in interior spaces where structures became more complex.

There were many advantages to working in groups as there were disadvantages. As mentioned previously one advantage is that there are countless opportunities to explore other areas of design with a partner along side acting as a safety net. A disadvantage to this is with the time constraints and pressures of deadlines, responsibilities are generally delegated for efficiency. Thus, individuals are positioned in similar areas of design from one project to the next because of their proven ability to be most constructive and creative in particular areas. Working with each scale (3, 6, 12) inevitably there came different challenges and opportunities at each level. Opportunities for the group of 12:
1. cross training moments occurred more frequently
2. other members possessed higher degrees of proficiency
3. subgroups could coordinate times
Challenges for the group of 12:
1. coordinating times for all 12 members is difficult
2. some partners become complacent
My experience at each of these levels was that 1 factor remained a common thread; there must be complete order and organization to achieve success.

Reflecting upon the entire semester, I believe that I have enhanced my skill set in a number of areas. I’m looking forward to expanding upon them in the next semester of 3rd year.

Wi9 Unit to Whole (semester finale)

The combination of curves and angles is an unlikely recipe for most, but this exploration led to the formation of Symbiosis. We took the pronounced vertical curves and cleverly incorporated the equally pronounced angels; resulting into a six-story masterpiece. We are now commissioned to introduce yet another team of 6, Pinnacle, whom formed under the merger of six other concepts. We all assumed it’d be a difficult task to build a new structure encompassing each of our individual concepts. Once the location of Vic, Spain was selected we continued to develop our ideas concerning the natural environment and the intended functionality of the building. We found Synergy’s concept identity through this process, which then shaped our ideations on the facade of the building and it’s contents.

Our concept is based around reoccurring moments of openness (like nature) to enclosures (sheltered environments). Therefore, we decided that the new structure should be tucked away in the mountains and rolling hills, offering a sense of ultimate peace and relaxation; perhaps, from having left the busy city just 15 short miles away to further support the concept. Synergy’s structure takes the shape and formation of a spin top. It moves indefinitely in an upward position; due to our hexagonal shape created by stacking 12 two story units, which offset roughly 15% at every level change. It was with ease that I made a connection with this new structure as well as evident how to relate my concept. In this case, I am able to draw on the implied movement of both structures. My “S” shape and word ignite is about the motion and fluidity of flames. This new structure is certainly about movement, from the exterior facade to the interior where pathways and circulation has been designed due to the shell of the building.

Ironically enough, all partners of Synergy found their individuality, eventually. Revisiting Jenga 1.0, my concept word “Ignite”, and the kit of parts was realized through materials and finishes. The focal point inside my unit is a 28’ lightly frosted white corian “S” shape wall, that bursts through the ceiling of the 1^st level and expanded to the top of the 2^nd floor’s ceiling. I used soft blues for the wall colors and small hints of burnt red as accents throughout the interior. The selection of the dark hardwood floors in the living area was an attempt to give high contrast to the otherwise light walls. Tiled marble floors were used in the dining area and the bathroom, which added a texture distinction, which created a division of spaces, without enclosures like walls. Considering our location is Vic, Spain, I decided to create somewhat of a contrast from the 1^st floor to the 2^nd floor, and incorporate some of the historical vibrancy of colors. I used flaring red wallpaper with curves and organic shapes to offset the calmness and relaxed 1^st floor. Both floors were treated with small amounts of gray, to give a subtle yet sense of sophistication.

Prospectus

Individual Structures

The Merger of the (2)

brochure

Software:
Illustrator
PhotoShop





brochure design by Cassandra Brunson,

Individual Unit

Software:
Modeled : Sketch-Up
Rendered : Podium
Details : PhotoShop

indiviual unit

Software:
Sideshow : Photo Snack
Documents : Microsoft Word

Presentation Jenga 7.0

Software:
board layout : Illustrator
technical drawings: AutoCad

CRUNCH time!

