Galena, IL

Academic Year

Fall semester of 2017

Instructor

Agata Siemionow

Criteria

To analyze the existing conditions at the Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort and generate new architecture to facilitate ticket sales, 500 ski and boot rentals, a restaurant and an emergency first aid area. The site is set on the side of a valley with an entrance to the main road at the top of the valley.

Description

Intersecting the sloped landscape, the building protrudes in two directions that cantilever and meet at a corner. This form allows for sun exposure on south and west facing sides. This form also allows for access to the roof terrace directly from the ground level. The cantilevered bridge gives a panoramic views of the Mississippi River in the valley below.

ECOLOGY CENTER

Chicago, IL

Academic Year

Fall semester of 2015

Instructor

Mark Pearson

Criteria

To explore the architectural language of what an ecology center would be in Chicago on a site situated adjacent to Lake Michigan. Program to include at least an exhibit space and spaces for education and research.

Description

The project draws inspiration from existing forms in nature that embody the notions of expansion, growth and movement. The location was unique for Chicago as it was to be situated on the East side of Lake Shore Drive which is against current building code. The project therefore had to be convincing enough to be and exception.

The building expresses the beauty of how nature forms itself without linear articulation. The site strategy utilizes curving walls that gesture movement towards the water with a ramping corridor that connects visitors to the panoramic exhibit space while bringing them closer down towards Lake Michigan.

Graphics