MARY WIN MCCARTHY
Undergraduate Portfolio Fall 2008-2013
Š 2013. All Rights Reserved.
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
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PUBLIC LIBRARY
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OFFICE SETTING
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PEDIATRIC HOSPITAL
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PASSIVE SOLAR GREENHOUSE
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DESIGN HABITAT
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MARY WIN MCCARTHY
PUBLIC LIBRARIES
M O N T G O M E RY, A L A B A M A
2012
This project focused on the renovation of two existing
The building is also conceived of as objects of program
libraries in Montgomery, Al with the same floor plan but very
that feed into a shared reading and work space. A
different site conditions. The goal was to create a prototype
movable storage unit in the meeting room and sliding
of elements that define the modern library and could be
doors in the computer room allow these spaces to
adapted to different locations to create site specific designs.
become part of the main library space or function as separate areas for classes or meetings when desired.
In order to promote the library as a relevant institution within
These easily adaptable features increase the efficiency
the community, this proposal provides adaptable spaces that
of the interior by adding variety and expanding the
create moments of privacy within a collaborative landscape.
library when meetings are not taking place without requiring an addition.
A second entrance on the side of the library, for example,
By diminishing the distinction of the interior and the
invites patrons to enter from several directions and collects
exterior between these articulated zones, spaces bleed
them in a long gallery that acts as prefunction space. A
into the landscape where additional outdoor reading
feature wall composed of layers of reflective glass defines
areas claim the entire landscape as part of the library.
one edge of this gallery. Skylights amplify the reflections
The dim palette in the computer room and meeting
on each glass layer and create an illusion that blurs the view
room creates a sense of thermal relief when contrasted
into the reading spaces, creating an ephemeral surface that
to the bright gallery and warm outdoors.
draws the public into the heart of the library.
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gallery circulation desk children’s area computer lab lounge book shelves quiet work space meeting room restrooms outdoor meeting space reading garden
E.L. Lowder Plan 6
cork floor tiles
perforated metal
wood slat ceiling
white oak floor
reflective glass
translucent textiles
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Rufus A. Lewis Site Plan 7
objects in a landscape The trees were selected and arranged so that the canopies act as an extension of the roof overhang. Therefore, interior spaces visually extend into the landscape, increasing the perceived area of the library.
Lowder Site Section
Lewis Site Section 8
honey locust trees
london plane trees
cedar elm trees
himalayan birch
schwedler maple
reflecting pools
The selection of trees was based on a variety of factors including crown shape and resulting dappled light, leaf scale and tone, seasonal changes, fragrance, and animal attraction, to name a few. Particular attention was given to changes in the color and glossiness of the leaves throughout the day and seasons, as well as the total mass of the form in relation to the architecture of the library. The goal was to give an ordered composition to the landscape that provided a variety of spaces to enjoy. Reflection pools carry the line of the gallery into the landscape. 9
E.L. LOWDER 10
RUFUS A. LEWIS
the gallery
Reorientation of the approach to the building allows for a long entry gallery that enhances the relevance and civicness of the library. The gallery collects visitors from three points of entrance and directs them to spaces in the library. It also enables surrounding spaces to be adapted by simply absorbing the prefunction space. In addition, it allows for the library to become a public community center after operating hours.
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ELEVATION
PLAN 1
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When the Movable Furniture is in its resting position against the Meeting room closet, the Meeting Room is open to the gallery.
For private meetings, the furniture can slide 4’6� into the hall to accommodate an exit door, while sliding partitions butt against the furniture to separate it from the gallery so that each can function simultaneously.
For larger meetings, the furniture can slide in opposite directions. This blocks off the gallery so that the Meeting Room can accept a portion of that space and accommodate an interior exit door into the gallery.
E.L. LOWDER 12
RUFUS A. LEWIS
movable furniture Movable furniture in the meeting room and computer room adapt the spaces by allowing them to function in a variety ways. The meeting room can be closed off with sliding doors for private meetings, can absorb a portion of the gallery by sliding over a piece of storage to block the axis, or it can simply be an open space that spills off of the edge of the gallery.
