PORTFOL O EL Z ABETH WILLIS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT
PAGE
Writer’s Retreat
01
3
Art Gallery
02
5
Artist’s Residence
03
7
Cycling Complex
04
9
Furniture Design
05
19
Art Work
06
21
1
Cut Perspective Showing Relationship to Exterior
01
WRITER’S RETREAT FIRST YEAR PROJECT
Naturally carved paths form the context of the retreat. Inspired by nature, the progression into the retreat guides visitors, defines outdoor spaces, and creates privacy.
Proportion and scale of the design were derived from trees and understory plants on site. Community space, an outdoor room, a small bedroom, a food preparation space, and a restroom establish the retreat’s program.
3
02
ART GALLERY SECOND YEAR PROJECT
Perspective of Gathering Space
Study Model
Perspective of Reflective Space
Process Sketches
Serial progression is employed to create hierarchy. Sections illustrate the progression from public to private spaces. Changes in the ceiling height through progression creates sequential compression.
An interior core without fenestration means that natural light only enters from the ceiling plane. A series of apertures control the amount of light entering each space. Light floods into the gathering space, while light is reduced in the reflection space.
5
Residence Perspective from Window
03
ARTIST’S RESIDENCE SECOND YEAR PROJECT
Cross Section
Transverse Section
Plan
An elongated space is fur ther developed by manipulating the perspective. A sloped ceiling and narrowing hallway are revealed at the entry.
At the threshold between spaces, one feels compression before entering a tall space. Hierarchy is created in the work space. Incorporating all elements into a single wall gives an active purpose to the partition. 7
04
CYCLING COMPLEX Gensler-Brinkmann Scholarship Submission
THIRD YEAR PROJECT
Sketch of Assembly
Series of Modeling
Charettes explored paper forms where triangles were joined with articulated connections. Through iterative modeling, modeling a final structure of acrylic bonded to fabric has inspired the solution for the Northwest Arkansas Cycling Plaza.
Dynamic shape and form and the articulated connections inform the circulation and the material nature of the solution.
9
Conceptual Diagrams
Exploded Axon of Cycling Complex
04
CYCLING COMPLEX Gensler-Brinkmann Scholarship Submission
THIRD YEAR PROJECT
Outdoor View of Entry to Complex
Northwest Arkansas is a growing center for cycling, where leisure and professional contributes more than $140 million dollars to the NWA economy annually. The Razorback Greenway, a 36-mile trail system, connects regional destinations. The Northwest Arkansas Cycling Plaza is the newest proposal for a resource-rich destination. The existing trailhead leads cyclists into the Plaza. An additional route further engages the site and establishes a center for movement and commerce in Northwest Arkansas. 11
Living Room Perspective
04
CYCLING COMPLEX Gensler-Brinkmann Scholarship Submission
THIRD YEAR PROJECT
Custom Furniture Design
Living Area Plan
Key
Hostel guests and visitors occupy the living area featuring accommodations for convivial groups and private individuals. The varied social spaces welcome travelers.
Skylights fill the space with natural light. Changes in the ceiling plane define living spaces as public and private. Furniture reinforces the parti at human scale.
13
Retail Perspective Showing Trail
04
CYCLING COMPLEX Gensler-Brinkmann Scholarship Submission
THIRD YEAR PROJECT
Retail Plan
Key
Inspired by the nearby Ozark Mountains, materiality includes durable brushed concrete flooring for bike traction and acoustical, metal ceiling tiles.
A trail loops through the store to allow for test rides, and proper bike fit. A large storage area fulfills needs of the growing cycling community.
15
Reflected Ceiling Plan of Circulation Space
Rendered Floor Plan of Circulation Space
04
CYCLING COMPLEX Gensler-Brinkmann Scholarship Submission
THIRD YEAR PROJECT
Materials Pallet
Easy movement is provided for cyclists and pedestrians. Wayfinding strategies include material and flooring changes, variations in ceiling height, and strategic lighting placement. By manipulating the volume and light, there is a clear spatial hierarchy.
Inspired by the Ozark Mountains and responding to the rugged demands of cyclists, materials feature patinaed surfaces, luminous reflectivity, and warm color.
17
05
FURNITURE DESIGN CURRENT PROJECT
Exploded Axon of Assembly
Working under Ken McCown, department head of Landscape Architecture at the University of Arkansas, I worked on a team to design, construct, and finish a series of furniture. The design explored X YZ Joints using birch plywood. Other team members includes: Kobee Wade, Max Frank, Matthew Wilson.
Skills were developed to understand the fabrication process of built forms. Finishes were chosen to emphasize the nature of the materials and construction.
19
06
ART WORK
Sketches develop deeper understanding of light, shadow, and form. Exploring different scales create a higher attention to detail.
MEDIAS: Ink pen Graphite pencil Watercolor
21