PRAXIS
ALEX STEELE
Architectural Design Portfolio
PRAXIS
[PRAK-SIS]
-Praxis is the process by which a theory, lesson, or skill is enacted or practiced. -The implementation of education.
Alex Steele
[000780524] Graduate Application Architecture Portfolio Winter 2010
Statement of Philosophy Praxis, the practice of an acquired skill or theory is the quintessential expression one can use to describe an architectural education; an architectural education that, for me, is a significant influence in my life. Having a tradition of architectural practice in my family has meant that architecture has always been present. The ability to create and design a space that can be experienced by others is exhilarating and such talent is a gift that requires cultivation. Design is about problem solving, it is about personal expression articulated through the need to meet client, jurisdictional, cultural and architectural criteria. It is this tight constraint architects must adhere to that makes architecture fascinating. This problem solving requires designers to master the manipulation of the senses and create an experience. Architecture is not about designing the most abstract form, or incorporating the most ideological metaphors but it’s about designing for a purpose, successful architecture meets its purpose well. Great architecture does not need to stand out by means of massing or material, it stands out because it has mastered its ability to serve its function.
Declaration of Intent
Architectural design is a creation of an experience to serve a purpose. Mastering that ability to manipulate an experience and the subsequent senses on uses to interpret that experience is something I wish to develop in my 5th year of study. Manipulating ones experience through design. Perhaps designing with light so your experience is not visual but tactile; designing with sound not to appeal to hearing but to appeal to touch; designing with volume and massing for audibility. Through manipulation of design and senses I wish to examine how architecture is experienced.
Alex Steele
SAVANNAH SQUARE ANALYSIS
Architectural Graphics Spring 2007 Professor Montogomery
Program_ Analyze a Savannah square and create plans, sections, and diagrams. Site_ Chippewa Square, Savannah, GA Duration_ 4 weeks
_ARCHITECTURAL ORDERING This project began with analyzing an existing architectural element. Through that analysis developed plans sections and diagrams of a Savannah Square.
_Hand Drawn Section
_SITE Hand drawing allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the square and the architectural principles of path, node, and boundary.
SQUARE//CUBE Fundamentals I Fall 2007 Professor Rathmann Program_ A blank site was given that was a 12in x 12in square. We were asked to create a series of 4 individual spaces anywhere on the site that related to one another through the formal ordering principles of architectural design. Site_ 12in x 12in flat square Duration_ 5 weeks
_RECONFIGURATION Beginning with the square site, I created an underlying grid that created smaller squares. The forms of the structure are all based on the square; the square becomes a solid cube for the lower left structure. The square becomes a translucent cube with frame for the upper right structure. Smaller squares are used as units to create a larger massing, and squares are rotated to create a stacked form. Materiality is also utilized from opaque to clear. The square is the underlying connecting thread with all these elements and this is how they are connected visually.
_ARCHITECTURAL ORDERING Symmetry
Hierarchy
Axis
The formal ordering systems were applied to this design to create a sense of unity between the four spate substructures. Symmetry, hierarchy and axis were the ordering systems that best met the purpose.
Elevation
Plan
Section
Figure/Ground Diagram
_LIGHT An analysis of light on the interior of the structures begins to show the effects of light on compisition.
RECORDING STUDIO
Fundamentals II Winter 2008 Professor Rathmann
Program_ Design a music recording studio on river Street that was influenced by a specific bands works. Site_ 20’ x 150’ stairwell, River Street, Savannah, GA Duration_3 weeks
_MUSICAL INSPIRATION This project was to design a recording studio/ office space for the band, Radiohead. The overall massing of the faรงade was inspired by music equalizers and the consistent bouncing effect they have throughout a song. The design is a 4-D representation of equalizers, from a sharp angle the different ribbons appear static but as one passes the structure they began to curve in and out, as these ribbons do when you are playing music. An image of the bands cover art is applied to the ribbons and only when viewed directly ahead does it line up and become clear.
_ELEVATION
_Site Photomonatge
PRAXIS: focus on
SKETCHING
Through sketching, one can better understand the environment around them, and apply that sketching ability to convey design concepts in future projects.
HOUSE FOR AN ARTIST
Fundamentals II Winter 2008 Professor Rathmann
Program_Design a house for an artist or sculpture influenced by the style of there works. The atist choosen was Christo and Jean Claude, a couple who wraps existing structures in canvas and plastic. Site_ The site was created using the cut marks on an Eichberg drafting table. The cut marks were used to create a 3-D sculpture which became the site for the house. Duration_5 weeks
_SITE The site was abstracted from the drafting table. The cut lines in the table were used to create an abstract drawing (Right). The drawing was then used as the site plan for our house. The site plan was used to create a 3-d representation of the desk.
