PORTFOLIO

05CINCINNATUS11HIGHRISE19GSA COMPETITION

25yourGANIC 27THINKTANK

39ICE PAVILION33LUDLOW LITERACY 43HOUSTON ASTROS

In a location that hosts some of the area’s largest community events, missing is a place of gathering. Yeaman’s Cove, Sawyer Point, and the Purple People Bridge converge at one prime location, ideal for a bar and restaurant. The city’s namesake looks on as the structure connects the bridge to the parks below. The ACSA Steel Competition inspired this project, with structural integrity spawning from that of a suspension bridge. A top-down approach was formulated, with the roof structure being the first piece designed. From there, angled steel columns carry the load to the ground. Long spanning trusses then weave their way back and forth at given heights to support floor structures. The trusses essentially provide platforms for the walls to be built upon. The structure is lifted above an existing concession stand in order to remove fear of flooding, as the flood plane runs directly through the center of the site. The triangular shaped structure also incorporates gently sloping ramps that span over 300’ from the bridge to ground level.

VICINITY

SITE

FIRST

FLOOR

SECOND

FLOOR

The jewel of the structure is the upper floor, which is designed to be an airy, open space where no furniture is fixed. The structure is exposed throughout the entire building, but none more than in the dining and bar area. Folding glass walls allow for a pavilion-like feel. The lower floor is primarily service space. The kitchen is centrally located and offset 8’ to allow for a drink rail along the perimeter of the floor. Freedom of movement and collaboration is welcomed. More than the programming of a dining and drinking venue, this structure is designed as hub for the community to enjoy the beauty of Cincinnati.

The fall semester at Miami brought forth a challenge that I had not previously encountered: designing a skyscraper. With the guidance Chicago’s leading Architectural developer and a principal of GBRE, the studio worked to design a highrise suited for 150,000sf of hotel and 850,000sf of office space. The two guest teachers forced an amplified play between technical planning in relation to code and construction, but also developing an elegant, leaseable space. The final design employed shifting blocks that float on top of one another, coming together to create one larger system. Each block is made up of dozens of smaller blocks that are push/pulled to develop a unique office and hotel room space.

The semester was geared around the play between the technical aspect of designing a highrise, while also creating a sexy building that could attract high-end tenants. These plans show the how the core ultimately came together efficiently to create the most amount of leasable space while also remaining code compliant. Modern skyscrapers use the strength of the core to support the entire structure, and are virtually indestructible. The elevators drop off as they make their way up the building.

On the next page, a perspective section was used to illustrate the construction of the push and pull moves per every 15’ module. The glowing, recessed floors between the ‘blocks’ are used as mechanical floors, meant to vanish from ground perspective. The floating blocks then play into the concept of a light construction from a skyline or ground view. 1 4

2 5

3 6

Part of the allure 100 Wacker Drive possesses is the connection to the Chicago River, and it was vital that aspect was not lost upon entry to the building. The hotel lobby, which also features a 5-Star restaurant, allows guests to circulate transversely through the space and engage the river. The push/pull concept also wraps into the ceiling of the lobby and create a random lighting pattern. A grand staircase rises along Wacker Drive to the rooftop park above. The office and hotel lobbies are separated by a glass curtain wall.

Materiality systems were chosen to relate directly to the concept of modularity. Each tile or panel is part of a larger system, which is part of an even larger collective whole. The exterior celebrates this concept with the use of blocks being part of a bigger plan. The blue wall, seen on the left side of this rendering, is used as a marketing device, allowing tenants to place graphics or art displays to be the very first thing an occupant sees upon entry.

The ins and outs of the 15’ bay windows provide a texture to the building that aids in establishing scale to the 53 story highrise. A physical model was built with individually cut and sanded pieces of walnut.

This quick sketch was one of several that casted an idea of how to treat the skin of the skyscraper.

