AARON OLSON'S PORTFOLIO by Aaron Olson

GATEWAY & IDENTITY

DESIGN WITH NATURE

CULTURE & CONTEXT

MODELING

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

FORT COLLINS, COLORADO |

CAPSTONE, SPRING 2009

My senior design project focused on establishing the identity of Fort Collins and developing an iconic gateway within the Interstate 25 corridor. From Harmony Road to Prospect Road, future land use issues between the city of Fort Collins and the city of Timnath were addressed through a transit oriented design solution. In addition to the Poudre River Bike Trail, the project presents high density living and pedestrian friendly quarters. The concept encourages use of mass transit, while promoting future light rail connections from Denver to Timnath and Fort Collins.

I-25

VICINITY MAP HWY 14

TIMBERLINE

PROJECT SITE HARMONY

I-25

POUDRE RIVER

PROSPECT RD.

01 02 03 04 05

HWY 87

HORSETOOTH FORT COLLINS

TIMNATH

HARMONY RD.

SITE IMAGERY 02

S I T E A N A LY S I S | C h i p b o a r d M o d e l

S I T E A N A LY S I S | I n v e n t o r y

A chipboard study model was developed to assist visualizing existing site elements and topography. Constructed at 1:200 scale, this aided in understanding the Poudre River corridor and adjacent features. Through the support of GIS, current development trends and heavily degraded areas were evaluated in determining the TOD site. Abandoned mining ponds were taken into consideration for park and open space locations, while an existing freight rail system was utilized to connect Timnath and Fort Collins future light rail routing. Preserving the Poudre River corridor remained a priority while enhancing the existing bike trail network. Several hubs offer station points for vehicular and bicycle transportation. 03

RESIDENTIAL

HP DESIGN CAMPUS

POUDRE RIVER CORRIDOR

A G R I C U LT U R E

MASTER PLAN

FORT COLLINS PROSPECT RD.

LAND-USE LEGEND 0 .125 .25

FUTURE RESIDENTIAL

MILES

01 02 03 04

PRESERVED OPEN SPACE N

DESIGNATED OPEN SPACE EXISTING AGRICULTURE

POUDRE RIVER CORRIDOR

INTERSTATE/ARTERIAL ROAD

G I S L AY E R S

COLLECTOR ROAD LIGHT RAIL DISTRICTS

LIGHT RAIL HUB

SUMMER DEER

HORSETOOTH RD.

RANGE

T I M N AT H WINTER DEER

HOGBACK

RANGE

PA R K

HARMONY RD. NATURAL

LOVELAND

HABITATS

FORT COLLINS

S I T E A N A LY S I S | G I S L a y e r s

GIS data was obtained from several web sites to study and evaluate existing conditions. A quarter mile radius defines the TOD limits and outlines adjacent land-use areas within the site.

I N T E R S TAT E 2 5

G AT E WAY I C O N

NATURAL AREAS

DENVER

FLOODPLAIN

CONCEPT | Urban Agriculture

The urban agriculture buffer serves as an outlet for both restaurants and homeowners to grow readily available fresh produce. The notion of local agriculture reduces the amount of time and energy spent to import these needs, while maintaining a minimal carbon footprint on the region. Pocket parks offer usable spaces for farmers markets and social events. Dense planting is designed to screen adjacent light rail, offering a private setting for local patrons.

CONCEPT | Circulation

Several levels of residential density revolve around the TOD design. Multifamily and single-family products are offered within walking distance to light rail station. The concept of live and work is intertwined into the pedestrian mall and adjacent districts. Places of business are located at first floor of buildings with residencies residing above. 05

ARTERIAL CONNECTORS

DISTRICTS

PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION

CONCEPT | Program Elements

The TOD hub consists of a small pedestrian mall connecting future residential development and places of business. A linear park utilizes the existing drainage channel, offering pocket escapes from everyday living.

P O C K E T PA R K

LIGHT RAIL STATION

URBAN A G R I C U LT U R E

Gateway earthwork consists of large, manufactured slopes in the shape of hogbacks. Predominant along the front range, these shapes emulate the natural landscape and are iconic to the Fort Collins region.

01 02 03 04 05

HORSETOOTH RD. (EXT)

STRAUSS CABIN RD. (EXT)

RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT

.125

.25

MILES

N NEIGHBORHOOD PA R K

PEDESTRIAN MALL

ENTRY CONCEPT SKETCH

H O G B A C K PA R K - D AY

TRAIL/PONDS NATURAL AREA

H O G B A C K PA R K - N I G H T

HOGBACK EARTHWORK

I25 CORRIDOR

VEDAUWOO, WYOMING |

OMNIBUS, SUMMER 2008

Located merely 15 miles east of Laramie, Vedauwoo is home to massive sherman granite outcroppings, aspen groves, and grassy plateaus. Though heavily degraded due to unsupervised overuse, the goal of the project focused on sustainable design through restorative applications while employing a study abroad program for landscape architecture students. Students and professors reside on-site throughout the semester, exploring and teaching the Vedauwoo landscape.

