Yiyu Zhou Portfolio 2017-2023 by Yiyu Zhou

YIYU ZHOU

Selected Works 2017-2023

Yiyu Zhou

(+1) 213-706-5094 yiyuzhou123@outlook.com

EDUCATION Southern California Institute of Architecture Master of Architecture

Tamkang University Bachelor of Architecture

Sep 2021 - Sep 2023 LOS ANGELES, USA Sep 2014 - Sep 2019 NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN

HONOR & ACHIEVEMENT SCI-Arc Merit Graduate Thesis Awards Thesis project “GUNDAMETROPOLIS”

Sep 2023 LOS ANGELES, USA

SCI-Arc Thesis Scholarship

May 2023 LOS ANGELES, USA

SCI-Arc Spring Show “SCI-Arc Night Live”

Apr 2023 LOS ANGELES, USA

Projects “ENSPHERE” and “RELIEF PACKAGE” selected for exhibition

SCI-Arc Spring Show “The Land of Ahh's” Projects “FLUIDIC ELEMANTARY SCHOOL” and “SYNTHETIC EPOCH” selected for exhibition

Tamkang University Graduation Design Exhibition “2051” Project “PLANT FACTORY” selected for exhibition

2018 Best Design Award ( 3rd place in department ) Wang Chi-Kung Architectural Design Award, Tamkang University

Apr 2022 LOS ANGELES, USA Jun 2019 NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN Sep 2017 - Jun 2018 NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS MYCOLOGY LAB Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022

DOC. MYCOLOGY LAB Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022

04 08

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY AECOM, Beijing | Intern Huoying Building Complex with Transportation Junction

Sep 2019 - Nov 2019 BEIJING, CHINA

GUNDAMETROPOLIS Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2023

Participated in the development of the process model and creation of diagrams Collaborated with the team to capture project milestones and dependencies Participated in CD phase

HUTONG MEMORY

Facilitated effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders

Academic Work_Tamkang_2017

Produced renderings and related visual for the project

ATA Architectures & Planners | Intern Guilin Resort Architectural Design

Jul 2017 - Sep 2017 BEIJING, CHINA

Participated in designing residential units and ﬁnishing drawings

PLANT FACTORY Academic Work_Tamkang_2019

Collaborated with team members to discuss architectural development plans Developed site models

Tianjin Emerald Avenue Landscape Design

ENSPHERE

Participated in completing landscape design and drawings

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022

Produced renderings and related visual for the project

SKILLS Mandarin Chinese (Native), English (Fluent) Rhino, Grasshopper, Zbrush, Blender, Cinema 4D, Revit, Maya Keyshot, Twinmotion, Unreal Engine

RELIEF PACKAGE Language

3D Modeling Render

Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, AutoCad, Microsoft Ofﬁce

Presentation

Handdrawing, Laser Cutting, 3D Printing, CNC, Model Making

Fabrication

FLUIDIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2021

LAYER UPON LAYER

REFERENCES Damjan Jovanovic

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2023

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2021

46 50

damjan_jovanovic@sciarc.edu

Faculty at SCI-Arc, Architect, Software designer

Kai Yan Senior Architect, Department of Architecture, AECOM

kai.yan@aecom.com

REVIT FOLLY-VERDURA TOWER Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2023

MYCOLOGY LAB Year: 2022 Instructor: Herwig Baumgartner Partner: Xinyuan Yue

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Mycology Lab

The studio is undertaking the design of a 150,000-square-foot BIO-TECH building in El Segundo, Los Angeles County. This project entails considering the interests of various stakeholders in this evolving building type. Aligned with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, Company Bio, founded by the United Nations, seeks to replicate fungi’s efficient carbon absorption behavior. Clean energy can be generated by collecting and processing excess carbon from the environment, particularly greenhouse gases. Research shows that fungi in the soil facilitate carbon transportation through plant root systems. Drawing inspiration from this research, the building aims to create an interconnected research office environment, promoting efficiency and collaboration. Interconnectivity serves as a guiding principle in spatial organization.

To visually convey the concept of carbon absorption and conversion into oxygen, inspired by fungi, we utilize a Generative Adversarial Network to train images that merge fungi and laboratory interiors. This forms the basis for designing a suspended robotic machine, representing the building’s key mechanism. The machine symbolizes the integration of natureinspired processes and advanced technology.

