ARCHITECTURE PORTFOLIO
Michael Zhou 周文渊
Selected Works 01
Resume
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Food Desert Dispersion
11
Confluence in Flight
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Five Halls Culture Center
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Solar Frame
29
Solar Decathlon (Phase I & II)
Michael Zhou Education
6609 Kingsbury Blvd, Apt. 1E University City, MO 63130 (608) 239-5515 mlzhou94690@gmail.com Washington University in St. Louis - St. Louis, MO Sam Fox School of Visual Arts and Design Master of Architecture GPA 3.3 Fall 2018 University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee - Milwaukee, WI School of Architecture and Urban Planning Bachelor of Science Architectural Studies Bachelor of Arts Major in Urban Studies GPA: 3.2 Spring 2014
Professional
Research Assistant & Workshop Lead (May 2017 - Dec. 2018) Washington University in St. Louis - St. Louis, MO •
Assisted two professors on milling designs for various research projects and provided milling authorization for student projects
Photographer (Sept. 2015 - Dec. 2018)
Washington University in St. Louis - St. Louis, MO •
Photographed recreational sporting events and headshots to create a database with 40,000 photos to streamline the development of new advertisement and promotional material o Over 500 photos currently used in various published promotional materials
Architectural Intern (Aug. 2014 - July 2015)
Culture Heritage Conservation Center - Beijing, China Architectural Design and Research Institute of Tsinghua University • Aided in the research on the development of future conservation efforts Selected Project Experience • Xiawu Culture Center - Mount Huangshan, Anhui Province o Designed a new museum structure to replace areas destroyed during a 1990 fire; new design complemented the original surrounding structures dating back to the 1300s o Developed an interior design for cultural artifacts to be displayed while properly representing the village’s history • Huangtian Village Conservation - Huangtian Village, Anhui Province o Conducted the full documentation of the village site for historical archiving and future conservation efforts o Documentation consisted of first taking accurate measurements and detailed photographs before later creating 3D models and updating CAD drawings
Architectural Intern (June 2012 - Sept. 2012) Sydness Architects - New York City, NY
• Designated red-line drawing editor on over a dozen projects for the firm Selected Project Experience • Daegu Gosan Public Library Competition - Daegu, South Korea o Developed a 3D model of the site and produced a design consistent with the aesthetics and context of the neighboring area • Wilton Church - Wilton, New York o Created the base for a fiberglass church steeple that was installed in 2014 while coming under budget
Leadership
Workshop Instructor (Aug. 2017 - Aug. 2018)
Sam Fox School of Visual Arts and Design - St. Louis, MO •
Provided over 100 students with workshop safety briefings and instructions for general wood shop power tools and the CNC machine
CNC Operator Lead (June 2017 - Sept. 2017)
Sam Fox School of Visual Arts and Design - St. Louis, MO Hedge Installation Project • •
Researched and tested 18 recycled plastics to explore materials with maximum durability and strength properties for installation o Seven materials were selected and used in the installation Reviewed designs on a team of eight for CNC manufacturing and communicated necessary design revision
Composite and Lighting Lead (Jan. 2017 - May 2017) Sam Fox School of Visual Arts and Design - St. Louis, MO Confluence Airport Installation Project • • •
Investigated composite materials for the transportation and installation of a 100’ span structure o Selected carbon fiber for its ability to retain high longitudinal strength while having vertical pliability and a thin geometric shape Pioneered an initial molding system to produce thin carbon fiber structures that prevented interference between multifaceted polycarbonate filters while structurally supporting the lighting system Orchestrated the research of fiber optic lighting to enhance the confluence story of organic movement versus rigid configurations typically seen without airports
Primary Concrete & Decking Specialist (Jan. 2016 - Dec. 2016) Sam Fox School of Visual Arts and Design - St. Louis, MO Solar Decathlon • • •
Prototyped Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) formwork to create a facade lighter but more resilient than traditional concrete o The resulting precast panels are 30% lighter than traditional concrete precast panels Developed a design with an integrated lighting feature to create an aesthetically pleasing facade using ambient lighting Oversaw the design of an interactive decking system with a modular hydroponic and water gathering system to provide information for house guests
Honors
2017 - 2018 Marketing Assistant of the Year Washington University in St. Louis Recreation Fall 2016, Spring 2016 Dean’s List Washington University in St. Louis 2014 Chicago Student Awards in Architecture, Honorable Mention AIA Chicago 2014 UWM Student Award Program, 1st Place University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Skills
Modeling - AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhinoceros 3D, Revit, 3DS Max, Inventor, Solidworks, Unreal Engine, Grasshopper, Cura, RhinoCAM, Universal Laser Systems Graphics - Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Bridge, Premiere Pro, Lightroom Render - V-Ray, Maxwell Microsoft - Word, Excel, PowerPoint Languages - English (Native) Mandarin Chinese (Fluent)
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Food Desert Dispersion Plymouth Industrial Park Wellston, MO Washington University in St. Louis Professor: Eric Hoffman Master’s Thesis Fall 2018
Project Statement: The project consists of an aquaponic research center that endeavors to increase food availability throughout the city while providing the surrounding community with nutritional education, a physical gathering space, and food itself. A Food Desert is defined by the FDA as an urban community of least 500 people where at least 33% of the population resides more than one mile from a supermarket or grocery store. This is a well-known issue across the United States. The proposed project aims to improve Missouri’s health rankings by growing fresh produce at a sustainable cost utilizing hydroponics and aquaponics while researching on how to increase efficiency and lower costs. Any surplus produce grown will be available for purchase at reduced prices. Additionally, the proposed facility will provide cooking classes and food education lectures. The location of this facility was selected due to its proximity to the rail station – a highly-trafficked area in the city as the main commuting method.
