PORTFOLIO WESLEY O’BRIEN 2011 - 2015
SELECTED WORKS
2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
grad undergrad
thesis : meditative gardens
project : npr headquarters redesign : u of i research center project : moscow public library masterplan : recreation center
icma competition : fire station no. 5
project : portland cohousing
index INTENT + RESUME PORTLAND COHOUSING FIRE STATION NO.5 RECREATION CENTER MOSCOW PUBLIC LIBRARY U OF I RESEARCH CENTER NPR HEADQUARTERS MEDITATIVE GARDENS
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WESLEY AARON O’BRIEN phone: 208.589.2294 email: wesley.aaron.obrien@gmail.com linkedin: linkedin.com/in/wesleyaaronobrien issuu: issuu.com/wesley.aaron.obrien
EDUCATION UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO
Master of Architecture (institution GPA 4.00) Bachelor of Architecture (magna cum laude)
BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY Emphasis: Pre-Architecture
IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY
Emphasis: General studies and Sociology
moscow, idaho
2011 - 2015 boise, idaho
2009 - 2010 pocatello, idaho
2001 - 2006
EMPLOYMENT LOWE’S HOME IMPROVEMENT
Commercial Sales Associate responsibilities: developed strong relationships with businesses/contractors while assisting them in the bidding and procurement of materials.
FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER
Aid Supervisor responsibilities: provided training and direction for aid staff to ensure the needs of social workers and programs were being met. PERSONAL STATEMENT OF INTENT Recently graduated from the University of Idaho with a Master of Architecture, I am excitedly looking forward to opportunities in the field that allow me to pursue my life-long passion. Highly motivated and task driven, I have always dedicated myself to my work by ensuring that I give my entirety to the process. I believe every project is an opportunity to showcase acquired expertise and every design that follows an ability to demonstrate mastery. In this humbled approach, I am always excited to find ways to improve my personal and technical skills. With that, I eagerly await the possibilities that come from a career in architectural design.
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CARDON’S
Service Advisor/Lot Manager responsibilities: oversaw the operations of a detailing staff ensuring quality was upheld and customer satisfaction was maintained.
boise, idaho
2007 - 2011 208.855.5160
idaho falls, idaho
2003 - 2006 208.552.1222
idaho falls, idaho
2000 - 2002 208.529.9056
REFERENCES ANNE MARSHALL
annem@uidaho.edu
BRUCE HAGLUND
bhaglund@uidaho.edu
Professor of Architectural Design - University of Idaho Professor of Architectural and Interior Design - University of Idaho
XIAO HU
Professor of Architectural and Urban Design - University of Idaho
208.885.2891 208.885.5740
xiaoh@uidaho.edu 208.885.6850
CURRICULUM (TA) REVIT: ADVANCED TECHNIQUES
Bolster knowledge in Revit by assisting instructor in course material delivery and helping students with software related strategies.
SKILLS 2012
BUILDING PERFORMANCE FOR INTEGRATED DESIGN
2013
LEED V4 EXAM PREPARATION
2015
Gain firm comprehension in the use of energy performance simulation software from which to evaluate and incorporate effective designs. Establish an overview of the core concepts and qualifiers found in LEED v4 in preparation for future Green Associate accreditation.
BUILDING PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Reinforce strategies in evaluating building energy performance by utilizing real-world metrics and simulated results to test for potential issues.
