JIE DONG
Ithaca, NY 14850 · jd2236@cornell.edu · 607 697 5335
EDUCATION
Cornell University, Department of Art, Architecture and Planning, Ithaca, NY
Master of Science in Advanced Architecture Design
Territories of investigation in Architecture and Representation (A+R)
Relevant Coursework:
June 2022 to May 2023
Lahham Option Studio, Virtual Production, Physical Models, and 3D Assets, Visual Representation
Tsinghua University, School of Architecture, Beijing, China
Bachelor of Architecture
Relevant Coursework:
Aug 2017 to May 2022
Architectual Design Studio, Architctural Construction, Urban ecological and environmental planning, Architectural Acoustic, Thermal Environment of Buildings, Urban Design Studio, Building Service Equipment, Design Practice in Institute
Tsinghua University, School of Economics and Management, Beijing, China
Bachelor of Economics(For Second Bachelor Degree)
Relevant Coursework:
Aug 2019 to May 2022
Accounting Principles, Principle of Economics, Insurance and Risk Management, Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Corporate Finance, Environmental and Resource Economics
RWTH Aachen University, Faculty of Architecture, Aachen, Germany
Exchange Student Program
Relevant Coursework:
Collective Housing Research Program
EXPERIENCE
Tsinghua University, Architectural Design & Research Institute, Beijing, China
Architecture Design Intern, Architecture Design Department
Developing conceptual idea and improving urban planning projects with senior architects
May 2021 to Aug 2021
Drawing building construction details, plan and project related diagrams for each stage of the design cycle
Making and modifying digital model based on feedback from senior architects and stakeholders to meet economic, environmental and policy restrictions
Making final project animation and renderred image for project presentation
Tsinghua University, The Future Laboratory, Beijing, China
Project Designer Intern, Creative Design Department
Mar 2022 to June 2022
Researching on project related information and represent it to the whole design group to help understand the limits, possibilities and considerations for the project
Making digital and physicla models for further design and demonstrating them to the project manager regularly; collaborating with other teammates on the optimal design direction
OTHERS
Languages Skills: Mandarin (Native), English (Proficient)
Programming & Software: Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word. Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, Premier, Lightroom), Modeling and rendering(Rhino 7, vray, Revit, AutoCAD)
Hobbies: Music (British Pop, Glam Rock), Football, Latin American literatures
Site: Minjie Road, Xi'an, China
Programme: Factory renovation
Project Level: 3th year, 6th semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: June 2020
Supervisor: Pro. Liang Jingyu
This project proposes the transformation of a 70-year-old towel factory in Xi'an, Shaanxi, from an abandoned industrial site into a dynamic space that can accommodate both citizen's daily lives and artistic creation.
As ancient philosopher Zhuang Zi once said, " 方生方死 , 方死方生 " meaning that death is not the opposite of life, and the same goes for architecture. The structural prototype of the industrial plant represents the past era of China's industrial development. However, the reorganization of civic activities and the integration of new creative
life form an intersection with the existing structural layout, like plants growing in the ruins. This process is not only spatial, but also procedural. By combining the tradition of bird-raising in Xi'an, the experience of visiting a zoo, and the cultural industry, this project aims to offer a new perspective and inspire interest in the adaptability and vitality of both tradition and existing space.
History, Tradition and Possibilities Typical Chinese Bird Street Market
This project is located in Kunming Road in Xi'an, Shanxi Province and is named 3511. The site was formerly the largest towel manufacturer in the country, with a 70-year history from 1954 to 2012. In addition, the public life of the area is closely tied to "bird culture." As such, this project is focused on providing opportunities for the further development of this culture, taking into account the context of the site, its industrial identity, and the programming needs of the project.
The traditional bird market typically has a length of no more than 100 meters, and is designed to accommodate a range of activities, including trading as well as around ten different entertainment venues. These may include a bookstore, three theatres, and several restaurants. A teahouse is also a key space for people to rest and communicate. When outdoors, people often choose their spaces based on the specific needs of training their birds to call or fly.
BOUNDARY PATH FUNCTION
BOUNDARY
The Realm of Birds and Identification of the Factory Death is not the opposite of life. One of the basic goals of the project is to realize the transformation from the spatial topology of the assembly line represented by the industrial plant to the public space. Platforms, stairs, and ramps are like vines growing in the ruins, heralding the awakening of the building
The Transformation of Industrial Topology to Public Space
This project adjusts some places for functions about birds by arranging boundaries, paths and points like observation tower and in-between garden. At the same time, chimney, tube, sheltered roof is translated into special forms in this project to remain the unique identification of the industrial site.
xiaoming, 9 years old learning about bird when listening to them
liyang, 39 years old making bird cage in an open workshop
chan, 15 years old volunteering in vertical farm
weichu, 70 years old watching drama in a cheese-like theatre
rongrui, 45 years old walking aroud with his cage and likes the net aviary
yapei, 29 years old recording birds not far from his studio
1 2 3 4
New Events for Diffrent People
Through the organization of functions, paths, and boundaries, a new "pipeline" of "birds’ culture" is formed. People can understand and experience how the bird culture came into being.