Jamann Simons


Our leaders are always in deep thought!



Justin McNair

(Pre)senting vol.04

Software:
layout : Illustrator
photo manipulations and enhancements : PhotoShop
rendered Villa Savoye : Rhino, V-Ray




Board layout / composition : Cassandra Brunson

top ten tips

1. misspelled words damages presentations (WRITING TIPS)
2. purge unused in Sketch-Up (SKETCH-UP)
3. a means of egress should be strategically thought out (EGRESS)
4. have a key for diagrams (DIAGRAMS)
5. SLEEP: (CRAFT)
6. have a focus item (PRESENTATION)
7. documenting ideas (INSPIRATION)
8. unclear documents could be detrimental to your creditability (SCHEDULES)
9. write as project is progressing (WRITING TIPS)
10. dots on corners for windows (MODEL BUILDING)

(pre)senting Vol. 3

Assignment: Render Villa Savoye by Le Corbusier

Software:
3D Modeling : Rhino
rendered : V-Ray
details : PhotoShop

photo credit:

1st attempt
2nd...
3rd.....
and 4th......

and so on..........
and sooooooo oonnnnn and on.......................
now with some context:
Then some more trees and the floor on the roof:::::::::::::

So, following crits, my professor introduced me to the burn tool and so I soften the edges of the
concrete slab where it met the grass. I'm done for now...stay tuned, I plan to place my rendering of Villa Savoye in on it's existing land.

Software:
3D Modeling : Rhino
rendered : V-Ray
details : PhotoShop

These are a few of my favorite things!

High Point Furniture Market - Spring 2011

photo credit:

I was fortunate enough to make the acquantice of Joe Manus, Designer of Shiner, is one of the few furniture designers out in the marketplace making innovative and visual stimulating designs. After walking through the High Point Market in NC, Shiner stands out as one of the most unique product brands. He's really shaking things up. He ask me to invite you to his website to learn more about his process work.

Don't miss out...follow me at: www.shinerinternational.com

More Market Treasures

This rug looks like a conglomeration of Dr. P-man's exquisite bow tie collection.






Light and shadows!

Cheyenne Brunson inspires ME to be my BEST!

She's only 6 years old....and sees things just the way they are. BEAUTIFUL

By Eric Carle


By Cheyenne Brunson

He has nothing on my baby! ;o)

Jenga 7.0 - 1

[Symbiosis] + Pinnacle = Synergy

An additional opportunity has presented itself; another merger, creating two teams of twelve, totaling 12 units 24 stories. We scheduled a charette immediately. It's obvious right off that we must have 100% organization for this project to be a completed success.

I'd hope that we would be able to do more cross training; however, with the healthy list of deliverables, most of the team members are showing resistance to the thought. As it stands, our plan is to spread talent in the areas they're best suited. Upon completion of assigned responsibilities, it is then, that we encourage talents to meet for exposure in less familiar areas.

We're off to a great start.

Our group's name is: Synergy: (the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects)

Synergy's concept: reoccurring experiences, from openness to sheltered environments while embracing the natural resources of the land in building material, i.e. (tungsten, copper, creama marfil)

Location: Vic, Spain

Spanish translation SINERGIA (hence site location)

initial thoughts for design:

We unanimously agreed to lose any pronounced elements of our previous structures. It was important to everyone to start ANEW. After several sketches and hours of conversing, we all agreed to something like the above images.