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Mycology Lab

Our design approach utilizes the concept of “chunk interaction” to foster seamless integration between different functional areas, bridging the gap between human and non-human spaces. The building is divided into two equal parts: solid and void spaces, each comprising 50% of the overall volume. The solid spaces house laboratories, research centers, and exhibition halls, while the void spaces serve as large meeting areas and main discussion zones. At the research center, scientists follow the lead of biomimetic machines to explore the transformation process. Fungal biomimetics replicate the mechanism by which fungi collect carbon in a zero-gravity laboratory, storing it as energy capsules to develop new clean energy sources and plant nutrients. In the bio lab, researchers investigate how fungi utilize ecological networks to connect plants and transport carbon as nutrients.

DOC. MYCOLOGY LAB Year: 2022 Instructor: Zach Burns, Herwig Baumgartner Partner: Xinyuan Yue, Hanna Park, Jenny Cook, Jila Mendoza, Jiangyao Shen, Meng-Jung Ho, Sijia Li, Wei-Chieh Wang

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Doc. Mycology Lab

The design development phase of our project builds upon the foundation of our earlier design concept, incorporating critical considerations such as technology, materials, systems integration, and architectural analysis. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of these elements, delving into construction methods, building codes, structural and mechanical systems, environmental systems, building service systems, and the development and integration of building materials and components. Through this course, our objective is to cultivate a holistic understanding of how architects effectively communicate complex building systems within the context of the built environment. Moreover, we aim to demonstrate our ability to document a comprehensive architectural project while emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.

To enhance our learning experience, we will examine a series of real-world case studies presented by our instructors and guest professionals who are at the forefront of exploring innovative project delivery methods. These case studies will be extensively analyzed, showcasing construction photographs, 3D renderings, technical drawings, and intricate details.

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Doc. Mycology Lab 11 10

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Doc. Mycology Lab 13 12

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Doc. Mycology Lab 15 14

GUNDAMETROPOLIS Year: 2023 Instructor: Damjan Jovanovic

FRB-01 Fire Response BuildingCenter Academic Work_SCI-Arc_202_Gundametropolis

In the midst of chaos, FRB-01 awakens with seamless grace. Its protective mechanisms unfold, and specialized drones emerge, sentinels in the night. These drones swarm, gathering vital data, aiding responders, and charting a path to safety. Inside FRB-01’s command center, experts huddle over screens, crafting a precise plan. The building’s advanced AI processes this data, optimizing resources, and ensuring the safety of all.

FRS-02 Flood Response Structure

“Robots won’t replace architects; architects will design robots to do what they can’t.” - Greg Lynn Today’s architects face the challenge of combining aesthetics with technology. With advanced robotics and innovative materials, I envision Gundam-style buildings that dynamically respond to disasters, offering refuge, aid, and safety. By infusing elements from the Gundam franchise into architectural design, we create structures that connect on multiple levels, from technology to culture. Architects like John Hejduk and Ron Herron inspire us to challenge conventional ideas. As Greg Lynn suggests, robots enhance architects’ abilities. By creating a stylistic prototype capturing Gundam’s spirit, we explore architecture’s potential. This design can be adapted to different locations, showing how robotics and materials can integrate into diverse contexts while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

These Gundam-style buildings fuse innovation, technology, and disaster response, serving as vital assets in crisis-prone urban areas. They embody futuristic aesthetics and a commitment to safeguarding communities.

In a riverside community, torrential rains unleash chaos as the river overflows. Amid this turmoil, FRS-02, the Flood Response Structure, symbolizes resilience and innovation. Transparent walls reveal a fortified interior with pathways and drones to aid those in need. As floodwaters rise, FRS-02 deploys drones, offering hope, supplies, and communication. Beyond a building, it’s a lifeline, ready to guide its community through challenges.

GLC-03

ERC-05

Gas Leak and Chemical Spill Center

Earthquake Resilient Complex Academic Work_SCI-Arc_202_Gundametropolis

In a bustling urban landscape, a silent gas leak threatens the community. Amidst the potential catastrophe stands GLC-03, a symbol of preparedness. Its advanced sensors detect hazardous substances, and AI coordinates evacuations and emergency responses. GLC-03 adapts to the situation, neutralizing the threat with automated systems and human expertise. Its intricate ventilation safeguards residents, and containment protocols prevent further danger.

