Alex Martin Undergraduate Architectural Portfolio by Alex Martin

PORTFOLIO ALEX MARTIN | UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS ARC/D

ALEX MARTIN EMAIL MOBILE ABOUT ME

alexisvmartin@ku.edu alexisvmartin@gmail.com (618) 606 - 0439 Hello there! I am a fifth-year student at the University of Kansas School of Architecture and Design, pursuing a Master of Architecture and a Graduate Certificate in Health and Wellness Design. Approaching design with a logical mindset, I weave strong conceptual foundations into each project, emphasizing efficiency, innovation, and a penchant for modular design. My design ethos sees repetition not as a mere pattern but as a guiding principle. I believe in creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally robust, finding harmony between structure and creativity.

REFERENCES

SHANNON CRISS

Associate Professor and Registered Architect, University of Kansas School of Architecture, Design and Planning scriss@ku.edu

KAPILA D. SILVA

Professor of Architecture, University of Kansas School of Architecture kapilads@ku.edu

THOM ALLEN

Assistant Professor of Practice, University of Kansas School of Public Affairs and Administration t273a306@ku.edu

DANIEL DEWEESE

Senior Associate and Registered Architect, Lawrence Group dan.deweese@thelawrencegroup.com

EDUCATION

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS | Lawrence, Kansas

Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies | August 2019 - May 2023 5-Year Master of Architecture | August 2019 - May 2024 Graduate Certificate of Health and Wellness Architecture Cumulative GPA | 3.82 Dean’s List | Fall 2020 - Onwards London and Paris Study Abroad | June - July 2022

O’FALLON TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL | O’Fallon, Illinois

High School Diploma August 2015 - May 2019

WORK EXPERIENCE

EMERGING PROFESSIONAL | Lawrence Group June 2023 - December 2023 | Full-Time - Played a pivotal role in creating programming standards for healthcare spaces, employing detailed guidelines and metrics to optimize functionality and adaptability in healthcare facility design. Followed the entirety of design development for a major healthcare project, gaining hands-on experience in shaping and refining the architectural design functionality. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with project goals and client expectations. DESIGN CONSULTANT | Rosedale Development Association

February 2023 - July 2023 | Contract - Developed a comprehensive preliminary design plan, focusing on addressing constraints, improving functionality, accessibility, and enhancing aesthetics. Played a key role in stakeholder engagement, rightof-way analysis, and implementing safety measures. Reimagined the Turkey Creek Trail into a vibrant community asset.

LIFEGUARD AND SWIM INSTRUCTOR | O’Fallon Memorial Pool May 2020 - August 2021 | Part-Time - Holds active American Red Cross Certifications in Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid. FILE CLERK | Spring Valley Dental Group October 2019 - May 2020 | Part-Time - Responsible for organizing HIPPA sensitive documents. ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS

KU ARCHITECTURE STUDENT PORTFOLIO AWARD | University of Kansas Awarded in Spring 2022 & 2023

CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS COMPETITION | Spencer Museum of Art Awarded October 2020 - Independent art installation titled “Gaia’s Loom” was a 2020 winner of Spencer Museum of Art’s “Call for Creatives”, the Conference of the Birds Competition NATIONAL HONORS SOCIETY | O’Fallon Township High School

Awarded in 2018

ILLINOIS STATE SEAL OF COMMENDATION TOWARD BILITERACY | AAPPL Awarded in 2018 - Moderate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in Spanish PROFICIENCIES

DIGITAL

ANALOG

Revit, SketchUp, Rhino 3D, AutoCAD, Lumion, Enscape, Bluebeam, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Premier Pro, Microsoft Office Suite