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Sketches explore the psychological and material effects of a lowered ceiling at the library edge. The lowered ceiling both acts as a light shelf and creates an intimate edge for patrons to read or work.
E.L. LOWDER 14
RUFUS A. LEWIS
structure + skylight
Heavy columns provide order and structure in an otherwise open space. Their length provides pockets of more intimate space that patrons can enjoy while still being engaged in the larger space of the library. The depth of the columns in chorus with linear skylights running between suggest subtle thresholds as you transition between spaces through a veil of natural light.
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Sketches resolving the multiplicity of function of columns and beams. Deep columns define space and create planes to gather around or sit along.
E.L. LOWDER 16
RUFUS A. LEWIS
glazing + light baffle Views outside are carefully designed to frame specific expanses of landscape that draw you through the library. The soffit of the overhang folds down to edit the view and capture light, acting as a baffle that impacts the light quality and resulting reflections. The baffles are effective in allowing natural light while blocking views to parking.
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Team:
MARY WIN MCCARTHY
Ashley Clark Will Gregory Mary Win McCarthy
a n e w o ff i c e s e t t i n g. . .
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
2012
Located on the edge of Chicago’s Printer’s Row (a 24-
OffSet provides a venue for these face-to-face
hour neighborhood with multi-modal transportation), the
meetings, promoting clear transfer of tacit knowledge
innovative re-use of a 30,000 sq. ft. historic building provides
and shared understanding through direct interaction1.
a collaborative workspace for creative entrepreneurs to
The result is greater productivity, creativity, and
develop and share ideas. The conference center assumes
synergy. Offset’s employee-centric approach allows
a nomadic work style and a diverse workforce, offering
patrons the freedom to choose how and where they
rentable collective spaces for both planned meetings and
meet within the office landscape. This control over the
serendipitous encounters. Because creative collaboration
environment builds trust by allowing patrons to take
is often spontaneous and chaotic1, a variety of informal
ownership of a space2. The constantly revolving cast
common areas encourages face-to-face employee
of conference activities creates a buzz that stimulates
interaction and supports a range of work styles. These
innovative ideas—enhancing productivity, efficiency,
face-to-face meetings are effective because they cultivate
and employee wellness.
an intimacy and trust that virtual meetings lack, allowing for nonverbal communication to enrich collaborative imagining2.
1 G. Lynne Snead and Joyce Wycoff, “Simulating Innovation with Collaborative Rooms,” Innovation Network, <http://thinksmart.com/articles/collaboration_rooms.html> (accessed October 2008). 2 F.W. Nickols, “The knowledge in knowledge management,” in Cortado, J.W. & Woods, J.A. (Eds) The knowledge management yearbook 2000-200, pp. 12-21 (Boston, MA: ButterworthHeinemann, 2000).
1 John Hindmarsh and Christian Heath, “Sharing the Tools of the Trade,” Journal of Contemporary Ethnography, October 2000, p. 529. 2 Don Goeman and Ricky Duggy, “The New Office Landscape,” SEE magazine, Hermal Miller, Fall 2004, p. 16.
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This proposal is offset at the scale of the city, the building, the occupant, and the material. Not only is the site offset from the loop of downtown Chicago, but the building also turns away from the activity of Printer’s Row to face the adjacent train station. This orientation creates a rare interior in the heart of a bustling Printer’s Row. The conference center becomes a vital thread between two veins of downtown, enhancing urban interactions and productive thought.
The advantage of being offset is both global and local. OffSet capitalizes on its adjacency to the financial center of the Loop while participating in the flavor of Printer’s Row. It values the past and embodies an offbeat atmosphere, appealing to a range of generations.