Quick foam model to represent the program’s sqare footage and FAR requirements

The minimum floor plate was established to create maximum height

The blocks were separate by thinner mechanical floors. Sizes were determined according to where elevators dropped off

Final model. Basswood and Walnut. The base was sculpted to reflect the site conditions at the riverwalk

Skin/texture study model

The Global Schindler Award Competition is designed to aim at urban mobility and implementing paramentric design into urbanism. The site for the cometition is the SQ District in Shenzhen, China (which is just north of Hong Kong). The people of the SQ district are faced with issues involving limited greenspace, and a highway system that divides the site (visually, socially, economically, etc.). The studio was divided into groups of three, and attemped to tackle these problems as well as how to incorporate the ideal infrastructure system.

In an effort to solve multiple issues with a single design element, the group opted to create a megastructure that would rest directly above the highway and span between the site’s mountains. Pedestrians could walk on top of the structure, which would be a green roof. The space then becomes the district’s largest park space, while also seving as a connection between the formerly separated zones. A light rail, pedestrian paths, and obvervation decks on the mountains were all formed to connect the mile-long structure.

The group also focused on creating new infrastructure base on existing integration conditions within the site. A heat map was created and, and a new grid was overlayed to connect the hot points. From there, the new new grid was used to produce nodes (shown in light red on the map), which are essential for orientation and wayfinding.

The ideal integrated city would involve transportation routes with fluid transitions in all directions, connecting the district’s most dense areas without the hassle of unnecessary obstructions. Here, we see north-bound traffic branching in separate directions. The division between the roads becomes additional green space to supplement the major addition of mega-structure park-space, while also connecting zones. Inversely, this same gesture is incorporated into the Pearl River Delta, where the paths become piers, and connects the delta in all directions.

Entertainment centers are traditionally not a furniture piece known for being sexy, but are functional in their ability to display and store necessary items. YourGanic entertainment centers look to add a sculptural element to the everyday living room. With the aid of parametric design, the form and functionality of the piece is entirely up to the consumer. A few simple criteria components are chosen, and an online service guides customers through the process of designing their own elegant living room center piece, which is also completely functional.

Flexible design allows consumers to create an entertainment center ideal for their needs. Many living spaces feature windows or wall mounted items, driving the desire of a system low to the floor with only drawers.

When all drawers are closed, the piece is a single, harmonious structure. However, behind the skin is ample storage space.

Should verticality be desired and less storage space needed, the inputs will create a model to satisfy those needs

The International Conference on Service Science is an institute that requires a unique program, one composed not only of a place study, but also temporary housing - on average three to six months. In addition to the ThinkTank, public housing must be incorporated. Located just south of the University of Cincinnati’s main campus, a sloping site adds another challenge to the design.

Throughout the course of my first three years as an undergraduate student at the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP program, I’ve been subjected to a number of design challenges. From a housing / research center hybrid on an urban sloping site, to a library sqeezed into an open lot adjacent to a noisy street. The most important lesson I have learned is that no problem can go unsolved without an efficient, elegant design.

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

This south-facing glazed wall reveals a colorful presentation space for the scholars of the ICSS. Inside of the presentation wall is a lecture hall, which is placed here in an effort to break up studio spaces (east end) from more public pramming (gallery, computer lab, cafe, etc.) on the west end. Students can relax at the adjacent roof garden, or gaze into the courtyard beneath them.

The courtyard serves the purpose of the access point to all public housing, as well as a vast space in which guests feel overwhelmed by the heavy mass suspended above. The section model, seen on the right, helped illustrate how the courtyard also served as a solution to the one-story drop from street level to the housing lobby.

This south-facing glazed wall reveals a colorful presentation space for the scholars of the ICSS. Inside of the presentation wall is a lecture hall, which is placed here in an effort to break up studio spaces (east end) from more public pramming (gallery, computer lab, cafe, etc.) on the west end. Students can relax at the adjacent roof garden, or gaze into the courtyard beneath them.

The courtyard serves the purpose of the access point to all public housing, as well as a vast space in which guests feel overwhelmed by the heavy mass suspended above. The section model, seen on the right, helped illustrate how the courtyard also served as a solution to the one-story drop from street level to the housing lobby.

