In Thirds

Ritualistic Self Healing

Ritual can be perceived as a specific action, but it can also be perceived as a process. By using this narrative of ritual as process we created a structure that would embody this definition. Our process started with a massing study where we decided to carry over the catenary shape of our previous project. We then chose to integrate the triangle shape to compliment the archways, During our massing study we did not have a ritual set in stone, and therefore we carefully designed our massing study to allow for us to explore various branches of rituals. Due to this we created seven archways and three triangles as these numbers are historically referred to in various religious beliefs as the perfect number seven, and the symbolism of the Holy Trinity.

Our massing study created a passageway that we would use for our ritual. We chose a ritual of self healing, through the process of writing, reading, and reflecting. This built on our narrative of ritual as process. Our structure thus became a three-step process in self healing that used the triangular shape as a symbol of stability for those wishing to seek more stability within their own lives through our structure. By choosing our site at Ada Hayden Heritage Park in Ames, IA, we were able to position our structure at the top of the largest hill on site. This aided our narrative as the process of self healing went beyond the structure itself, but the journey to the structure as well.

Spring 2022_Arch 202

Architecture x Detail

Partner: Megan Sawyer

Professor: Ayodele Iyanalu

Embedded Inscape

Extended Realities to

Explore Landscape

If you were to visit the Waterworks Prairie Park in Iowa City, IA, you would be able to see the park for what it is. However, what if you could see the countless hidden features of the park, such as the water treatment facility, the out-of-view sludge lagoons, or the park as the quarry it once was. What if you could visualize proposed projects such as the MidAmerican Energy solar panel project that the people of Iowa City turned down. Embedded Inscape aims to achieve this by being an interactive learning center that utilizes extended realities to blur the boundaries between the digital and physical world to examine what was, what is, and what possibilities there are for the future. Integrations of digital environments within the natural landscape open up possibilities to connect and understand the site from new perspectives. By being transparent about the park’s history, present functions, and future possibilities, the people of Iowa City can be more aware of the park’s impact on the environment and urban establishment.

Fall 21_Arch 301

Architecture x Landscape

Partner: Nick Cheung

Professor: Anna Aversing

Started with a box mass of 20,000 square feet and a ceiling height of 24 feet.

Created a courtyard in the front of the mass while reducing overall foot print on the landscape.

Decreased cieling hieght to allow for second level green roof opportunity.

Split building in center in response to the curvature of the topography and created main entrance.

Rotated building to follow topography which allowed for more sunlight on SW facade.

Moved building into hill to allow for better views of the sludge lagoons.