Elana Abraham
Architecture design portfolio selected works July 2016
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Throughout my education and career I have come to understand the potential of Architecture beyond the design and construction of space. Architecture provides opportunities to push boundaries, reconsider traditional practices, and promote ideologies. The complex field that architecture operates within is unique to the profession, and has the potential to impact society at multiple levels. By changing the preconceptions about the role of the architect as well as the role of architecture, the profession will continue to find additional niches for itself, building on its immense value. Architecture therefore has the power as well as the responsibility to embrace issues outside of the confines of the practice and use them to transform the world humans occupy today. This portfolio contains an assortment of academic work completed throughout my time at Washington University in St. Louis as well as at the University of Michigan. The work represents my growth as a designer through the exploration of multiple programs and techniques for generating form. At Washington University I gained fundamental design experience and then used that foundation at the University of Michigan to push boundaries, both formally and conceptually.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
WMCs: Waste collecting widgets pg. 6
Domestic Density pg. 18
Cloud Cover pg. 26
(Re)Elevated Recycling pg. 30
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Speckled Swimming pg. 34
Kinetic Kindergarten pg. 38
Clumped Columns pg. 40
Pear Eating Paradise pg. 44
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WMCs: Waste Collecting Widgets University of Michigan Winter 2016 - Thesis Critic: Perry Kulper Location: Continental USA
The United States is launching a new mission, using some of the most advanced technology available to change the way we manage waste. It is the widespread implementation of WMCs (widgets of mass collection) across the country. Given current EPA restrictions, trash often travels incredible distances before reaching its final resting place. This not only results in more CO2 emissions, but also creates a marginalized perception of waste and naivety about the amount of waste people generate. The mission will therefore strive to adjust societal norms, changing the culture of waste. Each widget works at different scales for different durations and at different speeds, but all contribute critically to the larger mission. Exploring a range of ways to inject new perceptions of trash into society, the widgets contain toxic gardens, billboards, recycled sculpture parks, and facilitate events such as parades, performances, and samplings. The paint pigment labs, perfume factories, 3D printing facilities, soil sampling and testing facilities will not only unveil new benefits to waste, but will also educate at a more formal level through scientific conferences and conventions.
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Initially using mapping as a technique for understanding the current landfill locations, major trucking routes, toxic soil levels, and more, the work continued to use mapping as a tool for understanding the proposed WMCs. Mapping territories, movement, and scale of the interventions, was continually key to the development of the widgets. Additionally, the way this information was relayed to the majority of society is a crucial element of the work. Town hall meetings, public presentations, graphic dissemination of knowledge and cultural perceptions of waste are all keys to the implementation strategy. The widgets are active throughout the United States and are integral to daily life.
Research Mapping
Public Presentation and Community Engagement
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1 The Hub
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Testing
size:
waste collection:
- over 600 miles long - crosses state borders
- collects 1000 tons of waste daily - replaces the need for 150 garbage trucks
movement:
major programs:
- glacial - moves 1 foot per year - retractable parts propel the Hub forward
- primary testing facilities, strategy implementation headquarters, education department, community outreach department, and widget production facility - many widgets rely on the Hub for regular support and maintenance
size:
- enough space for one researcher in control room with - collects primarily waste and soil for testing - collects an average of ten garbage cans per day kitchenette, restroom, and small break room - small storage space for waste collection
movement: - moves like a rouge firecracker - returns to the Hub at the end of the day
3 Implementing
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Spy
6 XXXL
7 Aerial Surveyor
major programs:
- testing and sampling of primarily soil and waste in various stages of decomposition - main focus on soil remediation through colorful supplements - small scale waste collection that is deposited at the Hub
size:
waste collection:
- enough space for two or three staff and 1-2 interns - large storage space for waste collection
- collects waste as part of educational strategy - replaces the need for 2-3 garbage trucks per widget
movement:
major programs:
- moves like a gazelle - returns to the Hub once a year as part of the “Wastey Day� Parade
- part of internship program focused on community engagement - plan seminars, workshops, discussions - waste collection - utilizing some of the new technologies developed in other widgets
size:
waste collection:
- does not participate in collection, only reconnaissance - too small to hold a person - small enough to be inconspicuous but large enough to major programs: not get squashed
movement:
5 Decoy
waste collection:
- moves like a hummingbird - subtle and speedy
- is on the lookout for areas of future strategic intervention - it is programmed from the Hub and is robotic, using dolphin calls to relay information - camouflages through mundane interactions as well as speed and stealth
size:
waste collection:
- range - each decoy is unique in size and appearance
- any waste collected is used to lead dissenters astray - no collection is part of the larger strategy
movement:
major programs:
- moves in very different ways - all are made in the Hub but once they are released never return to the Hub
- does things seemingly productive to the implementation strategy that AREN’T - ex. picks up trash and moves it 3 ft north and 9 inches west - ex. digs precise ditches for no reason - use radio waves to transmit information
size:
waste collection:
- similar to a motel or small conference center - multiple programs within the same space
- a major collection facility - sorts collected trash based on color, toxicity, material, and more
movement:
major programs:
- moves like a sloth and slides on the ground prepped by robots - returns to the Hub every 100 years as part of a pilgrimage
- used for professional training and retreats - it contains a think tank experimental lab, elaborate collection and sorting facility, recreation space, and lodging facilities - contributes to community engagement through tours and collection
size:
waste collection:
- small flying vessels - about the size of a kite
- only collects waste when aiding in an emergency
movement:
major programs:
- flies like a frisbee - mostly glides with support from a small engine
- delivers messages and monitors programs and events occurring around the Hub - travel on short expeditions and are brightly colored in case of an emergency
Key of Widget Types
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An enlarged portion of the previous map exploring relationships between the widgets as well as their contributions to the larger implementation strategy at a finer resolution. This drawing navigates specific interventions and actions taken by the widgets as well as analogous thinking as a way to understand the roles of the WMCs.