Thesis Research Food Insecurity
The state of Missouri is ranked 6th worst for food security where an average rate of 17% of the population does not have reliable access to affordable and nutritious foods in comparison to the national average rate of 13.7%.
Poverty
The city of St. Louis is ranked 15th worst in the nation with a poverty rate of 28.5% in comparison to the national rate of 13.5%. St. Louis County has a poverty rate of only 10%, yet the city of Wellston, the project site located within the county, has a rate of 43.5%.
Obesity
Heart Disease
Missouri is ranked in the top ten highest rates of adult obesity where 32.4% of the state population is considered obese or overweight.
Missouri is currently ranked the 10th worst state for heart disease related deaths with a rate 12% higher than the national average.
Current Grocery Stores (2016)
Listed below are some of the major grocery stores that are available. 1) Schnucks 2) Aldi 3) Dierbergs 4) Save-A-Lot 5) Shop’n’Save Other Convenience Stores
N Food Deserts (2017 USDA Map)
Site
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Site Plan and Research
Flood zones
Urban traffic pattern
Pedestrian route
Public transportation routes
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Floor Plans and Renders
Interior render of the aquaponics to grow various types of produce.
An interior render showing the market portion of the research facility.
Exterior render showing the connection the research facility has with the city Metrolink rail line.
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Section Detail
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CONFLUENCE IN FLIGHT Lambert International Airport - Terminal 2 St. Louis, MO Washington University in St. Louis Professor: Lavender Tessmer Jason Butz Studio Group Work Spring 2017
Project Statement: The installation focuses on the vast pre-security space at Terminal 2 of Lambert Airport. The structure is an investigation of rigid construction, volumetric structures from assemblies that consist of numerous, intricate pieces as well as unique representation methods that enable assembly communication and fabrication. The installation provides a visual representation of the various confluence elements of the city. These elements represent the city as a whole, such as the convergence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers or the assemblage of those arriving and departing the city through the airport.
Circulation Path DEPARTURE/ARRIVAL GATES
VACANT COUNTER
SECURITY GATE SOUTHWEST TICKETING/ BAG DROP
TSA PRE SECURITY GATE
PASSENGER DROP-OFF
METROLINK STOP
A circulation diagram was created to show the paths of vehicular and pedistratian movement in order to understand in order to understand how the various spaces are occupied throughout the daily operations of the airport.
A overlay collage showing the various paths people take within the airport.
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Rhombic Grid Concept
Physical representations of various early conceptual volumetric grid grasshopper studies (Top). Testing the same rhombic grid using two materials: one using carbon fiber (bottom right), and the other using PEX pipes (bottom left).
Massing Concept Massing render showing the form of the installation within the terminal.
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Carbon Fiber Moldule Mold
1. To create the module, a mold was first created by laser cutting plywood.
2. The molds were glued on the edges and reinforced with color coded edges to help differentiate the wrapping order.
3. The panels were joined together using the slots to finish the mold in preparation for the wrapping process.
4. The wrapping order showing the two different directions to create the module.
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Massing Model
Step 4 is shown on the left with the modules ready to be taken out of their molds. Shown on the right are the modules removed from their molds and ready to have colored surfaces attached to them.
Fitting together the individual modules with colored surfaces attached into the larger clusters for transport (left). Using a boom lift to install one of the larger clusters (right).
Terminal 2 of Lambert Internaional Airport before the intallation (left). The grand opening of the installation on June 15, 2017 (right).