_Concept Sketch
_HOUSE//SITE Because the artists this house was designed for do not create forms in there sculptures, they simply wrap existing structures, the form of the house itself was enspired by the angles of the landscape. The house massing was designed to appear as though it existed previously. The house is then wraped in a fabric that is held on by rope, similar to the artists works.
MOBILE / TRANSFORMABLE/ DISASTER RELIEF SHELTER Studio I Fall 2008 Professor El nahas
Program_Design a disaster releif shelter that can be shipped to disaster affected areas and can be assembled easily. Site_ Anywhere Duration_2 weeks
_CONCEPT The image to the right by ludwig mies van der Rohe is the initial inspiration for this shelter. The main concept focuses on interlocking panels that can be joined in a varying number of ways to create unique shelters and communities to suit the needs of the inhabitants, thus making them versatile. The solution to this problem was to create a structure that is able to compact for shipping. The structure must be easy to assemble quickly. The shelter must be adaptable to allow the occupants to change it based on their climate, culture, or living conditions. The shelters must be connectable and expandable to foster a sense of community and encourage occupants to be optimistic.
_CRITICAL THINKING _PLAN
Pieces can be interlocked to create larger shelters or multi-resident dwellings
Roof Panels move to shade from light, and close to protect from rain.
_ELEVATION
Shelter pieces can be shipped almost completely flat.
_PERSPECTIVE Seperate walls allow the shelter to sit on uneven ground.
Interlocking pieces do not require the use of nails or adhesives.
Shelter peices are made from MDF, to be light weight but durable.
The shelter floor can be supported inside the shelter at varying levels to keep occupants off the ground.
_Physical Model
Configurable
Joinable
Adaptable
Portable
LIVE / WORK CENTER
Studio I Fall 2008 Professor El nahas
Program_ Design a live/work center for a particular business that requires employees to work at home, or close to an office. Site_ Trustees Gardens, East Bay Street, Savannah, GA Duration_ 4 weeks
_HUMAN/CLIENT BEHAVIOR This project focused on designing a Live/ work center for savannah. The concept required research into how people live and work and how they commute between the two. My design separates the office area from the house while still keeping it on site, thus allowing it to become more formal yet easily accessible to the employees. It also takes on a different design language because it serves a different function. The design of this structure was influenced by gas storage chambers, the structure of the building is pulled outside to free inside space and replicate the structure of a gas tank.
Duplex 1
Duplex 2
Office
_Physical Model
_DESIGN PROCESS
Site Analysis
_Elevation
Historical research showed two gas storage tanks existed on the site previouslyy.
Site Grid created from historic context.
Concept Model
Refined Massinng Model
Final Model
PRAXIS: focus on
STRUCTURE
_COLUMN DESIGN
This assignment was to design a column inspired by a design or pattern found in nature. The inspiration was a foot, specifically how a foot hold the entire weight of the body and how it disperses that weight on the ball and toes.
Structures I Spring 2008 Professor Ronaszegi
_TRUSS DESIGN This assignment was to design a truss that could carry a specific load. This truss design uses both tension and compression elements to create a desired asthetic effect.
ECO/MODULAR IMMIGRANT SHELTER
Studio I Fall 2008 Professor El nahas
Program_Design a sustainable, transportable home for a Cuban immigrant. Site_Hialeah, Florida Duration_ 3 weeks
_RECONFIGUTATION This eco-modular home is designed for Cuban immigrants in Hialeah, Florida. The home is designed to be pre-manufactured off site and delivered in stages. This is done because research showed Cuban families rarely immigrate all at once. A single module of the home can be purchased for one person and added onto as other family members arrive. The modules are reconfigurable allowing flexibility and uniqueness in the plan while still creating a standard manufacturable unit.
_Configuration Option Diagrams
_Stage 1 _ Studio _ 1 Occupant
_Stage 2 _ 1 Bedroom _ 2 Occupants
_Stage 3 _ 3 Bedroom _ 4-6 Occupants
_SUSTAINABILITY This structure was designed to be as efficient as possible. A strategically placed glazing allows for cross ventilation in the hot southern Florida weather. A bris soliel that surrounds the building also protects from the sun. Because the building is pre-manufactured away from the site this allows for increase productivity and reduced material use. Secondly, because this home can be added onto, only the required amount of space is purchased at a particular time, reducing wasted space and subsequent wasted materials and energy.