5 6
The Final Proposal
1 Final Model 1:200
2 Section 1
3 Section 2
4 Section 3
5 The Tube 6 Space between Connection
The final model explores the relationship of different parts of the project in various aspects, including the combination of spatial and programming elements.
Farming, for flowers and bird food Concert, viewing from the stage
Edge
The soft edge and the hard edge define the scope of activities. The new materials and the original walls define the temperament of the facade, and trees and shelves constitute the soft boundary.
Path
The path not only meets the needs of walking the birds, but also creates chances for view to various activities, art making etc. It crosses various boundaries, leading from urban space to nature.
Space
The formation of space is the result of boundaries and paths. While meeting the needs of specific people in a certain area, these spaces will become places where various people gather together.
Elements of Defining a Place
The project is designed to be an "ecosystem" that can smoothly accommodate people, as people's perception of the place is determined by three key components.
Work through, walk through & playing through
In keeping with the structural topology of the original factory, spaces have been provided for three types of individuals with an interest in birds to walk, work, and play. This approach has broken down age barriers, allowing people of different ages to experience how bird-related life and cultural industries are developed, adding more vibrancy to their daily lives.
T-shape steel keels plywood 40mm steel sheeting
hollow steel beam 180*480 mm double T shape beam
wooden board 50 mm insulation 100mm plaster board 50mm steel sheeting double T shape beam 150*200 mm
wooden beam 300*200mm steel joints with M5 bolts
concrete beam of existing factory cables carrying the web
wooden beams 150*90 mm ceiling keels
wooden deck20 mm concrete slab 100 mm insulation foam 50 mm waterproof 5 mm gravel bed 30 mm
Construction Details
Approach to Nature
The project concludes with the construction of a bird watching pavilion and a circular tea room built around the original industrial plant. In Xi'an, the elderly are accustomed to training birds for flying and call skills in nature. As such, bird watching pavilions have been established according to the calling range of various bird species. Visitors can follow the circular tea room, which surrounds the central courtyard, and then proceed up the wooden deck to the bird watching pavilion, where they can immerse themselves in the sky, animals, and nature at the conclusion of their visit.
Material Response
To echo the traditional Chinese bird cages made of bamboo, bamboo-clad boards are used to cover the bird-watching tower. The bamboo planks are fixed with wooden keels, while painted steel pipes are used as the loadbearing structure for the bird watching tower.
Similarly, the circular tea house is built using wood for the roof structure, as is common in many of the bird's teahouses found in China. The load-bearing columns utilize square steel tubes.
columns d=100 mm
keels profile 120*100 mm
panels profile 50*500 mm
beams d=100mm metal joints
SHS columns d=200 mm wooden beams profile 150*100 mm 15-degree CHS columns d=100 mm metal joints
VERTICAL DWELLING
CONNECTIONS IN NARROW HOUSE
Site: Tokyo, Japan
Programme: Town house
Project Level: 2th year, 3th semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: October 2018
Supervisor: Pro. Zhu Ning - zhuning@tsinghua.edu.cn
This project focuses on the unique type of building found in Japan known as urban narrow dwellings. Due to economic and population density considerations, these structures are typically located on long and narrow sites and consist of multiple layers to accommodate various family activities. The relationship between these different layers significantly impacts the interior space of the building.
Through an analysis of architectural connections, I organized the space in the final proposal, incorporating components of daily life to create flexible spaces that can adapt to varying uses throughout the day, whether alone or in a group, and with children of varying ages. The building's wooden structure
is based on the context of the region and the fact that Japan is prone to earthquakes. To ensure stability, supporting structures were added to the framework, and considerations were taken in the joint between the wood and other materials to avoid significant loss during an earthquake. The structure is exposed to the indoor space and the terrace to enhance the relationship between the occupants and the building. Physical models were created to illustrate the design of the structure.
Narrow Dwelling: a Typical House in Japan
Due to the limited land area, many modern Japanese house is still based on a narrow site, just like those before. I am interested what space is like in those boxes and how they adapt to family life. There are three considerations taken at the beginning of design process.
Specific concern: Japanese tradition/ Context
Sustainability
What interests me most about narrow dwellings is different forms of connection between vertical layers. Based on the study about those in typical town house designed by Japanese studio, it can be concluded that they can be sorted by the distance to the centre point of the plan. As the distance decreases, its form changes with the two connected vertical layers become separated. Combined with varying forms of each type, the space in these houses can be classified in both dimensions, horizontally and vertically.
