\\\ SYSTEMIC SECTIONS
systemic sections
BIOMIMICRY IN DESIGN Systemic Sections is a research and visitor center in Phoenix, Arizona. Inspired by the success of the rattlesnake as an indigenous creature, the project explores a snake’s attributes and behaviors in an effort to create a design that is responsive to its context. SEQUENCE TO SITE Hiking up a ridge north of Phoenix, a series of geographic elements restrict views and act as wayfaring markers until reaching a crest. Finally, views of the city south emerge and give reason for pause. Situated between two summits, this small dip creates an ideal site for a visitor center. ANALYZING SUN EXPOSURE With nearly no shading, the largest environmental concern is direct exposure from the sun. The site is assessed for any shading provided by the summits
to the east and west, which factor into how the building is situated. Like a snake’s skin, the building utilizes its form to produce varied conditions with the ground. In spaces less protected from the summits, the building burrows below the ground. In spaces more sheltered, the building expresses itself prominently over the landscape.
Site Model
DESIGN STRATEGY Program is divided up by activity and user, time of its use during the day, and requirement for shelter from the sun. Public facilities, such as lecture halls, classrooms, library, and cafe are situated above the ground taking advantage of a sheltered position from afternoon sun. The eastern wing is protected beneath the ground surface. Here, there are laboratories, storage facilities, and mechanical spaces. Entrance lobby and faculty offices represent the transition between the public western and private eastern wings.
Final Plans: One ramping corridor connects between more public and exposed space on the west and private burrowed space on the east.
\\\design focused projects
ABOUT THE CLASS The second semester of the core program, 318 studio builds upon the 317 studio’s focus on controlling complexity in geometry and conceptual development. Additionally, it begins to integrate environmental analysis into design solutions.
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systemic sections
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SECTIONS AND FRAME SEQUENCE / SEQUENCE FRAMES (inset) SECTIONS AND FRAME SEQUENCE / SEQUENCE FRAMES (inset) SCALE: 1/8” = 1’-0” (left) 1/64” = 1’-0” (right) SCALE: 1/8” = 1’-0” (left) 1/64” = 1’-0” (right)
RIGIDITY - FLEXIBILITY - MOVEMENT | CINEMATIC STRUCTURE
RIGIDITY - FLEXIBILITY I-CARES INTERDISCIPLINARY CENTER - MOVEMENT | CINEMATIC STRUCTURE I-CARES INTERDISCIPLINARY CENTER
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Sequential Sections: Taken throughout the building, the number of sections demonstrate the progression of space.
Physical Model: Showing its various conditions with the ground, this model connects each section with string to form its skin.