J. Cruickshank | Selected Works 2024

HI! MY NAME IS, JONATHON CRUICKSHANK

About me

An architecture student and a candidate of the UMKC-KSU cooperative Masters in Architecture program, I have a deep passion for the design world and actively strive to succeed as a member of the academic community. My studies in architecture have given me valuable insight and have made me realize that there is a footprint that we, as members of the design community, can leave on the world. This realization has only increased my passion for the field and my desire to make a positive impact through my work.

Having spent the first two years of my design education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, I gained a unique understanding of how to approach the design process in an urban context. This exposure allowed me to view design through a different lens and has shaped my perspective on the role of designers in society. I believe that as designers, we have a responsibility to strive for the best and create environments that not only function well but also have a positive impact on people’s lives.

As a student, I am committed to achieving excellence in my academic and professional career. I am enthusiastic about expanding my horizons and gaining a deeper understanding of the world of architecture through firsthand experiences. Whether it be through internships or study abroad programs, I am eager to continue learning and growing as a designer.

Residential architecture has become my ultimate passion, driving my creative pursuits and professional aspirations. The opportunity to shape and design spaces where people call home fills me with immense joy and fulfillment. With each project, I am fueled by the desire to create functional, aesthetically pleasing, and harmonious living environments that enhance the quality of life for individuals and families.

The following work uses different scales, different sites and different experiences for the user. At the same time the central focus and goal of each is to create a simple yet unforgettable experience for the user .

Education

2019-2024 Master of Architecture / Manhattan, KC

Kansas State university College of Architecture, Planning and Design

5-Year NAAB Accredited Degree

2022-2023

Education Abroad / Orvieto, IT

Fondazione Centro Studi Citta Di Orvieto

Experience

2023-2024

2022-2023

2020-2021

2020-2021

2017-2020

Kansas City Design Center (KCDC) / Kansas City, MO

Editor and Content Strategist

Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB) / San Francisco, CA

Architectural Intern

University of Missouri- Kansas City / Kansas City,MO

Program Support Specialist

U.S. Department of Commerce / Kansas City, MO

Census Field Supervisor

Starbucks / Kansas City, MO

Shift Supervisor

Skills

Content

Graduate & Undergraduate work

Law Court/Community center

Location: Honolulu, HI

Urban Co-housing Complex

Location: Kansas City, MO

Bethany Park Master Plan

Location: Kansas City, KS

Study Abroad Experience

Designing for Desire

Location: Rome, IT

Professional Experience

Solomon Cordwell Buenz

Location: San Francisco, CA

Magistrates Land Court / Community Space

Site Opportunities

Situated in Hanauma Bay, Hawaii, the magistrates land court is strategically located on a peninsula, offering panoramic views of the Kaiwi Channel and the majestic mountains in the backdrop. The site’s exceptional beauty is complemented by the lush, dense, green foliage that embraces the area, providing both aesthetic appeal and physical protection for the built environment. The primary purpose of this land court is to facilitate the resolution of disputes related to land rights, code/zoning violations, and other property conflicts. Additionally, it aims to restore a certain level of self-governance to the Hawaiian people and establish a model for future building typologies that contribute to the process of reconciliation.

While the provision of space for resolving disputes holds paramount importance in this project, the subsequent driving force is the creation of a community space where native members can gather and reconnect with their cultural heritage. To achieve this, the physical structure takes inspiration from the normative approach to native Hawaiian residences. A shed roof constructed with Alang-Alang thatching is employed, paying homage to the traditional typology that once served as the predominant construction model in Hawaii. In order to maintain favorable interior climate conditions, a modern approach is incorporated while still honoring the rhythmic and identity-defining characteristics of the thatching technique.

01

CONCEPTION

The primary objective of this project is to establish a land court capable of resolving various disputes related to land rights, code/zoning violations, and other property-related conflicts. By doing so, the project aims to restore a sense of self-governance to the Hawaiian people while simultaneously serving as a model for future building typologies that foster reconciliation.

02 SPLICE

By separating the services, a clear division of space is achieved. This division distinguishes between the provision of public, community-oriented services and the operations of the land court. The distinction is made between those being served and those providing the service, as well as between the private and public aspects of the facility.