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Printer’s Row south of the Loop
701 S. LaSalle Street
The main idea for OffSet is to activate and expand the small floor plates of the existing building by creating glimpses into pools of space that pull patrons through the building, allowing them to continually experience and rediscover spaces. The formal strategy of OffSet heightens discovery, encouraging the flow of knowledge through an unexpected environment1. To achieve this, walls are strategically misaligned (and offset) to create an intriguing series of sequences threaded together by the partial views. This ensures that the building always feels active and encourages shared energy. Several punctures through the skin of the existing shell create skylights adjacent to windows to vertically connect meeting spaces and bring in additional natural light. The program is organized with office space on levels 1-2 and 6-7, taking advantage of storefront property at the bottom and views to the Sears/Willis Tower at the top. The Conference Center occupies the middle three floors to promote interaction and collaboration among the diverse patrons. Plans are designed for flexibility by overlapping programmatic elements and employing a variety of movable furniture and curtains that give employees greater control over spatial configuration and visual privacy2. This lean conference solution results in a fluid workplace that maximizes space and economic savings by ensuring that each area is active during office hours and afterwards.
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Herman Miller, Inc., and Gensler, “When Groups Work,” internal report, 2008. Herman Miller, Inc., and Gensler, “Why and How We Meet,” internal report.
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The one story garage to the East of the building (also for sale) serves as both parking for the facility and a venue for occasional parties. Often, the best ideas arise from casual gatherings outside of the structure of the typical workday.
Sketches explore the interaction between the second floor and the lobby. Glimpses of the activity throughout the building begin upon entry.
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LEVEL 1
The double-height lobby provides views to activity on the second floor and the elevator lobby beyond a tall accent wall composed of vertical tiles.
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Sketches and diagrams explore the possibilities of offsetting spaces to heighten interest within the office.
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While OffSet acknowledges and promotes the value of virtual meetings, it assumes that face-to-face collaboration will still have an important place in the work style of the future. It boldly claims that certain critical aspects of teamwork rely on personal interactions, and its conference center provides the ideal setting to facilitate these meetings.
Semi-enclosed meeting spaces offer the option of more enclosure and privacy through curtains and movable furniture. Views into adjacent spaces ensure the conference center always feels active.
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The material palette reinforces the brand, demographics, and multifunctionality of OffSet. The materials are refined to appeal to a broad spectrum of uses, materials control the acoustic and thermal qualities of the spaces to allow for a variety of meetings.
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variegated ceramic tile
white-washed brick
concrete
recycled douglas fir
operable textile systems
Reflective glazed ceramic tile is used carefully on offset walls to both expand spaces and heighten the movement and activity of meeting spaces. The interactive sheen contributes to the synergy that defines OffSet.
The existing brick walls are whitewashed with mortar base. The technique acknowledges the history of the existing building while updating the space to disperse natural lighting deep within the floor plate.
Existing concrete floors will be polished to discretely reflect the movement of occupants throughout the building. The sheen of the concrete floors contrasts the board-formed concrete wall at the center of the sequential stair.
The portion of the existing structure that must be removed is to be used as lecture hall seating. The wood helps to control acoustics in the large central space.
Layers of textiles with varying transparencies allow user control of flexible spaces. Not only can the curtains adapt the size and shape of meeting spaces, but the layers allow for additional control of visual and acoustic privacy.
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L1.
L2.
L3.
Openings in the floors create visual connections that facilitate serendipity and chance encounters. While quiet working environments provide privacy, more active areas of the building share energy among floors and promote collaboration.
TRANSVERSE SECTION 28
L4.
L5.
L6.
L7.
office space
conference setting
office space
The visual and physical sequences are independent, as the path oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye takes may be very different from the physical path the body takes. This separation also increases opportunities for chance encounters and raises awareness of conference activities throughout the building. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never a dull moment in OffSet.
L7.
leased office space
L6.
leased office space
L5.
business center and OffSet offices
L4.
lecture hall, boardroom, meeting space
L3.
lecture hall, meeting room, multipurpose space
L2.
leased office space
L1.
lobby and office share
LONGITUDINAL SECTION 29
Office
Setting
Through the use of position detecting access cards, the building maintains comfortable temperatures to foster active creativity in busy morning workspaces.
As employees choose more social atmospheres for mid-day lunch breaks, this technology minimizes energy consumption in uninhabited work spaces.
When the building is used for evening events, thermally active surfaces detect activity and respond to create a comfortable yet varied atmosphere for stationary occupants in crowded spaces.