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

This south-facing glazed wall reveals a colorful presentation space for the scholars of the ICSS. Inside of the presentation wall is a lecture hall, which is placed here in an effort to break up studio spaces (east end) from more public pramming (gallery, computer lab, cafe, etc.) on the west end. Students can relax at the adjacent roof garden, or gaze into the courtyard beneath them.

The courtyard serves the purpose of the access point to all public housing, as well as a vast space in which guests feel overwhelmed by the heavy mass suspended above. The section model, seen on the right, helped illustrate how the courtyard also served as a solution to the one-story drop from street level to the housing lobby.

Two schemes were produced in an effort to study how a structure could cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3 of the site was to be dedicated to a public park area, where a new bus stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually underwent further development, used a stair-stepping method in the park area. The overlapping masses allowed for passages latitudinally through the site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two curving masses that stretched across the site. Cutting into the southern section created a separation between public and private programs.

Employing a series of overlapping

masses, the program was divided

into public housing, fellowship

housing, and public research insitute.

The two-point anchored institure was

designed in an effort to provide an

inspiring atmosphere with dynamic

views, both into the courtyard below

and outward of the campus, park,

and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an

effort to study how a structure could

cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3

of the site was to be dedicated to a

public park area, where a new bus

stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually

underwent further development, used

a stair-stepping method in the park

area. The overlapping masses allowed

for passages latitudinally through the

site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two

curving masses that stretched across

the site. Cutting into the southern

section created a separation between

public and private programs.lobby.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the

area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’

winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a

modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed

second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Employing a series of overlapping

masses, the program was divided

into public housing, fellowship

housing, and public research insitute.

The two-point anchored institure was

designed in an effort to provide an

inspiring atmosphere with dynamic

views, both into the courtyard below

and outward of the campus, park,

and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an

effort to study how a structure could

cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3

of the site was to be dedicated to a

public park area, where a new bus

stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually

underwent further development, used

a stair-stepping method in the park

area. The overlapping masses allowed

for passages latitudinally through the

site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two

curving masses that stretched across

the site. Cutting into the southern

section created a separation between

public and private programs.lobby.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the

area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’

winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a

modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed

second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Employing a series of overlapping

masses, the program was divided

into public housing, fellowship

housing, and public research insitute.

The two-point anchored institure was

designed in an effort to provide an

inspiring atmosphere with dynamic

views, both into the courtyard below

and outward of the campus, park,

and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an

effort to study how a structure could

cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3

of the site was to be dedicated to a

public park area, where a new bus

stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually

underwent further development, used

a stair-stepping method in the park

area. The overlapping masses allowed

for passages latitudinally through the

site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two

curving masses that stretched across

the site. Cutting into the southern

section created a separation between

public and private programs.lobby.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the

area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’

winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a

modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed

second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Employing a series of overlapping

masses, the program was divided

into public housing, fellowship

housing, and public research insitute.

The two-point anchored institure was

designed in an effort to provide an

inspiring atmosphere with dynamic

views, both into the courtyard below

and outward of the campus, park,

and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an

effort to study how a structure could

cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3

of the site was to be dedicated to a

public park area, where a new bus

stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually

underwent further development, used

a stair-stepping method in the park

area. The overlapping masses allowed

for passages latitudinally through the

site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two

curving masses that stretched across

the site. Cutting into the southern

section created a separation between

public and private programs.lobby.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the

area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’

winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a

modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed

second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here)

incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted

glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound

barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third

floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Employing a series of overlapping

masses, the program was divided

into public housing, fellowship

housing, and public research insitute.

The two-point anchored institure was

designed in an effort to provide an

inspiring atmosphere with dynamic

views, both into the courtyard below

and outward of the campus, park,

and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an

effort to study how a structure could

cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3

of the site was to be dedicated to a

public park area, where a new bus

stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually

underwent further development, used

a stair-stepping method in the park

area. The overlapping masses allowed

for passages latitudinally through the

site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two

curving masses that stretched across

the site. Cutting into the southern

section created a separation between

public and private programs.lobby.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the

area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’

winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a

modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed

second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here)

incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted

glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound

barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third

floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Massing models were used in the early design process. Initial studies attempted to create a thin, linear mass that sliced through a larger volume. This concept spawned from the idea of connecting parking to the woods, while also serving as the main circulation access. Later, this concept evolved into multiple slicing of similar sized volumes, not only longitudinally but in all directions. A clear division of programming can be felt within the literacy center as a result of this effort.