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The XXXL Widget houses three primary functions - the collection and sorting facility, the high tech testing and research lab, and the hotel and conference center. Waste enters the widget and is sorted according to a range of material properties. It is then distributed to the proper treatment area or to the lab where it is studied to help invent new uses for the trash. Visitors stay in suspended hotel pods, overseeing the entire process and learning more directly about the work of the widgets.
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XXXL Widget Plan
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The widgets were developed through initial program studies visualized through quick sketch collages. I merged sketches based on program and then refined the massing to better suit the needs of the XXXL Widget. Below, is the XXXL Widget in plan and section , incorporating initial massing and programmatic relationship studies from above.
XXXL Widget Section
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Domestic density University of Michigan Winter 2015 Critics: Doug Kelbaugh and Lars Graebner Collaborator: Zhe Lin Location: Ann Arbor, MI Focusing on the comprehensive elements of the design process ranging from initial diagrams and study models to facade details and residential unit layouts, this proposal aims at integrating details as part of a larger proposal. Through the formal implications of tesselation, this project unites a range of programs including a REI, urban bowling alley, and mixed income residential. The result aims to foster community through balconies and shared public space. Incorporating transit oriented development this project explores the possibilities for mixed use development in a rapidly growing area.
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Building Elevations
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Through detail drawings, exploded axonometric drawings, and other orthographic drawings, the design developed at a range of scales. This work provided additional exposure to some of the requirements in professional architectural practices regarding building codes and structural requirements.
Building Section and Elevation
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Exploded Axonometric Revealing Exterior Building Elements
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First Floor Plan
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Residential Floor Plan
Proposed REI Interior
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Cloud Cover Washington University Spring 2012 Critic: Forrest Fulton Collaborators (Pergola): Michael Halls and Sam Xu Collaborators (Other): Ryan Chiu, Donesh Ferdowsi, Billy Griffitts, Parker Keyes, Bomin Kim, Yurina Kodama, Sarah Miller, Lauren Miyata, Chun Ting Tsai, Lyn Wenzel, , Connie Zheng Location: Patrick Henry Downtown Academy , St. Louis, MO In a group of three we designed the pergola as a component in the larger plan for a new outdoor learning environment for the underprivileged school. The shade structure aimed to provide an ephemeral quality to the play area as well as a respite from the sun, similar to the way dense clouds provide shade. The durable cloth responds to the wind, continuously morphing throughout the day. Temporality and sensibility were the drivers behind the design. Community engagement, collaboration, and design presentations were all major aspects of the design process.