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Aware that effective creativity requires the ability to move to a variety of environments, OffSet proposes that several thermally active surfaces work to remove heat from spaces as necessary based on the amount of people occupying each space. This system lowers energy costs as the buildings is never working to remove heat from spaces that are unoccupied. In addition, thermal furniture saves energy expenditures as it controls body heat at the scale of the chair. When desk chairs are occupied, the furniture works to regulate body temperatures, reducing the need to condition the building on a large scale. This creates a variety of micro-climates so that each employee can work under conditions that are most suitable to their needs.
Access cards are a simple means to regulating the energy consumption throughout the building.
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The OffSet proposal represents a prototype that can be implemented in a variety of buildings in any city. OffSet assumes the future embraces the value of existing buildings and champions the workplace as a shared space that promotes collaboration facilitated by smart technology. OffSet productively interferes with rigid schedules and protocols and promotes creative endeavors through after-work gatherings at neighborhood hot spots. It acknowledges the rise in the number of employees who work remotely, taking advantage of the personal freedom of innovative technology but craving the effectiveness of face-to-face interaction and teamwork.
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MARY WIN MCCARTHY
P E D I AT R I C H O S P I TA L
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
2012
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Imagination extends the realm of the moving body...eyes bring the body along paths it can surmise but not achieve.â&#x20AC;?1 The hospital proposal relies on layers of transparent public
In the nursing units, changes in ceiling height denote
spaces to disintegrate the perceived boundary of the
zones, while generous hallways become social spaces.
hospital and allow patients to visually extend beyond the
Within each patient room, the bathroom and nursing
confines of their condition. Rooms are carved out of the
area act as a buffer from the activity in the flexible
patient floors to create layers public spaces that overlap a
hallway and public spaces, while the zone between the
central atrium. These resulting layers of transparencies and
two skins acts as a buffer between the bedroom and
reflections obscure visual depth, creating an ambiguous
the street below.
edge. A gradated louvered skin wraps the carved hospital, allowing for privacy and adding an additional layer of ambiguity.
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Kent C. Bloomer and Charles Moore, Body, Memory, and Architecture, p. 91.
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FORMAL PROCESS
initial box
An atrium encourages community by providing a space for families to interact and escape the confines of the patient room. It also creates a sense of discovery as children are able to see glimpses into gathering spaces on different floors.
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dent for views
float for pedestrians
carve public space
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The scale and form of the hospital respond to the site, creating a dialogue between public spaces and the surrounding context.
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Overlapping transparent public spaces impact perception of boundary and reduce the sense of confinement.
Opposite: The gradient of vertical louvers along the western facade provides both privacy and shading.
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Views from the city peak out, rather than be immediately revealed, to create interest within the order of the patient units. The play between visual and physical connections instigates movements between floors.
Louvered screens and walls provide moments of privacy as well as handrails and seating along the public atrium.
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3rd Year Class, Spring 2012
PA S S I V E S O L A R G R E E N H O U S E
MARY WIN MCCARTHY
Davis Campbell Michael Jones Mary Win McCarthy John McDaniel James Miller Anna Powers Cameron Weldy Alex Wilson Sarah Wright
NEWBERN, ALABAMA
2011
The Rural Studio greenhouse relies solely on the sun, wind,
North and South operable windows as well as large
earth, and water to sustain it. The main design concept of
doors on the East and West provide natural ventilation
the greenhouse is to contrast massive structural walls with
during summer months. The roof collects storm water
a light floating roof. The structural walls, which also act as a
into a long trough along the front of the greenhouse.
thermal wall, are made up of staggered 55 gallon barrels and
The water is used to water plants in the greenhouse.
will be filled with water and gravel to store heat and insulate
The soil that is excavated for construction will be
the space. The roof and envelope are made of glass panels
used to create a berm along the north wall of the
which create a beautiful, transparent mosaic floating over
greenhouse, which will provide further insulation as
the sculptural barrels.
well as protect from north wind.
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Thermal mass created by steel barrel configuration.
Insulation and Northern wind protection is provided by an earthen berm on front and back facades.
Rainwater collection contributes to passive cooling.
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DECEMBER 21
JUNE 21
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NOON:
NOON:
80 째
33째
Operable windows and doors allow for ventilation and passive cooling during the heat of the Summer.