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Five Halls Culture Center Mount Huangshan, Chengkan Anhui Province, China CHCC of Tsinghua University
Principal: Cui Guanghai (CHCC Director) Xu Zhilan (Team Lead) Professional Team Work 2014 - Ongoing
Project Statement: The Chengkan Five Halls Culture Center is a project with two purposes. The first is to create a historical museum that exhibit the uniqueness of the buildings history by replicating the original settings on how the building would have been used at the time of its occupancy. The second is to create the primary culture center showcasing the history of the city. Tragically, in 1990 the fifth hall of the historical building was destroyed in a fire, where now it remains as vacant ground. We used this opportunity to merge modern to historical through the construction of the new culture center. The Five Halls name comes from the fact that the singular building is in fact five buildings that are all interconnected. The building was originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty in the 1300s where over time, had sections remodeled or added on such as another hall during the Qing Dynasty in the 1800s. The Five Halls went from being originally homes for five different families to a school house and finally a tourist attraction. The Five Halls Culture Center will contain a museum to display these historical events and contain information of the culture on the people and village of Chengkan.
Current Conditions
The 3rd floors of two buildings were damaged during a fire in the 90s and were later restored by its future occupants.
The Residence of XiaLuo, or Xia Wu, was built 600 years ago. With a floor square footage of 2000 Sq. m. (~21,500 sq. ft.), Xia Wu is a typical courtyard house in the building style prevalant during the Ming Dynasty.
The current exhibition content poorly contextualizes the history of the site. A change in display was suggested.
Existing stone paving and active surface drain.
Existing green space scattered along alleyways.
Xia Wu expanded into a building complex consisting of 5 interconnected buildings as Space to the east of Xia Wu was part of a the population grew and through the various dynasties. Flower and bamboo gardens private yard for local residents. surrounding the compound can be converted into a resting area for local residents and tourists.
The current conditions of the site showing the remains of the destroyed hall as well as the now neglected garden (green) across of the building. The garden became isolated due to years of overgrowth along with the original entrance being converted into a part of a resident’s backyard.
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Proposed Changes
Pavilion marks the node of tour routes.
North entrance with wood paving and decorative screening
Cross-shaped paving connects the courtyards.
Existing pebble paving is kept; seats and signages are added on top
Bamboo garden renovations: 1. Keeping the original bamboo trees and restoring the stalagmite decorations; Green space near the south entrance 2. Traditional Huizhou style water landscaping is introduced. 3. Install water gates connecting the new provides buffer zone for the narrow landscaping installations to the existing water source in the village; 4. Space for future expansion is saved on alleyway the east side of the courtyard.
North Entrance
Pavilion and waterscaping
The proposed changes to the Five Halls and garden. To re-purpose the garden so that people can once again enjoy it, multiple new access points were created. The garden itself went from a simple bamboo garden into a stone garden with a pavilion next to a koi pond.
Historical photo of the pavilion
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Sections and Elevations Structure Offset
Added structure is offset from the historical building; offset prevents extra load on the existing structure.
Elevated Ground Floor Elevated ground floor makes future archaeological excavation possible.
Transparent Envelope
Upper floor construction uses glass as envelope material, providing sufficient natural light and ventilation.
Light-weight, Reversible Construction Light steel frame construction allows for a flexible plan layout.
Shallow Foundation
Shallow foundation avoids disturbing the underground archaeological site and the stability of the original structure.
Section
Plan
New Culture Center Site Plan and section showing the entrance and the layout of the new addition to replace the destroyed hall.
Section showing the Culture Center exhibition spaces.
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Construction Diagram
Light-weight Roof
Perspective view of addition construction Light-weight Roof
Envelope
Envelope
Structural Frame
Structural Frame Floor, Furniture and Stair
Furniture and Elevator
Elevated Ground Floor and Ticket Kiosk
Elevated Ground Floor and Archaeological Display
Isometric view of addition construction
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SOLAR FRAME 225 W. Randolph St. - AT&T Chicago Headquarters Chicago, ILL.
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee Professor: Kyle Reynolds Studio Group Work Spring 2014
Project Statement: This project focused on creating an innovative design for AT&T’s Chicago Headquarters through the exploration of high-performance building envelopes and adaptive reuse programmatic strategies. The goal was to achieve a balance between issues of aesthetics and performance, enhancing the iconography and effects of the original nondescript office tower while improving interior daylighting and overall building performance. This was done by utilizing fiber optic lighting techniques as a device to drive more natural light further into the office space while doubling as an integrated solar shading device on the facade. This framing installation not only reduces solar, mechanical and electric heat gains on the building, but deploys a new working landscape that challenges typical work environments. This progressive environment allows AT&T to revamp their image and demonstrate that they are a leader and top contender in technology and communications.