2014 - 2015
AWARDS + HONORS MAGNA CUM LAUDE
graduated in the top 6% in the college of art & architecture
2013 2011 - 2013
PHI KAPPA PHI
2012 - 2015
TAU SIGMA DELTA
2013 - 2014
honor society for academic excellence honor society in architecture and allied arts
2012
IFPC BEST USE OF WOOD COMPETITION
2013
ARCC/KING STUDENT MEDAL
2015
third place in student design competition for use with idaho wood products thesis nominated for excellence in architectural + environmental design
drafting sketching simulation surveying photography computer
PERSONAL
ICMA STUDENT DESIGN COMPETITION
honorable mention for the use of concrete masonry materials in design
photoshop illustrator indesign after effects autocad revit 3ds max v-ray sketchup rhino 5 lumion 5 openstudio
TECHNICAL
UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO DEAN’S LIST
recognized for undergrad institutional GPA of 3.91
SOFTWARE
communication innovation motivation work ethic collaboration leadership
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PORTLAND COHOUSING type: multi-dwelling residential emphasis: community + sustainability location: portland, oregon completion: 10.03.2011 - 12.07.2011 medium: revit, 3ds max, photoshop
Situated on an infill site close to downtown Portland, Oregon, this project was an exploration into designing for an urban cohousing community. There was a great focus on ensuring that while the layout was compact enough to accommodate a larger number of units, the suburban cohouse luxuries such as a large yard and gardening area was preserved. Inherent in the cohousing philosophy, is the provision of shared facilities which promote a strong community interaction between the residents. This is fulfilled through an easily accessible common house where the majority of the community living takes place through the provided spaces. Borrowing on the principle of interaction, the circulation flow was designed so that “gathering nodes� were provided where community mingling was promoted. Energy efficiency and sustainability was also an important aspect to the design, met with the inclusion of photovoltaic panels, community rooftop garden, passive cooling elements and radiant concrete floor heating. Other considerations like a strong street presence and a water feature that extends itself to the sidewalk were important to capture the cohousing community’s link with the community.
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GATHERING NODES
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Areas are designated off primary circulation paths that foster impromptu conversations and interaction between the residents.
C D
LINKED WITH COMMUNITY A pedestrian friendly facade and inviting water feature helps strengthen the cohousing vision of being connected with the community.
CENTRAL COMMUNAL HUB The common-house serves as an extension of the resident’s home where a wide range of activities for the cohousing community takes place.
A B INTIMATE COURTYARD SETTING A large and accommodating yard from which the homes open on to provides an intimate setting for the C residents in an otherwise dense urban environment.
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NORTH ELEVATION
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Each unit opens onto the community courtyard which features a large patio, fire pit with built in seating, children’s play area, community garden, and circulating pond. This intimate outdoor space provides a setting for various cohousing community activities that helps strengthen the feeling of “togetherness� which is integral to the cohousing ecosystem.
There is a choice of living arrangements from a single studio apartment to a three bedroom family unit, each with an accommodating living space. Every unit is filled with natural lighting enabled by flanking windows on either side, giving the living space a large and airy feel.
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parking garage storage units fountain outdoor fireplace gardens
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playground outdoor patio common laundry media room craft center
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community kitchen great room community dining breakfast nook rooftop gardens (not shown)
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LEVEL 2
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FIRE STATION NO.5 type: firehouse emphasis: cmu construction + structure location: boise, idaho completion: 03.19.2012 - 04.30.2012 medium: revit, photoshop, illustrator
Designed for the 2012 Idaho Concrete Masonry Association (ICMA) Competition, this project encouraged the exploration of masonry products and their uses for application in a proposed Fire Station located in Boise, Idaho. A great deal of effort was put forth to understand CMU construction techniques and ensure the design creatively expressed the many benefits inherent in the products. Due to the location of the site between one way streets on all sides, the form of the building was primarily dictated by maximizing sight lines in the need of exiting against the flow of traffic in a response to an emergency. A pull-through apparatus bay further increased the ease of use of the site and allowed the living/work quarters to sit prominently toward the length-wise direction of the site. Administration and public space were kept on the ground level for convenience while fire fighter staff areas are given privacy on the second story to ensure that living conditions are home-like as possible. It was critical that the layout accommodated user needs in an efficient manner, with a single hallway running the length of the building and space organization based off of related programs. The identity as a fire station was an important consideration as well, captured by the prominence of red features and the training tower put on display at the end of the site for the public to spectate.
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A B DESIGN CMU ORIENTED The design aims to showcase the aesthetic beauty that can be found in the variety of CMU products as well as emphasizing the efficiencies CMU construction offers.
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VISUAL IDENTITY With its sweeping form and various firetruck-red exterior elements, the character of the facility helps to identify the building’s function.
TRAINING AS A SPECTACLE The training tower is accentuated at the corner of the site as to provide a spectacle element to the public during training exercises.
A DEPARTURE B EASE OF
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The layout of the project aims to provide an efficient solution to the challenge C of oneway streets that lay on either end of the site.
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EAST ELEVATION
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Various design decisions on the exterior try to accentuate the energy of the fire station such as the training tower prominently placed at the end of the building that showcases training exercises, fully glazed stairwells at the corners that highlight movement, and the sweeping red lines across the facade which instill a sense of urgency.
