Ben Wilde Designer | Craftsman
Studio Architecture
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Bryan Fitness Lab
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The Link
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Artemis Institute
Design- Build Fabrication
Architectural Objects
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Table of Contents
PS
Personal Statement
CV
Curriculum Vitae
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Filler-up Station
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Residence
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Park Folly
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Colorado Home
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Thailand Playground
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The Startup
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Spiral Table
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Hullabaloo Hall Furniture
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Woodworks
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Publications
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Extra Curricular
Table of Contents
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PS
Personal Statement
It’s safe to say that all applicants are using this degree as a means to an end. For me that end is not to become wealthy, have job security (which isn’t a problem), or become famous. The end for me is being in a position to serve others with an extraordinarily powerful skill set. When I think of the skill set an architect has: to think critically and creatively, to visualize space, and to organize and document the construction of a building or object, I see a way to impact entire communities. Following the completion of a masters program, I intend to enter the workforce and eventually start my own design-build firm. One of the major characteristics of my firm will be an outward acknowledgment and recognition of the responsibility that an architect has to society. When a doctor passes a severe car crash on the road, he doesn’t just drive by. He stops and uses his skills to help. Neither should architects neglect the problems in their communities. It is imperative that designers see their place in the world and do everything in their power to create a better future, ecologically and socially. I believe that the UTSOA can help me develop the specific skill set I seek because it is a service-minded school, has many opportunities for design-build, and uses and teaches technologies that will shape the future of the profession. Many of the projects in this portfolio were done outside of the studio. My passions and interests often were not in line with a particular course. Those times, I chose to pursue my interests outside of the classroom environment and take my learning into my own hands. These bold moves have been invaluable in shaping my education. As I move forward in becoming a professional, I intend to continue following my passions wherever they lead and to work with others of similar interests to make a difference in this world. Ben Wilde
Personal Statement
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Curriculum Vitae Ben Wilde
Education Texas A&M University Bachelor of Environmental Design May 2013 Graduate GPA: 4.0
Artemis Institute
Remote Studio Fall 2012 Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Awards Thomas S. Gathright Academic Excellence Award Awarded to the top performing Senior in the College of Architecture
Integrated Studio Best Project Bryan Fitness Lab
August A. Neuner Scholarship Billy Frank Gafford Scholarship J. Rodney Tabor Scholarship O’Neil Ford, FAIA Traveling Fellowship James E. Deininger Traveling Fellowship Awarded for the proposal: “The role of Architecture in Rebuilding Japan”
SkillsUSA National Champion Cabinetry and Millwork
Extra Curricular
International Experience
Employment
Skills
Architecture in Schools
Travels
Project Manager
Software
Taught architecture concepts weekly to local 4th graders. Each student designed a house and community building.
Thailand, Myanmar, Japan, Malaysia. Cambodia, Singapore, Italy, France, Germany
A-Team Design January 2013- August 2013
Digital Fabrication Instruction
Japan Research
Taught CNC basics and woodworking techniques to studio classes.
Traveled to Tokyo, Sendai, Ishinomaki, and Mito to research the effects and rebuilding methodology after 311 earthquake.
AutoCAD Revit Rhino Maya Maxwell Render Photoshop Illustrator InDesign
AIAS American Institute of Architecture Students Chapter, Texas A&M Branch Member
Stream and Summit Founded a nonprofit backpacking company. Trips included the Grand Canyon, AZ, Devils River, TX, and Chicago Basin, CO.
Student Worker
Thailand Missions Two six week mission trips to Thailand teaching English and working with kids. Also built “Thailand Playground�.
Architecture Ranch (Texas A&M Digital Fabrication Facility) January 2010- May 2013
Apprentice Art House Studio May 2007- August 2009
Analogue CNC Milling CNC Plasma Laser Cutting Woodworking Experience with: Concrete Framing Plumbing Electrical
Year in Thailand Currently residing in Chiang Mai, Thailand teaching English, working with orphans, and doing minor construction projects.
Curriculum Vitae
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01
BRYAN FITNESS LAB Year: 2012 Professor: Marcel Erminy Collaborated With: Sam Florance
Influencing Lifestyle The Fitness Lab is located in downtown Bryan, Texas. The area has received a face-lift over the past few years and is seeing more use than ever. The Lab creates much needed public space, but with a focus on physical activity and play. The site was sculpted to promote use by downtown visitors and Fitness Lab users.
Bryan Fitness Lab
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Program Enclosed Space
66%
Outdoor Spaces - Sloped Park - Playground - Pool - Running Track - Field - Basketball court
Catalyzing Fitness The site is located at the terminus of an urban downtown. The outdoor public spaces become as important as the enclosed spaces. The form of the site is driven by the idea that this location is the spot where downtown visitors usually turn around. The solution is a U shaped building creating a monumental end to downtown. There is a circulation path that allows pedestrians to turn around using the site, while also interacting with the outdoor public spaces. The public site serves as a catalyst for physical activity.