Model making, Hand sketching

TABLE OF CONTENTS ARCHITECTURE Mach 3: The Assembly House

The Neighborhood Nook

Urban Station Greenhouse

Sensory Museum

MISCELLANEOUS Module Evolution

Wall System

AI Explorations

SELECTED WORKS | INDEX

MACH 3: THE ASSEMBLY HOUSE Sports & Entertainment Academic Project / Spring 2023

NEIGHBORHOOD NOOK Mixed-Use Housing Academic Project / Fall 2022

URBAN STATION G Design Build Academic Project / S

GREENHOUSE

Spring 2022

SENSORY MUSEUM Museum Academic Project / Fall 2021

MISCELLANEOUS Analog Skills & Works 2019 - 2023

MACH 3: THE ASSEMBLY HOUSE LOCATION: Seattle, Washington PROGRAM: Sports & Entertainment IN COLLABORATION WITH: Kimberly Coulon INSTRUCTOR: Eddy Tavio COMPLETED: ARCH 609 / Spring 2023 The Assembly House is a groundbreaking project focused on crafting intimate community experiences through the design of an experimental prototype. The project has three main goals: first, to understand and scale down the convention center concept; second, to create a spatial strategy emphasizing intimate, community-building experiences; and third, to seamlessly integrate the Assembly House into its surrounding community. Serving as a scaled-down convention center, the building allows communities to gather year-round for various programs within a smaller footprint. The design prioritizes versatility, morphing the singular space to efficiently cater to specific program types. The project also underscores three key design considerations. Firstly, it aims to create a modern assembly building design while consolidating multiple rooms into a singular, adaptable space. Secondly, the design incorporates adjacent uses to support the goals and programs of the event space. Lastly, the Assembly House is designed to be an integral part of the community, fostering engagement and strengthening social bonds. In response to the impact of COVID-19 on large events and convention centers, the Assembly House challenges the traditional typology by favoring smaller, more adaptable spaces that can be occupied daily throughout the year. The inclusion of features like dining and galleries ensures constant activity, irrespective of large events, making the Assembly House a valuable asset for both visitors and the local community.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON IN CONTEXT

A NEW ERA FOR SEATTLE AND ITS WATERFRONT The Seattle waterfront is currently undergoing a transformative development with the creation of a 20-acre park stretching from Belltown to Pioneer Square. This park is designed to reconnect people to the water, mountains, city, and each other, while also serving as a space to share the diverse stories that define Seattle. After a decade of public input, the completed design of Waterfront Park focuses on connectivity, celebrating the Pacific Northwest’s diverse cultures with lively gathering spaces and yearround educational and recreational programs.

Key features include natural landscaping, connections such as Railroad Way, Pioneer Square, Washington St. Boat Landing, and a transit hub linking the downtown core to ferries and buses. Historic piers, reimagined for yearround activities, continue Seattle’s working waterfront tradition. The central public space serves as a cultural hub, connecting Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium, while Belltown is linked through a leafy connection. Overall, this extraordinary park pays tribute to Seattle’s people and landscapes creating an accessible and inspired new waterfront district.

SEATTLE WATERFRONT ELLIOTT BAY

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

LAKE WASHINGTON

2 MILES

SEATTLE A WATERFRONT PARK

ALASKAN WAY

ASSEMBLY HOUSE

PIKE PLACE MAR

PROMENADE, BOARDWALK, & BIKE PATH

SEATTLE AQUARIUM’S OVERLOOK WALK

PIER 58: WATE

VEN TT A LLIO

PIER 62/63 SLIP

AY NW

SKA

ALA

AQUARIUM

RKET

ERFRONT PARK

SEATTLE AQUARIUM EXPANSION

PIKE’S PLACE PUBLIC MARKET

CONCEPTUAL INFLUENCES

PERFORMANCE CORE - FLEX HALL - SPORTS DECK The Mach 3 presents a trio of core programs: the Performance Core, the Sports Deck, and the Food Hall. Purposefully crafted for shared enjoyment, these versatile spaces seamlessly pivot to operate autonomously, catering to a spectrum of events with adaptability in mind. At the heart of Mach 3 lives the Performance Core. From live concerts to theater productions to intimate film screenings, this space is equipped to host a variety of experiences. Advanced technology, combined with comfortable seating and a dynamic stage, guarantee an immersive experience for performers and audiences. The multi-functional space, including the versatile “Flex Hall,” effortlessly transitions from a chic cocktail lounge to a high-energy dance club or private event space. This Flex Hall seamlessly connects to the Performance Core, enhancing its adaptability. The dynamic atmosphere is tailored to specific needs, offering breathtaking waterfront views that serve as a stunning backdrop for any occasion.

On another level, the Sports Deck caters to all sports enthusiasts. Featuring a spacious viewing area with large screens showcasing live sports events, interactive experiences like virtual reality sports simulators, and a tap bar offering craft beers, specialty cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, the Sports Deck is the ultimate destination for sports and entertainment. Various seating areas are strategically placed for relaxation, socializing, and game watching, offering a range of options for visitors. Complementing these experiences is the Food Hall, inspired by the best of food trucks, street food, and the vibrant culture of Seattle’s neighboring Pike Place Market. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply seeking a unique dining experience, the Food Hall is the perfect destination for those who appreciate good food, good company, and good times.