The ground floor was designed to be welcoming to the public with a short partition allowing the staff to easily greet anyone who visits and a sitting lobby for any visitors who wish to stay for an extended period of time. Additionally, there is easy access to the drop-in lounge, fire staff offices, and training room for public activities.
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mechanical machine shop hose storage flammable storage apparatus bay
gear cage training tower a/v room training room conference room
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sliding pole air room turnout prep office dispatch/debrief
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drop-in room storage support staff lobby quiet room/overflow
dormitory fitness center laundry day room rooftop garden
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LEVEL 2
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RECREATION CENTER type: fitness facility emphasis: master planning + community location: sandpoint, idaho completion: 10.29.2012 - 12.07.2012 medium: revit, rhino, 3ds max, photoshop
Following up on an earlier proposed Sandpoint Master Plan presentation, this project aimed to implement a much sought after element to the Sandpoint area. Using the given community feedback as the basis for the design, the facility features a four hoop basketball court, four lane 25m lap pool, zero entry swimming pool, 40’ indoor climbing wall, fitness equipment, indoor running track, and two activity rooms. The gym features stow-away hoops, ample storage, and generous natural lighting, allowing the gym to serve as a desirable extension to city for community events. The layout was organized around a central corridor that serves as the primary circulation between the individual zones, making navigation simple and efficient. Additionally, a juice bar and café at the end of the corridor offers the users a place to recharge after exercises, enhancing their overall experience. The structure was designed with consideration to passive techniques such as: stack ventilation, solar orientation, region specific shading devices, thermal mass, and a double wythe CMU insulated wall. The building’s aesthetics were meant to match the local vernacular as well; using locally sourced wood and stone, a practical appearance is achieved that pays respect to the lodge style of the community.
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ORGANIZED ACTIVITY ZONES An axis from which the activities branch out provides a central shared-core to efficiently service the surrounding zones.
SHOWCASED ACTIVITY Large windows highlight the activities within the building as well as providing an abundance of natural light and outward views.
MINDFUL VERNACULAR The aesthetics of the building was designed to be practical yet respectful to the local vernacular through the use of locally acquired materials.
industrial fabrication library fitness center
U of I campus retail plaza multifamily microhousing
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MASTER PLAN INTEGRATION
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Using feedback from an earlier master plan presentation, the project’s program was a direct response to community requests and wishes.
WEST ELEVATION
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Upon entering the building, the user is greeted by a reception desk and a stunning view to the 40’ indoor rock climbing wall. With the building’s high vaulted ceilings and nearly floor to ceiling windows, the interior has an ample amount of natural daylighting which helps to energize the atmosphere.
Tall windows line the upper and lower hallways allowing the recreation center visitors to watch any action on the courts as they go between their activities or prepare to run along the elevated running track. Windows around the perimeter provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain lines as well as bringing in desirable natural light.
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four hoop court event storage mechanical ball checkout foyer
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reception climbing staff climbing wall women’s locker men’s locker
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juice bar cafe administration pool mechanical zero entry pool
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25m pool running track equipment storage fitness studio fitness area
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LEVEL 2
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MOSCOW PUBLIC LIBRARY type: library remodel/addition emphasis: preservation + community location: moscow, idaho completion: 01.14.2013 - 04.29.2013 medium: revit, 3ds max, photoshop
With a steadily increasing population since the last expansion built in 1983, the Moscow Public Library has begun to outgrow its space as public demand has increased. This project called for an expansion to ensure that the library was able to satisfy the growing needs and guarantee that its future remained viable in an age of digital media. Additional programming considerations were integrated to help “future-proof� its position as a critical component to the community with the inclusion of meeting rooms, teen area, an entire floor dedicated to the reading experience, study area, and others. This sought to make the library a desirable destination both as a place of learning and leisure. The aesthetic approach to the addition was an important consideration which had to work with the original 1906 Carnegie library. A contemporary minimalistic design was chosen which reinforces the library as a modern amenity without directly competing with the original mission style. This subdued opposition is to suggest the old tradition of a library is able to work with the new in terms of services and technology. With the large two-story windows on the front that looks onto the atrium with mezzanine, natural light is allowed to fill the space in a controlled manner while at the same time drawing in new users to experience the interior. An open floor plan further promotes natural light infiltration and promotes easy navigation between sections.