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The dogtrot provides a space for gathering during winter months.
Although the dogtrot draws cool air into the greenhouse during hot Summer months, it also provides an efficient circulation path that accepts both people working and necessary vehicles. It is also ideal for covered gatherings.
The passive, solar greenhouse is most necessary during cold winter months when crops planted outside are likely to freeze. In addition to increasing farming productivity and efficiency, raised beds also extend the gardening season as they provide a warmer growing environment than the ground..
Raised beds allow for more efficient gardening. 48
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The berm provides insulation and northern wind protection. Stacked tires filled with tire aggregate are layered with clay, soil, and low ground covering. Water-filled barrels inside the greenhouse absorb heat during the day and release it at night to maintain a constant temperature for optimal plant growth.
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Barrels through the berm provide both structural tiebacks as well as steps up the slope to access northern clerestory windows. A trough running along the southern edge of the greenhouse collects rainwater runoff from the roof. Stored water cools air as it passes over the trough into the greenhouse, moderating Summer temperatures.
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Team
MARY WIN MCCARTHY
Ashley Clark Mary Win McCarthy Peter McInish
D E S I G N H A B I TAT
AUBURN, ALABAMA
2012
Located in Auburn, Alabama, the Galley House adapts the
The house sits on a series of masonry piers and
local vernacular into a sociable and flexible mode of living.
plumbing shafts in an effort to minimize root and runoff
Oriented East-West, the house is placed with multiple
disturbance. The characteristic metal roof is angled to
porches close to the streetâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;prompting interaction while
accept photovoltaic arrays as that technology becomes
creating a generous backyard. By way of a ramp, one enters
more affordable. The houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior vinyl rainscreen
the house through the depth of the private spaces into a
not only modulates environmental impacts to the
tall, open living room. In pleasant weather, windows and
skin, but also shades window openings, conceals
doors align across the entire house to encourage cross-
gutters and downspouts, and enhances the lifespan of
ventilation. In any other case, the house is a tightly insulated
the material. This provides a maintenance-minimized
volume with structural insulated wall, floor, and roof panels
solution that is echoed with drought-tolerant plantings,
(SIPS). The repeating dimensions of these components and
pervious paving, and durable finishes. The Galley
the generous ceiling heights anticipate modification. The
House is designed to grow with its occupants, wearing
addition of a fourth bedroom or widening of the living area
gently over time and accepting its place in the warm
can accommodate changes in family dynamics with relative
and humid climate of Alabama.
ease. Outside, this flexibility occurs on a variety of levels. By allowing for several possible front entrances, the house accommodates many orientations and can be reinterpreted to fit an array of sites.
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SITE PLAN and FLOOR PLAN
Tall ceilings in the public zone of the home increase the perceived size of the space and provide additional natural lighting from above. More intimate ceiling heights in the bedrooms and bathrooms allow for mechanical and plumbing.
TRANSVERSE SECTION
The house provides multiple options for street elevations, and its flexible plan can grow or change with the needs of its occupants.
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Despite the preferred East-West orientation of the house, the addition of a vinyl rainscreen thickens the facade to shade the apertures. Therefore, flipping or mirroring the plan to suit a particular site results in the same solar performance. In the height of the summer, the Argon-filled Vinyl windows (EnergyStar rated) are almost completely shielded from direct radiation.
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NOON:
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JUNE 21
NOON:
81 째
galvanized metal roof Galvanized roofing speaks to the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vernacular while providing a long-lasting, corrosion resistant solution. The reflectance of the material lessens heat gain.
vinyl clapboard rainscreen The vinylâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smooth texture discourages the growth of mildew and mold and minimizes maintenance while the untreated white color provides albedo to resist solar gain.
pressure treated pine
grasses and wildflowers
tumbled gravel
Grown, milled, treated, and sold in the state of Alabama, pressure treated pine offers economically feasible long-term weather and termite resistance.
Aristida stricta and other drought-tolerant native plants minimize watering and provide hedges and other sculptural ways of framing the property.
Standard and locally-available gravel substrates easily suffice as a pervious driveway and parking pad, lending both visual interest and aural delight.