BACK OF HOUSE PROGRAM (1) Truck Loading (2) Dressing Room (3) Artist Green Room (4) Recording Studio (5) Marshalling

NC CO

O SP

5 3

Y BL

E SS

BEHIND THE NAME “MACH 3”

DESIGN EVOLUTION The name “Mach 3” is an apt and evocative choice for the Assembly House, as it conveys a sense of speed, power, and cutting-edge technology. The name is inspired in part by the classic car scene, where “Mach” was a term used to describe the speed of a car. However, it also has broader connotations, suggesting a forward-looking, innovative, and dynamic approach to design and construction. The inclusion of classic cars as a design callback goes beyond mere aesthetics; it delves into the rich history of old auto row in downtown Seattle. This area, once bustling with automotive activity, tells a story of innovation, craftsmanship, and the evolution of transportation. Just as the Mach 3 pushes the boundaries of contemporary architecture, it pays homage to the legacy of those vintage automobiles that once graced the streets of this vibrant city.

1969 Ford Mustang Mach I

The three programs of the building - the Performance Core, the Sports Deck, and the Food Hall - each embody different aspects of this “Mach 3” concept. The Performance Core represents precision, focus, and intensity, like a finely tuned race car engine. The Sports Deck embodies energy, excitement, and socialization, like the thrill of driving at high speed. And the Food Hall brings together different flavors and cultures, reflecting the diversity and innovation of modern society. Together, these programs create a synergy that is greater than the sum of its parts. Just as a car with a powerful engine, dynamic design, and advanced technology can achieve extraordinary performance, so too can the Mach 3 building offer a unique and exhilarating experience for its visitors.

MACH MODULE X 6 =

MACH APPLIED TO DESIGN

AIRFLOW

BOW-WAVE COMPRESSION

EXPANSION WAVE

SIC

FLE

PLUG-IN

SIC

MU T

PROGRAM

SIC

OD SP

USH AND PULL

FO SIC

INTERLOCKING

SIC

INDEPENDENT

FOOD HALL: Rendering by Kimberly Coulon

SPORTS DECK: Rendering by Kimberly Coulon

PERFORMANCE CORE

GROUND LEVEL The ground level, centered around the performance core, is a gateway designed for visitors from Alaskan Way. The inviting lobby bars elevate the experience with a sophisticated ambiance and curated beverages. Visitors can also purchase tickets and explore the versatile first flex hall for private events or exclusive seating arrangements.

LEVEL 2 The second level provides access to the first tier of seating within the performance core. Guests here can indulge in food and drinks from two dedicated bars, enhancing their overall experience. For those entering from Western Ave., the third-floor sports deck awaits, while on the north side, a secondary entry through a street-level eatery offers an alternative access point, ensuring a seamless and diverse journey through the building.

E U N AV E ES TE RN

W AY

These diagrams illustrate the Assembly House’s key components: HVAC, structural elements, and a detailed path of egress. Particularly, it showcases a high-bay structural system placed in the central area to optimize performance core functions. This composite diagram provides a visual overview of the building’s systems, emphasizing the design approach applied to ensure functionality.

LEVEL 3 The third level is dedicated to the vibrant sports deck, offering a spacious restaurant and bar area that seamlessly connects, if desired, to the performance core. This versatile space can operate independently on days with multiple events, providing flexibility and a dynamic atmosphere. Additionally, the third level hosts an exclusive VIP lounge and a stylish speakeasy, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the overall experience.

LEVEL 4 The fourth level is exclusively dedicated to the vibrant food hall. Featuring views that connect to the sports deck’s large screening area, this space offers a seamless blend of entertainment. Importantly, the food hall can operate independently, providing flexibility based on preferences. On the north side, an open-air space allows for outdoor enjoyment, showcasing breathtaking views of the Seattle waterfront and enhancing the overall experience.

WALL SECTION DETAILS 2

16'-9"

24'

CALLOUT A

SHIM ALUMINUM FLASHING 3/4" PLYWOOD

52'

5" HSS

98'

22'

BITUMINOUS MEMBRANE 5/8" ROOF BOARD

15'-6"

CALLOUT B

A: ROOF PARAPET

22'

3/4” = 1’-0”

FIBERGLASS WINDOW SYSTEM ALUMINUM SILL EXTENSION/COVER

22'-2 1/2" 25'

EXTRUDED ALUM SILL EXTENSION

CALLOUT C

CALLOUT D

2'-6"

WALL SECTION 1/4” = 1’-0”

7'-5"

C: PRESSURE EQUALIZED CONN 3/4” = 1’-0”