04 MANIPULATION

The next step involved carefully placing and manipulating shed roofs. Each roof was sloped to correspond with a drainage system at the base, facilitating water collection and storage on-site. The roofs also extended beyond the facade, serving to shield interior spaces from direct exposure and providing a covered walkway.

The intentional carving into the building mass serves to provide purposeful intentional openings. These carefully designed openings offer panoramic views of the surrounding environment, recognizing the landscape as a work of art. Each opening is strategically positioned to frame and showcase specific views, fostering a harmonious connection between the built structure and its natural surroundings.

INDENT

A crucial aspect of this project was the creation of a dedicated space where the Hawaiian people can come together as a community. To achieve this, each community-focused space is carefully carved into the landscape and intentionally sunken. The decision to sink the gathering spaces serves a specific purpose by clearly indicating the distinction between areas classified as stop versus go spaces. This deliberate design approach helps define and differentiate the spaces meant for communal gathering from other areas.

Floor Plans

Section + Details

Wall Section- Glazing

Wall Section- Stud Wall With Window

Wall Plan- Metal Meets Wood

Wall Plan- Metal Meets Glazing

East Elevation Primary South Elevation

Interior South Elevation

Urban Co-Housing Complex

Site Opportunities

The urban co-housing complex represents a multifaceted building designed to foster a strong sense of community. The overarching purpose of this project is to create a living space that not only accommodates residents but actively engages them in a dynamic communal experience. Situated in downtown Kansas City, MO, this co-housing complex comprises both standard unit and micro unit apartments. While the apartments serve as residential spaces, other parts of the building are intentionally inwardly focused to facilitate and encourage community activities.

A distinctive feature that sets this building apart is the inclusion of farming spaces. These farming plots aim to establish a sustainable and habitable environment within the building itself. By incorporating a community garden, the project seeks to provide residents with the opportunity to cultivate and harvest their own food. Extensive research has been conducted to understand the role of gardens in fostering community. The purpose of this space is to serve as a retreat from the living areas, where residents can come together, participate in communal activities, and work towards a common goal of creating a sustainable food source just outside their doors.

The primary objective of this housing complex is to support a specific group of individuals—middle working class individuals—who find themselves constrained by the need to reside in a particular city for employment purposes. However, due to exorbitant rent prices and a scarcity of livable spaces, they struggle to maintain their financial stability. This project aims to address their needs and provide them with an affordable and supportive living environment.

INTRODUCTION 01

The initial emphasis of this studio was to explore and establish our understanding of co-housing, recognizing that individual approaches would vary while seeking common ground to ensure collective success. It was evident that our projects needed to embody two fundamental aspects: providing comfortable living spaces for residents and creating communal areas for social interaction. These gathering spaces could be internally oriented, facilitating individual activities such as workspaces, or externally focused, encouraging collective engagement that benefits the entire community.

The project consists of two interconnected components, with one being the apartments themselves. The complex features a diverse blend of unit types, including 2-bedroom, 1-bedroom, micro 1-bedroom, and micro studio apartments. These units serve as potential stepping stones for occupants, catering to different stages of their residential needs. The micro

studio apartments cater to individuals who have recently relocated to the city and require immediate housing, while the micro 1-bedroom units offer a slight upgrade. Similarly, the standard 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments follow the same concept of gradual progression.

As individual development progressed, the concept of fostering a community focused on a specific goal took center stage in the design process. For instance, my particular focus revolved around creating a community dedicated to establishing a sustainable food source. This objective became a central theme, driving the subsequent design considerations.

Unit Design

MICRO STUDIO

MICRO

BED

RESEARCH 02

The notion of fostering a community centered around sustainable farming practices stems from my personal exploration and fascination with the profound impact a community garden can have. Beyond its inherent ability to facilitate interpersonal connections, a community garden acts as a catalyst for broader community involvement, generating a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie.

My vision revolves around creating a vibrant community and fostering an environment where food can be grown on-site and enjoyed by residents at their own tables. This concept aligns with my personal experiences, particularly with organizations like the Kansas City Community Garden (KCCG). KCCG, situated in the heart of downtown Kansas City, exemplifies a volunteer program that brings individuals from the community together, providing opportunities to engage in collaborative volunteer initiatives focused on community gardening projects.