General concern:
Family demand
Safety concern:
Construction method
I made some models exploring the connections of spaces, with volume or floors. The final proposal aims to adjust different connections to different layers, so that the space will transform from public area (for the guests) to private rooms (with a meditation space on the top) naturally. Besides, I try to combine them with daily activities (the entrance, the bookshelf, etc.), to make it organized organically.
1
2
Just like a typical narrow dwelling, the width facing the street is about 6 meters with depth of 10 meters.
The terrace and balcony connect different layers as well as the room and the street.
These are the most private space of the house, a study room and a meditation room connected with a roof terrace. People need to climb a ladder or use spiral staircase here.
People can choose two ways to reach their destination. Besides, these folded floors is flexible as there are storages hidden, and people can transform the bedroom to a home theatre quite easily.
3
4
Different connection forms are compatible with the transition from public areas to private areas
The street facade and both sides of the facade adopt different strategies for installing windows to cope with privacy and visibility requirements
The spiral staircase is the start of family space. And on the second floor, it connects the indoor space and the terrace.
The stair is joint with the twofloor-high bookshelves. On the ground floor it separates the dining and the living space, while on the first floor people can reads sitting on the stars.
A few steps lead to the entrance, and the slope is approached to the green wall, with the lavatory and kitchen below the other side.
Pivot window
External walls:
Galvanized steel sheeting t=0.4 mm
Waterproof plaster board t=15 mm
Furring strips 50/50 mm
Insulation foam t=50mm
Structural plywood t=15mm
Floor:
Wax finish t=5.5 mm
Maple flooring t=12 mm
Insulation foam t=40mm
Structural plywood t=15mm
Top light:
Double glazing 6t+8A+6t
Roof:
Galvanized steel sheeting t=0.4 mm
Waterproof sheeting t=2 mm
Structure plywood t=12 mm
Purlin 50/50 mm
Insulation foam t=50mm
Structural plywood t=12 mm
Floor:
Lauan plywood t=9 mm
Floor heating panel t=0.3 mm
Structural plywood t=12 mm
Floor joist 45/45 mm
Primer backing 20/45 mm
Polystyrene insulation foam t=65 mm
Foundation:
M20 Galvanized steel bolt
Footing beam 240/120 mm
Rubber t=16 mm
Underlaying concrete t=350 mm
Concrete slab t=400 mm
Waterproof sheeting t=2 mm
Crushed stone t=150 mm
Flexibility Concerns
Space Use Diagram
Flexibility is a critical aspect of designing the house to accommodate changing needs over a long period. To achieve this goal, I approach the space design from two perspectives.
The first considers how the space can be adapted to meet the needs of different generations and changing requirements over time. The second focuses on the social use of the space.
To make the most of the limited space, I employ a "connections" approach to organize the space and daily activities. The size and separation of the spaces are based on the ambiguous definition of Japanese room design, allowing people to freely modify the function of the space. This approach ensures the house can be flexible and adaptable to evolving needs.
A ROOF
30° cross beam 120/240 mm
Pin tether φ20 mm
U ironware
T ironware
roof beam 120/240 mm
M12 bolt
B FLOOR
75° oblique support 120/240 mm
column 120/240 mm
L ironware
Structure Diagram
a1
240*120 wood column
a2
wood beam supporting floors
a3
secondary structure
b1
φ2000 wood cylinder, t=52
b2
floor supporting cross beam
b3
roof structure
c1
400 concrete slab and 350 concrete base walls
c2
240*120 wood base and 16 rubber layers
c3
Engawa support 100*45 base
50*50*1370 panel
C BASEMENT
iron base 120/240/360mm
M20 bolt
ground sill 120/240 mm
hard rubber layer 16 mm
concrete basement
Physical Model Making Process
Installation Process
Wood Joint with Steel Components
The primary building material for the structure of the house is wood. Instead of relying solely on traditional methods of joining wood through mortise and tenon, steel components are utilized, as they allow for a smaller amount of wood to be cut off at the joint. This approach is known as the Safety Engineering Construction Method and is employed to enhance the building's earthquake resistance.
03 | ARTIST VILLAGE
REVIVING THE VANISHED ARTIST COMMUNITY IN URBAN VILLAGE
Site: Fuyuanmen Community, Beijing, China
Programme: Art Center
Project Level: 2th year, 4th semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: January, 2019
Supervisor: Pro. Shan Jun - shanjun@tsinghua.edu.cn
This project is focused on the gathering of artists in Beijing and aims to provide an art center that can accommodate both the private and public aspects of their work. The settlements of artists in Beijing are closely tied to the city's villages, but with the development of the city, urban villages with higher residential density have lost suitable venues for artists' activities. This project seeks to redefine the identity of the space in this built environment and provide a suitable venue for artists.