_VISUAL EXPLORATION This project was revisited during fall 2009 and further explored through the use of computer applications. This lead to a better understanding of the building tectonics.
ELDS 425 Fall 2009 Professor Ngo
PRAXIS: focus on
CONSTRUCTION
Construction Technology II Spring 2009 Professor Gregory
_DETAIL This assignment focused on creating a series of construction documents for a retail building. Through research and investigation, construction processes and details were encorperated.
_CONNECTION Showing individual building elements and how they connect together is an important part of understanding construction technology.
SAVANNAH REGIONAL TRAIN STATION
Studio III Spring 2009 Professor Woods
Program_Design a regional train station serving downtown Savannah. Site_Trustees Garden//East Bay Street. Duration_ 10 weeks
_MEDIA EXPLORATION The exploration of form began with gestural sketchs in mixed media such as the charcoal drawing to the right. Applying various maliable media allowed better investigation into curvalinear masses.
_MASSING Transforming the initial conceptual sketches into building forms became challenging as the need to address appropriate heights and angles became important. The overall mass of the building is two forms, one being the terminal and the other being the shed, that begin to coalesce into one on the northern side of the structure.
_CONCEPTUAL FACADE The facade covering the train shed half of the building was developed from this conceptual model. A series of tubular steel pipes wrap around the structure. Over time as vines grow up the trellis it becomes a sound barrier. The translation between concept and window mullion system was derived from the series of diagrams to the right. Randomizing the location and angle of mullions for the terminal gave a similar effect as the shed facade.
_Concept Model
_STRUCTURAL DESIGN Due to the curvilinear shape of this building structural design and analysis became important. A precast concrete column and beam system is used, each piece is custom due to varying degrees of curves and angles.
_Structural Concept Models
_Structural Rendering
_Rendered Elevation
_PLAN 4
This building has been designed for copious amounts of users at specific times. Quick access from the drop off point to the train platform can be achieved as well as interior resting spaces for less time conscious users. The unique trellis system created to cover the train shed had to relate to the mullion system of the terminal creating a challenge that was solved by weaving mullions together as seen in the elevation bellow.
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Retail Information Desk Waiting Cafe Platform Circulation area
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PRAXIS: APPLICATION
_RESPONSE TO EXISTING Competition Entry
This design is an individual competition entry that I submitted seperatly from studio. This is a memorial Holocaust Memorial located on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
The design is influenced by the famous scenes of concentration camp inmates being seperated behid wire fence. The form is taken from the vernacular fences tthat occur in costal areas.
Public
Private
_RESPONSE TO EXISTING Graphic Design I designed a series of pamphlet durning a summer internship. They focus on how home owners can take simple steps to make there homes sustainable.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO x x
Research green building products and building methods and decide what is appropriate for your home. Consider the quality, durability, sustainability, and cost of the products or methods and compare that to traditional methods.
TO GREEN MY HOME? x
x x
Research incentives, rebates, and grants, that are available from your city, county, state, and federal governments. Don’t overlook the small things! Consider using CFL light bulbs, or choose low VOC paints. Find a local contractor that has the knowledge or ability to utilize green building methods.
THINGS TO REMEMBER x
Location
x
Size
x
Building Design
x
Green Building Materials
x
Insulation
x
Windows and Doors
x
Energy Efficiency
x
Renewable Energy
x
Water Efficiency
x
Indoor Environmental Quality
x
Landscaping
THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE
Studio IV Fall 2009 Professor Gregory
Program_Design a museum for the Smithsonian to house the newly formed National Museum of African American History and Culture. Site_ North West corner of the National Mall adjacent to the Washington Mounment and the American History Museum. Duration_10 weeks
Views
Axis and Datum
Acoustics
_RESPONSE TO EXISTING URBAN CONTEXT The site located on the mall in Washington D.C. provides a unique existing urban context and many African American specific view sheds. The existing context needed to be respected in the design concept. The museum needed to be unique and represent African American history without overpowering other important adjacent buildings such as the Capitol and White House. The unique situation near important national landmarks raised security concerns that also needed to be addressed in the design.
Urban Context
Pedestrian Circulation
Vehicle Circulation
Site Circulation Context
*Some of the works on this page were created as part of a group project. Not all work displayed on this page were created by Alex Steele.
_CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Initially the development of five different concepts allowed for a broad range of design options and inspirations. Of the five design options the strongest was choosen for further development. The design selected best suited the site context and the required spacial planning of the building.
_Chosen Concept
_INSPIRATION Looking to African American artwork such as this painting by Jacob Lawrence and African American craftwork such as quilting, a theme of segmentation and dynamic cubism became overwhelming. The influences of these African American works can best be seen in elevation where even though the faรงade is an evenly spaced louver system the buildings walls begin to create a three dimensional cubic quilt.
