[a learning place]

The research phase of this project has provided insight into how well our studio space is working for the intended user, and if there are any areas that need improvement. The research also shows just how much is going on in this space and that there are several different types of users that come with different needs. Now that the studio has been used for several years, both the positives and the negatives are clearly visible. Below is a short summary of the research presented in class:

contextual analysis: many items that were in the original building program were not actually built in the final studio space due to the project being over budget. some of those items like display boards we really still need.

users/needs: students want better spacial planning in the overall studio space, as well as improving the acoustics and presentation areas (pin up, whiteboard, and digital). we want more places to display our work because that keeps us inspired more than anything.

social/behavioral factors: when we first started in this program, everyone said they were more inspired by the IARc studio and the Gatewood Studio Arts Building than any other school they visited. after using the space for a while, we all have gripes. so it is time to make some changes to OUR space. WE need to create this space and leave a legacy.

precedent studies: all the images we found of studios, offices, and computer labs show flexible, open, and interactive spaces are more inspiring environments to learn and work in than those that are divided and unorganized. energy sources that are mobile were also a very important discovery because of the electrical outlets in the floor being such an annoyance and hazard.

other activities: the IARc studio and the lobby of the Gatewood building are large spaces that are perfect for gatherings, networking events, and for rental purposes. expanding on how to maximize these spaces should be explored.

teaching pedagogies: hearing feedback from faculty and staff was helpful since they have used this space longer than us and have different needs than students. their suggested improvements: acoustical meeting area, open studio - flexible and adaptable over time, inclusive communal area enhanced by technology, flexibility in display
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When we first started talking about this project, I wanted to design a modern style rocking chair for the 'cozy corner' we are hoping to get.

designed by: Toby Howes

designed by: Tendo Mokko

After researching other studio spaces and coming across this quiet pod (can go anywhere in an open space) I think anything that helps with the acoustical issues we have is a greater need than a rocking chair. I was thinking the quiet pod would be small and for just a few students to use at a time.

Photo Credit

But when I read Judy Smith's response to the staff interviews, maybe I should design a quiet room instead. "The acoustical quality in the space was an unknown in the design phase of the project. The need for acoustical support in the studios is apparent. The creation of meeting areas, possibly a room within a room, where faculty and student could meet for discussion would greatly assist with the acoustical challenges of the studio space. The meeting areas would benefit the exchange of information and foster a greater sense of community."

If we can't hear what people are saying, we are missing valuable information. I will explore what need is greater, spaces for individuals to have a guaranteed quiet moment, or a space that can provide the whole community with that guaranteed quiet moment.

[community, authenticity, innovation, stewardship]

Community

Life is much easier with family and friends to help you along the way. From something as simple as holding the other side of the tape measure for a friend to holding your sisters hand right before she goes into surgery. Sharing these moments we should not have to do alone is what community is all about. We grow together through the exchange of ideas and passing along what we have learned.

Authenticity

Nature does not have to do anything to be authentic because it naturally is, but humans are not always authentic so when they are it shows so clearly.

Innovation Use your time here to create, communicate, and observe.

Stewardship

We all need to do our part. I appreciate these women helping their teammates, the organization or team they are rowing for, and themselves by pushing their bodies in a very demanding way. Making sure our bodies stay healthy is so important if we plan to be there for others. Taking that personal strength and giving it to those closest to you betters their lives and the experiences you share. And being part of a team and showing up with positive energy affects a larger body of people and can radiate to a whole community.

[single expression to connect all four]

Photo Credit

Visit-The Freelon Group / Discussion-Paula Carr

The Freelon Group is a well known architecture firm, so having the opportunity to visit it was exciting! Their style is modern and open, we could see that in their office as well as the library they designed. Everyone who spoke to us was excited to explain the types of projects they worked on and gave helpful insight into the many tasks an architect, designer, marketing person, or model builder is involved with. I appreciated the straight forward, solid advice we were given on how to market ourselves as new designers. As we toured the first floor of The Freelon Group, I gained an understanding of how involved the design process is. It starts in the conference room where the architects and designers talk with the clients about their ideas for a project. Then several people start working together and ultimately end up back in the conference room with a polished presentation for the client. This is repeated on projects such as the Durham County Library, as we clearly saw the level of attention this Freelon project received. Not only does The Freelon Group give attention to the design, but the firm was established with 'two fundamental principles in mind: that clear, strong ideas drive design excellence and that the REACH of architecture – the buildings and the profession – can and should extend beyond traditional limits.' Their project list has so many public places that were designed in the hopes of 'providing venues for the exchange of ideas.' I was impressed by the specific projects that will be on exhibit at MIT later this month. The theme REACH is so appropriate. And we are all very impressed that they have won the competition to design the new African American Museum that will be built on the Washington, DC Mall!
Being exposed to firms like The Freelon Group, and earlier in the semester tvsdesign, expand my previous knowledge of the types of jobs that will be available to me when I graduate. It was convenient that The Freelon Group is close to UNCG, because being able to visit the firm gave me a better understanding of the type of firm it was. I don't have a full picture of tvsdesign even though Paula Carr's presentation showed their projects. Since she focused more on her personal design process, her final designs, and less about the firm itself, I felt more connected to her as a designer than I did at Freelon. I think starting zoomed in with Paula and then zoomed out with Freelon has given me a full range of what to expect when I become a degree holding designer.

Durham County Library - The Freelon Group

Sample model and presentation board - The Freelon Group

a cultural self-portrait

"Computing in Architectural Design"

Architects and designers have come along way from just using a compass and straightedge in computing components of a building. Computers have proven to be incredible assistants to humans and over the years they have become even more powerful tools. Since the 1960s universities have been a leading force in the development of computer aided design to service the building industry. Their first systems were slow and only really helped with basic lines and geometry. By the 1970s they were being used for more complex curves, manufacturing abilities, structural tolerances, and space planning. In 1974 the Computer Aided Engineering and Architectural Design System were designed to analyze habitability, energy use, and building specifications. By the Second-Generation CAD Systems many advances in such things as the personal computer and the mouse made these systems affordable to the larger architectural community. In 1984 the Macintosh and ink jet printers made greater output possible but the systems did lack the ability to include unique details of a building. In some areas of CAD it seemed like things were "dumbing down" but there were other areas the were becoming more intelligent. The search for technology to serve many different roles is always evolving to become more intuitive for the designer and ultimately more helpful. They can help us see beyond our own eyes and catch things humans may overlook. To this day, Third-Generation CAD Systems are still being developed to handle more complex operations. Their role is to be our tool in the design process. They draw, are a measuring instrument, and produce modeling to help us visualize every step of the building process in a more complete and complex way then the industry could have ever imagined.