The concept is straightforward: the space is tailored to three typical artist types –
painters, poets, and musicians. Negative space is utilized to generate public and informal spaces, while a square boundary is maintained due to the project's location in a highdensity residential area. Different daylighting strategies are applied for galleries, workshops, learning capsules, and residential areas.
The Transformation of Urban Fabric
The original urban fabric of the artist village resembled that of a traditional hutong, with enclosed private rooms and street spaces for artists to gather. However, after the artists moved away, the fabric of the community immediately began to change, with more urban village "blocks" being constructed. This resulted in the connected community transforming into one of isolated individuals, where there is no sense of identity for art to flourish.
1980s
After the cultural revolution, the non-academic artists held art exhibition asking for freedom to create artworks.
1993
The village closed due to the policy of removing all the artists here.
1990-1993 1993-2000 now
The artists chose to live and work in a village next to yuanmingyuan.
The artists moved to songzhuang or 798, an old facatory, to continue their creation.
Songhzhuang and 798 become mature area while yuanmingyuan artist village disappeared.
The Evolution of Artist Villages
The Lost Artistic Utopia: Yuanmingyuan Artist Village
The first "artist village" emerged in the Yuanmingyuan area of Beijing around 1990, serving as a haven for artists from across China due to its unique combination of individual and collective spaces. However, it was shut down in 1993 for reasons unknown, and the built environment in the surrounding area has since changed significantly, losing its suitable atmosphere for forming an artist community.
now SITE
1993-2000
1990-1993
1980s
four enclosures
Yuanmingyuan 798 art zone Songzhuang industrial renovation goverment investment village (or urban village)
Leaving the City: Artist Villages in Beijing
Legend maturity artist movement scale
In Beijing, artist communities are often situated on the outskirts of the city due to lower costs. This project endeavors to address the intersection between the traditions of work-living communities and the context of villages (or urban villages).
The Identity Begins with Collective
Research on artist communities has revealed that the space within such communities has distinct layers of "personalities". As individual lives evolve into collective activities, spaces such as concert venues and galleries become vastly different from one another. On a personal or familial scale, artists typically allocate space for both work and living within the same "box", which tends to be more stable and devoid of distinctive characteristics.
Reallocation of Space
Through the allocation of both dwelling and art space, individuals within the community are brought together and transformed. The overlapping volumes of these spaces ultimately create more room for artists to work and live.
Separate housing and 'vessels'
3
4 Insert community workshops and transform the vessels
A collective art space related to the fabric of the context
Generative Diagram
Both physical and digital models were utilized in the study of the building's spatial design. Physical models were employed to test the arrangement of the residential and public areas, as well as the typology of the art space. Meanwhile, digital models were created to facilitate modifications to the placement and appearance of the "vessels", as well as the allocation of various programs within the building.
Combined Scales
The "vessels" within the building are designed to be proportional in size to the neighboring residential structures, and are enclosed within a transparent box that serves as an art center. This transparent enclosure creates a welcoming gesture to the public, while also showcasing the diverse range of activities occurring within. Ultimately, this building successfully merges both the micro and macro scales of its surroundings.
set of cross sections demonstrates the interplay between the residential and public areas of the building. Additionally, the lighting strategy is a significant consideration. The peripheral sides of the structure can readily access sufficient natural light, but in the central area, the vessels function as light wells, supplying natural light to the surrounding space.
Dwelling Organization
Multi-function Workshop void space Workshop void space
Community Workshops
'Poet Vessel' green & light well spiral void space collective study & debate space circle and triangle space individual rooms
'Painter Vessel' exhibition rooms open studio & workshops bars
Collective Housing duplex rooms community workshops
'Musician Vessel' theatre facilities room music studios DJ performance stage Axonometric Programme
Storyline in One Day for Three Types of Artists Identity of Space
The diagram of the storyline illustrates how these artists maintain a balance between their private and public activities within these hybrid buildings. By linking the process of creation and exhibition through both temporal and spatial connections, the system can achieve greater efficiency and sustainability compared to the conventional workshop model.
The vessels within the inner space play a significant role in defining the space's identity. Each vessel has different levels of openness on both sides, which creates a diverse range of programs and spatial experiences. 9 am
11 am 3 pm 5 pm 9 pm
Circulation and Space Diagrams
vertical circulation and light well
Programme
permanent exhibition and gallery
two-direction flow space
circulation in the enclosed 'organs'
void and broad space
outdoor installation and informal exhibition
enclosed and open workshops and studios
individual space and collective activities
The front of the building is designed as a hybrid space that combines both public and collective activities of the artists. The vessels, with their distinctive shapes, are central to the identity of the art space. The negative space around them is intended for informal study, temporary exhibitions, speeches, and reading.
The vertical vessels are supported by independent structures, with the circular beams linked to the main structures of the building. It has double skins made of metal material attached to the secondary keels.