_West Elevation
Facade Plan Diagram
_SITE DESIGN The site design utilizes its public nature by complementing it with a large public plaza(3) to the south leading to the main entrance. A row of memorial trees(2) defines the plaza boundary to the west while still allowing views to the Washington Monument. To the west a long vernacular garden(1) is accessible to the public. The landscaping flows clockwise staring at the main entrance from none, to rigid and constricted, to natural and liberated representing the history of African Americans. The main entrance to the south allows easy access to pedestrians from the mall and follows the existing datum of Smithsonian museums. A secondary entrance and delivery entrance to the north faces a main thoroughfare and allows for deliveries and tour bus drop offs.
Landscape Vignettes 1
2
3
Service Entry
Secondary Entry
Gardens
Employee Entry
Main Entry
Plaza Boundry
_Site Plam
Public Plaza
_Southwest Perspective
_PLAN
Concourse Level 13
18 19
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14
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10 11
The underground service level provides for the back of house and mechanical functions of the museum as well as a large public theater. A vehicle ramp allows for out of sight deliveries.
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The top three levels are galleries and are divided by types of exhibition, history, culture, and community. Circulation on each level begins at the central atrium to the south and progresses counter clockwise through the galleries ending back at the atrium. Along the circulation path outdoor terraces provide resting points to prevent museum fatigue. Openings to galleries allows for fluidity in the circulation making it possible to visit a specific gallery without accessing the rest.
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1. Entry Threshold and security 2. Security Office 3. Atrium 4. Coat / Bag Check 5. Cafe 6. Cafe Support 7. Gift Shop 8. Gift Shop Support 9. Orientation Theaters 10. Library / Visual recourses center
11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
The concourse level allows for copious amounts of visitors and can handle various functions from lectures to temporary exhibits. Circulation begins in the long public concourse making specific functions accessible easily.
Library Offices Multi purposes room Secondary / group entrance Employee Entrance Staff Offices Gathering Hall support Gathering Hall / Event Space/ Temporary Exhibition Space 18. Restrooms 19. Circulation / Elevator Cores 20. Concourse
Egress requirements are met through various emergency exits spaced thoughtfully and appropriately throughout the building. Accessibility is addressed by providing elevators and specified circulation paths as close to the main circulation route as possible as not to inconvenience the physically handicapped.
History Level
Service Level
4 1 3
1 4
2 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Offices Restoration storage Delivery Mechanical Theater
1. 2. 3. 4.
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Slavery and Freedom Segregation 1968 and Beyond Circulation area
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3
5
Culture Level
Community Level
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1
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2
2 5 4
5 1. Musical Crossroads 2. Cultural Traditions 3. Sports 4. Visual Arts 5. Circulation area 6. Terrace
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1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Power of Place Make a Way Somehow Youth Gallery Circulation area Terrace
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_PLACEMENT The building is designed to represent the concept of protection. The mass of the building is elevated on a clear supporting plinth while being wrapped by a protective secondary louvered faรงade. Each floor is smaller than the one below it creating three sets of terraces that act as resting points and viewing platforms. While on the terraces the user is outside of the building yet still behind the protective screen. The screen is only transparent when looking directly ahead, thus allowing certain views to be blocked that caused security concerns. The building follows the form of the existing buildings as to not overpower them but plays with its own faรงade transparencies to create a unique identity specific to African American Culture.
_Site Photomontage
_STRUCTURE
structural support
system support frame
Wire mesh screen
wood louver panels structural support
Structure of the facade and secondary facade system
of system
Wide flange steel beam
open web steel bar joist
Roof/ Floor/ Ceiling/ Slab/ Foundation/
support column
Connections
floor slab waterproof menbrane foundation
piles
_SPACE PLANNING The entry atrium uses two full height walls to define its boundaries. One wall is covered in mirrored African American quotes allowing the reader to see themselves in the quotes they read and thus self-reflect. The other wall is punctured on the upper levels and allows users to come through the wall and onto small balconies overlooking the atrium.
_Atrium Night Rendering
Main Entry
Atrium
Terrace View to Washington Monument
Segregation Gallery
To my parents who inspire, my professors who challange, and my peers who motivate. Thank You
COPYRIGHT © 2009 by Alex Steele Published by www.lulu.com ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All work contained is product of Alex Steele unless specifically noted otherwise. No part of this work may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means – graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, web distribution, or information storage and retrieval systems – without the written permission of Alex Steele.