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CELEBRATED READING The reading experience is celebrated throughout the library with a variety of inviting areas that beckon the patron to sit down with a new book.
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COMMUNITY DESTINATION Emphasis was placed on inviting design strategies and additional programmed elements that promote the library as a desirable community destination.
FORESHADOWED EXPERIENCE A large light filled atrium with mezzanine pulls the patron to experience the upper reading floor upon entering the library.
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OPPOSED AESTHETICS The aesthetic response to the existing mission style library doesn’t aim to replicate but rather promote the idea of the old and the new working together.
WEST ELEVATION
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Upon entry into the library, the patron is immediately greeted by the circulation desk and presented with a large daylight filled atrium. Easy to read signs help guide the readers to find what they are after through the simply laid out linear rows of stacks. Furnished with modern elements and an energetic contrast of colors, the aesthetics of the space feel refreshingly modern.
The reading floor is the highlight of the library, providing a light washed floor with comfortable seating arranged in a manner to provide an intimate or interactive experience. Clusters of various seating sizes are able to cater to the meeting of book clubs, allow the casual engagement of two individuals, or simply provide a space for private reading.
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quick-access terminal library director children’s reading children’s library children’s librarian
book drop-off reading floor periodicals meeting room media
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electrical mechanical storage staging processing
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break-room branch access regional loading dock garage
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LEVEL 2
BASEMENT
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U of I RESEARCH CENTER type: campus science facility remodel emphasis: building performance + timber location: moscow, idaho completion: 09.18.2013 - 12.09.2013 medium: revit, open studio, illustrator, photoshop
Sponsored by the Idaho Forest Products Commission, this competition saw the reenvisioning of the proposed Research Center on the University of Idaho campus with the use of Idaho wood products. As such, a great deal of research into the architectural applications of forestry products was necessary to make informed design decisions. Using the preliminary design schematics, each building component was considered for a wood equivalent to help showcase the versatility of wood in architecture. In place of the proposed steel frame and decking, an exposed glulam structure coupled with cross laminated timbers (CLT) was chosen. This with a raised floor system allowed for utility integration that gives a clean look while preserving the overall aesthetics of the wood. The exterior is characterized by a hybrid system composed of laminated pine panels mated with rigid insulation, providing a durable and aesthetically appealing faรงade. Horizontal cedar slats further enhance the exterior while mitigating unwanted solar heat gain in the summer. In addition to the emphasis on wood, other sustainable systems were integrated such as a large photovoltaic array, water catchment system, passive cooling elements, and the use of energy efficient equipment. A comprehensive energy simulation was then conducted to compare the proposal against the original design, showing an estimated 30% energy reduction and fully sustainable nonpotable water system.
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WOOD INNOVATIONS The project was driven to showcase innovative uses of wood and wood products as well as highlight the natural beauty that it possess.
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IDAHO FORESTRY PRODUCTS Great effort was put forth to use Idaho forestry products, demonstrating the wide availability of locally sequestered resources and their uses.
STRUCTURAL AESTHETICS The original hidden steel structure was substituted for equivalent glulam members which was left exposed for its inherent architectural beauty.
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY Energy performance modeling was used to ensure that the building would minimize its energy usage through passive design strategies and sustainable systems.
SOUTH ELEVATION
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Wo o d w a s u s e d w h e r e v e r possible to relieve the institutional-like feel found in many lab spaces, bringing a warm tone to an otherwise cold atmosphere. All working surfaces were specified to meet lab standards on durability and resilience while still being constructed from wood through the use of epoxy resin laminates.
Furnishings used for the student research zones feature low partitions that grant privacy while still allowing for collaboration between cubicles. The decision for work stations versus floor to ceiling offices also allows cleaner sight lines and daylight to penetrate deeply into the building.