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an effort to study how a structure could cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3 of the site was to be dedicated to a public park area, where a new bus stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually underwent further development, used a stair-stepping method in the park area. The overlapping masses allowed for passages latitudinally through the site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two curving masses that stretched across the site. Cutting into the southern section created a separation between public and private programs.lobby.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here) incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’ winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Massing models were used in the early design process. Initial studies attempted to create a thin, linear mass that sliced through a larger volume. This concept spawned from the idea of connecting parking to the woods, while also serving as the main circulation access. Later, this concept evolved into multiple slicing of similar sized volumes, not only longitudinally but in all directions. A clear division of programming can be felt within the literacy center as a result of this effort.

Fort Ancient State Memorial is located roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown Cincinnati. The calm and secluded area, along with the nearby Little Miami River, present a relaxing setting for a bath house. Nestled into a wooded area, the simplistic plan and wide use of heavy timber and wood materials, allows guests to experience nature while soaking in one of four pools. The Bath House is intended for only a few visitors at a time, thus creating a completely private escape.

An effort was made to establish a sense of privacy within each space of the program. For example, the small pool is isolated from the plunge pools and separated by an isle of partitions made up of angled-timbers.Building off the theme of architectural concepts, the Ice Sculpture Pavilion was a short term project (two weeks)

in which students were urged to make quick design decisions and play off of two basic objectives : a base that is subtractive in nature, and an additive shelter. The organic shelter was inspired by a crashing ocean wave. The ‘wave’ closes at the entry for the user to have a personal connection, and rises in the center to allow for the height of the sculptures.

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an effort to study how a structure could cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3 of the site was to be dedicated to a public park area, where a new bus stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually underwent further development, used a stair-stepping method in the park area. The overlapping masses allowed for passages latitudinally through the site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two curving masses that stretched across the site. Cutting into the southern section created a separation between public and private programs.lobby.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here) incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’ winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Massing models were used in the early design process. Initial studies attempted to create a thin, linear mass that sliced through a larger volume. This concept spawned from the idea of connecting parking to the woods, while also serving as the main circulation access. Later, this concept evolved into multiple slicing of similar sized volumes, not only longitudinally but in all directions. A clear division of programming can be felt within the literacy center as a result of this effort.

Fort Ancient State Memorial is located roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown Cincinnati. The calm and secluded area, along with the nearby Little Miami River, present a relaxing setting for a bath house. Nestled into a wooded area, the simplistic plan and wide use of heavy timber and wood materials, allows guests to experience nature while soaking in one of four pools. The Bath House is intended for only a few visitors at a time, thus creating a completely private escape.

An effort was made to establish a sense of privacy within each space of the program. For example, the small pool is isolated from the plunge pools and separated by an isle of partitions made up of angled-timbers.

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an effort to study how a structure could cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3 of the site was to be dedicated to a public park area, where a new bus stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually underwent further development, used a stair-stepping method in the park area. The overlapping masses allowed for passages latitudinally through the site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two curving masses that stretched across the site. Cutting into the southern section created a separation between public and private programs.lobby.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here) incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’ winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Massing models were used in the early design process. Initial studies attempted to create a thin, linear mass that sliced through a larger volume. This concept spawned from the idea of connecting parking to the woods, while also serving as the main circulation access. Later, this concept evolved into multiple slicing of similar sized volumes, not only longitudinally but in all directions. A clear division of programming can be felt within the literacy center as a result of this effort.

Fort Ancient State Memorial is located roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown Cincinnati. The calm and secluded area, along with the nearby Little Miami River, present a relaxing setting for a bath house. Nestled into a wooded area, the simplistic plan and wide use of heavy timber and wood materials, allows guests to experience nature while soaking in one of four pools. The Bath House is intended for only a few visitors at a time, thus creating a completely private escape.