Concrete slope 100 mm
Waterproofing
Thermal insulation 300 mm
Concrete slab 150 mm
Metal beams 380*200 mm
Metal grate finish
Waterproofing
Insulation 150 mm
Concrete slab 100 mm
Metal beams 200* 150 mm
Suspended celling
Concrete slabs 50 mm
350 mm high props
400*15*1000 mm edge profile
curved metal panel
H shaped prefabricated steel keels
Edge profile 400*150 mm columns
Ring shaped steel sheet table
Radiators
Metal beams 380*200 mm
Concrete slab 170 mm
Ring shaped beams
Metal railing φ70 mm
REFLECT ON NATURE RESERCH CENTER ON A TROPICAL ISLAND
Site: Wuzhizhou, Hainan, China
Programme: Research Centre
Project Level: 5th year, 11th semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: December, 2021
Supervisor: Pro. Johann v. Mansberg - jmansberg@gmx.de
The primary objective of this project is to establish a research hub on a tropical island that accommodates researchers for living, working, and exploring. There are several aspects that have been given significant consideration throughout the design process. Firstly, the integration of the building with nature has been emphasized by utilizing the hilltop's topography in the design to create a harmonious balance. Secondly, the design considers energy and environmental friendliness by utilizing solar power and rainwater harvesting, making the building self-sustainable.
At the island's scale, the building appears to float, making it stand out from the surrounding environment. However, at a smaller scale, the use of slicing elements creates a connection between the building and the site, resulting
in a public and private space beneath the volume. The building's interior features a stepping-up library that attaches to the shell and a central multifunctional hall that creates a robust community space. Additionally, gaps at office levels provide a varied plan and roof.
The use of GNC materials allows for the growth of plants on the facade, while the greenish cast glass beneath the massing offers an exciting texture that softly illuminates the walls from inside at night.
Collages: Nature, Geometry and Activity
The preliminary collages suggest that architecture can serve as a mediator between people and nature. Similar to land art, abstract geometries can be linked to natural or geographical elements. Although there may be a stark contrast, architecture can inspire people to think about nature.
SITE
The proposed diagram depicts the volume in relation to the site, which is adjacent to the hilltop. The diagram highlights two key characteristics: a 360-degree panoramic view, and a slicing element oriented from the valley towards the seaside.
Identity: Link to Nature
The current buildings on the tropical island lack a strong connection to the surrounding environment despite their initial intention to do so. For example, the hotel's semicircular design was meant to embrace the natural surroundings, but instead created a large enclosure. By separating the buildings' features into inward-facing and outward-facing elements, it becomes clear why their identity is unclear, and how it can be reshaped by redefining their relationship with the natural world.
The model study examines the scale, geography, and size of the building. Typically, a hilltop building can appear too introverted at the M scale, resembling a castle. However, when the building is integrated with the surrounding terrain, it can create more space and opportunities for activities.
Model Study: Typology and Density
The objective of the model study is to identify a typology that achieves a balance between the internal space and the site adaptation. While a centralized space is beneficial for fostering a sense of community among researchers, it may also create an enclosed environment that fails to connect with the surroundings. To address this issue, the slicing concept is introduced, creating voids that allow the building to "breathe" and interact with the natural environment.
Site Adaptation
To achieve a balance between the interior space and connection to the site, the design uses a centralized space and a slicing concept. The slicing elements divide the space below the 'Superbowl' and expand to create areas for public and research activities. This design approach provides a dynamic and flexible space that can adapt to various functions and users while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding environment.
Environmentally Friendly Design
Passive energy-saving strategies were employed to establish a harmonious relationship between the building and the surrounding nature. In order to counter the tropical heat, the building incorporates a pond which helps to cool the air. The chimney effect and greenery in the building's gardens further enhance natural ventilation. Rainwater is collected by the building's roof and vertical greenery, and then utilized for both irrigation and daily needs. Energy is sourced from two directions - solar power and ground heat.
Structural Scheme
The third level of the building is designed as a truss system that is reinforced to support the weight of the overhanging volume. Meanwhile, the second floor is supported by a truss structure deck. The bow-shaped structures distribute forces in multiple directions, providing structural stability.
In addition, the light-weighted structures create a space on the roof that is suitable for a gym deck and planting. The columns are concealed within the line elements, which are made of double-layered cast glass to create a public space for various activities.
hanging greening pv panels planting box vertical greening gap garden ponds step greening movable glass
panels Air chamber Rainwater tank Steel anchor bolt r=15mm
Steel ring beam profile 150*300 mm
Grille steel plate
GFC hanging structure t=40 mm
Prefab GFC element
L-shape stainless plate Cast glass t=20 mm Structural pillar profile 300*400 mm
05 | BLACK HOUSE COLLAPSE
COMMUNITY HOUSE OF DFD METHOD
Site: Ithca, NY, US
Programme: Quarter Acre for the People BIPOC Cooperative Farm
Intentional Community Housing
Project Level: Master Programme, 2rd semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: December, 2022
Supervisor: Felix Heisel - felix.heisel@cornell.edu
Reusing architecture is crucial to reduce carbon emissions and preserve historic values within communities. However, it can be challenging due to non-reversible connection details, changing building codes, economic pressures, and built-in obsolescence.