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LEVEL 3
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NPR HEADQUARTERS type: office/broadcast building emphasis: public access + representation location: washington, dc completion: 04.14.2014 - 05.12.2014 medium: revit, photoshop
Located on the grand Massachusetts Avenue in downtown Washington, DC, this project is situated on a dilapidated site across from the former National Public Radio (NPR) building. Sitting prominently on a corner, it was important that the building conveyed an identity that could be easily associated with radio. As such, a radio sine wave served as the primary mechanism that was imprinted on the glazing by varying the spaces between the mullions. This simple gesture provided a minimalistic approach while remaining respectful to the overall character of DC. The variation of the panels on the exterior also helps to reinforce the theme by alternating the directions and sizes, giving the impression of a wave moving along the edges. Being a public service, it was important that the building opened itself up to the street by offering ground floor access to a cafĂŠ, live audience studios, public conference rooms, and an interactive informative display. Hosting a variety of radio programs, the production floors were organized to allow for each team to have their own space while sharing communal activities toward the center. Each floor plan is open with noise isolated rooms on the edge to allow for a more collaborative environment as well as deeper natural light penetration. Finally, employees have access to a private third floor green roof courtyard as well as rooftop gardens which not only offers a place to relax but also stimulating views from inside.
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EXPRESSED RADIO WAVE The undulating sine wave is captured in many forms on the building: from the staggered mullions in the curtain wall to the wave-form ceiling in the cafe.
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OPEN FLOOR PLAN Large open layouts allow unobstructed views to the exterior providing an airy, light filled space conducive to a productive work atmosphere.
GREEN SPACE ACCESS A private third floor green roof courtyard and various green roof patios provide a place for the employees to recharge during the day.
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PUBLIC INTERACTION With a large cafe, radio exhibit, and live audience studios, the building provides activities for the public to engage in.
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The three story tall atrium sits prominently at the corner of the site, serving as a visually striking entry point to the building. The floor to ceiling windows entice the public to enter and enjoy the Soundbytes cafe, learn about the history of radio through the interactive exhibits in the light filled atrium, or partake in a guided tour through the various NPR news rooms.
The news floors were kept open with sound recording booths and conference rooms on the perimeter to promote a highly interactive environment. The full length windows provide a view to the green roof courtyard and allow an abundance of light to wash over the work stations.
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changing room fitness center reception leasable space outdoor performance sound-bytes cafe conference marketing research 30-minute room digital media library break room outdoor patio lobby npr labs
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LEVEL 3
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MEDITATIVE GARDENS type: urban park/civic space emphasis: mental rejuvination location: seattle, washington completion: 02.03.2015 - 05.14.2015 medium: revit, lumion, illustrator
Presented as a prototype for “regenerative design”, this master’s thesis project was an exploration into how a guided experience through specialized zones can more efficiently offer an atmosphere that mitigates the negative effects of stress. By following a “regenerative flow” based off of theories in psychology and landscape design, this urban park was laid out into different zones that are tailored to elicit particular responses. Each area aims to deliver a specialized atmosphere that correlates to its order in the site, encouraging the mental state of the user into achieving a regenerative experience. Located on the edge of Seattle’s business district, this project is in a prime position to offer a place of refuge to the city’s inhabitants. This is further aided by the convenience of access to the site via entrances to the city’s underground light-rail and bus system. Using the slopped topography of the site, three primary tiers are designed with varying levels of perceived energy through the use of: sight, sound, and movement. Nature serves as the primary catalyst throughout the project, evoking mental rejuvenation through the various uses of vegetation and water. While there are unique zones that focus on particular rejuvenating aspects, there are a great range of spaces designed to cater toward individual interests and needs. In addition to the programmed outdoor space, a public art gallery provides an auxiliary function that compliments the motives of the park. Appearing to have been extruded from site, the form allows for seamless rooftop access while allowing the user to reflect on their experience.
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THESIS STATEMENT By calculated considerations in the construction and arrangement of an urban space, the resultant experiential qualities of the built environment are able to influence the human emotional state in such a way that it can regenerate their state of mind and wellbeing in a highly efficient manner.
PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM
PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM PROBLEM
WHY IT MATTERS Stress, while mostly negative, has become increasingly commonplace in modern society with often higher levels found in larger cities. This correlation between city size and the resultant negative stimulation can be heavily attributed to the lack of access to quality outdoor space. Without the proper means to alleviate stress, the brain can become fatigued and as a result, a decrease in performance will incur. Long term effects can even result in stress-related illnesses such as burnout
syndrome, insomnia, depression, and others. It is critical then that the mind is able to achieve psychological homeostasis and ease of access to such resources that aid in mental rejuvenation are an important aspect to healthy living. The proposal then is to provide a space that alleviates stress while targeting the audience that needs it the most. With such a great value on urban space, it is critical then that the program is structured to provide the intended effect in the most efficient manner possible.
SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE
A AA AAAA AAA
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RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH
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A B AA BB AA BB AAAA AA BBBB BB
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39.
HOW IT WORKS Through the investigation of psychological theory and landscape design practices, a hybrid flow was developed that aimed to maximize the greatest return for mental rejuvenation. While the layout devised is prescriptive by nature, it in no way dictates an absolute path or a definitive experience. Rather, it suggests particular moods or modes of thought as one progresses through the various zones of the landscape. The primary organizing factor is one that aims to clear initial stresses with
PRIMARY MECHANISM simple distractions and progressively increase the levels of stimulus so that the user emerges feeling rejuvenated. Following this principle, a regenerative flow diagram was developed which would serve as the base for design and layout decisions. Within this strategy, two experiences are offered; one focusing on emerging energized and the other leaning towards relaxation. With the underlying structures in place, elements were chosen that support the intended atmosphere and order of each zone.
STRESS FLOW High Energy Environment
Mental Fatigue
Positive Stimulus
Increased Cognition
REGENERATION FLOW Frequent Stressful Forces
Directed Attention Fatigue
High Energy Environment
Soft Fascination
Involuntary Attention
Reengaged Cognition
Soft Fascination
High urban density residents predisposed to improper regulation of anterior cingulate cortex.
Allow the brain to engage effortlessly with the surrounding environment through “quiet contemplation.”
Involved in rational cognitive functions (decision making, impulse control, emotion)
Directed attention is barely called upon and the brain is allowed to reset overstretched resources (reduces mental fatigue)
Frequent Stressful Forces
Involuntary Attention
Constant negative stimulus results in higher activation in the amygdala.
Promote stimulus that draws interest but doesn’t require intense focus.
brain region that regulates emotions such as anxiety and fear, hair-trigger responses
There is less focus about motives, interests, and needs which allows “directed attention” time to recover
Directed Attention Fatigue
Reengaged Cognition
Compiling negative effects overwhelm the brain’s inhibitory attention mechanisms.
Increased stimulus which captivates the attention of the brain, promoting a heightened state of cognition function.
Results in the inability to stay calm, and focus (Easily distracted, forgetful and mentally flighty)
Engages attention which allows the individual to become more alert and energized .40
0
41.
5
10
20
50
REGENERATIVE FLOW regenerative flow natural - soft fascination 1 1 natural - soft fascination
1
natural - soft fascination
A
neutral - transition
2
serene - involuntary attention
A
neutral - transition
3
captive -Bincreased stimulus contemplative - provoking
A A
neutral - transition neutral - transition
2 2
serene - involuntary attention serene - involuntary attention
A A
neutral - transition neutral - transition
3 3
C
captive - increased stimulus captive - increased stimulus
B
contemplative - provoking
contemplative - provoking reflectance - echo experience B C C reflectance - echo experience
C
A
reflectance - echo experience
TARGET EXPERIENCE
target experience
enter
3
B
ENERGIZE ENERGIZE captive reflectance captive ENERGIZE reflectance
captive
serene
natural
natural natural enter enter
2
exit exit
reflectance
serene serene
1
contemplative exit contemplative contemplative
RELAX RELAX RELAX exit
exitexit
.42
ZONE 1 “SOFT FASCINATION”
A
OVERVIEW
B
C
The first stage of the park focuses on “soft fascination” which involves an effortless engagement in the surroundings so that the user’s attention is held while at the same time allowing scope for reflection. This is achieved by maintaining minimal stimuli and a heavy emphasis on natural elements.
INTENT Allow the user to forget their prior stresses and prime their experience without the previous mental pressures.
43.
A
B
C
ISOLATION VS INTERACTION There are a variety of conditions that the user can choose based on if they prefer isolation or interaction with others depending on their selection of seating and locations.
DENSE NATURAL ELEMENTS High density of natural elements within the environment promotes soft fascination which is integral to the first stages of mental rejuvenation.
POSITIVE INITIAL RESPONSE It is important that the initial impression of the space offers a positive affective response and transports the user into the full experience of the park.