An effort was made to establish a sense of privacy within each space of the program. For example, the small pool is isolated from the plunge pools and separated by an isle of partitions made up of angled-timbers.

A great deal of focus was placed in investigating the circulation of guests through and around the structure. After engaging the shelter at the entry, guests are introduced to the space by a slightly curving staircase. A curved wall then guides viewers throughout the space, providing ample room to view the ice sculture with a backdrop of forest greens. The diagram above shows this movement through the Pavilion.

Because of the requirements for the base and shelter, a connection of the two were created at each entry/exit point. The guest feels a closer relationship with the structure upon entry, before rising to allow for the height of the sculpture. Seen in the diagram below, each entry rises to allow guests to slip under the structure and into the sculpture viewing experience.

Circulation |

Connection |

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an effort to study how a structure could cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3 of the site was to be dedicated to a public park area, where a new bus stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually underwent further development, used a stair-stepping method in the park area. The overlapping masses allowed for passages latitudinally through the site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two curving masses that stretched across the site. Cutting into the southern section created a separation between public and private programs.lobby.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here) incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’ winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Massing models were used in the early design process. Initial studies attempted to create a thin, linear mass that sliced through a larger volume. This concept spawned from the idea of connecting parking to the woods, while also serving as the main circulation access. Later, this concept evolved into multiple slicing of similar sized volumes, not only longitudinally but in all directions. A clear division of programming can be felt within the literacy center as a result of this effort.

Fort Ancient State Memorial is located roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown Cincinnati. The calm and secluded area, along with the nearby Little Miami River, present a relaxing setting for a bath house. Nestled into a wooded area, the simplistic plan and wide use of heavy timber and wood materials, allows guests to experience nature while soaking in one of four pools. The Bath House is intended for only a few visitors at a time, thus creating a completely private escape.

An effort was made to establish a sense of privacy within each space of the program. For example, the small pool is isolated from the plunge pools and separated by an isle of partitions made up of angled-timbers.

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an effort to study how a structure could cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3 of the site was to be dedicated to a public park area, where a new bus stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually underwent further development, used a stair-stepping method in the park area. The overlapping masses allowed for passages latitudinally through the site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two curving masses that stretched across the site. Cutting into the southern section created a separation between public and private programs.lobby.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here) incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’ winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Massing models were used in the early design process. Initial studies attempted to create a thin, linear mass that sliced through a larger volume. This concept spawned from the idea of connecting parking to the woods, while also serving as the main circulation access. Later, this concept evolved into multiple slicing of similar sized volumes, not only longitudinally but in all directions. A clear division of programming can be felt within the literacy center as a result of this effort.

Fort Ancient State Memorial is located roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown Cincinnati. The calm and secluded area, along with the nearby Little Miami River, present a relaxing setting for a bath house. Nestled into a wooded area, the simplistic plan and wide use of heavy timber and wood materials, allows guests to experience nature while soaking in one of four pools. The Bath House is intended for only a few visitors at a time, thus creating a completely private escape.

An effort was made to establish a sense of privacy within each space of the program. For example, the small pool is isolated from the plunge pools and separated by an isle of partitions made up of angled-timbers. During my time at Michael Schuster

Associates Architects I have gained experience and real-world knowledge otherwise unobtainable in a classroom / studio setting. MSA is an ambitious 40 person firm involved with work in religion, corporate, education and government architecture. What sets them apart, however, is their work in the sports field.

Many of the projects are in locations that I’ve spent time in, thus the work becomes a more personal experience. For that reason, I chose to spend two of my three undergraduate co-op semesters at the firm.

My resposibilities with the project included creating presentation maps of the bike trail, and how it would function with the city’s bike plan already in place (seen top of previous page). In addition, I worked on the Ross Park renovation site plan (bottom of previous page).