WHO LIVES HERE?

Members of the community who are interested in participating in a lifestyle where you are able to create a sustainable food source within your own living complex

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Community gardens have been a part of modern America since the turn of the century. They allow for the community to have direct access to fresh foods and people to enjoy nature. A housing complex that focuses on those qualities allows for residents to participate and directly benefit from the outcomes making their living spaces more enjoyable.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?

The significance of this building typology lies in its capacity to address the needs of a community seeking a comprehensive solution that meets their fundamental requirements. We recognize that our basic needs encompass essentials such as food, water, air, and shelter. By integrating the connection between shelter and food production, we can minimize the overall impact on the built environment, providing a more sustainable solution.

Another key consideration is the common hindrance associated with the consumption of fruits and vegetables, which includes factors such as cost, accessibility, and availability. This approach offers a means to alleviate these barriers, ultimately fostering a reduction in such obstacles. By mitigating these challenges, the acceptance and integration of fruits and vegetables can be enhanced within the community.

Communal Floor Plan

The Kansas City Design Center: Fall 2023 & Spring 2024

The Kansas City Design Center is a prodigious service-learning urban design program that operating as a 501(c) (3) non-profit program in partnership with Kansas State University. The program’s mission is to advance design excellence within Kansas City’s built environment through education and public service. This mission is achieved by serving both the professional and civic communities of Kansas City through the local Urban Design Studio. The studio focuses on design innovation by emphasizing leadership, resiliency, environmental stewardship, and social and racial equity and inclusion.

Through its work, KCDC establishes enduring relationships with the communities it serves, fostering continued investment in neighborhood improvements. These relationships position KCDC as a conduit between Kansas City, the design profession, and the community, facilitating innovative approaches to design thinking and serving as an open source for knowledge sharing and collaboration across civic, professional, and public institutions.

KCDC actively collaborates with various city departments, including planning, parks and recreation, water, and public works. These collaborations lead to innovative design solutions aligned with the studio’s pursuits and the goals of the respective departments.

Bethany Park Master Plan

In Kansas City, Kansas, Bethany Park thrives as a vibrant community steeped in the rich cultural heritage of its predominantly Hispanic residents. Yet, within this diverse tapestry lies a sobering truth: a significant portion of the neighborhood’s housing infrastructure is in disrepair, mirroring the economic challenges faced by the locals, whose median income falls below the regional average. Despite these hurdles, Bethany Park stands at a pivotal juncture, its promise illuminated by several strategic advantages. Its close proximity to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, emerges as a beacon of opportunity, granting residents access to a plethora of job prospects, educational institutions, and urban amenities, thereby enriching their livelihoods and economic potential.

Through concerted efforts in strategic planning, community involvement, and targeted investment, the neighborhood stands poised to overcome its adversities and emerge as a shining example of resilience, innovation, and community-driven progress. With its advantageous location, vibrant commercial corridors, and vast tracts of available land, The Bethany Park Mosaic Masterplan holds the promise to inscribe a new chapter in its illustrious history—one defined by perseverance, ingenuity, and inclusive growth.

INTRODUCTION 01

The Bethany Park Mosaic Masterplan is a dynamic initiative aimed at revitalizing Kansas City, Kansas. Nestled adjacent to Central Ave, a vibrant thoroughfare blending residential and commercial spaces, Bethany Park thrives due to the cultural richness of its predominantly Hispanic community. This cultural mosaic naturally fosters a diverse array of Hispanic-focused businesses, imparting a unique charm to the neighborhood. Located near Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, Bethany Park enjoys the dual benefits of proximity and picturesque skyline views, making it a coveted locale for both residents and businesses. Many residents commute daily into downtown KCMO, contributing significantly to the area’s economic vitality.

The masterplan is designed to fortify community bonds, invigorate economic prosperity, celebrate cultural diversity, and promote sustainable urban development. Irritative

enhancements will transform Central Ave into a welcoming hub, adorned with greenery and public art, fostering community cohesion. Economic empowerment initiatives will support local entrepreneurship, while cultural programs will celebrate the heritage of the Hispanic population.

