Spine Wall : A Working Prototype Corry Mears + Austin Loman
Contents : Purpose + Objective Design Research Schematic Design Prototype + Construction
Purpose + Objective Since the construction of the Gatewood studio arts building students and faculty have been coping and dealing with the short comings the building has. In order to correct these problems a prototype for a low partition wall was developed. The development of the prototype was designed to react to these issues in a subtle and effective way. Honoring the existing building in form, construction, aesthetics, and conďŹ guration the partition wall addresses these issues.
Design Research In the design research phase the current problems with the building were observed and documented. Surveys were given to students and faculty. Feedback was given as to what issues needed attention.
Design Research : Observations
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1. Poor access to electricity 2. Messy spaces 3. No sense of organization 4. Lacks uniformity 5. Areas of scraps 6. Excessive supplies
Design Research : Student Quotes Various students who partook in the surveys said they would like to have...
Storage
“ separate from desk (shelves or something)-Better lighting (current lighting is AWFUL!)- Desks with sharp corners (to align things (T-square) - Some sort of sound barrier, sounds carry a lot now.” “A bigger desk, more storage space, desks (walk way), better drafting area.” “More
bulletin board
personal space
to pin things up, more storage, and desk space.”
“More personal-open concept-increased storage- warm “Magnetic board,
, more space between
colors
marker board outlets
plastic, yuck!), comfy chairs, easy to reach/use space…)
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, storage/personal lighting, wood desk (no , convenient group meeting
Schematic Design During the schematic design phase we reacted to the student surveys and approached our design with a sense of practicality and an emphasis on functionality. By honoring the existing structure and respecting the current electrical grid the design is at home within the building. We strived to make a useful object for students that was able to resolve some of the issues we are faced with on a daily basis.
Schematic Design : Response Half partition deďŹ nes space while still leaving it open Tackable surface
Storage
Electrical access Partitions are situated over existing electrical grid
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Schematic Design : ConďŹ guration
The desks are conďŹ gured uniformly to ďŹ t directly over the electrical grid which provides each student with access to power as well as creates a more organized space.
Schematic Design : Implementation
Schematic Design : Implementation
Schematic Design : Implementation
Third Floor Scale : NTS
Schematic Design : Implementation
Fourth Floor Scale : NTS
Prototype + Construction In order to explore the design a full scale prototype was developed. The prototype is one module of the system which services two desks. The module was constructed with traditional building methods from 2 x 12 studs. Tackable surfaces were repurposed cork and particle board. Finished materials were selected to compliment the vocabulary of the existing and to introduce color into the space.
P + C : Materials 2 x 12 STUDS
$40
SHEATHING $22
FIBER BOARD
$45
PLYWOOD
$27
HOMASOTE $30
UPHOLSTERY $15
HARDWARE
$50
TOTAL :
$229
P + C : Elevations
P + C : Section Details 1/2” Plywood 1/4” Sheathing Homasote wrapped with upholstery
1/2” Plywood MDF painted with dry erase 2 x 12” Stud
1/4” Sheathing MDF Outlet 2 x 12” Stud 2 x 12” Stud
Section 1 Scale : NTS
P + C : Section Details 1/2” Plywood 2 x 12” Stud 1/2” Plywood 2 x 12” Stud 2 x 12” Stud
MDF
2 x 12” Stud
Section 2 Scale : NTS
P + C : Construction
P + C : Process
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1. 2 x 12 frame 2. Lateral support Sheathing 3. MDF application 4. MDF application 5. Electrical wiring 6. MDF application
P + C : Process
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7. Upholstered Homasote 8. Mounting tackable surface 9. Mounting tackable surface
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