In a bustling city, ERC-05, the Earthquake Resilient Complex, rises as a guardian against earthquakes. With spider-like stability, its six sturdy legs provide unwavering support during tremors and aftershocks. This complex is more than a building; it’s a lifeline. Deployable drones offer aid, and a control center ensures efficient rescue efforts. After the chaos, ERC-05 represents hope and safety, symbolizing human resilience and a brighter future.

PRS-04

HRB-06

Power Resilience Structure

Hurricane Response Building

In a bustling city, a sudden power outage plunges the metropolis into darkness. PRS-04, the Power Resilience Structure, emerges as a symbol of innovation. With advanced energy solutions, it counters power disruptions. Inside, AI algorithms analyze data and activate emergency charging stations. PRS-04’s interior becomes a sanctuary, warmly lit, providing refuge during the blackout. Its energy-sharing capabilities illuminate neighboring buildings.

As raindrops pelted HRB-06’s robust walls, town residents sought refuge within its secure confines. The hurricane’s deafening roar was sealed out as massive doors shut with a reassuring thud. Inside, a collective sigh of relief spread through the crowd. HRB-06, equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, monitored the hurricane’s every move with precision. Its AI algorithms tracked wind speeds, pressure changes, and potential surges, providing real-time data to local emergency services.

HUTONG MEMORY Year: 2017 Instructor: Chen-Cheng Chen

Academic Work_Tamkang_2017_Hutong Memory

4 6

The DongSi district in Beijing is the chosen site for my project, known for its rich collection of hutongs—narrow alleyways that represent the city’s historical charm. Among these hutongs, Hutong One to Fourteen stands out as well-preserved examples of Beijing’s hutong culture.

Residents view bulletin board

2 construction site

Old rickshaws parked by street

Elderly chat in courtyard

Cleaners clean hutong toilets

Residents raise attic pigeons

As the city has undergone development, many residents have gradually moved away from the hutongs, leading to a decline in their population. This shift in demographics is noticeable. To develop a meaningful design, I aim to capture the impressions of four elderly Beijingers who hold cherished memories of hutong living. Four key concepts—focus, shadow, track, and distance—guide my design process.

Bicycle pauses by

Pigeonry built by residents

Bicycles scattered around

3 2 1

020

While we cannot fully recreate the past or restore the original essence of the hutongs, my goal is to use design as a medium to evoke the cherished recollections of those who once called these alleyways home. Through thoughtful design elements, I seek to reignite the wonderful memories and create a sense of nostalgia, connecting individuals with their past lives in the hutongs.

Dongsi Hutong

Residents' quilts air-drying

Gathering spot

021

TOP VIEW

PLAN

ELEVATION

SECTION

Many of the original living Spaces in hutongs have been converted. The hutongs in my memory are clean, without traffic or tourists. People like to put their furniture outside, and they like to sit in the doorway and talk to their neighbors.

Listening to pigeon whistles is an amazing experience. As soon as the pigeon flies, people can know where the pigeon is. The most interesting thing is that the distance a pigeon flies close and far can be judged by its sound.

Rickshaws used to be the main element in the hutong alley. Hutong alley is cascaded and complicated, and rich people used to choose rickshaws as transportation if they wanted to visit and handle affairs.

There are lots of Beijingers sitting under the big trees in the hutong to enjoy the cool. They sit together to chat and play chess. The shadows of the trees seemed to fall from the sky, covering the people below.

FOCUS

DISTANCE

TRACK

SHADOW

Academic Work_Tamkang_2017_Hutong Memory

022

TOP VIEW

023

PIGEONRY

CLOTHES HANGER

Combine the concepts of distance and focus

Combine the concepts of shadow and distance

There were only public toilets in the hutongs, but people gave up their privacy and enhanced their relationship. People who raised pigeons used to build a loft on the roof. I hope to create a public loft next to the public toilet.

Hutong residents like to hang their clothes in front of their houses. The clothes hanging under the trees are special elements of the hutong.