Design Process
Site Intersected by Road Site With a Street running throught
Sloped Park
Earth Displaced (shrink footprint by building up and down, Earth Removal for Courtyard and Basement not side to side)
Road
Relocated to Sloping Park Relocated to create the Burm
Sloping Park Influences Indoor Fitness Area Form Indoor Recreation Spaces
Sunken Courtyard
Running Track and Pedestrian Bridge Over the Road
Running Track & Bridge connect Burm and Indoor space
Building
Main Street
Bryan Fitness Lab
olumn
ance
The site lies on the last block before Main St. curves. It serves as an endpoint for downtown proper.
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Area (Sq. Ft.) Program Type
33,550 Sq. Ft.
10,260 Sq. Ft.
11,170 Sq. Ft.
Dry Fitness
Wet Fitness
Services
53%
16%
18%
- Gym - Weights - Rock Climbing - Racquetball - Multipurpose - Ping Pong
Section A
Section B
- Pool - Locker Rooms - Sauna - Restrooms - Aquatics - Offices Viewing - Storage Area - Mechanical
1980 Sq. Ft. Food
3%
6000 Sq. Ft. Retail
10%
- Cafe - Storefront - Smoothie - Pro Shop Shop
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Ground Floor Plan
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1. Sloped Park 2. Main Street 3. Cafe/ Retail
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4. Court (exterior) 5. Sunken Courtyard 6. Locker Rooms
7. Entry 8. Aquatics Viewing 9. Core of Services
Sports By Level Yoga Multipurpose Running Track (Exterior) Leisure Zone Outdoor Court
Weights Pool Rock Climbing Wall Court Sports
Bryan Fitness Lab
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Sunken Courtyard The main feature of the sunken courtyard is access to a public pool. The side of the building opens up via large roll-up doors. The doors can be opened on warmer days to allow open access and closed when the temperature drops. The courtyard also includes sand volleyball and a mini sport field.
Sunken Courtyard
Level -1 (Interior)
Ground Level
Level +1
Level +2
Floor Plate Diagram
Sloped Park The public outdoor spaces exist on different planes than the road. The goal for this configuration is safety and to generate new perspectives within the site. The raised end of the park terminates with a running track and pedestrian walkway that crosses the road, allowing access to the interior spaces.
Bryan Fitness Lab
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Roof Section
Bones Model
1. Extruded Aluminum Louvre 2. Louver Mounting system 3. Extruded aluminum channel system 4. Guardian Vacuum glass R-12 5. W12x90 wide flange 6. 1/2 inch bolt 7. Glass mounting system 8. Rubber channel for glass 9. Photo-voltaic panel 10. Rubber Seal 11. Riser plate 12. Special Beam (see exploded diagram) 9
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Roof Assembly Model
Special Beams Exploded Diagram
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Transparencies
Wall Section 1. Parapet 2. Window 3. Corner Turn-down 4. Cantilever Support 5. Floor to Wall Connection 6. Basement Wall Section 7. Pier Connection
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Transparency is reinforced in the skin of the building. The aim is to encourage exercise by putting it on an appealing stage. The operable extruded aluminum louver system reflects direct sunlight, but allows light and views in and out. The treatment is holistically applied to the form with varying angles in response to it’s orientation.
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Bryan Fitness Lab
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Structural and Mechanical Systems Overview
curtain wall structure
concrete shear wall/elevator shaft/ mechanical tower
special beams: 3’-4’ depth x-bracing
32’-0”
W16x26 under 3” metal decking 16’-0” concrete shear wall 12” standard truss: 3.5’ depth 0’-0”
25’x25’ structural grid
retaining walls
Pool Conditioning Methodology Large masses of water such as the pool in this project tend to create conditioning problems as the humidity and temperature of the water negatively affect the air quality of enclosed spaces. When considering this trend and our design goals, we opted to not condition the space with mechanical equipment. Instead, we used the large mass of water as a thermal equalizer, creating in it’s immediate vicinity a ‘bubble” which will be warmer or cooler than the outside air, depending on the season.
Supply
Return
Bryan Fitness Lab
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THE LINK Year: 2011 Professor: Craig Babe
Connecting Architecture The Link is a connection of three academic architecture buildings, each with it’s own type of user and function. The key issue this building addressed is how to effectively create static spaces that include major circulation paths. Architectural community is created around a gallery for both models and printed work, a review space, and a cafe. A user of The Link will interact with each of the elements on a stroll to and from each building. In addition to the enclosed space, a courtyard is created on the ground level. Using auditory and visual transparency, The Link is designed to encourage chance encounters and the discovery of new ideas.
Reference Library
New Ideas
Architecture
Food and Drinks
Transport
Landscape Architecture
Hang Out
Campus Views
Building A
Cafe
Critiques
Review Space
Walkway Tubes
Models
Auditorium
Woodshop Art
Gallery
Building B
Building C Architecture
Visualization
The Link
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Context
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
In preparation for this project, all three buildings were surveyed. Analog and digital 3D models were created and plans for each building were drafted. I was responsible for surveying building A, drafting the plan, creating the digital model, and compiling all the models into one coherent file.
