The thesis work focuses on emerging technologies and the future capacity of innovation in design. The project investigates the agency of digital space and social connection to be contextualized with existing physical spaces to construct a network of researchers, makers, and designers. The work involves both research into social collective theories and the application of virtual reality software, augmented reality integration, and animation effects to construct a theoretical prototype for a digital platform.
A lack of communication between design disciplines and industries is limiting exposure to interdisciplinary thinking and the potential for a mutual exchange of ideas and resources. At a holistic viewpoint, this is stifling the growth of design innovation.
The project focused on the translation of digital design into physical fabrication. It was generated from an interest in kerf bending applied to the creation of curved structure. The kerf pattern was positioned at a targeted axis of bending allowing for controlled motion while maintaining the structural integrity of the material. The final built model uses a catenary curve upon which each diamond shape module is custom sized to respond to the the angled change along the curve.
Plan
Elevation 1
Elevation 2
Modules are uniquely sized to create the overall bending form
Exploded axon of assembly process
Aggregated structural forms
This installation experiments with perspective movement and surface treatment applied to a wall-mounted fin system. Words are embedded within the piece using various techniques that reveal shifting messages to the viewer dependent upon their position and perspective. The applied techniques include embossing, color effects, and anamorphic projection. As this piece was installed outside an architectural studio at Wentworth Institute, the selected messaging was directed to an architecture student demographic. The components were CNC milled and painted.
Embossed “Archi”
Anamorphic Projection “Torture”
Anamorphic Projection “Tecture”
Message and color shifts with perspective
This project was a material investigation into carbon fiber tow. The work aimed to find form through experimentation with assembly processes. Architectural applications were theorized about at the end of the process atypical to more traditional material studies. Smaller prototypes and jigs were created at Wentworth Institute of Technology. Through a residency at the Boston AutoDesk BUILD Space, the team was able to complete a large scale carbon fiber panel assemble.
The design explores the application of carbon fiber into a facade system for a manufacturing build space. The flexibility and light weight characteristics of carbon fiber allow for an adaptable and modular system. The modular units are created by arc frames upon which carbon fiber and fiber glass string is wound. Both the overall form and winding patterns of the carbon fiber are derived from traditional weaving with undulating panels that are interwoven around, under, and over the supporting structure.
Applied winding patterns influence views and daylighting on the interior of the building
Program Diagram
Wall Section Axon
Roof Plan
4th Floor Plan
3rd Floor Plan
2nd Floor Plan
1st Floor Plan
Section A
Section B
Facade Panel Assembly
This animation was created during a workshop targeting exploration and manipulation of architectural form through the medium of animation.
This design is for a multiuse building programmed for retail, community accessible spaces, and 90 residential apartments. The site is located at 440 Atlantic Ave Boston, MA adjacent to a busy pedestrian and transit connection point. It is positioned at the intersection of three defining urban axis within Boston; the Rose Kennedy Greenway, the Seaport Boulevard Bridge, and the Harborwalk. The structure is split to allow continuous pedestrian flow on the Harborwalk through the site.
Night Render from Across the Harbor
Interior Lobby Space and Community Exhibition Space
Between the Towers
Window Nook in Appartment
Bird’s Eye Perspective of Site
Design Steps
Community space for the proposal is designated to Boston Climate Resiliency Office. The structure is an outdoor “room” that floats reflecting the change in water levels within the harbor.
Site Plan and First Floor
Apartment Plans
Wall Section Model
Site Model
This small scale urban park uses three parking spaces on the corner of Seaport Blvd and Atlantic Ave in Boston, MA. The form weaves unique spaces that provide a variety of seating and lounging. The bending wood and turf materials provide a playful oasis within a busy urban environment.
South Elevation
East Elevation
Structural Diagram
Concept Plan Sketch
Concept Elevation Sketch
Movement and activity through space
Concept model
The ArtCommons is community program started by the BostonApp Lab that seeks to promote social engagement with the arts. The main vehicle for this project is a set of donated shipping containers that can be deployed to neighborhoods across Boston and set up to provide a flexible space for various art-based activities, such as an exhibition, a workshop, or a performance. In partnership with the BostonApp Lab my Wentworth graduate studio designed a modular "kit of parts" system and a to outfit a shipping container that allows users to adapt the components and create a flexible and individualized set up specific to a site, activity or event.
Evening Concert Assembly
Art Workshop Assembly
Exhibition Perspective
Sections
Plan
Exploded Axon
Seating and Surface Assembly and Use
Rail and Clip System Assembly
Panel Options
Clip-In System Diagram
Fin and Post Assembly
Ceiling Assembly