MASTER PLAN A

ROAD TRAIL

C .5

02 03

DEVIL’S PLAYGROUND

D PRAIRIE OUTPOST

MILES

BRADY OVERLOOK

B WATERCOLOR OUTPOST

STREAM

0 .125 .25

LEGEND

WETLAND OUTPOST

ASPEN OUTPOST

POLAND HILL

H LODGE I

TURTLE ROCK OUTPOST

AMPHITHEATER

K ENTRANCE & OVERLOOK

NAUTILUS ROCK

M CABINS

F G

N I-80 ACCESS ROAD

M H

VICINITY MAP I-25

K N

I-80 LARAMIE

L PROJECT SITE CHEYENNE I-80

WYOMING COLORADO

I-25

SITE IMAGERY

CONCEPT | Outposts

Inspired by the simplistic approach of Gerry Jones, each outpost design is strategically balanced on existing boulders at each designated site. Cables and pins support the structure , maintaining a minimal footprint on the landscape. The design serves as a conscientious connection between building and landscape. Outfitted with drawing tables, seating, and observation deck, each outpost workspace provides student and professor with a unique and exciting opportunity to engage the Vedauwoo landscape. Lichen patterns support the color scheme , as each outpost is reflective of the Brady Rock palette.

B’

A BRADY ROCK | COLOR SWATCH

INTERIOR PERSPECTIVE (ABOVE)

C’

E L E VAT I O N A - A’ OUTPOST FLOOR PLAN

A’

OBSERVATION

E L E VAT I O N B - B ’

ENTRY

WORKSPACE

E L E VAT I O N C - C ’

G I S L AY E R S

FOREST

RIPARIAN

PRAIRIE

ROCK / SCREE

ASPEN / WILLOW

STREAM

HILLSHADE

CONTOUR

LEGEND A

VIEWS B

WETLAND

GIS data was collected to identify each ecosystem and its components. Program elements are located throughout designated ecotones, creating educational opportunities and memorable wildlife experiences.

02 03 04 05

Site selection studied slope, aspect, and viewsheds, taking careful consideration with framing prominent scenes within Vedauwoo.

FOREST MEADOW

INVENTORY

OPPORTUNITY

CHARACTER SKETCHES

LANDMARK C’ SECTION A-A’ SECTION B-B’ MULE DEER

SECTION C-C’ C

0 .25 .5

BULL SNAKE

GOLDEN EAGLE

B’

MILES

WOLF

WHITE TAIL DEER

BLACK BEAR

A’

ELK

WILD TURKEY

MOUNTAIN LION

RED TAIL HAWK

COYOTE

WOLVERINE

PIKA

MOOSE

PRONGHORN

SITE PROFILE 8600’

8400’

8200’

8000’ 0mi

1mi

2mi

3mi

CABINS SECTION

PRAIRIE SECTION

PRAIRIE OUTPOST

The prairie outpost was designed for students to engage a moderate hike to reach a designated high point on the site. Built into existing rocks, the outpost overlooks a high meadow with spectacular views to the southeast. AMPHITHEATER

LIMBER PINE / SAGE BRUSH

WETLAND SECTION

WETLAND / BOARDWALK

ASPEN STAND

OUTPOST

PONDEROSA

WETLAND OUTPOST

Balanced on existing, car-size boulders, the wetland outpost is stationed in the riparian ecotone along Middle Crow Creek. The structure provides 360 degrees of viewing both day and night. Moose, bear, elk and other large animals can be viewed at close proximity, offering a unique vantage point of Vedauwoo and wildlife.

02 03 04 05

VA I L , C O L O R A D O | G A R D E N D E S I G N , S P R I N G 2 0 0 8

This five week project focused on the ecological restoration of Gore Creek in Vail Village. The overall goal was to explore opportunity for design while preserving the existing cultural and natural elements of Vail Village. Environmental concerns posed by close proximity development, in combination with the rich, historical value of the village, supported the program and redesign surrounding Gore Creek.