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2 1/2" 2 1/2"
$15,000 ---------------- Budget Given
2'-3"
$3,970 -------------- Trees and Plants $2,400 ------- Soil, Mulch, Wood chips $2,200 ---------------------- Backhoe $2,050 ----------------------- Pergola $1,460 --------------------------- Sod $760 -------- Tables, Chairs, Sculptures $360 ----------------- Foam Tube Toys $200 --------------------- Storage Box $200 --------------- Irrigation System $200 ------------------- Other Rentals $400 ------------- Tools and Supplies
2 1/2"
4 3/4"
4x8 rough sawn cedar timber beam -miter corners, typ. - bolt to beam plate 1/2” Dia. galvanized thru-bolt w/ galvanized washers & nut, typ. - recess bolt head & nut inside face of timber, typ. - center bolt horizontally on 4 x 4 columns - typ. 7” x 7” x 1/4” thick galvanized steel beam plate w/1/2” dia. holes at bolts - weld connections
6"
$14,200 ------------ TOTAL EXPENSE
4"
CL
2'-6"
4'-0"
CL 4"
7” x 7” x 1/4” galvanized steel cruciform base plate - 1/2” dia. holes at bolts - weld connections
CL
1'-0"
4- 4x4 Rough sawn cedar Timber Column -Bolt together @ base plate & beam plate
3"
CL
1'-10"
1'-6"
2" 1"
12” concrete pier min 36” below grade w/ 5 #4 rebar
Shade structure column detail section
1/16” galvanized steel cable 7” x 7” x 1/4” thick galvanized steel beam plate w/ 1/2” dia. holes - weld connections 1/2” dia. galvanized thru-bolt w/ galvanized washer & nut, typ. - recess bolt head & nut inside face of timber, typ. 4 x 8 rough sawn cedar timber beam - miter corners, typ. - bolt to beam plate
5/16” zinc plated turnbuckle 5/16” dia. 3-1/2” deep galvanized steel lag bolt
Shade structure column detail plan
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(Re)elevated Recycling University of Michigan Fall 2014 Critic: Ana Morcillo Pallares Location: Detroit, MI Providing jobs and resources for the area, this facility gives the industrial neighborhood of Milwaukee Junction a new relationship with the car industry. Cars enter the facility from the railroad and are completely dissembled, and reused or recycled within the facility. Visitors can enter the center and experience the car recycling process from above - taking advantage of the views provided along the elevated walkway and within the suspended rooms. The facade of the building utilizes car tires, one of the materials most abundant in Detroit, to create a unique skin visible from the surrounding neighborhood.
Site Axon Plan 1
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Plan 2
Plan 3
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reception
crush cars
Site Recycling
Site
storage
storage material in and out
remove liquids
trains
trains
ferris shred tires + windshields + bumpers nonferris shred wires + retail batteries reception
crush cars
Site Recycling
remove liquids ferris shred tires + windshields + bumpers nonferris shred wires + batteries
crush cars
Recycling Circulation
storage
remove liquids ferris shred tires + windshields + bumpers nonferris shred wires + batteries
crush cars
Recycling Circulation
Circulation Additional Program
Concept Diagrams
Circulation
Additional Program
Additional Program
Facade Detail
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Additional Program
Front Elevation
Building Section B
Side Elevation
Building Section D
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Speckled Swimming Washington University Fall 2010 Critic: Gia Deskalakis Location: St. Louis, MO Inspired by the fall foliage in the park, this project aims to integrate the surrounding color into the interior space as if light were filtering through the leaves of a tree. Taking advantage of the centrally located lake in the park, this swimming pool is located at the waters edge so swimmers can experience the pool in the context of the adjacent water. The angles of the walls and ceilings relate to the topography of the site and respond to the effect the apertures have on the interior space. The color is able to penetrate the interior volumes without distracting swimmers.
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Aerial Photo
Site Plan
3D Relief
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Cross Section
Section at Entry
Model Images
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Kinetic Kindergarten Washington University Spring 2010 Critic: Catalina Freixas Location: St. Louis, MO This kindergarten aims to engage students by creating activity zones that the students transverse throughout the day. Similar to the Mobius House designed by UN Studio, the programmatic elements are divided based on use throughout the 24-hour living cycle. Children stay engaged by moving throughout the building rather than spending the entire day in a single classroom. Classrooms are designed to facilitate certain activities, some classes requiring higher energy while others require tranquility. These zones, distinguished by the room’s height and distribution of apertures, can be accessed through the central circulation area without disturbing students in other zones.
Floor Plans Second Floor (Top), Ground Floor (Bottom)
Elevations Front (Top) and Side (Bottom)
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Clumped Columns University of Michigan Winter 2016 (Seminar) Critic: Adam Fure Collaborator: Suxian Sun A formal exploration of aggregation of similar components, coming together imperfectly, creating gaps, intersections, and overlaps. We began looking at gourds as inspiration - their shapes, textures, and range inspiring our development. Using Maya and Mudbox we explored how these forms could come together to create space.
Final Model consisting of laser cut pieces, CNC routed MDF, and 3d printed components
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Elevation and Section of the clumped elements emphasizing the solid and void space as well as the relationship between the components. Below is the terrain populated with multiple interventions.
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Pear-Eating Paradise University of Michigan Fall 2015 Critic: Robert Adams Location: Beijing, China Situating the work in the only remaining house in a rural village swept away by floods and demolition, this investigation explores how the multitude of artifacts found within and around the Blue House activates a space of asylum. Through an analysis of shadow-objects and linee occulte (invisible line making), the work investigates the ephemerality of material culture and its translation into digital subjects. Exploring scale and shadow, the Blue House is redefined through subjectobject relationships, and temporal structures embedded in its lowrelief architecture.