Moreover, the masterplan’s overarching goal is to create more job opportunities and bring in additional tax revenue to address the area’s decaying infrastructure. By increasing housing density, Bethany Park aims to attract new residents and businesses, thus bolstering the local economy and providing a pathway for upward mobility for its residents. Through sustainable design principles, Bethany Park will flourish as a model of equitable and environmentally conscious development, inspiring communities far and wide. In essence, the Bethany Park Mosaic Masterplan represents a shared vision of prosperity, inclusive, and vibrancy for Kansas City, Kansas.

OBJECTIVE AND GOALS

Systematize and develop solutions for housing and income strategies for Bethany Park and Kansas City, Kansas as a whole

01 02 03 04

Reactivate the Central Avenue corridor

Develop income solutions to support up-ward mobility

Create educational opportunities

Introduce higher density housing strategies

KANSAS CITY, KS

CITY, MO

CATHEDRAL

RIVERVIEW

PRESCOT ST. JOE’S WATCHDOG

DEMOGRAPHICS 02

In terms of demographics, the Central Area, our focus of study within Bethany Park, presents a distinct profile reflective of its vibrant community. The median household income, as of 2017, stands at $33,454, notably lower than the statewide figure of $55,477 in Kansas. This income disparity underscores the economic challenges faced by residents in the area. A significant portion of the neighborhood’s population comprises families with children, highlighting the importance of family-centric amenities and services in the community.

When it comes to housing, the Central Area exhibits a notable discrepancy in home values compared to the state average. The median home value for owner-occupied units in the Central Area is $60,624, substantially lower than the statewide median of $139,200. This disparity in housing values underscores the affordability challenges faced by residents in securing stable housing within the neighborhood. In terms of employment, the Central Area sustains a diverse range of industries, with a majority of residents employed in manufacturing, construction, administration and support services, waste management, food service, and retail sectors. These industries play a vital role in providing employment opportunities for residents while contributing to the economic vibrancy of the neighborhood.

One notable aspect of the demographic landscape in the Central Area is the expansive range of ages represented within the community. From young families with children to retirees, the neighborhood boasts a diverse population spanning multiple generations. This diversity fosters a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives, contributing to the vibrant and dynamic character of Bethany Park.

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

Median household income (2017)

Central Area (Area of study):$33,454

Kansas City, Kansas : $41,671

County: $42,783

The State of Kansas: $55,477

HOME VALUE

Median home value (owner-occupied units)

Central Area (Area of study):$60,624

Kansas City, Kansas : $89,500

Kansas City, Missouri: $139,900

The State of Kansas: $139,200

UP-WARD MOBILITY 03

The outcome of this master planning process and project within Bethany Park holds the potential for a ripple effect that extends far beyond its borders, both locally in KCK and nationally. As the community embraces innovative approaches to education and entrepreneurship, it becomes a source of inspiration for neighboring neighborhoods and communities within Kansas City, Kansas. The model developed here, with its focus on skill development, prefabrication, and scalable solutions, sets a course for individuals toward upward mobility and success, catalyzing similar efforts in adjacent areas and fostering a network of empowered and thriving communities.

The realization of Bethany Park’s transformative cycle of engagement and prefabrication has broader implications on a national scale. As the community demonstrates the viability and effectiveness of its approach, it emerges as a guiding

light for other cities and regions grappling with similar economic and housing challenges. By showcasing the potential for local empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development, Bethany Park establishes a precedent for communities across the country to follow, sparking a movement toward economic resilience and inclusive growth.

In this way, the unfolding outcome within Bethany Park not only fortifies the fabric of its own community but also contributes to a larger narrative of progress and innovation in urban development. By serving as a pathway for individuals toward success and upward mobility, Bethany Park charts a course toward a future where every community has the tools and resources to thrive, fostering a more equitable and prosperous society for all. This transformative path exemplifies the power of grassroots initiatives in shaping a brighter future for communities, both locally and nationally.

Path to success

01

Learning

Introducing the community to diverse trades, the trade school in KCK specializes in providing comprehensive training in construction and maintenance, encompassing framing, concrete work, plumbing, electrical, site surveying, roofing, and handy work.

