Project 01: Park Wall Building

Colorado Bend State Park
Bend, Texas
My Project in Colorado Bend State Park was a sheltered, scenic overlook that provided a new perspective on the surrounding landscape and focused on connecting visitors to the natural environment around them.

Project Research


​Click here for a link to my livebinder for more information on Colorado Bend State Park

​Click here for a link to my infographic for research on Colorado Bend State Park.

Inspiration

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Piet Mondrian inspired the design for my overlook project. Both have made significant contributions in their respected fields and have motivated me to consider new perspectives of design in terms of space, organization, separation, and harmony. To the left, you see two drawings and a model that have been inspired by the works of Mies and Mondrian.

Preliminary Sketches

Before beginning models and scaled drawings, we created some concept sketches (see pictures on right) of possible structures that would benefit CBSP. My goal was to create a structure that would exhibit the remarkable features of the state park and the architectural wall while being physically connected to natural features so visitors could be fully immersed into nature.

Preliminary Models

After deciding to pursue the scenic overlook project, I created two preliminary models (first being concept and second being scaled). Both models allowed me to recognize flaws and areas of improvement within the plan. The second model (which is white with wood) was also used for a sun-light and shadow study which allowed me to determine positioning of the building in accordance to site limitations. This study also allowed me to explore various ways to make my structure more energy efficient. Only after completing and analyzing these models was I able to finalize specifications/dimensions for final models and drawings.

Final Drawings and Models

To the left, you can see my final site plan, elevation plan (top view), scale model, and Sketch-up design. All four works tested my knowledge of accurately using traditional (hand-drafting) and contemporary (computer aided/technical) methods of architectural design. In the end, I was very satisfied with my results as I had learned several new skills and created a innovative, but practical plan that maximized space, reduced impact on environment, and functioned efficiently, all while connecting visitors to nature.

Project 02: All-Inclusive Cliff House

Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Canyon, Texas

My project in Palo Duro Canyon State Park was a cliff house that was embedded into the canyon. This project focused on understanding the client's needs to build a comfortable living space that minimized environmental impact.

To the left, you will see the project site that was limited to a 300' by 30' space. As a result, we were motivated to design a home that conformed to the assigned limitations
PROJECT LOCATION
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Design Process​

Below, you will see a series of concept sketches that were created to design my cliff house. I analyzed a variety of factors ranging from sun light distribution to airflow to maximize efficiency and minimize impact on the environment. Many of these sketches are in color to help better visualize various aspects of the design. My balcony and greenhouse were inspired by Emilio Ambasz's use of the green wall and his Cordoba House. In addition, my space distribution was inspired by Richard Serra's well-known sculptures that use a series of curves and right angles.

Parti Model

Here, you will see my parti model that focused on grouping and separating various types of spaces. Referencing the first image in the slideshow above will help better visualize this model.

Final Design

My final design was organized in a unique way so that the client and visitors could easily move to and from various spaces throughout the home. I achieved the quality of easy navigation by creating a single hallway that spanned from the foyer to the office. I also separated the design into four separate categories (see first and second image in design process section above to better visualize concept). Since this structure would be built below ground, I focused to create large spaces that allowed light to enter giving a feeling of openness.