This project employs the building shearing layers theory, material passport, and DFD (design for disassembly) to develop a strategy for material choice and building lifespan forecast in the first phase of the study. In the second phase, the approach is applied to designing housing units for five families at the Quarter Acre for the People BIPOC Cooperative Farm Intentional Community of Khuba International. The project aims to tackle land-based injustice by providing education, resources, networks, and land governance to
give people of color a foothold in the future of agriculture in Ithaca, NY.
In the first phase, Scales of Reuse, the project emphasizes the material storytelling of a typical American house. A building lifespan is constructed to illustrate how the skin and core of the house are iterated. In the second step, Reuse of Scale, the systemic reuse strategy is customized to meet the needs of the clients by collaborating with the team to understand their vision for the land.
Why Aluminum?
In the long-term deconstruction plan, aluminum is the chosen material for structural elements due to its durability. It offers energy savings during recycling or reuse. The idea is to extend the reuse concept by creating a buffer zone around the house, in both material and space, to facilitate the house's molting process.
Gradually, standard aluminum elements will be introduced, following Brand's shearing layer theory, where layers with different lifespans detach, ultimately leading to a house that is easy to deconstruct. The ideal material for this future proposal is aluminum. While energy consumption during production is high, recycling aluminum is environmentally friendly and could eliminate unnecessary costs. It avoids design modifications to cater to existing elements, improving the system from design to construction and the reuse process.
The proposed structural aluminum elements would secure the material bank with an expensive energy lock. The material flow would alter the local and regional construction and material recycling industry.
Material Passport at Global/Regional Scale
The element standard, also referred to as a material passport, serves as a bridge between different scales. Project-specific elements may be incorporated into the element standard if there is a high demand for them. Hierarchies of the general element standard based on global or regional scales will also be established.
This approach will minimize sorting costs and facilitate the flow of elements into new projects.
Aluminum Recycling in NY
The map displays the material recycling centers located in New York State that handle the main construction materials. Despite aluminum accounting for 33% of global flows into the construction industry, there are few facilities that manage the entire lifecycle of this material. In New York State, only one facility is explicitly designated for aluminum recycling.
This diagram illustrates the anticipated impact on energy and value resulting from the incorporation of the new frames into the old house. The gaps between different stages reflect the loss of value for the materials due to factors such as labor and time cost. After the on-site construction, there is a decrease in value. However, after the application of the aluminum frame, the expected effect is displayed on the diagram. There would be a smaller gap between different time frames because of the benefits of off-site assembly and quick on-site construction. This also provides an easy way for people to modify the moveable space plan during the use phase.
In the circle scenario, the interaction process follows a timeline. It assumes the current structure's stability and involves relocating non-structural interior elements. These elements will be transformed into modular units that fit into new frames, and they can act as facades or floors for the gray space. The resulting materials will be available for trade to interested parties.
As a result, the buffer space will influence the core space, and the original facade's division features will change. The boundary between the gray and core space will be blurred, with windows serving as entrances between the two areas.
In the mid-term, the expanded frames will "collapse" towards the center by replacing some of the original structural elements. Ultimately, the process will result in a house with DFD frameworks.
The map illustrates the geospatial data of residential properties in Ithaca, which this proposal focuses on. To implement the buffer zone, the size of the house and the site are important considerations. The pink markers on the map represent houses with a building length exceeding 200ft, which would make them suitable pilot units for this proposal.
There are two methods for creating the buffer zone, and the diagram depicts the second approach, assuming that the structural layer of the old house is still sufficiently stable to support the additional frames. Once the buffer zone is created, the old and new layers will exchange materials while remaining easily disconnectable with the help of mechanical joints. The buffer zone can also house energy services as needed by the homeowner. The additional frames will gradually integrate into the center of the house through a "molting process" of interactivity, allowing the frames, panels, and joints to be collected and replaced with new ones, thus starting the next iteration.
This proposal aims to integrate a new scale of material bank into the existing reuse and recycle centers in Ithaca. During on-site installation of new frames, walls, floors, or panels can be modularized into units made of wood. Neighbors can exchange and trade these modular units, and house owners can also register materials for reuse centers, storing them in a buffer zone around their houses. This system adds to the city's sustainability efforts and promotes a more circular economy. Keep the word count the same.