FIBERGLASS WINDOW SYSTEM POLISHED CONCRETE FINISH 5” HSS

ALUMINUM PANEL STEEL BRACKET FOR ALUMINUM PANEL SUPPORT

PANEL FASTENER MINERAL FIBER INSULATION

FIRE BLOCKING 2 1/2" MINERAL FIBER INSULATION VERTICAL FURRING STRIPS

ALUMINUM FLASHING STEEL BRACKET FOR ALUMINUM PANEL SUPPORT

HORIZONTAL GIRT ALUMINUM FLASHING

ACM/MP SOFFIT PERFORATED PANEL

B: METAL PANEL SLAB BYPASS 3/4” = 1’-0”

2 1/2" MINERAL FIBER INSULATION

FLASHING CONCRETE SLAB RIGID INSULATION

PAVERS RIGID INSULATION COMPACTED GRAVEL DRAINAGE BOARD

METAL FLASHING

BELOW GRADE WATERPROOFING

EXTERIOR STAIR HANDRAIL 2 1/2" MINERAL FIBER INSULATION

NECTION

D: CONCRETE FOOTING 3/4” = 1’-0”

THE NEIGHBORHOOD NOOK LOCATION: Rosedale, Kansas PROGRAM: Mixed-Use Housing INSTRUCTOR: Shannon Criss COMPLETED: ARCH 608 / Fall 2022 The next generation of architecture is multifunctional, public-centered, and socially productive. It’s flexible, adaptable, and works simultaneously at the macro and micro scales. In Rosedale, a community just minutes away from the Kansas City, Missouri metropolitan area, some of the biggest challenges that face the community are poverty, lack of transit, and affordable housing - issues that stretch far and beyond just the Rosedale community. By realizing Rosedale’s potential and adapting its existing infrastructure, the project seeks multifunctionality and public congregation above all to attract investment and generate community stability through sustainable methods. The Neighborhood Nook activates the 10th street edge, providing a destination for people to gather, learn, and engage with members of their community. Transforming a neglected corner of Rosedale into a thriving hub of activity and engagement, the project combines the best of both worlds: a cutting-edge library and a spacious and inviting cafe, offering a range of amenities for people of all ages. Beyond offering a comfortable and welcoming place to sit, read, and relax, the Neighborhood Nook encourages people to spend more time on the street. Located next to Turkey Creek, a tributary of the Kansas River, awareness and attentiveness towards the creek was a given. By providing a pleasant and safe environment for people to walk and bike, a more vibrant and active outdoor culture is cultivated in a place for people to grow, explore, and engage with the world around them.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY

KANSAS CITY METRO AREA

STATE LINE ROAD

ROSEDALE

5 MILES

KANSAS CITY METROPOLITAN AREA, WYANDOTTE COUNTY, AND ROSEDALE IN CONTEXT 28

KANSAS RIVER

ROSEDALE MEMORIAL ARCH

TURKEY CREEK

BOULEVARD DRIVE-IN THEATER

THE KU MEDICAL CENTER

1/2 MILE

MERRIAM CONNECTED CORRIDOR PLAN

CORRIDOR STUDY AREA As recommended in the Merriam Connected Corridor Plan, the Turkey Creek Trail would parallel the Merriam Lane and Southwest Boulevard corridor along a historic streamway trail alignment that has been partially abandoned but remains accessible today in some areas. It would serve as a gateway through Rosedale and connect the area directly to Johnson County and KCMO, mitigating several major barriers to bicycle and pedestrian travel in the corridor and the region. The revitalization of this historic streamway trail not only promotes sustainable transportation options but also preserves the cultural and natural heritage embedded in the landscape, fostering a deeper connection between the community and its rich history.

SAFETY

BIKE COMMUNITY

Enhancing the multimodal infrastructure along the corridor is crucial, ensuring seamless integration with the surrounding transportation network. According to the Merriam Connected Corridor Plan, the Boulevard Drive-In Theatre is a key area of interest, positioned as an entertainment destination along the corridor. The Drive-In has the potential to catalyze additional development activity, with proposed amenities such as a stage for live performances, patio seating with food and beverage services, and restaurants along Merriam Lane. In alignment with the Neighborhood Nook’s urban strategy, 10th Street’s connection to Turkey Creek is proposed as an excellent access point, strategically located adjacent to the Boulevard Drive-In Theatre.

