construction
architecture
Kate O'Brien
S u s ta inabl e D e sig n ecology
Education
Conway School of Landscape Design • Conway, Massachusetts
Masters of Science in Ecological Design (June 2015)
The Conway School is an intensive program that provides a unique education with three real-life projects of varying scale and a focus in sustainable design.
Norwich University • Northfield, Vermont
Bachelors of Science in Architectural Studies (June 2014) Minor in Construction Management (June 2014)
Landscape Design & Planning Experience
Trail Design Manual
CIRENAS, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica As part of a two-person team, worked to complete a trailassessment manual with techniques to mitigate conditions including erosion, and steep slopes in a wildlife refuge. The manual defined sustainable trail standards and included construction illustrations. A conceptual connection between the refuge and school campus was designed. (CSLD April-June 2015)
Master Plan
Bernardston, Massachusetts Worked in collaboration with two other students to update Bernardston’s Master Plan with a focus on land use, natural and cultural resources and watershed. Bernardston is a rural town located in western Massachusetts with a population of approximately two thousand people. The Master Plan was developed to address the town's desire to both maintain its rural character and promote economic development. Analyzed viewshed, fragmentation and BioMap2 with data from ArcGIS. Presented at community meetings and conducted interviews with town committees. Provided phased recommendations for the next twenty years. (CSLD January-March 2015)
Landscape Master Plan
Emily Dickinson Museum, Amherst, Massachusetts Inventoried and analyzed site conditions, including existing vegetation, access and circulation, views, town regulations, parking and transportation, drainage, soils and slopes. Designed a landscape master plan that focused on site circulation, sited a new interpretive center, and reflected the landscape of Emily Dickinson’s time. Presented the final document to the Emily Dickinson Museum committee. (CSLD September-December 2014)
Architecture Experience
Solar Decathlon Landscape Designer & Fire Safety Captain Irvine, California
Participated in a competition to design and build a 1,000 sq. ft. solar powered house. Developed the site plan including the exterior ramps with compliance to ADA. Worked on construction documents and ensured that all site work was of safe conduct. (NU October 2013)
Intern, Duo Dickinson Architectural Firm Madison, Connecticut
Built various models during schematic design including residential, educational, religious and an apartment complex. Took measurements at a shelter as well as two residential buildings. Became affiliated with standard dimensions and noted structural components. (June-August 2013)