02

Fabrication

In the community, students undergo comprehensive training in construction and maintenance, gaining hands-on experience and exploring prefabricated panel structures for efficient on-site assembly, leading to entrepreneurial pursuits or subcontracting employment.

03

Scalability

During panel structure production, they can be commercialized through major retailers and distributed nationwide as prefab systems adaptable to urban, suburban, and rural settings, widening their reach.

The Synergistic Cycle of Engagement, Education, Prefabrication, and Scalability

Prefabrication in Practice

Kansas City Design Center Students test fit the concept of a Synergistic cycle

OUTCOME 04

The initial emphasis of this studio was to explore and establish our understanding of co-housing, recognizing that individual approaches would vary while seeking common ground to ensure collective success. It was evident that our projects needed to embody two fundamental aspects: providing comfortable living spaces for residents and creating communal areas for social interaction. These gathering spaces could be internally oriented, facilitating individual activities such as workspaces, or externally focused, encouraging collective engagement that benefits the entire community.

The project consists of two interconnected components, with one being the apartments themselves. The complex features a diverse blend of unit types, including 2-bedroom, 1-bedroom, micro 1-bedroom, and micro studio apartments. These units serve as potential stepping stones for occupants, catering to different stages of their residential needs. The micro stu-

dio apartments cater to individuals who have recently relocated to the city and require immediate housing, while the micro 1-bedroom units offer a slight upgrade. Similarly, the standard 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments follow the same concept of gradual progression.

As individual development progressed, the concept of fostering a community focused on a specific goal took center stage in the design process. For instance, my particular focus revolved around creating a community dedicated to establishing a sustainable food source. This objective became a central theme, driving the subsequent design considerations.

TRADE

TRADE SCHOOL EDUCATION FACILITY (PRE-EXISTING ON PROPOSED SITE)

OPEN AIR FARMERS MARKET

FOOD HALL

COMMUNITY CENTER (PRE-EXISTING ON PROPOSED SITE)

BASKETBALL COURT (X2)

FUTSAL COURT

PLAYGROUND

OFFICE BUILDING (PRE-EXISTING ON PROPOSED SITE)

COMMUNITY

MIXED

Mixed Density Achieved by Mixed Housing Typology

‘Dallas’ -Type A

3 BD/3 BA, 2,112 SQ. FT.

‘Dallas’ -Type B

2 BD/2 BA 1,414 SQ. FT.

‘Berlin’

3 BD/3 BA + SINGLE GARAGE + STUDIO ADU 1,536 SQ. FT.

‘Austin’

3 BD/3 BA + DOUBLE GARAGE + 2 BD ADU 2,112 SQ. FT.

‘York’

2 BD/2.5 BA + SINGLE GARAGE + STUDIO ADU 1,172 SQ. FT.

11thStreet

12thStreet

View from ‘Dallas’Type A balcony onto parking & community green-space

View from sidewalk onto ‘Dallas’- Type A

View of Basketball Court Looking North Down Main Promenade

View of Basketball court & Main Promenade

View of Open Air Farmers Market

View of Open Air Farmers Market

View of Open Air Farmers Market

Aerial view of Basketball court & Main Promenade

Aerial view of Playground

Aerial view from Central Ave. & 12th Street

Designing for Desire

The coursework at Kansas State University has centered around the cultivation and refinement of practical skills that can be applied in professional practice. Over the past three years of design school, the focus has been on developing our design process and effectively translating it into tangible projects. We have acquired the ability to express and communicate our ideas through drawings and sketches, while learning to observe the world from both imaginative and analytical perspectives as design students.

The purpose of the study abroad experience is to broaden our horizons and shed light on the intangible aspects of design. Our experiences have been shaped by a structured framework that involves informative lectures, complemented by contemplation, watercolor studies, and sketching of the built environment.

The core of our studies in Italy is interconnected across various mediums and scales, all rooted in the fundamental question: What is it that humans desire? This question transcends disciplines within design and serves as a pathway to understand the deeper purpose behind architecture.