The proposed plan for the center senario focuses on a streamlined process of removing the original panels and installing the framework for the modular units to fit into. The mechanical joints create a seamless connection between the various layers of the house and allow it to respond to changing conditions such as natural light, rainwater, and deconstruction. The floors are moveable and can be extended out of the house using mechanical arms to replace the moveable walls, providing a flexible space plan. The wheel structure also enables the frame to expand for additional space or material storage as needed.
Site Plan
Taking into account the feedback from the client and the geographic and soil type maps, the buildings are arranged in a deliberate manner to establish a community system that includes coops, gardens, greenhouses, and a farmers market. This system serves as a foundation for individual expansion in both directions. The section prototype is based on the concept of a farmers' market, which provides residents with efficient access to both private and public spaces.
Assembly, Material Passport
A construction method that integrates both traditional and modern elements. Salvaged doors, windows, and structures are modularized into a frame, allowing for easy expansion by adding more "puzzles" to the structure.
Material, Structure and Space layers
The composition of aluminum frames involves standard-sized elements. This hybridity of materials and spatial configurations creates an interactive interface that blurs the boundaries between the interior and exterior, as well as between private and public spaces.
Water Fantasy
14-DAY OBSERVATION IN NYC
Site: New York City, NY, US
Programme: Garden Possibilities
Project Level: Master Programme, 1st semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: July 2022
Supervisor: Jaffer Kolb, Ivi Diamantopoulou / New Affiliates (new-affiliates.us) jaffer@new-affiliates.us / ivi@new-affiliates.us
This project engages in a discourse on the significance of small details in New York City, and seeks to understand how materials, systems, and assemblies define the urban environment. Through a series of accumulative tasks based on these observations, the project aims to reintroduce these small details back into the city. The tasks are focused on a small garden near El Jardin del Paraiso, and revolve around the essential element of water, which is important for entertainment, life, and nature. The garden offers 14 different possibilities for people to engage with and appreciate the fantasy of water.
Thick Description
Deep in the Sea
ITHACA CEMETERY MAPPING LANDSCAPE MIXED REALITIES IN DIGITAL AND PHYSICAL MODELING
Site: Ithaca, NY, US
Programme: Landscape Mapping/ Visualization
Project Level: Master Programme, 2rd semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: Dec 2022
Supervisor: Anne Weber - alw297@cornell.edu
This project investigates the use of mapping as a tool for analyzing and processing the landscape, with a particular focus on the Ithaca City Cemetery. Rather than simply reproducing the physical form and visible phenomena of the site, the method employed considers both the visible and invisible processes that occur within the cemetery. This includes the water flow that occurs across the site.
The narrative of the layered site was represented by animation: https://vimeo.com/799645097
Site: Ithaca, NY, US
Programme: Annimation/Visualization
Project Level: Master Programme, 2rd semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: Dec 2022
Supervisor: Christopher A. Battaglia - cab523@ cornell.edu
Inspired by Coop Himmelblau's Villa Rosa (1966-1970), this project uses the building as a starting point for reconstruction and goes beyond its original design. The design concept is influenced by the deep ocean context and draws inspiration from the space capsule idea in the original structure, as well as from old sea monster stories. The aim is to achieve a balance between organic and rigid forms.
The finanal animation and rendering is based on hybrid method: physicla/digital modeling, photo scan and VFX: https://vimeo.com/799647966
Manhattan Patrol Drones
DESIGN CATOLOG AND INTERACTIVE MAP
Site: Manhattan, NY, US
Programme: Drone Unit/Mapping
Project Level: Master Programme, 1st semester
Type: Academic, individual project
Date Of Issue: June 2022
Supervisor: Fleet Hower - jfh257@ cornell.edu
My project involves the development of an interactive map that displays the distribution of shooting accidents on Manhattan Island. The map also includes information about the location of public schools. Additionally, I designed a drone unit for patrol purposes, and the accompanying catalog showcases the possible transformations of this drone.
For information here is the interactive map website: https://data-work.net/nyc-patrol-drone
Growing Mycelium
MATERIAL EXPERIMENT AND INSTALLATION DESIGN
Site: Ithaca, NY, US Programme: Installation
Project Level: Master Programme, 2rd semester
Type: Academic, group project (with Megan Mueller, Sophia BachasDaunert, Rebeca Aro, Brenda Bai)
Date Of Issue: Dec 2022
Supervisor: Marta.H.Wisniewskamh2226@cornell.edu
The Shed
CITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROPOSAL
Site: Bronx, NY, US Programme: INfrastructure/Public Space
Project Level: Master Programme, 1st semester
Type: Academic, group project (with Jiawei Wu, Haoyang xin)
Date Of Issue: June 2022
Supervisor: Shawn Rickenbacker - www.jmbondcenter.org
Situated in the Bronx, The Shed is designed to offer a solution to the increasingly severe urban heat island effect. The snake-skin-like infrastructure extends beyond the railway and rooftops of the area. A unique feature is the algae canopy, which converts solar energy into food resources.