A
1 1 1
A
2 2 2
A
3 3 3
USER SELECTED SPACE Sub-sections to the space allow for a catered experience, allowing the user to select what works best for them given their particular preference at the time.
.44
ZONE 2
“INVOLUNTARY ATTENTION”
A
B
OVERVIEW The second phase places emphasis on “involuntary attention” where the user’s focus is centered on particular stimulus which in return allows the area of the brain responsible for executing directed attention time to recover. This is done by elevating the stimulus and promoting interaction with the site.
INTENT Ensure the user is fully enveloped in their immediate experience so the brain is actively working on recovery.
45.
A
B
PATH FINDING The user is presented with a choice on how to progress through the space with each offering a slightly different experience throughout the zone.
WATERFALL FOCAL POINT The high energy of the falling water pulls the focus of the user and sets itself as the primary focal point of the space.
INTRIGUE AND INQUIRY Various elements in the space (water fall, pond, rocks, movement, etc.) draw the user’s attention and promote individual inquiry.
PEOPLE WATCHING The collection of tiered seating along the various pathways allows the subconscious activity of people watching which caters toward involuntary attention.
.46
ZONE 3 “REENGAGED COGNITION” OVERVIEW The final phase aims to promote “reengaged cognition” where the levels of stimulation have increased to the point where the brain is actively working and the user feels more invigorated. This zone places emphasis on social interaction and movement through the site via energized water features and access to the rooftop.
INTENT
A B C
Reactivates the user so that they feel mentally recharged and ready to tackle any prior challenges or burdens.
47.
HIGH ENERGY The atmosphere is charged with energy from the water fountains and the collaborative setting, promoting an energized state of mind.
A B C INFORMAL SEATING The seating arrangements are designed to be informal with no right or wrong way, allowing the user to use the space as seen fit.
THE CITY AS THE STAGE The user emerges from the “veil� of the park as they progress along the pathway to the roof, setting the city as the stage from which they may sit and observe.
ECHOED EXPERIENCE The roof serves as the final experience of the park, providing a point from which each zone and its resultant events can be reflected upon.
.48
TRANSITION
“NEUTRAL RECALIBRATION” OVERVIEW The transition between each zone serves as a “neutral recalibration” where the stimulus is minimal to allow the brain time to return to a state of equilibrium for the next experience. This is done by placing an emphasis on the movement through the space, allowing the individual time to recalibrate their perceptions and thoughts.
INTENT Cleans the palate between each phase and allows for each zone to operate more efficiently.
49.
B
NEUTRAL SPACE The minimal nature of the space serves as a neutral area from which the previous experience is subdued, allowing the next zone to have greater impact.
PREVIEWED EXPERIENCE The linear nature of the pathway between transitions allows the user to focus on what lies ahead, sparking curiosity and anticipation.
B DRAWN TO ALTERNATIVES The repetitive red archway has a sense of energy and inquisition which pulls the user to the entrance of the building, suggesting an additional experience.
A
B
UPWARD PROGRESSION Greatest visual indicator that there is a shift in topography and that each zone holds a sense of energy hierarchy over the previous.
.50
AUXILIARY “EXPERIENCE ENHANCEMENT” OVERVIEW The exhibit space offers an enhanced experience to the park where the emphasis is placed on further relaxation and deep contemplative thought. Engaging in the exhibit pieces will promote higher levels of cognitive performance and can work in a complimentary fashion to the rest of the user’s experience.
INTENT Offer a space that will enhance the overall experience of the park and provide additional avenues for mental rejuvenation.
A 51.
B
SUPPLEMENTAL EXPERIENCE The building’s program serves as a complimentary experience to the rest of the park, with a heavier emphasis on relaxation.
DEEP ANALYSIS The user has at their disposal seating arrangements from which they can engage in a heavier analysis of a particular work in a relaxed environment.
A A
B B
TAILORED EXPERIENCE The layout of the exhibit space provides the opportunity for different themed areas in which the users are able to focus in and elicit a tailored experience.
BUILDING AND CONTEXT Floor to ceiling windows allow the context of the park to be integral to the experience of the exhibit space allowing uninterrupted views outward.
.52
EAST SECTION
SOUTH WEST ELEVATION
53.
LEVEL 1
0
5
10
20
LEVEL 2 .54