Digital Model Langford A
Plans
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1. Gallery 2. Transport Tubes 3. Kitchen 4. Cafe
5. Review Space 6. Building A 7. Building B 8. Building C
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Chance Encounters Movement through The Link encourages chance encounters by creating open sight-lines into the main volumes. The parallel circulation paths exist on two separate levels, but cut through the same spaces providing unique vantages.
The Link
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C B A
Context Plan
Building C
The Link
Section B
Section A
Building A
The Link
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Courtyard
Cafe
Transportation Paths
Kitchen
Review Space
Floor Plate Diagram
Exploded Diagram
Building Form
S B
architecture
Designers: Ben Wilde & Sam Florance Location: Downtown Bryan, Texas Levels: 4 Enclosed Area: 65000 sqft Outdoor Public Area: Materials: Steel, Kalwall, Glass Structural System: Steel 25’,25’ column grid. External Shading System: Aluminum louvres Indoor Program: Gym, 25 m pool, Weight training space, eleptical space, yoga/ mulitpurpose rooms, Community space. Cafe, Retail space Outdoor Program: Track, Basketball court, Volleyball Court, Pool, Soccer Field, Green Park, Green Building Stratagies: PV array, Rainwater Collection, Daylighting, Water Efficient Landscaping, Bicycle parking.
Section Perspective C The Link 26 27
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FILLER-UP STATION Year: 2011 Professor: Peter Lang
New Typologies for New Technologies Addressing undesirable plots, this project proposes a solution to the spaces that are traditionally overlooked as “buildable�. The site for this project is in the 50 year flood plane. The building is a high tech filling station for electric cars. My concept called for batteries to be taken out, replaced, and charged in an assembly line format. A new building typology emerged that allows the structure to survive floods unharmed while activating the wooded area around it, creating a floodplain park and public space for the surrounding neighborhoods to utilize for exercise and connecting with nature.
Filler Up Station
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A New Way to Fill Up Electric cars have lower emissions, are quieter, and can be operated using sustainable energy. One drawback is their range. This station attempts to rectify the issue by offering a full service battery replacement. When the battery is low, instead of taking the time to charge it, the driver can simply change out the used one for a charged one, paying only for the new energy. Two years after my design was completed, Tesla Motors announced a series of stations to fulfill this function.
Final diagnostics run and electronic payment rendered
The new battery is installed from the bay
The old battery is removed and taken to the charging Bay
Layered FEMA Flood Map, Paved Areas, Building, and Trails
50 year floodplain
100 year floodplain
New Trail System
Functional Form The site on the highway was chosen to cater to long distance travelers. Ramps provide easy access. The driving factor for the form of the building is the 100 year flood level. All interior spaces and electrical equipment must be kept above that level.
The structural footprint is minimal and oriented to create the least resistance to floodwaters
100 Year Flood Level 50 Year Flood Level
Flood Water Direction
Floodwater Footprint Filler Up Station
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RESIDENCE Year: 2010 Professor: Rodney Hill
Merging Landscape
From Garage to Residence (Embedded Circulation)
Street
Garage
Residence
Boardwalk
Dock
Lake
The design process for this home centered around embedding portions of the home into the site to redefine the ground plane in reference to the user’s eyes. There is a procession of these vantages that move the user from within the earth to on top of it. A defined circulation path was created between the high point at the road and the scenic dock hovering over the lake. Natural ventilation and light played a large role in determining the form. The client was a single female professor in her 30’s. Level changes indicate the site condition and make the process of using the home an intimate experience with it’s surroundings.
Residences
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The plan of the home developed around existing houses and connection to the lake.
Circulation flows around an installation that includes storage and a fireplace. All private spaces are veiled by this installation and accessed along its perimeter.
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Level 1 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Front Foyer Great Room (100’-0”) Bedroom Bathroom Master Suite Sunken Indoor/Outdoor Space (98’-6”) Laundry Water Collection Basin Studio (110’-0”)
Lake Views
Sunrise
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Level 2 Sunset
Prevalent Winds
North
Residences
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Residences
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PARK FOLLY Year: 2010 Professor: Craig Babe
Creating A Promenade An architectural promenade requires careful crafting of distinct elements into a powerful sequence. In the Park Folly, rules dictated the process. All elements were to be orthogonal and could take on one of three visual styles: opaque, translucent, or transparent. The base model was crafted from a given set of plans and all interventions were done in white. The user will travel from bottom to top as the spaces reveal glimpses of each other and interact with the varied volumes and lighting created by the elements.
Park Folly
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Park Folly
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ARTEMIS INSTITUTE Year: 2012 Location Jackson Hole (Wilson), Wyoming Directed By: Dr. Lori Ryker and Meg Hanson Collaborated With: Sam Florance, Daniel Kelly, Josh Cristy, Dustin Adler, Ben Larson, David Roe
Natural Context The Artemis Institute encourages students to think more broadly about the context into which they place architecture and the relationship that their architecture forms with the natural world. Through a design-build project, students are able to put these ideas into practice. In addition to the design-build project, the semester academic work includes readings and discussions, creating smaller scale works called vessels, and numerous backpacking and camping trips.