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Blue House Homeowner: Du Changsheng
Photos from the Blue House highlighting the abundance of objects within the property.
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3 Taxonomy of Found Objects
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Taxonomy of Made Objects
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Gourd Scoop Shadow Study Exploring the relationship between the object itself and its translations
Ladder Shadow Study
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9’ x 5’ Composite Drawing
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Acknowledgements Thank you to all who helped instill a passion and drive in me and taught me how to channel that passion through architecture. Specifically, thank you to my thesis advisor and mentor, Perry Kulper, for encouraging me throughout my tenure at the University of Michigan. Also, I am grateful for the guidance and support offered to me by Professor Robert Adams and Chair Sharon Haar. Many other faculty and staff both at the University of Michigan and Washington University in St. Louis guided me throughout my journey. I also could not have made it through school without the endless encouragement from my peers who stood by me through highs and lows. And last but not least, thanks to my family for keeping me sane and always appreciating my work regardless of how strange it seemed.
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Elana Abraham LEED Green Associate Education
Master of Architecture | University of Michigan
elanaabraham@gmail.com 847.732.0033
2016
Graduated with High Distinction Thesis: “WMCs: Widgets of Mass Collection” Advisor: Perry Kulper
B.S. in Architecture | Washington University in St. Louis
2012
Minor in Environmental Studies Magna Cum Laude, Dean’s List
Urban Design Concentration | Danish Institute for Study Abroad
Fall 2011
Intercultural Leadership Award
Skills
Digital Modeling Revit, Rhino, Maya, Mudbox, AutoCAD, SketchUp, 3DSMax
Graphic Communication VRay, Adobe Creative Suite, After Effects, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office
Language English, Spanish (Intermediate), Hebrew (Basic)
Alpha Rho Chi Medal
Awards
Alpha Rho Chi Medal | University of Michigan
May 2016
Awarded upon recommendation of the faculty recognizing the M. Arch. degree candidate who has shown leadership and given service to the school. The student’s personality and attitude give promise of real professional worth.
Student Work Exhibition | University of Michigan
March 2016
Project: “Asylum for Eating Sweet Pears” Critic: Robert Adams
David J. and Carole N. Metzger Endowed Scholarship | University of Michigan 2014-2016 Widmann Award Nominee | Washington University in St. Louis Awarded to 20 candidates with high levels of academic achievement and design ability in the architecture department.
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May 2012
Professional EXPERIENCE
Architecture Intern | VOA Associates, Chicago, IL
Summer 2015
Worked on Design Development and Construction Documents for the Chicago Cubs’ Wrigley Field, specifically: • Designed and detailed the production rooms, VIP Entry, Player’s Tunnel, and assisted with the development of additional concourse spaces. • Coordinated structural, mechanical, and plumbing limitations of the architectural modifications to the stadium.
Architectural Designer | Eckenhoff Saunders Architects, Chicago, IL
June 2012 - August 2014
Worked on all facets of multiple project types including: • Managed a renovation of a 17,000 sf bank throughout design and construction including directing design and construction meetings. Created an animation and multiple rendered images for the client’s marketing purposes. • Collaborated with another architecture firm to transform a 40,000 sf abandoned grocery store into a new mental health center. Created weekly client presentations, presentation drawings, construction drawings, and construction documentation during the compressed design and construction schedule. • Contributed to healthcare suites, a new bank branch, and an eight unit condominium design. Surveyed multiple sites and created phasing plans for construction. Developed proposals and presentations to town municipalities.
Architecture Intern | Weiss Architects, Chicago, IL
Summer 2011
Architecture Intern | Amy Reichert Architecture and Auerbach Architects, Chicago, IL
Summer 2011
Teaching Experience
ArcStart Studio Instructor | University of Michigan
Summer 2016
Introduced core design concepts to high school students.
Graduate Student Instructor | University of Michigan
Fall 2015
ARCH 583 Professional Practice with Professor Eric Hill Assisted with grading and term project evaluations as well as provided guidance and support for students.
Teaching Assistant | Washington University in St. Louis
Spring 2012
A46 212 Architecture Studio IV with Professor Catty Zhang Critiqued students’ work and aided in their design development in their core studio course.
Service
Dean Search Advisory Committee | University of Michigan
2015-2016
Selected as the Architecture Student Representative.
Co-Coordinator of the Architecture Representative Committee | University of Michigan
2014-2016
Primary student body organization - Planned social events, town hall meetings, studio mixers, weekly group meetings.
Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority | Washington University in St. Louis 2009-2012 Thurtene Cabinet Construction Chair; New Member Educator on AEPhi’s Executive Board; Phi Pheast Chair.
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elanaabraham@gmail.com | 847.732.0033