FOCUS

DISTANCE

SHADOW

AXONOMETRIC 024

CLOTHES HANGER

PLAN

SECTION

AXONOMETRIC

PLAN

Academic Work_Tamkang_2017_Hutong Memory

PIGEONRY

SECTION 025

BICYCLE STATION

TEAHOUSE

Combine the concepts of track and shadow

Combine the concepts of focus and track

People in the north of China are keen on riding bicycles to go out. The popularity of Shared bikes always leads to the phenomenon of bicycles being parked randomly in hutongs.

Teahouses have a special significance in Beijing. Before, people liked to chat and listen to operas in teahouses. I wanted a place that would remind people of life in the teahouse.

TRACK

FOCUS

SHADOW

TEAHOUSE TRACK

AXONOMETRIC

PLAN

SECTION

AXONOMETRIC

PLAN

SECTION

Academic Work_Tamkang_2017_Hutong Memory

BICYCLE STATION

PLANT FACTORY Year: 2019 Instructor: Yan-Wen Shao OLD WALL

Step_01 Former factory

SHABBY HOUSE

REMINED CONLUMNS

Step_02 The factory was torn down, leaving its original structure

Step_03 The pillars and pits are the points and lines on the site

Academic Work_Tamkang_2019_Plant Factory

OLD FACTORY

WORKSHOP

Step_04 Distribution map of heavy metal pollutant zinc WEST HILL YONGDING RIVER CHANG’AN STREET OLD FACTORY OLD WALL NEW PLAN Step_05 Distribution map of heavy metal pollutant cadmium

Step_06 Turn polluting factories into plant plants

The Capital Steel Factory, nestled in the western district of Shijingshan in Beijing, holds tremendous significance as one of the invaluable marks on the city’s page. Over a century ago, the Beiyang government laid the foundation of this steel factory, marking a pivotal moment in its establishment. The factory experienced substantial growth during the steel industry’s rapid expansion in 1958, solidifying its role in the city’s development. While the pursuit of novelty often dominates the discourse surrounding urban development, I hold a different perspective. I believe that an ideal city should not disregard its history and progress, but instead strive to integrate the old and the new. The marks imprinted on the city’s page bear immeasurable value, encapsulating the life and progress of the past. Unfortunately, many of these precious marks have fallen victim to acts of demolition. I find it disheartening to witness the relentless pursuit of the “newest” without proper consideration of the city’s historical fabric.

Preserving the historical legacy and development journey of a city is paramount. By embracing the coexistence of old and new, we can create a harmonious urban tapestry that honors the city’s rich heritage while embracing progress. It is within this approach that the true essence of an ideal city resides, one that cherishes its history, values its marks, and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive future.

01. Excavate and gather the contaminated soil

02. Implement parterre on the concrete and insert the stirred soil

03. Plant heavy metal-absorbing vegetation

04. The clean soil grows the plant for the botanical park

05. Puriﬁcation done; rainwater washes contamination to pond

06. Aquatic plants absorb puriﬁed water in rebuild container

Spatially stepping distribution of parterres, ponds, and containers enables efﬁcient water puriﬁcation

Step.01 Site status

Step.02 Divided into six areas according to the texture

Step.03 Break existing texture

Step.04 Put the programs Flower Market

Green House

Step.06 Arrange the waters

Step.07 Place the path

Corner of Tronpical Garden

Reading Time

Corner of Temperate Garden

Shadow on Water Bank

Walk on Bontanical Garden

View of Watching Birds

Step.08 Bird-watching platform

Sump

Grassland

Massing

Water

Path

Platform

Temperate Botanical Garden

Civic Plaza

Atrium Garden

Water Bank Garden

Tropical Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden Plaza

Flower Market

Bird Watching Trial

Academic Work_Tamkang_2019_Plant Factory

Step.05 Raise the ground

7 1 7

M 36

Deciduous

Academic Work_Tamkang_2019_Plant Factory

Shrub

Coniferous

2020 Shrubs can absorb heavy metal pollutants and use bioremediation to improve the soil over a ten-year period. After bioremediation is complete, the original shrubs can be removed and ornamental plants can be planted. 2025

2030

BIRD VIEW 2035

2040 Five years later, the factory floor was filled with purified soil and planted with zinc and cadmium-absorbing shrubs. Water circulation purification is achieved by transporting water over the original factory structure for irrigation. 32

Ten years later, soil remediation was completed, transitioning the previously treated areas from shrubs to ornamental plants. Additionally, roads and bird-watching platforms designed for tourists have started to emerge in the vicinity.