Artemis Institute
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Artemis Institute Remote Studio
Overlooking the Wind Rivers
October
September
August
Arrive in Wilson, WY Vessel 1
Vessel 2
Backpacking Trip Vessel 3
Design Charette Design Chosen Permit Drawings Started Hike Permit Obtained
Construction Begins
First Meeting with County
Backpacking trip Second Meeting with County
City Council Presentation Permit Application Submitted
Dirt Work
December
November
Column Footings New Slab Boardwalk Columns Roof Structure
Construction Complete
Fire pits and Hard-scape
Grand Opening
From The Papers “It has been exciting to see these kids put their designs forth and take public input,” [County Representative] Ashworth said. “What a great learning opportunity for them, and we look forward to working with them in the future.” “Even with subzero temperatures, loitering moose, and beam headaches, the students left emboldend by the experience.”
Grand Tetons
Axis Beam Install
Vessel 3
Grand Opening Artemis Institute
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Owen Bircher Park Wilson, Wyoming
Restrooms/ Storage
Field (Soccer, Picnics, Weddings)
Sand Volleyball Courts Playground
Park Pavilion Boardwalk to Town Wetlands and Creek Watercolor Park Plan - Ben Larson
Major Considerations Protecting the Wetlands
Snow Shed
Reclaim/ Reuse
The site backed up to a protected wetland. The county requested that we include some kind of physical barrier along the border with this natural habitat.
Snow had to shed to the southern side of the structure. Snow that shed to the north would never melt and render the pavilion unusable.
Every effort was taken to incorporate elements of the old pavilion into the new one. Other building materials came from the recycling transfer station.
Site Plan Key Notes 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
New pavilion New hard-scape New fire pits (re-use existing grills) New boardwalk New sidewalk (concrete by county) Existing boardwalk Existing tree Relocate existing bench Relocate entry through fence (by county) Approximate edge of existing wetland zone Relocate existing trash containers to new area (by county)
12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.
Remove existing fence only at structure Existing horse shoe pits Existing sidewalk; remove portion where hard-scape will be Existing sod with irrigation; relocation of sprinklers and sod reclamation as needed Existing frost hydrant Storage for excavated fill. Line of disturbance for access New bench
Artemis Institute
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Axis
Bea
m
Reflected Ceiling Plan
The Axis Beam One main structural and architectural component is the Axis Beam. The design sought to reconcile multiple intersecting grids, making the structure unclear. The solution was to use a beam that ran the full length of the project on an axis created by the fire pits. The beam gives the interior complexity and links the two exterior spaces together visually.
Existing Slab New Slab
Foundation Plan
Engineering Our team worked with Greg Kingsley, P.E. Greg has worked on high profile projects by Renzo Piano and others. One of my major roles in the design phase was communicating with him about the structural aspects. The site is prone to a heavy snow load and seismic activity. I was the primary drafter of the documents shown on these two pages
Artemis Institute
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Section (Bent 2) Old Pavilion
De-constructed (Slab left intact)
New Slab New Hard-scape New Boardwalk
Posts used in Boardwalk
Bents
Roof
Trusses De-constructed and used in
Slats
Artemis Institute
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COLORADO HOME Years: 2012-2013 Client: Ted Ozowski Location Buena Vista, Colorado Collaborated With: The A-Team: Sam Florance, Daniel Kelly, Josh Cristy, Dustin Adler
Rising to the Occasion Retired Air Force Col. Ted Ozowski hired “The A- Team� to design and build his retirement house in Colorado. Design and permitting took place during our last semester at school and construction began two weeks after we graduated. A full CD set was created. A Colorado Engineer gave input and stamped the drawings. My role in the project was project manager for both design and construction. Subcontractors were hired for the foundation work, but all other work was completed by The A- Team. The first phase of construction is currently being completed.
Colorado Home
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Colorado Home Design-Build Project Timeline Dec. 2012
Sam Florance Approached w/ Project First Skype Meeting with Client A-Team Gets the Job
Jan. 2013 Feb. 2013
Design Charrette Design Presentation 1
Project Approved as Independent Study Course
Building Technologies Research Design Presentation 2
Permit Drawings Started
Mar. 2013
Preliminary Construction Budget Drafted Design Finalized
Spring Break Site Visit
Structural Engineer Added to Team
(Keith Ostrander, PE - Ascent Structural Engineering)
Apr. 2013
(Al Wallace, President - Energy Environmental Corporation)
Timber Framer Added to Team
(Alan Bernholtz, Owner - Wind River Timber Frames)
May 2013
Mechanical Engineer Added to Team
Graduation Permit Obtained
Foundation Contractor Added to Team
Lon Kersting, Owner/President - L.M. Kersting Construction Company
Final Construction Budget Drafted My Wedding
Construction Begins Foundation - L.M. Kersting Construction Company and A-Team
June 2013
Summer Softball Begins Framing - the A-Team Backpacking Trip
July 2013
Mt. Harvard Summit (14,423 ft.)
Softball Season Ends
Aug. 2013
Timberframing - Wind River Timber Frames and A-Team Roof - the A-Team Weathered In - the A-Team
To Be Continued...