CONNECTION

TRAIL INFORMATION

R VA

B ST

E AV

K UR

RRI

LAN

BOULEVARD DRIVE-IN THEATRE 2

PROPOSED TRAILHEAD

URBAN STRATEGY ISOMETRIC (1) SITE & AREA OF FOCUS - EDUCATION Library, Resource Center, and Cafe (2) MULTI-FUNCTION Flexible-use Market, Entertainment, Parking, and Rideshare

1” = 256’-0”

(3) TURKEY CREEK Landscape Preservation, Trail Connection, and Activity

KEY CONCLUSIONS: ROSEDALE AT A GLANCE The community is actively addressing challenges such as poverty, transit limitations, and the need for affordable housing. While there may not be continuous systems of natural areas like Turkey Creek, the community possesses the potential to enhance its green spaces.

Parks and flexible-use spaces are valuable community assets with untapped potential.

Efforts are underway to establish protected infrastructure, including bike lanes and sidewalks, to ensure accessibility for everyone. Ongoing initiatives aim to improve access to parks and trails, making them more accessible and enjoyable for residents. While there may be a current gap, there's a growing awareness of the need for active recreation programs in parks. Cultivation of a biking culture within the community; building confidence to make biking a more enjoyable means of transportation.

Rosedale is committed to addressing the lack of adult and youth education opportunities.

Ongoing efforts aim to stabilize educator turnover and enhance educational resources for all.

The Rosedale community is proactively addressing flood risks by exploring and actively investing in stormwater management strategies.

RESIDENTIAL UNIT

RESTAURANT CAFE AND LIBRARY

EXTRUSION OF A SIMPLE FORM

BUILDING PROGRAM Cafe, Library, and Resident Lobby Residential; 1 BD, 2BD, 3 BD Premium Residential; 1 BD, 2BD, 3 BD

SAWTOOTH ROOFLINE

INTERFACE WITH 10TH STREET

(1) Capitalizes on southern solar gain via photovoltaic arrays; indirect northern daylighting (2) Sawtooth form derived from the rooflines of neighboring single-family homes

(1) Pedestrian-only; people-centric (2) Adjacency to Boulevard Drive-In (3) Trail connection to Turkey Creek

SELECT FLOOR PLANS

RESIDENTIAL FLOOR PLAN

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

1/32” = 1’-0”

The kit of parts is additive in the sense that it utilizes a repeating module that can be found in a 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom floor plan option. This allows for flexibility and ease of construction as the same module can be used throughout varying housing options. Additionally, this modular design also establishes a strong structural grid, providing a clear and consistent framework for the building's layout and construction. By incorporating a modular design, this design method also provides flexibility for building occupants, allowing for the accommodation of both singles and small families.

29'-2"

MODULES AND KIT OF PARTS

12'-0"

1 BEDROOM & 1 BATH

KITCHEN & LIVING ROOM

//AXON

29'-2" 12'-0" 12'-0"

12'-0" 12'-0"

29'-2"

2 BEDROOM

29'-2" 29'-2"

1 BEDROOM

12'-0" 12'-0"

24'-8" 24'-8"

//FLOOR PLAN

//INTERIOR VIEW

12' 12'-0" 37' 37'-4"

12'-0"

1 BEDROOM & PANTRY

1 BEDROOM & 1 BATH

'-0"

'-4"

3 BEDROOM

12'-0" 12'-0"

29'-2"

//AXON

12'-0"

12'-0" 49'-10"

11'-10" 49'-10"

11'-10"

12'-0"

//FLOOR PLAN

//INTERIOR VIEW

URBAN STATION GREENHOUSE LOCATION: Kansas City, Kansas PROGRAM: Design Build INSTRUCTOR: Nils Gore COMPLETED: ARCH 509 / Spring 2022 Urban Station, once an old neighborhood gas station at 14th and Orville in Kansas City, Kansas, has evolved into a repurposed personal studio and the home of Steven Curtis’s Urbanworks. As a community investment group, Urbanworks places emphasis on using art for engagement, implementing greening initiatives, and mentoring neighborhood youth. Collaborating with KU Designbuild students, Urban Station has undergone various repurposing projects, including the recent design and construction of a greenhouse for hydroponics education, aligning with the group’s dedication to greening initiatives and community engagement. The greenhouse’s design was influenced by several factors, with a focus on donated and repurposed materials that underscore passive principles like solar orientation and cross ventilation. Its roof pitch strategically captures sunlight from the south, complemented by passive cooling through stationary vents on the south wall and operable high vents on the north wall. The incorporation of 8’X4’ tempered glass from KU’s Studio 804 not only enhances the building’s form but also promotes transparency and efficient resource utilization. In addition to fostering optimal conditions for greening, adherence to passive principles reflects transparency as a central idea. This transparency extends to community and educational efforts, embodying Urbanworks’ commitment to engagement, green space, and self-sufficiency.