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the rainscreen In a humid climate like that of Auburn, rainscreens help dry wall assemblies by wicking away moisture through a pressurized airspace behind the sheathing. This also reduces the likelihood of water leaking into the building envelope, while partially shading and ventilating the inside surface, dissipating any potential solar gain.
weather barrier aluminum flashing vinyl gutter and downspouts yellawood
TM
pressure treated pine
airspace (3.5”) Azek
TM
with leafguard
2x4s
with insect barriers (top and bottom)
vinyl sheet (3/8”)
ripped to 4” strips
300 gallon cistern
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galvanized metal roof The reflective, rust-resistant metal roof is 40-year rated and is pitched to accommodate south-facing photovoltaics if desired.
structural insulated panels (sips) Prefabricated SIP panels comprise the roof, floor, and exterior walls— forming a tight, well-insulated volume. (R value of 6.5” panels = 23)
interior walls + cabinets
expansion $15000 The cost of materials and installation of a future additional bedroom was included in the house’s starting budget.
sweat equity
In keeping with Habitat for Humanity’s mission of empowerment and responsibility, the stick-built interior walls and exterior rainscreen provide opportunities for volunteer labor or the homeowner’s “sweat equity” obligation.
windows and doors Argon filled double-hung windows have Energy-Star rated performance criteria and can be used to crossventilate the house or circulate air within a single room.
porches and landscape The porches are not only covered entrances, but also serve as social outlets to the street and neighboring houses.
vinyl rainscreen A vinyl clapboard rainscreen provides a vernacular-inspired alternative to current modes of vinyl sheathing, which, while durable, typically necessitate constant maintenance in Auburn’s humid climate.
pier foundations CMU piers and plumbing shafts are more affordable than site-cast piles and still lower the amount of excavation and overall site disturbance.
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MARY WIN MCCARTHY 504 Hayfield Circle Mobile, Al 36608 mwm0007@auburn.edu 251.709.4493
REFERENCES
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Mick Doyle, FAIA Acheson Doyle Architects mdoyle@adparchitects.com 971.374.0039
Magdalena Garmaz Associate Professor, Auburn University garmama@auburn.edu 334.844.5427
EDUCATION
Auburn University Honors College_ expected date of graduation: May 2013 GPA: 3.8/4.0 Bachelor of Architecture | Bachelor of Interior Architecture ACT: 32 National Merit Commended Scholar
ACADEMICS + HONORS
2012
2012 2011 2010 2010 Summer 2010
EXPERIENCE
Summer 2011
2011
EXTRACURRICULAR
Auburn University Founders Scholarship Recipient Auburn University Dean’s List Delta Epsilon Iota Honor Society- Member Tau Sigma Delta Design Honor Society- Member Regional Scholarship Recipient- Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete Achievement Teaching Assistant- ARCH 1000: Careers in Design and Construction National Winner, ACSA and Habitat for Humanity’s “Sustainable Home Design Competition” Best Use of Vinyl Innovation *sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and The Vinyl Institute Architectural History Writing Award 1st Place- Historical Architecture Watercolor Competition Architectural Merit Scholarship Recipient- AIA Mobile, Alabama Finalist, Honorable Mention- Annual Alabama Forestry Wood Competition
Universidad de Salamanca_ Salamanca, Spain
Acheson Doyle Partners Architects_ New York, New York
Produced construction documents, project renderings, and marketing material; participated in on-site meetings with clients and contractors; conducted furniture and material research and selection.
Rural Studio_ Newbern, Alabama Rural Studio Farm_ Masterplan + Greenhouse, Advisory Board Experimented with passive design strategies, building materials, energy, and innovations in the production of food to promote sustainability and improve the quality of life in rural Alabama.
American Institute of Architecture Students, Auburn Chapter- Secretary Emerging Green Builders, Auburn Chapter Chi Omega- Pledge Board, Recruitment Assistant, Bible Study Leader Campus Crusade
SKILLS
Computer- AutoCad, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Suite, Climate Consultant, Ecotect Hand- Drafting, Sketching, Model Building, Watercoloring, Welding Language- competent in reading and writing Spanish
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