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
FOUNDATION BOLTS - 21 inch Embedded a minimum of 7". Spaced Maximum 2' o.c. One within 12" of each end at sill plate joints (minimum 2 in each sill plate) Garage SlabSlab on grade over compacted crush. The slab in the garage near the door openings in auto stall openings (3) should slope toward the door openings. Both slabs (inside and outside)3500 psi concrete. Sunroom SlabSlab on Grade over compacted crush. 6" thick. Radon system below slab. 3000 PSI concrete. A passive radon reduction system will be installed below the sunroom, the mechanical room, and the main house basement slab. There will be a 4" layer of gravel below the slabs to allow radon to move to the pipes. These pipes will converge in a single spot in the mechanical room and then turn vertical and vent to 12" above the top of the roof. Mechanical Room drains south through footing and then parallels perforated pipe and then drains to daylight in 2" PVC pipe. Must maintain 1" in 10' slope.
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
Electrical Chases 1" PVC should be cast into the wall at 1'0" from T.O. wall spaced every 20 ft except for on the eastern wall
A-TEAM
SAM FLORANCE BEN WILDE JOSH CRISTY DUSTIN ADLER DANIEL KELLY
A0.0 Cover A0.1: Site Plan A0.2: Site Survey A1.0: Floor 01 Floor Plan A1.1: Floor 02 Floor Plan A1.2: Floor 01 Garage Dimensioned A1.3: Floor 02 Garage Dimensioned A1.4: Basement Floor Plan A2.0: S. Elevation/W. Section Elevation A2.1: NE, SW, & NW Elevations A3.0: Garage Apartment Section A4.0: Roof Plan A5.0: Window/Door schedule S1.0: Foundation Diagram and Notes S1.1: Foundation Plan Garage S2.0: Floor 2 Framing Plan Garage S2.1: Floor 1 Framing Plans S2.2: Timber Frame Roofing Plan S2.3: 2x12 Roof Framing Plan S3.1: Foundation Details S3.2: Foundation Details S3.3: Foundation Details S4.0: Framing Details S4.1: Framing Details S4.2: Framing Details R1: General Structural Notes R2: Charts and Documentation
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
Drawing List: Phase 1 Permit Set
S1.1 Foundation Plan Garage
“LTL” Section
Colorado Home
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A1.1: Floor 02 Floor Plan A1.2: Floor 01 Main House Dimensioned A1.3: Floor 01 Garage Dimensioned A1.4: Floor 02 Main House Dimensioned A1.5: Floor 02 Garage Dimensioned A1.6: Floor -01 Dimensioned A1.7: Floor 01 Electrical A1.8: Floor 02 Electrical A1.9: Floor 01 Mechanical and Electrical A1.10: Floor 01 Mechanical A1.11: Floor 02 Mechanical A1.12: Roof Plan A1.13: Radiant Heating Loops Plan A2.0 Main House Exterior Elevations A2.1 Main House Exterior Elevations A2.2 Garage Exterior Elevations A3.0 Main House Sections A3.1 Main House Sections A3.2 Garage Sections A4.0 Main House Interior Elevations A4.1 Garage Interior Elevations A5.0: Window/Door schedule S1.0 Foundation Diagram S1.1 Foundation Plan Main House S1.2 Foundation Plan Garage S2.0 Phase one Floor Framing Plans S2.1 Phase two Floor Framing Plans S2.2 Roof Framing Plans S2.3 2x12 Roof Framing Plan S3.1 Foundation Details S3.2: Foundation Details S3.3: Foundation Details S3.4: Foundation Details S3.5: Foundation Details S4.0: Framing Details S4.1: Framing Details S4.2: Framing Details S4.3: Framing Details S4.4: Framing Details R1: Fire, Other Documentation R2: ResCheck Report R3: Structural Assumptions and Properties R4: Foundation Documentation
Major Considerations Orientation
Accessibility
Sustainability
Orientation affects the views, how snow melts and how much sun gets into the building. The garage apartment is aligned at 45 degrees to north to take advantage of views, while the main house is orthogonally aligned to take advantage of passive solar heating.
The clients saw themselves growing old together in this house. Our challenge was to optimize the house for both current and future use. The solution was an entirely continuous first floor and garage as well as accessible bathrooms.
Felled trees from the site are to be used as interior finishes on the ceiling and walls, Solar energy will be harnessed both in panels and in large slabs near windows for passive solar heating.
er
View down the valley
National Forrest Bord
Site Description Location: Near Buena Vista Colorado Size: 35 Acres Elevation: 8950 Ft Avg High June: 78 F Avg Low Jan: 14 F The site is heavily treed with ponderosa pine. It borders the San Isabel National Forrest. The southern border is Morrison Creek. The most advantageous views are towards the mountains (SW) and down the valley (NNE).