MASTER PLAN A 0

25 50

100

200

FEET

LEGEND

I-70 CONNECTOR

B TRANSIT ENTRANCE C

ELEVATED PROMENADE

D INTERNATIONAL ENTRANCE B

D C N O G

FLY FISHING CLINIC

EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE

PERFORMANCE ARTS LAWN

04 05

H KAYAK POOL I

WATERFRONT AMPHITHEATER

FIRE PITS AND OUTDOOR

K LOUNGE L

F E

EXISTING CHILDREN’S FOUN-

M TAIN N SKI LIFT ACCESS

O MEANDERING BERMS

VICINITY MAP K L 0

I-7

VAIL VILLAGE

I-70

PROJECT SITE

SITE IMAGERY

SKI LIFTS

BATTLE MOUNTAIN

SKI LIFTS

CMT

GOLDEN BEAR

VAIL VILLAGE

HOTEL

VAIL VILLAGE ARTS

TRANSIT HUB

LEGEND

VAIL VILLAGE

GORE CREEK STUDY AREA

I-70 CONNECTOR

EXISTING CIRCULATION

A N A LY S I S | C i r c u l a t i o n

Existing pedestrian connections were evaluated surrounding shopping , restaurants, and entertainment. Two primary paths of travel cross Gore Creek at the covered and international bridges. Heavier traffic sources from the transit hub and I-70 connector to parking. Entry concepts were implemented in these areas, while mixed-use and natural retained their respective locations. ENTRY

NATURAL

MIXED-USE

C O N C EPT | TRANSIT ENTRY

The transit entry concept embraces the roots of Vail Village and history of skiing and snowboarding.

Meandering berms create weaving patterns, mimicking a slalom or crossed paths of travel on the mountain. Elevated planters host native grasses, sparking movement and action within the landscape.

03 04

Paving patterns emphasize the swerving motion, offsetting the low wall and field pavers. Benches and trash receptacles are provided for those seeking

CONCEPT IMAGE | SLALOM

PAVING * PATTERN TO EMULATE LANDSCAPE * PAVERS, COLORED CONCRETE,

MEANDERING BERMS * NATIVE GRASSES * LANDSCAPE IN MOTION

C O L O R A D O S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y A N D A R I Z O N A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

For as long as I can remember, I have always enjoyed putting things together: model cars and planes, lincoln logs, and legos are childhood examples. I found spacial relationships, interactive shapes, and visual connections to be interesting in understanding how each part serves as a component to a group.

ASU CAMPUS STRUCTURE

Designated as a social venue on campus to visit between classes, the structure is made of tube steel, corten steel panels, and cable system. Targeted as an information hub, students could relax, post fliers, or study, while traveling between buildings on campus.

01 02 03 04 05

* CORTEN STEEL PANELS

* CABLE SYSTEM

* ACCESS RAMP

AXONOMETRIC * TUBE STEEL FRAME

ADDITIVE/SUBTRACTIVE DESIGN

Provided with a 8”x 8” x 64” volume of corrugated cardboard, I was asked to create a space only allowed to add an element where removed, and vis a versa. Spaces of movement, viewing, and reflection were carved out of the object with emphasis on use of light and experience. 19

01 02 03 04 05

P L A N N I N G A R EA 4 0

TRABUCO RD.

FRE

HW Y 13 3

J E F F R E Y R D..

I-5

I M A D E S I G N G R O U P, I N C . | N E W P O R T B E A C H , C A L I F O R N I A

At nearly 400 acres, the community of Cypress Village (Planning Area 40) is located in Orange County, Irvine, California. Involved with nearly three years of construction, I had the opportunity to contribute to our design team and owner, Irvine Company Community Development, throughout several phases of design.

2010-2011

2011-2012

2012-2013

2 0 1 3 - 2014

PHASE 1

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

P H A S E 3 - INFILL

01 02 03 04 05

Prior to development the site was leased for agriculture, a common theme within the southern California foothills. Upon acquisition of the Planning Area Master Plan, working with the City of Irvine and associated agencies, design principles were set forth in establishing a unique, multi-faceted community. Program elements included four private parks, one city park, natural treatment systems, entry monuments, bike trails, and connections to Jeffrey Open Space Trail. Sound mitigation via a massive berm and wall aided screening the adjacent Interstate 5 freeway. Preservation of existing eucalyptus windrows played into the overall design and parallel east-west thoroughfares. 22

W E S T PA R K P L A Z A | I R V I N E , C A

Working closely with the Irvine Company Retail-Renovation division, the project site was faced with a number of constraints for customers and shop owners. The existing tower consumed most of the courtyard space, screening storefronts and business signs. The goal of the project was to create an open courtyard, allowing for line of sight to signage, and seating for eating and leisure.

MATCHLINE

MASTER PLANCA

E XISTING TOWER (REMO V E D )

OPEN COUR TYARD CON C E P T

A - A’ S E C T I O N E L E VAT I O N

A’

01 02 03 04 05

A R BOR CORRIDOR ARBOR CORRIDOR

In addition to the open courtyard, a pedestrian corridor between existing buildings offered access to additional rear parking. A series of tube steel arbors were designed for this space, allowing for both physical and visual passage from store front to parking. Electrical was routed from existing fixtures through the frame, providing adequate lighting and safe travel when returning to vehicle. Custom planter pots were designed to fit the arbors, hosting shade tolerant plant material to accent the structure. C OUR TYARD / UMBRELLA S E AT I N G

ARBOR CORRIDOR