Jenga FUN

Wi 8 - analysis of individual process

whole > sum of its parts

At the close of each “Jenga” I always experience a sense of relief along with a bit of regret. The relief is the end of the long nights and the 24 hour shifts; my regrets usually are not being able to give just a little more. My very first overnighter in 2nd year was on Jenga 1.0. There were a number of deliverables and I entered production mode oblivious! It’s not that the assignment wasn’t communicated and written well, it was simply that I developed tunnel vision long ago, ultimately closing my mind to other avenues of thinking and doing. A professor had warned me about this previously, he said, “Your symmetrical thinking is raping you of your creativity”. Building on each “Jenga” has given me peripheral vision. I approached Jenga 1.0 with a preconceived agenda. I wanted to design a space that was sensible and functional = BORING, as Claire would express it. I had not yet been commissioned to design in such an abstract manner. Which ultimately meant that I needed to deviate from the safe route to a journey of exploration and development. Jenga 2.0 was like an epiphany; conceptual thinking began to penetrate my brainwaves. I was very gracious to have another opportunity to implement this method of thinking I embarked upon. As always, I just needed a little more time to expound on the design.
Along with the challenge of conceptual thinking, also came the inevitable; the need to revise my design process, which alone had not completely matured. Jenga 3.0 would be the next OPPORTUNITY to hone in on both. Another dynamic was added to the equation of the assignment, two partners. Each partner possessed a unique set of design skills, talents, and method of thinking and doing. Merging the three personalities, considering all the concept words, incorporating all theoretical findings from readings and stacking the three buildings to form a cohesive design, this was a mission that seemed virtually impossible. Initially, we began with diagrams and narratives to help shape the building’s interior characteristics, spatial relationships, intersections, activities along path and navigation. This step in the design process was imperative to the very heart and soul of the space; it set the tone for the emotional experience of the guests. We were careful to remain cognizant of the previously mentioned strategy with the placement of each wall, corner, or edge positioned inside. Moving forward in the design process, we began to protrude those walls into a digital 3D model, while also fine tuning details of the public and private spaces. Things changes constantly as we began to transfer those 2D diagrams into 3D spaces. In addressing all these obstacles it became the perfect opportunity for each team member to show their best work. I certainly didn’t allow that moment to pass me by, after all, my discoveries on Jenga 1.0 was not made to be idle. We continued to make progress, allowing each member’s design voice to be evident wherever appropriate. Following completion of the assignment, we all felt that there were some communication issues, however, overall, we were delighted with the space we designed.
Patrick and Claire give second chances, proven fact with Jenga 4.0. Although, some of the deliverables were shaken up, the integrity of the teams from Jenga 3.0 remained. We all felt like we needed just a little more time needed to convey our design. We wanted also wanted to overcome some of our time management and communication obstacles. At the end of this assignment we believed that we successfully achieved our goals and that our obstacles were now to a minimum.
There’s no slowing down now, our teams once again remained intact, however; all teams bided on an additional team of three. We gathered for a charette for an hour with one team, then another. Other teams did the same and thus the decisions would be made. Those teams with the best CHEMISTRY or RHYTHM would merge. Patrick and Claire released the results of the bidding process, combing the best fits. Ultimately this collaboration / (collision) required that an additional three voices be heard and show up in the end product. Jenga 5.0 started much like Jenga 3.0, when the design process began to become more prevalent to me. However, this time around, there are new considerations to expound upon. We thought about what would fit into our spaces and how they would look. As part of the design process we began programming. Team members were positioned again according to skill-sets, but were encouraged to venture into other areas, to expand and grow. Once responsibilities were divided we aggressively began working the façade of our building and exploring materials, furniture, and fixtures. I was able to be cross-trained in rendering in podium, what an awesome adventure!
I feel like I’ve almost found my way! I’m sure Patrick and Claire will continue to guide me.

Some day I’ll find my design voice and position in this great big world!

Jenga 6.0

Location: Zermatt, Switzerland
Lake Rifflesee

Now we will focus on site and material:


photo credit:

site plan: Phillip Snider

Faith Ramsey:

Communal Area: Rendering by Faith Ramsey, design by Justin McNair


Bistro: Rendering by Nikki Ware, design by Cassandra Brunson

Meeting room: Rendering by Nikki Ware, design by Anna Behrendt


Brochure by Cassandra Brunson

Software:
layout : Illustrator




Brochure design by Cassandra Brunson, Narrative by Justin McNair