Mt Harvard
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nslop
Dow
Mt Columbia
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
Mt Yale
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Spaces (Floor 1) 1. Car Parking 2. Wood Shop 3. Sun-room 4. Gear Storage
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5. Butlers Pantry 6. Bathroom 7. Laundry Room 8. Kitchen 9. Dining Room 10. Office
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11. Living Room 12. Master Bed 13. Master Bath 14. Closet 15. Front Porch 16. Back Porch
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Spaces (Floor 2) 1. Kitchen 2. Great Room
3. Office 4. Laundry 5. Deck 6. Bathroom
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7. Bedroom 8. Closet 9. Storage 10. Reading Loft
Colorado Home
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Garage Section
South Elevation
Colorado Home
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Lighting and Energy Analysis The following simulations were run to determine some technical aspects of the design. Lighting Analysis-Ecotect and Radiance (Ben Wilde) Radiant Heat Load Calculations (Manual J) (Uponer Corporation) Rescheck Compliance (Ben Wilde) Sun Shading Models (Sam Florance and Ben Wilde) Natural Lighting Analysis (9 am and 3 pm June 1)
Typical Wall Section R-23 Insulation Value
Colorado Home
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2x12 roof
2x12 @ 24” O.C.
Timber Framing 8x15 and 10x15 Amish Oak Beams Natural Jointery only
Framing, Second floor walls 2x6 @ 16” O.C. 2x6 columns accept timberframe roof structure Framing, Second floor Main Beams: W18x40x36’ Minor Joists: 14” TJI +110’ - 6” Framing, First Floor Walls 2x6 @ 16” O.C
Slab and Mechanical room cieling 3500 PSI concrete 16” floor trusses +100’ - 0” Foundation Walls 8” and 10” ICF Forms 3500 PSI concrete
Footers Traditionally formed 3500 PSI concrete
Colorado Home
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08
THAILAND PLAYGROUND Year: 2012 Location: Kranuan, Thailand
A Playscape for a Rural Town Play is essential to the development of healthy minds and bodies. The community of Kranuan, Thailand lacked spaces for kids to run, jump, swing, climb and slide. These shortcomings became apparent during my first visit to Thailand. I designed this simple playground and led a team of volunteers to build it on my second visit. Elements included a platform playground structure, slide, tire climb, pole, tire walkway, stump stairs, a swing set, and a seesaw. The structure is both a place to play and learn. Verses in English and Thai relate to the type of action the child is doing. Due to the use of reclaimed materials, the total cost came to about $500, which I provided. I managed construction from noon to 4 pm for two weeks.
Thailand Playground
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Thai Playground Design-Build
Thailand Kranuan, Thailand Population: 21,252 Average Monthly Income: $150 USD Main Occupation: Farming and Agriculture
Major Considerations Community Involvement
User Interaction
Reduce/ Reuse
Simplicity in design was paramount, both to break though the language barrier and to compensate for the lack of tools. A local welder made the swing set and slide. Students from the local school were a crucial part of the workforce.
The playground is designed for both 3-10 year old kids and their parents. Shaded seating was constructed nearby for parents to talk to each other and watch their kids play.
-Recycled Pipe for the Pole -Scrap for the Climbing Blocks -Recycled Tires -Tree Stumps
Posts on a 1m x1m Grid
Platforms added
Metal Roof installed
Play features Attached
Grand Opening About 35 Children and their parents gathered for the official opening of the playground. Various speakers talked about how the playground would benefit the town. Then, the kids played all afternoon.
Thailand Playground
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THE STARTUP Year: 2012 Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rodney Hill Collaborated With: Sam Florance, Daniel Kelly, Josh Cristy, Dustin Adler, Tim Durbin
Creating Spaces to Connect The Startup is a business incubator/ accelerator. It aims to connect innovative students to each other and to funding. It also seeks to provide a place for fledgling businesses to have a physical office. Students from the college of architecture and the college of business teamed up to make plans for the new venture. Space in an old office building on campus was donated to the project. The role of the design students was to design the interior of the new space to have a socially charged and collaborative vibe. I worked most heavily on the drop ceiling modifications. A book documenting our proposal was presented to a group of investors and alumni. The project is ongoing, as other students have taken our foundation and begun work on the actual renovation of the space.
Translucent for isolation
Transparent for full interaction
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original vs new plan Storage
Work vs. Play
Kitchen Spaces and Functions Auxiliary Conference
Collaboration Tank
Office
Google and Red Bull were studied as precedents for innovative offices. We designed a soft surface ergonomic foam floor material for the work spaces. The desks and walls are veneered with white-board material. The desks can be folded up to serve as dividers or presentation boards. We specified movable furniture to allow users to create their own Timeshare Desks Office Office spaces. We proposed to replace the office wallsOffice with electric glass to allow natural light to come into the main space. Also, we modified the existing ceiling tiles to 5’create patterns and flows in the 1’ 2’ 10’ overhead illumination.
Tank
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Reception Room Conference Room Office (Entrepreneur in Residence) Office (Aggie Entrepreneurs Club) Office Manager’s Office Kitchen The group work space and Reception OfficeTank (Main presentation room) 8. Print and Copy Room 9. Computer Lab/ Individual Work Space 10. Storage
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Replace office walls with electric glass
Design Moves
Flexible Spaces - presentation space and collaborative workspace
Easily movable and transformable desks, tables, and chairs
Drop ceiling modifications
Dry erase surfaces
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Drop Ceiling Modifications
A black and white image was generated in conjunction with the plan. Black indicates more light density and white signifies less.