As a studio, we explored said question. The built environment has played a crucial role in deepening our understanding. Through the study and sketching of our surroundings, we have come to realize the significance of proportion in preventing disorder.

Included in this section are watercolor images, digital sketches, and photographs of my experiences in Italy, providing glimpses into my journey.

Orvieto, Italy

Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi

The Basilica di San Marco

Architecture is primarily a synthesis of technology and art, with technology providing the necessary tools and expertise for the physical construction of architectural elements, while art imbues the expression needed to sustain beauty, elegance, balance, and harmony in the built environment.

Function, as the purpose of architecture, determines its utility, while form delineates and defines spatial characteristics. Technology is intrinsically linked to function, both being specific in nature, whereas art is closely associated with form, as they both possess an inherent ambiguity. Architecture can be observed objectively, yet its creation is a profoundly subjective endeavor. When considering the individual, form and function initially appear as objective elements. In reality, we do not invent anything entirely new, but rather discover, synthesize, and transform what already exists. Our perception of reality is limited by the extent of our knowledge, as if governed by an internal ordering system.

This system of order grants individuals the capacity to explore, define, synthesize, and transform their experiences. Order, subjective to each individual, serves as an internal communication system that refines principles derived from diverse experiences. It characterizes behavioral patterns and reintegrates selected generalized principles into instruments and tools. These instruments and tools enhance our interpretation of reality, and with each subsequent application, our perception of order improves, multiplying within ourselves as we encounter increasingly complex phenomena.

As we progress, it is crucial to comprehend the underlying intent behind our behavior patterns and the inherent desire for ordering systems. By understanding these aspects, we can gain valuable insights into the innate human desires that inform our understanding and pursuit of architectural creation.

Watercolor and sketch 08/29/22

Watercolor and sketch 09/09/22

The objective of the seminar is to examine dimensions of space and human desire as tools in the navigation of complex multi-scalar relations exploring urban and architectural space. Encounters from group and individual travel is used as a platform instrumental in navigating differentiated

perceptions of order allowing comparison of dissimilar experiences / informations to be contrasted and compared.

Awareness of geometry as a powerful instrument of abstraction is manifested as a tool in the design process and in the development of theoretical perspectives.

Watercolor and sketch 09/23/22

Watercolor and sketch 10/12/22

Watercolor and sketch 09/23/22

Watercolor and sketch 10/12/22

Creating watercolor art is an incredibly meditative process for me. The act of sketching out my ideas on paper serves as a gateway to inner reflection and concentration. As I put pencil to paper, I find myself delving into a contemplative state where I can truly explore the overall composition of the project. It’s a moment to step back and envision how various elements can seamlessly integrate, harmonize, and contribute to the cohesion of the artwork. Each stroke of the brush, each layer of paint, becomes a deliberate and mindful choice as I immerse myself in the subtle interplay of colors and forms, allowing me to connect with my inner creativity and the essence of the subject. Watercolors not only capture external beauty but also offer a window into my own inner world, making the artistic process a journey of self-discovery and tranquility.

Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB) San Francisco, CA Professional Experience

Through this internship experience at Solomon Cordwell Buenz, I gained valuable professional experience with a focus on multifamily housing. The projects I worked on ranged from multistory residential towers to office buildings and educational housing. All projects were situation along the west coast giving me true insight into how to design for a moderate climate.

I produced and complied final drawings for entitlement packages, schematic design and design development allowing me to hone in on my technical and graphical skills while also gaining a deeper understanding of the overall design process and the nauacnues that are associated.

My time at SCB was a rich learning experience, primarily underscored by my involvement in two distinct projects. These endeavors, each characterized by its unique set of challenges and requirements, collectively provided me with a well-rounded understanding of the architectural field.

First and foremost, the design charrette for UCSD stood out as an exceptional learning opportunity. This project demanded an innovative approach to meet the university’s design aspirations, budget constraints, and sustainability goals. Navigating the intricate

balance between form, function, and environmental impact was an invaluable lesson in the practical application of architectural principles.

The second project, Woolsey Gardens, was a stark departure from the academic context of UCSD. This low-income, net-zero affordable housing complex presented an entirely different set of challenges. It required a deep dive into affordable housing design, sustainable construction methods, and community engagement. My involvement taught me about the vital role architects play in addressing societal issues and designing spaces that cater to the specific needs of underprivileged communities.