This project explores the potential of mycelium as an architectural material through an experiment on its growing properties.
The waffle structure is designed to hold the mycelium and its ingredients at the beginning, and eventually form a vault entirely made of mycelium at the end.
Stage Material Story in the Camps
Site: North Charleston, SC, US
Programme: Urban Planning
Project Level: Master Programme, 2rd semester
Type: Academic, group project (with Yani, Qiaanchen, Katie, Shunyi)
Date Of Issue: Jan 2023
Supervisor: Mitchell.J.Class - mglass@cornell.edu
Contribution: 50% concept design, 50% modelling, 100% rendering, 70% drawings
The STAGE is a mixed-use community in the North Charleston. The proposal aims to build the site as a ‘STAGE’ to exhibit the local culture, to stimulate the economy, and to enhance the flooding resilience.
Site: Manhattan, NY, US
Programme: Summer Camp
Project Level: Master Programme, 1st semester
Type: Academic, group project (with Andy, Hypers, Shubha Singh, Giga Cao)
Date Of Issue: June 2022
Supervisor: Jean Suh & Lindsey Wikstrom - jsuh@mattaforma.com/lwikstrom@mattaforma.com
Contribution: 20% concept design, 20% modelling, 20% drawings
This project begins with the story of mass timber, which is produced in the Northwest region of the U.S. and shipped to the site located on Governors Island in NYC. We explore the entire process of raw material transformation, transportation, assembly, and deconstruction. Based on this understanding, we aim to apply the use of mass timber in the form of a summer camp - a social institution that serves as a testing ground for young visitors to learn about and engage with this material story.
One km and beyond
City by the River
A NATURAL TEMPLE FOR MEMORY BALANCE BETWEEN NATURE AND BUILDINGS
Site: Guyuan, Ningxia, China
Programme: Cemetery
Project Level: 4th year, 7th semester
Type: Academic, pair project (with Shuang Zhou)
Date Of Issue: May 2021
Contribution: 70% concept design, 50% modelling, 100% rendering, 70% drawings
This project addresses the funeral problem of a village located in the Loess Plateau, where the lack of water has forced people to farm near cemeteries. However, soil erosion is threatening the arable land, cemeteries, and forests in the area. Our solution is to provide a space that integrates collective memory and nature. By installing an optical device in the column, images of the deceased will be projected onto a curtain. The ashes will be buried under the pillars, and plants will grow on them, creating a space full of greenery that will help slow down soil erosion.
Site: Beijing, China
Programme: Urban Design
Project Level: 4th year, 7th semester
Type: Academic, Individual work
Date Of Issue: November 2020
Supervisor: Lin Yuan
Like many other areas in Beijing, the district is a place of contrastsdeclining rivers and industries, space demands of innovative companies, and fragmented urban fabric. To address these issues, my strategy is to leverage the power of nature and rivers to "heal" the broken land. The introduction of a water system on the site creates a clear sense of direction for nature. Through the use of diverse vegetation and topography, a variety of natural spaces is created, which is controlled by the direction and density to ensure a balance between individual lots and the whole site.
Ancient temples study
Site: Beijing, China
The
Nest SETTLEMENTS IN THE CAVE
Site: Guizhou, China
Programme: Village Community
Project Level: 2th year, 4th semester
Type: Academic, Group project (with Xingfeng Zhou, Yi Zhang, Yifan Yang)
Date Of Issue: April 19
Contribution: 60% concept design, 70%modeling, 50% drawings
The local community has a tradition of living in caves and being introverted, but recently there has been an influx of tourists. To balance the original way of life with the increasing demand, this project proposes the installation of a network of nests. By suspending the nests, a fascinating relationship is created between private and public spaces, and the connections allow people to enjoy the central space and the view of the sky from within the cave
Project Level: 4th year, 7th semester
Type: Academic, Group work (with Jianing Zhu in this sector)
Date Of Issue: January 2021
Supervisor: Luke Li - liluke@tsinghua.edu.cn
Contribution: 50% modeling, 50%rendering, 50%drawings
This is a collaborative teaching project with Pro. Weizheng Lin from the University of Chicago, which aims to digitize the Zhihua Temple. My specific role in this project is to analyze the construction and scale patterns using point cloud data. After summarising the patterns, an idealised electronic model was made for further study.
PHOTOGRAPHY
[The
It's a photography project in my hometown, documenting an area beside construction site.
This project pays tribute to Josef Koudelka, a Magnum picture photographer whom I admire due to the eternal, divine trait of his work.
It's a wasteland in general, while I found it a magical place to feel the essence of space rather than think about it.
[Aperture
It's about evolution, fantasy and giddiness.
I use dust to simulate stars and observe its movement.
last desert]
galaxy]