Friday, March 23, 2012

Master Plans Submittal

Overall Site Master Plan
So after analyzing each conceptual plan and utilizing the best of each design, I was able to create a master plan that creates more use on the surrounding streets and spaces within the block interiors. We were also required to take one portion of the master plan and zoom in, designing the space in further detail.

Inspiration...
I chose to design the interior green space and water management facilities between Madison  Ave and Monroe Ave. In keeping with the concept of being centered around the arts, inspiration for the overall form of the site was taken from theater spotlights. Elements and spaces are created within the design by pulling radial lines that overlap, defining edges and corners. The multi-use plaza is a large, perviously paved area that can serve as parking on a regular basis but can double as an event space for markets, festivals, etc. This space is covered by green roof panels as well as steel overhead structures.

Interior Plaza and Green Space

The smaller plaza is for daily use and is a public space for dining, markets, nightlife, and small concerts or other performances. Water managements strategies are also visible in the smaller plaza, providing an aesthetic and functional feature. These infiltration planters help soften the edge of the larger paved areas, creating a pleasing balance between hardscape and landscape elements.

Next week will begin the final design portion of the project. I will be looking at the details of vertical elements, including building facades, walls, and overhead structures. These will be illustrated in section elevations and perspective drawings used to support the master plans. Should be a fun couple of weeks of drawing...

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Sneak Peek...



Just a quick preview of what will be completed by Friday... Can you see the inspiration?


Thursday, March 1, 2012

Halfway There...

This week was devoted to midterm capstone presentations. Each student was given 15 minutes to present the process documents, concept statement, conceptual plans, and support drawings for their respective projects. The presentations were split into two days.

I presented on Monday morning. I feel that I did pretty well with the presentation besides a couple of minor technical difficulties. For some reason, the resolution of the projector was pretty poor. Fortunately, what needed to be seen by the audience was still legible enough.

The feedback that I received after my presentation was quite valuable. Instructors and peers alike gave me good constructive criticism that will definitely be helpful when I begin to create a master plan.

I'm not sure what next week holds. Hopefully, they will take it easy on us since it is the week before Spring break. We'll see...