A program generated a .DXF file containing the dot image. Holes of different sizes allow varying amounts of light through.
The line work of the image was extracted and overlaid with the ceiling grid of the building. Finally, a numbering system was developed and the CNC was programmed to cut 8 tiles at once.
D24
E24
F24
G24
H24
D25
E25
F25
G25
H25
D25
E25
F25
G25
H25
D25
E25
F25
G25
H25
Test tiles were installed into the existing grid. Lights were installed behind the test tiles to simulate the lighting effects.
Varying densities create visual interest and provide extra light in work intensive spaces.
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SPIRAL TABLE
Year: 2010 Professor: Dr. Rodney Hill
Nested Elegance Most applications of plywood are covered up by a finish or other material. The goal for this project was to make finish grade furniture from a single sheet with as little waste as possible. I deemed it important to make a product that could only be achieved using plywood or some other material that comes in sheets. I set about designing pieces that were built from components nested inside each other. This allowed for minimal waste, save the kerf of the bit. Each nested component was cut with 1/4 inch holes that corresponded to the pieces above and below it in the sequence. Dowels were used to secure the pieces together. When the lights and the glass are installed, a spiral pattern of light is projected to both the floor and ceiling.
Spiral Table
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Spiral Table and Chandelier
A CNC router runs the file in 15 minutes. Sanding takes 20. Assembly, including electrical components, 30. A full table can be created in just over an hour.
Concentric pieces allow for less waste and for the parts to be neatly packed and shipped. A full table assembly including electric components fits into a 3’x3’x3” box.
4x8 Plywood Sheet
Main Table Structure
Interior Lantern (2 x)
Chandelier Structure
CNC Router File
Section Through Inner Table Lamp
1/4” Glass
Piece 18 1/4” dowel Piece 17 1/4” dowel Piece 16 1/4” dowel
Pieces 1-15
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Spiral Table
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HULLABALOO HALL FURNITURE
Years: 2012- 2013 Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rodney Hill Collaborated with: Sam Florance, Daniel Kelly, Josh Cristy, Dustin Adler
Leaving a Legacy The university had to fell several large oak trees that had cast shade over the campus’ North-side for decades in order to make room for the new Hullabaloo Hall dormitory. They refused to see the historic trees go to waste. The Dept of Residence Life asked Dr. Rodney Hill to hand pick a few architecture students to design and build furniture from this cherished lumber. We took the oak lumber and made furniture pieces for the Hall. I was involved in organizing the project in its early stages and in the preliminary design talks. I then left for Thailand. When I returned, I constructed one of the five end tables and helped to finish the main pieces.
End Table- Ben Wilde
Hullabaloo Dorm Furniture
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Old Material Meets New Technology The project included a bar top, a mantle, a quilt frame, a bench, five end tables, and plaques explaining each piece. Special care was taken to both display the natural characteristics of the wood while using the age old material in new ways. The CNC router was instrumental in processing the wood into the final products.
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WOODWORKS
Years: 2007-2012 Collaborators: Credit Given in Photos
A Lifetime of Learning I received my first power tool when I was four. Growing up with a grandfather in carpentry gave me an opportunity to understand how things are constructed and how they hold up. It also gave me an appreciation for creation. In high school, I became the apprentice of a master woodworker. I worked with him for almost 3 years co-designing and building furniture, cabinets and other millwork. I learned to work out tectonic problems and to think critically about design. I also learned the characteristics of materials, especially wood, and became interested in joinery. In college, my position at the Digital Fabrication Facility allowed me to further explore my interests through my own projects and the projects of others that I helped realize.
Crucifix- St Anthony’s Catholic Retreat Center Ben Wilde and Dan Pfeiffer
Furniture
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Aggie Baseball Tables Ben Wilde And Sam Florance (2011)
This project was commissioned by the Texas A&M baseball team. We had previously donated two tables with a similar design. When their stadium was being renovated, we were asked to build six tables for the press room. The room also functions as a study hall on non-game days.
Inlaid Emblem Plate Solid Oak Top
Bent Oak Apron
1/2’ Rods
33” Bats
MDF Home Plate 1/2”x4” Lags
Gemsbock Table Ben Wilde (2009)
This table was built as an entry to a furniture competition. The design was focused on materiality and displaying the best qualities of each of the materials used. The top is zebrawood with a hand carved walnut border. The base is a tripod of gemsbock horns. All horns were gathered from naturally deceased animals. A silversmith created the silver caps to protect the horn tips from breaking.