After ﬁfteen years, the magniﬁcent arboretum was completed. The central square proudly houses two expansive plant greenhouses, complemented by an exquisite outdoor botanical garden brimming with a variety of stunning ornamental plants. 33

ENSPHERE Year: 2022 Instructor: Jenny Wu Partner: Wan-Yu Chen

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Ensphere

This project explores the transformative potential of geometric primitives. The project aimed to bridge the gap between the abstract and the architectural by focusing on assembly methods and spatial consequences. The initial exploration involved a primitive puzzle consisting of interlocking parts, emphasizing the narrative of disassembly and highlighting the spatial relationships between the interconnected pieces. The resulting configuration inspired the idea of utilizing the primitive puzzle as a foundation for a building.

Situated in downtown LA’s vibrant heart, near The Broad, the project envisioned a site that would transcend its current use as a parking lot. The objective was to create a building and landscape that extended the original museum space and established meaningful connections with the surrounding neighborhood. Drawing inspiration from the sphere puzzle, we deconstructed and transformed it through various moves such as scaling, rotating, and adding or removing pieces. The resulting building volumes were strategically placed on the site, with the original key elements serving as focal points that guide the flow of people. To maintain the spatial relationships from the initial puzzle, the transformed building volumes were seamlessly integrated with a newly designed topography, providing an inviting entrance for visitors. This architectural endeavor aimed to explore the possibilities offered by geometric primitives.

03 Insert

04 Insert

05 Flip

02 Lock

01 Insert 07 Insert

08 Lock

Pull out

Turning

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Ensphere

06 Turn around

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Ensphere

30 ft 0

39 38

30 ft 18 6

30 ft

18 6 0

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2022_Ensphere

Circulation & Physical section Model The building volumes are mainly divided into two halves placed on the base; they come from the process of decomposition and transformation of the sphere puzzle. The keys in the original plan still function as keys to the two large spatial assemblages in the architectural space. The two keys in the building are the main spaces for changing the flow of people. We tried to preserve the spatial relationship between the different blocks of the original plan in the process of transforming the plan into a building. The transformed building volumes are combined with the newly designed topography to create a gap for people to enter. Physical models of this project are built in 3/32” = 1’0” and 1/16” = 1’-0” by 3D printing, to show the detail inside the section and the relationship between building and overall landscape. To showcase the materiality of the design, In terms of material selection for the physical model, becides the spraypaints, copper, nickel, and zinc are are plated on the model. 40

RELIEF PACKAGE

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

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MAR

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SEP

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Lettuce (30 days, 60~70F)

Kale (55-75 days, > 40F)

Year: 2023

Pteris Vittata (in purify greenhouse)

School Calendar

Instructor: Ramiro Diaz-Granados

Farmhouse in the Stack

Stack Array Schedule

Relief Package arrived on site Open Package (Inbuilt Water Storage + PV) Restroom Office x1

Partner: Wan-Yu Chen

Storage

Market Purify Greenhouse Office x1 Commercial Kitchen

+20

+80 Office x2 Farmhouse (bedroom+badroom units x12) +70

+16

+60

+12

+50

+10

+40

+30

+20

+10

Greenhouse (Farmlab)

Office x2 Farmhouse (bedroom+badroom units x12)

Shared Kitchen Multipurpose Room + conference room

Multipurpose Room

WIND SPEED PRECIPITATION SOWING PLANTS GLOW

Wind Direction/Speed

HARVEST LOOSEN SOIL SEMESTER STACKED STAGE 1 STAGE 2

Precipitation

This project focuses on addressing the issue of food scarcity in Allensworth, a community located in California’s Central Valley. The area, despite being agriculturally rich, lacks access to fresh and nutritious food, leading to it being classified as a food “desert.” To combat this problem, the project aims to establish a farm lab that serves as a hub for sustainable agriculture. The farm lab will act as an educational and innovative space, where individuals can learn about sustainable farming practices and participate in workshops. It will also foster collaboration between farmers, farmworkers, and other stakeholders in the food sector. By creating a network that connects local farmers, suppliers, and distributors, the project seeks to promote the production, distribution, and consumption of fresh, locally sourced food.