Most of my efforts focused on the documentation and visualization of the St. Bernard Train Depot. Origionally invested by the Procter family from Procter & Gamble, the existing structure was abandoned and deteriorating. Because there was no documentation of the depot, I field surveyed the building and created CD’s with the plan being to rebuild and used in a small amphitheatre near the end of the bike trail.

MSA was hired to redesign the entry concourse (shown on this page) and centerfield bar at the Houston Astros’ Minute Maid Park. Part of our effort included creating a section model to highlight the the proposed upgrades. My contribution was in being part of a two-person team that produced Rhino cut sheets to laser cut detailed pieces, as well as assembly of the model. Shortly after production, the model was flown to Houston, and given to the Astros management.

Employing a series of overlapping masses, the program was divided into public housing, fellowship housing, and public research insitute. The two-point anchored institure was designed in an effort to provide an inspiring atmosphere with dynamic views, both into the courtyard below and outward of the campus, park, and Cincinnati skyline.

Two schemes were produced in an effort to study how a structure could cut through the sloping terrain. 1/3 of the site was to be dedicated to a public park area, where a new bus stop is being built.

Scheme One, which eventually underwent further development, used a stair-stepping method in the park area. The overlapping masses allowed for passages latitudinally through the site.

Scheme Two’s concept employed two curving masses that stretched across the site. Cutting into the southern section created a separation between public and private programs.lobby.

The materials of the Literacy Center play into the concept of slicing. The front facade(south facing, shown here) incorporates a heavy, rusted steel paneling. Gouging through the center of the auburn mass is a strip of highly tinted glazing. Latitudinally, wood slats allude to, and point toward Burnet Woods.

The programming was arranged to separate children from adults in the guest’s library experience. This provides a sound barrier between the two. Reading areas are pushed toward the glazed walls of the north and south, respectively. The third floor houses the Literacy Center’s art book display and lecture/flex space, meant to hold roughly 50 people. Guests then have the ability to break out into outdoor balcony, immediately adjacent.

Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, the Ludlow Literacy Center caps the area’s entertainment district while serving as the entrance landmark to Burnet Woods’ winding trails. The concept of slicing was employed, alluding to the idea of placing a modern structure in a nest of century-old buildings. An angled, cantilevered, glazed second floor welcomes guest entering from the north parking lot, while directing them to the beauty of Burnet Woods to the south.

Massing models were used in the early design process. Initial studies attempted to create a thin, linear mass that sliced through a larger volume. This concept spawned from the idea of connecting parking to the woods, while also serving as the main circulation access. Later, this concept evolved into multiple slicing of similar sized volumes, not only longitudinally but in all directions. A clear division of programming can be felt within the literacy center as a result of this effort.

Fort Ancient State Memorial is located roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown Cincinnati. The calm and secluded area, along with the nearby Little Miami River, present a relaxing setting for a bath house. Nestled into a wooded area, the simplistic plan and wide use of heavy timber and wood materials, allows guests to experience nature while soaking in one of four pools. The Bath House is intended for only a few visitors at a time, thus creating a completely private escape.

An effort was made to establish a sense of privacy within each space of the program. For example, the small pool is isolated from the plunge pools and separated by an isle of partitions made up of angled-timbers. During my time at Michael Schuster

Associates Architects I have gained experience and real-world knowledge otherwise unobtainable in a classroom / studio setting. MSA is an ambitious 40 person firm involved with work in religion, corporate, education and government architecture. What sets them apart, however, is their work in the sports field.

Many of the projects are in locations that I’ve spent time in, thus the work becomes a more personal experience. For that reason, I chose to spend two of my three undergraduate co-op semesters at the firm.

My resposibilities with the project included creating presentation maps of the bike trail, and how it would function with the city’s bike plan already in place (seen top of previous page). In addition, I worked on the Ross Park renovation site plan (bottom of previous page).

Most of my efforts focused on the documentation and visualization of the St. Bernard Train Depot. Origionally invested by the Procter family from Procter & Gamble, the existing structure was abandoned and deteriorating. Because there was no documentation of the depot, I field surveyed the building and created CD’s with the plan being to rebuild and used in a small amphitheatre near the end of the bike trail.