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Other Woodworks 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Semicircle Pergola - St. Anthony’s Catholic Retreat Center- Ben Wilde and Dan Pfeiffer Longhorn Entry Table - Ben Wilde and Dan Pfeiffer Digital Portfolio Case - Ben Wilde Gemsbock Side Table - Ben Wilde and Dan Pfeiffer Dining Room Table - Ben Wilde Pecan and Walnut Dining Table - Ben Wilde and Dan Pfeiffer Horn to Wood Apron Detail - Ben Wilde and Dan Pfeiffer Bamboo Kitchen Island and Cabinets - Ben Wilde Corner China Cabinet - Ben Wilde Arbor and Fence - Fikes Residence - Ben Wilde and Dan Pfeiffer
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Publications
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Publications Entrepreneurial design group leaving its mark at Texas A&M A team of senior environmental design majors who bonded in a freshman studio is leaving its mark at Texas A&M after tackling projects as entrepreneurs and designers. During the summer of 2012, trees were axed to make room for the construction of new dorms on the campus’ north side, a move that prompted some former students to register complaints with the Department of Residence Life. After a recommendation from Rodney Hill, professor of architecture, residence life hired the group, Daniel Kelly of Pearland, Dustin Adler of Brenham, Ben Wilde of San Antonio, Sam Florance of Fort Worth and Josh Cristy of Shallowater, to design and build lobby furniture for the new dorm from the felled trees. “It’s a win-win situation because we operate cheaper than any contractor could, we get the experience and they get a good product,” said group member Daniel Kelly. He and his colleagues worked with Michael Krenz, associate director of residence life, to create the pieces. Using the CNC mill at the college’s Digital Fabrication Facility, the group weaved design elements borrowed from Texas A&M’s Century Oak into a 15-foot long, two-feet wide bar top. “We took a photo of the tree, used Photoshop to trace one of its limbs, converted it to a vector graphic, cut it on the CNC router, and put it on the bar top” said Adler. The group is also designing and building a mantle, end tables and smaller pieces with the felled trees. The students, who met in a studio led by Hill in their freshmen year, have also created a design proposal for “Startup Aggieland,” a student-operated working space in Texas A&M’s Research Park offering free entrepreneurship resources for students. The proposal for the 4,000 square-foot space was created in a design research course led by Hill. It features a futuristic look for the center, which university president R. Bowen Loftin touted Oct. 1 at a Department of Commerce forum in Washington, D.C. as a national model for student-led entrepreneurship and innovation. The students also did their study abroad semester last fall as a group, attending the Artemis Institute in Jackson Hole, Wyo., led by Lori Ryker, an outstanding alumna of Texas A&M’s College of Architecture. “It was a great experience, and it was the first time we’d worked together as a team,” said Florance. For their final study project, the group designed and built a pavilion at a public park near the institute large enough to shelter a maximum of 80 people.
posted October 12, 2012 ArchONE.tamu.edu
Publications
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may/june 2013
ARCHIVOLTUM
ARCHIVOLTUM is the newsletter of AIA Brazos, a chapter of the American Institute of Architects Final presentation model of Spring 2013 Architecture in Schools program. Brazos Christian School, Bryan, Texas. Image by Steven Schloss, AIA
The Next Generation architecture in schools By Paul Martinez, AIA
It is hard to believe that the AIA Brazos Architecture in Schools (AiS) program is in its fourth year of existence. The chapter started the program in the spring of 2010, which means those original students will start eighth grade this fall. In that time, we have instructed hundreds of local 4th grade students in four different schools about a profession which so few of the general public seem to understand. Everyone seems to have heard of an Architect, but many cannot correctly explain what one does. It has been the goal of the program to change this by reaching out to the youth of the community. AiS instructs students on community planning, zoning by building type and density, space programming, building materials, 3-D massing, and model building. All in a seven-hour timeline
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that would make any college studio professor cringe. The students design their own neighborhood including zoning/locating six commercial building types. They then elevate and build models of these commercial buildings. Next, they design their own “dream” home by programming the spaces and building a model on the community site model. In the end we have a beautiful 5’x10’ model on display while the students each give a short presentation over their home to their friends and family. This past school year, we taught approximately 60 students in three separate schools: First Baptist Church School in Brenham, College Hills in College Station, and Brazos Christian School in Bryan. This gives us a presence in public and private schools spread throughout the Brazos Valley. We would
ARCHIVOLTUM may/june 2013
Publications
Continued from page 1: like to continue to expand the program to more of the community as our support allows. This program is only possible with the generous monetary and volunteer support of the Brazos AIA Chapter members and sponsors – to whom we owe our thanks. Hopefully you found the experience as worthwhile as we did and will continue your involvement. As always seems to be the case with these things, in one breath we thank everyone for their generosity and in the next we have to ask for more. We are already working on next fall’s program and would greatly appreciate any support you are able to offer. Please contact Paul Martinez1 for more information about how to volunteer or donate. It is not our goal to make everyone of the students into Architects, but rather plant a seed of Architectural appreciation into them that we hope continues to grow as they become adults.
Scenes from the AIA Brazos AiS Spring program and final presentation. Images by Steven Schloss, AIA
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Japan Research Trip (Sendai and Ishinomaki)
CNC Routing Instruction
Japan Research Trip (Tokyo)
Architecture in Schools
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Extra Curricular
National Champion - SkillsUSA Cabinetry
Teaching English in Thailand (Camps)
Backpacking Company (Grand Canyon)
Teaching English in Thailand (Classroom)
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Ben Wilde Designer | Craftsman