The goal is to transform Allensworth into a vibrant community with improved access to fresh produce. By integrating architecture, agriculture, and sustainability, the project envisions a future where the farm lab becomes a center of agricultural excellence. It will empower the community to take control of their food systems and build resilience.

STAGE 3

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2023_Relief Package

+18

Shared Kitchen

This project has two phases and uses a system to move different parts. It considers the local climate, farming practices, and the community’s schedule. First, the design is delivered and unpacked to create the foundation. In the first phase, accessible spaces and amenities are placed on the base. In the second phase, programs related to the school are added based on the school’s schedule. In the second phase, educational spaces like classrooms, labs, and communal areas are added onto the foundation. These spaces prioritize an optimal learning environment through elements like natural light, ventilation, and sustainability. Movable and fixed greenhouses are integrated to facilitate planting and practical learning experiences. 43

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2023_Relief Package

The gantry system plays a crucial role in this project. We have reimagined the gantry as a beast-like character that remains present even after construction, becoming part of the ongoing assemblage. Similar to oxen pulling a cart, this beast-like gantry performs tasks by stacking and arranging program spaces, reshaping the landscape. It not only provides essential infrastructure such as elevators, stairs, and energy but also brings delight and affection as a character. To bring this concept to life, we will use AI text-to-image generators and 3D modeling techniques to transform the industrial gantry into beast-like characters. These characters not only assist in construction but also engage in seasonal performances within the assemblage. They also incorporate water storage and a greenhouse, serving as an overview point for Allensworth.

In summary, the gantry system is transformed into beast-like characters that contribute to the ongoing assemblage. They perform construction tasks, entertain through seasonal performances, and provide essential functionalities like water storage and a greenhouse.

FLUIDIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Year: 2021 Instructor: Jeremy Karmal Hartley Partner: Hanna Park

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2021_Fluidic Elementary School

The design studio focuses on the evolving role of the classroom in the midst of a profound global pandemic. At this critical juncture, the world is grappling with profound questions about the significance of the classroom and the varying levels of access that different institutions, cities, and countries possess. Millions of students are experiencing a fundamentally different model of education, one that is relentlessly challenged by a myriad of constraints, including social, technological, physical, and ethical considerations. Embracing the concept of fluidity, our project seeks to inform the functions, forms, spaces, and furnishings of our design. Every element, from the chairs to the classrooms, the building envelope, and the broader landscape, is deeply influenced by fluidic movement and form. Our concept envisions a future where students have increased agency in choosing how they engage with their classes and utilize the spaces in which learning takes place.

Recognizing the paramount importance of student safety, we advocate for the integration of puffy furniture within the design. By combining functionality with an engaging and playful aesthetic, puffy furniture not only evokes a sense of joy and creativity but also emphasizes the safety and well-being of students. Building upon this concept, we have utilized Cinema 4D to design a puffy chair, which subsequently serves as the foundation for developing the texture, pattern, and overall aesthetics of the classroom and the entire school.

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2021_Fluidic Elementary School

For clusters, fluidity is embodied through melting. Where the classroom units merge, there are jelly-like playgrounds on which students can climb, with fabric floors and chairs to protect them from injury. For landscape, fluidity is embodied through change. There is a ripple-shaped landscape around each building, as well as Thom’s building. These elevated walkways are fluid movement and access to different elevations. Therefore, children can get access to important view lines on the site. All elements of the school will be a play tool for children. Therefore, this fluidic school can be a big playground itself.

LAYER UPON LAYER

Prefabricated Unit & Concrete Slab Conjunction

Year: 2021 Instructor: Randy Jefferson, Dwayne Oyler Partner: Sizhe Lu, Wanyu-Chen, Arjun Bharat

DGU Glazing Aluminum Pant Profile

Black Structural Silicon Hot Dip Galvanized Steel Bracket Rockwool Insulation

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2021_Layer upon Layer

Black Structural Silicon Hot Dip Galvanized Steel Bracket Rockwool Insulation

Overall Chunk of Floor 1-3

Prefabricated Unit

Tectonics, known as “the science and art of construction,” serves as the foundation for our study in this project. Our aim is to explore the integration of two distinct façade systems through thorough research, analysis, and transformation of precedents. We seek not only to incorporate an exterior façade system inspired by our research but also to introduce captivating enhancements to our previous design. In the process of deforming our façade, we placed emphasis on augmenting the plain glass overlap with additional materials that provide both cohesiveness and an enhanced shading system. Our precedent study drew inspiration from Solar Carve, which features a fully overlapped double-glazed glass façade. This geometric composition comprises a repeated module consisting of a folded arrangement of five glass panels. Internally recessed mulleins provide structural support for the glass panels. By integrating additional materials into the existing plain glass overlap, we aim to create a dynamic façade that not only adds visual interest but also improves the performance of the shading system. This approach not only aligns with the principles of tectonics but also enhances the overall aesthetic and functionality of the building.