Fiber Optic Lighting Sunlight Analysis
Daylight Area Increase
Analysis on the left showing daylight settings with initial modifications. Removing the secondary mechanical ducts as well as the perimeter ducts on the walls allow the facade’s total daylighting area to increase to 42%. Diagram on the right showing the optimized placement of Fiber Optics. The yellow volume represents the areas on the building that have the maximum access to daylight at its perimeter and can be distributed deeper using fiber optic cables. Simulation on left showing amount of light enter working with only removed ducts. Diagram on right shows daylighting coverage with fiber optic system.
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Exterior Framing and Fiber Optic System
Sections showing the armature system that will contain the fiber optic cables.
Axon showing a typical office layout.
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Office Space and Renders
Images showing the current interior lighting conditions in various areas of the office.
Renders showing the proposed fiber optic lighting system that would be installed throughout the office floor.
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Model Images
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SOLAR DECATHLON (PHASE I & II) Tyson Research Center St. Louis, MO Washington University in St. Louis
Professor: Pablo Moyano Hongxi Yin Studio Group Work Spring 2016
Project Statement: Phase I starts with developing a design that is visually appealing, comfortable, sustainable and energy efficient home as a 2017 Solar Decathlon competitor. The design will focus on adaptability, supporting a range of potential users while providing a highly flexible and dynamic building envelope. The house will be a test-bed for technological advances in architectural design and construction using a precast concrete structure bolted together. The end-result will be a showcase, market ready home demonstrating market appeal, efficiency and climate resilience. Phase II picks off from the previous semester and make changes according to feedback from leading architects. Modifications include switching to an Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) panels that provides better as well as being able to structurally outlast traditional materials by decades all the while being lighter and thinner than architectural concrete. Large gutters will extend out from the main concrete structure and offer support for shading materials while creating an outdoor living space as well as allow rain water to run down them for collection. At the end of the competition, the house will be brought back to St. Louis as part of the Eco-village of net zero-energy-ready buildings for research scientists at Tyson Research Center. The house will act as a long-term residence for two research scientists staying at the Research Center.
City Data
The typology behind the design is that it functions as a 2-bedroom house, or a 1-bedroom with an office. This is appealing to the most current invigorating industries in the city. Washington University in St. Louis, itself, attracts many students and young professionals. There is a booming technology sector in the city and several strong medical campuses that give an opportunity for the city to utilize a home, such as ours, that appeals to couples, families, and professionals.
Climate Data
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Shading System
Summer Solstice June 21 Spring/Fall Equinox March/September 21
Winter Solstice December 21
Summer Solstice Section June 21, 1PM o Maximum Solar Angle: 74.8
Equinox Section March/September 21, 1PM o Maximum Solar Angle: 51.3
Winter Solstice Section December 21, 1PM o Maximum Solar Angle: 28
Through analyzing the sun path, various shading options were studied. The shading system that was chosen at the end is a multi-functional lightweight steel frame. It holds photovoltaic panels to collect solar energy, contains an array of fixed and moveable louvers to provide shade and privacy, and will support hanging planters to be suspended at different heights. The frame will facilitate louvers to protect users from wind. The planter beds will also act as a safety barrier with the house being lifted off the ground, while also holding built-in furniture such as seating tables, storage, etc. to be used around the exterior of the house.
Louvers
Overhang
Clerestory Window
Privacy
Solar Panels & Roof Shading
Summer Sun Shading
Wind Protection
Planting & Productive Landscaping
Furniture
Natural Ventilation
Thermal Heat Gain
Sun Space
Thermal/Trombe Wall
Green/Blue Roof
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Facade Variations
Throughout the process, we developed various facade options in design and color. Initially the facade was designed on a purely aesthetic standpoint. As the point of the house is to be a test-bed of technological advances in the use of concrete, the facade design was changed to showcase the abilities of concrete.
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Sections and Elevations
East
Section A-A
West
Section C-C
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Site Plan (Phase I)
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Site Plan (Phase II)
Floor Plan
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Hydroponic System
A diagram of the various plants that will be grown in the hydroponic system.
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Sections and Elevations
South
Section A-A
North
Section B-B
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NIT
RS
Construction Sequence
1 1.
Precast CONCRETE ConcreteFOOTINGS Footings PRECAST
22.
Precast PRECASTFloor FLOORPanels PANELS
44.
5. 5
77.
8.
PRECASTWall WALLPanels PANELS Precast
DECKING, RAMP
Decking and Ramp
PRECAST ROOF PANELS Precast Roof Panels
PLANTERS
8
Planters
3 3.
4.
Core UNIT Unit CORE
PRECAST WALL PANELS
6.6
PRECAST GUTTERS PrecastCONCRETE Concrete Gutters
7.
DECKING, R
9 9.
PV PANELS, FURNITURE, ETC
PV Panels, Furniture, ETC.
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Core Unit
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