In conclusion, my experiences at SCB were marked by the diverse nature of these three projects. Each one contributed significantly to my architectural knowledge and skill set, emphasizing the importance of versatility and continuous learning in that dynamic field.

My contribution to each of the projects listed below involved tasks such as compiling technical drawings, creating the actual drawings or editing photos, and designing hand drawing diagrams to enhance project comprehension.

The UCSD Pepper Canyon Charette

San Diego, CA

The UCSD Pepper Canyon charette represented a comprehensive design exercise to scrutinize and gain an understanding of the potential housing and mixed-use opportunities that could materialize on site. This analytical process involved a systematic exploration of various density schemes, which were subsequently correlated with the potential for increased housing capacity and expanded commercial space.

It is worth noting that the site in question already accommodates existing student housing, which, as per one of the three proposed schemes, are slated for replacement. Pepper Canyon East, in its envisioned role, serves as a novel gateway to UC San Diego, offering a dynamic and engaging neighborhood that serves as a celebration of the collective and individual identities of Tritons. It is deeply rooted in the principles of seamlessly integrating a transit-connected lifestyle.

Scheme 01 achieves the goal of lower density while accommodating the max proposed commercial space but also places a distinct emphasis on the in-between space, conceived as a vibrant public area intended to function as a piazza. The intention behind this piazza is to create a dynamic and inviting environment, where individuals can gather, socialize, and partake in various activities, ultimately enhancing the sense of place within the development. It serves as an essential hub for both residents and visitors.

Scheme 01

Aerial View Perspective view hand sketched Perspective view rendered

The UCSD Pepper Canyon Charette

Perspective view hand sketched

03

Aerial View

Perspective view hand sketched

Perspective view rendered Perspective view rendered

Scheme 02, with its mid-density configuration, aligns with the overarching design of the rest of the campus, thus mirroring the familiar atmosphere. This thoughtful choice in density not only allows for the maximum proposed commercial space but also ensures that the development blends seamlessly with the existing campus landscape.

Scheme 03, characterized by its high-density layout, aligns with the design philosophy of the future plans for the UCSD campus, thus positioning itself to seamlessly integrate into the university’s evolving vision. By maintaining a density akin to the envisioned growth of the campus, Scheme 03 positions itself as an integral part of the university’s forward-looking development strategy.

Scheme

Aerial View

Woosley Gardens

Berkely, CA

NCLT is embarking on the transformation of its current headquarters into an enduringly affordable, zero-net energy multifamily/mixed-use project known as Woolsey Gardens. The primary objective of the Woolsey Gardens initiative is to uphold the principles of providing households with the right to return, the right to stay, and the right to own. Woolsey Gardens aspires to serve as a replicable, sustainable, and financially viable model for forthcoming mixed-use developments, especially those situated on compact, infill parcels in proximity to major transit hubs. Fundamental features underscore the essence of this project:

Permanently Affordable Units: The project’s aim is to allocate all units to low-to-moderate-income households, with a primary focus on extremely low-income (30% AMI) to low-income (80% AMI) households.

Ownership Units: All residential units within Woolsey Gardens will be dedicated to affordable ownership, providing an opportunity for displaced households to return, establish equity, and access essential services.

Sustainability / Zero Net Energy: The project commits to offsetting 100% of annual electricity consumption by residents and commercial tenants through annual solar generation. It will employ mass timber/cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction. The project aspires to achieve LEED Platinum certification, prioritize grid outage resilience, and incorporate cutting-edge energy and water-efficient technologies.

Replicability: Serving as a viable alternative to large-scale urban renewal projects that have had detrimental effects on neighborhoods, Woolsey Gardens presents a solution to address the demand for affordable housing on smaller, infill lots. The use of mass timber construction also provides a pathway to overcome challenges posed by limited construction staging areas and the need to expedite construction schedules.

Context photos; After

Site Plan

Ground floor

Strip Elevations

Interior renders

Woolsey St. Elevation

Shattuck Ave. Elevation

TYP. Residential floor