Through our exploration of tectonics and the incorporation of innovative façade design, we aspire to create a building that demonstrates the fusion of architectural craftsmanship and artistic expression. Our goal is to achieve a harmonious balance between form and function while pushing the boundaries of traditional façade systems to create an engaging and visually compelling architectural statement.

Membrane Fabric Facade Connection

Membrane Fabric Connector & Saddle Tension Cable Evolvement A1

01. 01. 01. 05. 02.

05.

03.

06.

04. Sheet of membrane fabric

02.

04.

03.

Membrane fabric connection point

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2021_Layer upon Layer

06.

02.

Membrane Fabric Installation Breakdown

03. 04. 05. 06. A2

07.

A1 01. Bracket Slotted Connection

Inner Saddle Tension Cable Connection Detail

Membrane Fabric Installation

B2 06.

01. PES Membrane Fabric

Prefabricated Unit Mullion

A2 02. 2” Saddle Tension Cable 03. Outer Cable Connector 04. Fabric Connector 05. 6” Steel Tube 06. Inner Cable Connector 07. 2” Saddle Tension Cable

02.

07. 08.

03.

09.

04.

10.

05. Bracket Slotted Connection Saddle Tension Cable Connector Inner Saddle Tension Cable Fabric Connector Cable Connector

B3 B4

B4 11. 12.

Outer Tension Cable

15. 13.

Cable Connector

14. Diamond Shape Glass Panel

17. 18.

B2/B3

B1 01. Inner Saddle Tension B2 06. Outer Saddle Tension Cable Cable 07. PES Membrane Fabric 02. Bracket Slottered 08. Bracket Slottered Connection Connection 03. Cable Connector 09. Cable Connector 04. Outer Saddle Tension 10. Inner Saddle Tension Cable 05. PES Membrane Fabric Cable

16.

B3 11. PES Membrane Fabric B4 15. Prefabricated Glass Unit Frame 12. Fabric Connector 16. Fabric Connector 13. 6” Steel Tube 14. Inner Saddle Tension 17. PES Membrane Fabric 18. Inner Saddle Tension Cable Cable

REVIT FOLLY-VERDURA TOWER Year: 2023 Instructor: Andrea Cadioli Partner: Hanna Park, Raksha Shetty, Jenny Cook, Luise Kaut, Salma Lopez

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2023_Revit Folly-Verdura Tower

With Veras (AI-powered visualization add-in for Revit) as our guide, we embarked on a quest to seamlessly blend the urban and natural realms, envisioning a future where buildings harmoniously coexist with lush green spaces.

This course explores Autodesk Revit software, focusing on digital design, collaboration, and a creative approach. Students learn Building Information Modeling (BIM) principles through hands-on exercises in 3D modeling, data design, and procedural workflows. Utilizing Autodesk BIM360, the course simulates a dynamic office environment to foster teamwork. Individual design choices impact the studio’s overall composition, driving an iterative and self-organizing system. Working in teams, students define segments of a collective design, including a tower with diverse ground conditions, elevations, and roof spaces. The course culminates in a digital exhibition showcasing their work through images and animations.

Through real-world challenges and advanced software tools, students develop practical skills in digital design and collaboration. The interactive and creative nature of the course encourages exploration of BIM’s potential, demonstrating proficiency in Autodesk Revit.

Academic Work_SCI-Arc_2023_Revit Folly-Verdura Tower

Our project consists of four residential floors located in the central section of the tower. The primary program is housing, and we have carefully integrated eight robust columns into the design to provide structural support. These columns not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the interiors. Moreover, our design incorporates several garden spaces within the tower, striking a balance between solid and void volumes, and creating a living environment that seamlessly blends nature with the built form.