PRE-FABRICATED CONSTRUCTION

WINDOW DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION The construction process began with the formation of a general structure, followed by considerations on material compatibility and system functionality. The studio then organized into groups, and I joined the window team, tasked with framing five expansive 8’X4’ tempered glass sheets. This phase involved both conceptualization and the construction of the framing system. Having conceptualized the framing system, we transitioned to the construction phase, where we meticulously crafted the first prototype. Constructing a window frame, even at a smaller scale, demanded careful attention to detail. The plywood frame, equipped with a built-in shelf on all sides and sealed with waterproof tape, provided a secure space for the glass panel. Foam tape lined the frame’s shelf perimeter, serving as a cushioning layer for the glass. An additional perimeter of foam tape on the glass surface was added to prevent excessive force. Stops were cut and fastened to the outside frame, serving the dual purpose of pressing the glass perimeter tightly into the frame and enabling panel removal without replacing the entire window frame.

Various other tasks, such as placing glass in the frames, squaring the frame, cutting and detailing stops, shaping sills, and fastening all the pieces together, still remained before we could prepare them for final onsite installation. The stops, a critical component of the window assembly, underwent meticulous craftsmanship. Using a handheld router, a straight edge reveal was created on the outer side to cast a shadow, cleverly masking imperfections between the stop and outer frame. The inner side of the stops received a 45-degree bevel from a stationary router, ensuring protection against noticeable dings or scratches during transit. Mitered corners provided a finishing touch. The sills, perhaps the most intricate aspect, were crafted from twisted 4X4 timber posts. Achieving a seamless appearance during installation required special attention to straightening these posts. Each post underwent shimming on a flat surface and multiple passes through the planer to gradually flatten each side. Post straightening complete, a dado saw was used to carve out spaces for sills to snugly fit beneath stops, with a 45-degree angle cut on the outer face to encourage positive drainage.

ONSITE CONSTRUCTION

A GREENHOUSE TAKES FORM On-site construction was an all hands on deck endeavor. With the foundation already poured and the mud sills installed a few weeks earlier, the first thing to do was install the north wall. With each wall module having been prefabricated and interlocking, the wall went up in no time. Towards the end of day one, the entire north wall was upright and installed, and the steel post on the southeast corner was fastened to the concrete stem wall. On day two, we installed the structural headers on the south and east walls and fastened them so they could transfer lateral loads down and away from the windows. The remainder of the east wall was installed, and we got to work on covering the exposed wall assemblies with housewrap and flashing. Then, each window was

lifted and installed. Each window required the effort of four to five people to lift and install while they were temporarily fastened. In the model and construction documents, we accounted four 1/2” shim space between each window. After all windows on the south wall were in place, we unfastened one window at a time and shimmed the spaces whilst also checking to ensure plumbness. Though this required a lot of time and effort, it felt so rewarding when each window sat perfectly square in their opening. Finally, each window was trimmed them out, sealed to the outside, and flashed before exterior sheathing was installed. The trim provided the windows additional dimension visually, while also protecting the frames from elements like water.

POLYCARBONATE ROOF AND STRUCTURE

NORTH WALL FASTENED TO EXISTING WALL

THERMALLY SENSITIVE VENTS IN ACTION

SENSORY MUSEUM LOCATION: Dallas, Texas PROGRAM: Museum INSTRUCTOR: Kapila Silva COMPLETED: ARCH 508 / Fall 2021 Humans are visually dominant creatures. For most of history, architectural practice has traditionally been dominated by sight, designed for the eye of the beholder. There are other non-visual senses that impact the perception of space, which begs the question: how does one design for an inclusive, multisensory experience? The Sensory Museum reaches beyond the visual, celebrating also the sense of sound, touch, smell, and taste to articulate space. With extreme care and consideration, each gallery explores a sensory experience that focuses on moments rather than monuments, where users may interact with installations and be immersed in diverse situations. The building’s exterior, clad in CORTEN steel, creates a monolith that devoids any exterior perception, shrouding its inner contents with mystery. Located on either side of the museum is a sensory garden that engages its natural surroundings, like the sounds of the city or the scent of native plants. This outdoor space provides visitors the ability to interact with senses in nature, while also connecting the surrounding Dallas Arts District along its axis. The Arts District is downtown Dallas’s cultural hub, known for the striking Meyerson Symphony Center, Winspear Opera House, and the Dallas Museum of Art, only a select few of the site’s neighboring architecture. Inside the museum, texture and color simulate elements as a means for wayfinding and reflecting sensory design throughout all spaces. Sensory design slows space down, enhancing all experiences in contrast to an insistent, ever-changing world.

RESEARCH AND FINDINGS

SENSORY DEVELOPMENT AND PROCESSING Skimming the surface of understanding the senses in architecture does not do the objective justice. Through extensive research, I was able to gain a thorough understanding of how sensory input is processed in the somatosensory cortex of the brain. In turn, this understanding allowed me to design the museum in a way that truly reflects the senses and the human condition, beginning from the time we are young. As children, researchers discern that creative skills such as hand tracing aids in the development of sensory abilities. Our hands are a major vessel

for getting in touch with tactility, and this notion left a lasting impression on me, and ultimately inspired the formation of the main building volume. Further, the sequencing of spaces is articulated from careful consideration of the hierarchy of senses in the same region of the brain. The journey begins with the isolation of each sensation, gradually building to a narrative climax, where the celebration of all five senses takes place. From there, the journey comes full circle by providing moments of reflection on each experience.

ISOLATE ENVIRONMENT

FILTER INFORMATION

FOCUS SENSES

SENSORY DEVELOPMENT VIA HAND TRACING

FACADE MOVEMENT

HAND TRACING VOLUME EXTRUSION

CORTEN SCREENING IN INTERSTITIAL SPACES

BUILDING ENGAGEMENT WITH SITE

INITIAL VOLUME

VOLUME SUBTRACTION AKIN TO HAND TRACING

VISUAL PERMEABILITY VIA A PERFORATED CORTEN FACADE

BUILDING PROGRAM Upper Level Galleries Ground Level Public Circulation and Administrative Offices Lower Level Parking and Storage

FORM REFLECTED IN SENSORY GARDEN

CIRCULATION THROUGH SENSORY GALLERIES

29 30

DOWN

LOWER LEVEL 02 PLAN SCALE 1/16” = 1’-0”

LOWER LEVEL 01 PLAN SCALE 1/16” = 1’-0”

31 PARKING GARAGE

28 COLLECTION STORAGE 29 STORAGE 30 SUPPLEMENTAL OFFICES 31 PARKING GARAGE

LEONARD STREET

SAN JACINTO STREET

14 15

11 20

17 10

19 09

19 18

DOWN

17 04

17 13 13

23 27 25

ROSS AVENUE

GROUND FLOOR PLAN SCALE 1/16” = 1’-0” 01 LOBBY/RECEPTION 02 GIFT SHOP 03 CAFE 04 SENSORY GARDEN 05 TEMPORARY EXHIBITION 06 ADMINISTRATION 07 KITCHEN 08 RESTORATION STUDIO 09 RESEARCH ARCHIVE 10 PREPARATION AREA

SECONDARY FLOOR PLAN SCALE 1/16” = 1’-0” 11 STAFF RESTROOMS 12 STAFF LOUNGE 13 PATRON RESTROOMS 14 SECURITY 15 MECHANICAL 16 STORAGE 17 CUSTODIAL 18 LOADING DOCK

17 VISUAL EXHIBIT 18 SOUND EXHIBIT 19 TACTILE EXHIBIT 20 OLFACTORY EXHIBIT 21 TASTE EXHIBIT 22 SENSORY CELEBRATION EXHIBIT 23 LOUNGE 24 AUDITORIUM 25 PATRON RESTROOMS 26 STORAGE 27 CUSTODIAL

24’-9”

7’-10”

26’-6”

9’-4”

5’-4”

17’-5”

16’-8”

WALL SECTION SOUTHEAST SCALE 1/4” = 1’-0”

07 02 03 04 08 09

01 02 03 04 05 06

10 11 12 13

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

ROOF PARAPET SCALE 3/4” = 1’-0”

METAL FLASHING CAP WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE 3” POLYISO RIGID FOAM INSULATION VAPOR BARRIER 3/4” O.S.B. SHEATHING STEEL STUD PROFILE EPDM ROOFING MEMBRANE 4“ CONCRETE SLAB ON METAL DECK RETURN AIR DUCT 96”X42” PERFORATED CORTEN STEEL PANELS 2” METAL BATTEN 5/8” STAINLESS STEEL HEX BOLTS WITH WASHERS AND NYLON HEX NUT FORMED STEEL ANGLE CLIP W21X201 BEAM 12 GAUGE HANGER WIRE RUNNER AT 4’ O.C. 5/8“ GYPSUM WALL BOARD 3/8” LOW-E GLAZING WITH ARGON GAS FILLING AND SPACING TUBES

16 17 18

C2 13

01 02 03 04

08 09 10 07 06 05

05 06 07

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15

GROUND LEVEL SCALE 3/4” = 1’-0”

96”X42” PERFORATED CORTEN STEEL PANELS 4” METAL BATTEN 5/8” STAINLESS STEEL HEX BOLTS WITH WASHERS AND NYLON HEX NUT FORMED STEEL ANGLE CLIP WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE 3” POLYISO RIGID FOAM INSULATION VAPOR BARRIER 5/8“ GYPSUM WALL BOARD STEEL STUD PROFILE 3/4” O.S.B. SHEATHING 2” POLISHED CONCRETE 4“ CONCRETE SLAB ON METAL DECK 3/8” LOW-E GLAZING WITH ARGON GAS FILLING AND SPACING TUBES 3” GRAVEL 40” CONCRETE FOUNDATION

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C3 01 02 03 04 05

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GROUND LEVEL SCALE 3/4” = 1’-0”

3” GRAVEL WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE 3” POLYISO RIGID FOAM INSULATION VAPOR BARRIER 40” CONCRETE FOUNDATION 2” POLISHED CONCRETE

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MODULE EVOLUTION LOCATION: Lawrence, Kansas PROGRAM: Concept Architecture INSTRUCTOR: Thom Allen COMPLETED: ARCH 108 / Fall 2019 My studio colleagues and I were tasked with experimenting and designing approximately 100 models at a 4x6 inch scale that were specific to a selection of additive forms, characterized by their ability to grow and merge with other forms. Provided an additive form at random, I concentrated my form studies towards radial bodies. These linear forms extend outward from a centrally located core element in a radiating manner. What came about this period of experimentation was a design in which two dimensional cuts were pulled up, creating a three dimensional negative space. Often with radial forms the central point of the organization is symbolic or functional. In this case, an unintended consequence of the experiment was discovered in the model’s central position when applying downward force. With a quick release, the form bounces back like a spring, making it playful in nature. Wanting to further develop this initial design into my final module, I chose to maximize the surface area of the model’s ceiling by creating a second module on top of the larger existing one, carrying the radial movement from top to bottom. Finally, I supported the inner negative space by folding the remaining tagboard underneath and pulling up a supplemental endoskeleton within the original radial form.

WALL SYSTEM LOCATION: Lawrence, Kansas PROGRAM: Concept Architecture INSTRUCTOR: Thom Allen COMPLETED: ARCH 108 / Fall 2019 I implemented the very same radial concept that served as the foundation of my module into the wall system. In en effort to eliminate lack of dimension with the existing negative space, I transitioned my mode of thinking to one of volume production. In so doing, I thought of stacking the models within each other like one would do with cups, and multiplying such a stack over a self-supporting, grid-like scaffolding system. The dimensions of the supporting structure is not without purpose; the four rows and three columns contribute to an asymmetric state of being. Additionally, I created margins along the sides of the scaffolding in an effort to create versatility in the model’s orientation abilities, highlighting the dimensional importance in this manner. Consequently, this created virtually limitless opportunities in viewing the wall system, with protruding repetitive and illusionary experiences on the intended “front” of the system, and on the “back”, the same sense of repetition that tunnels inwards.

AI EXPLORATIONS LOCATION: Las Vegas, Nevada PROGRAM: Eye Institute DESIGN PHASE: Conceptual Design STARTED: ARCH 808 / Winter 2023 As I near the culmination of my master’s degree, this project represents both the conclusion of my academic journey and an exploration of AI’s potential in conceptual design, shedding light on how technology can revolutionize the creative process for future projects. I offer a preview of an unbuilt, in-progress project that embodies my vision for the future of healthcare design. The concept design for the envisioned Eye Institute harmonizes the early design stages with my growing interest in AI design, providing an intriguing glimpse into the future. Inspired by the vast expanse of the Mojave desert that surrounds its location and situated near the vibrant Las Vegas Strip, the institute’s form and color palette evoke a sense of warmth and tranquility amidst the visually competitive landscape. Shades of orange and pink offer comfort and reassurance, standing out amidst neighboring outlandish designs while optimizing patient care. These colors, carefully chosen for their practical utility, provide high contrast for improved visual wayfinding, particularly beneficial for individuals with impaired vision. Also, the integration of evidencebased design principles, such as the inclusion of sensory gardens and olfactory elements, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing physical and emotional wellbeing in architectural spaces. While this project remains a work in progress, these AI renderings offer a glimpse into the potential of architecture to shape the future of healthcare delivery.

THANK YOU ALEX MARTIN

alexisvmartin@ku.edu