7 ROXY TREVIÑO

BOOKS ON ARCHITECTURE

Texas A&M University | Spring 2015

ACKNOWLEDGMENTSI would like to acknowledge my family for being my rock, and motivation. I’d like to thank all of my past and present teachers and professors for believing in me, and to all past and present architects on who’s foundation us students stand upon.

BOOK 1 | DESIGN PROCESS1.The Nature of Design

Design is everything and everywhere. From the homes we live in to the plas-tic cups of coffee we sip out lattes from. Someone somewhere made the design decisions that enable us to carry on with the usage of things perfectly suited for what we need. The conventional definition of design “a plan or drawing produced to show the look and function or workings of a building, garment, or other object before it is built or made” and is both a verb and a noun.

Design is often overused as a buzzword characterizing style and fashion which gives off the limiting idea that design is limited to the aesthetics of things, but good design is more than surface deep. Design is meant to satisfy the needs of the user, and in architecture it takes a mixture of creative, com-mercial and historic insight to be a good designer.

“A lot of trial and error goes into making things look effortless.’”- Bill Moggridge

Before arriving at a successful end result, designers go the design process. The architectural design process is what makes this profession so interesting to me. The design process is a learning process of trial and error that allows you to work collaboratively with others, and express your ideas through vari-ous visual mediums weather it be drawings, diagrams or models. The main steps in the design process are outlined in the diagram adjacent.

2. Conventional and unconventional processes

In architecture various processes have been developed for creative problem solving both conventional and unconventional. Below several of those pro-cesses are outlined.

Integrated Project DeliveryIntegrated Project Delivery is conventional process of design that follows de-tailed guidelines for architectural design set forth by the American Institute of Architects as described below:

Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) is a project delivery approach that

integrates people, systems, business structures and practices into a process that collaboratively harnesses the talents and insights of all par-ticipants to optimize project results, increase value to the owner, reduce waste, and maximize efficiency through all phases of design, fabrication, and construction.

IPD principles can be applied to a variety of contractual arrangements and IPD teams can include members well beyond the basic triad of own-er, architect, and contractor. In all cases, integrated projects are uniquely distinguished by highly effective collaboration among the owner, the prime designer, and the prime constructor, commencing at early design and continuing through to project handover.

BIM-enabled cycleBuilding information modeling is widely used for the project management of construction projects by a majority of firms. This is a brief description of the process by Xun Xu, Ling Ma and Lieyun Ding authors of A Framework for BIM-enabled Life-cycle 13 Information Management of Construction Project

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a new technique imitating build ings’ actual information, through such tools as 3D geographic figures and non-geographic figures which include items such as the materials (for building components), weight, price, procedures, scale and size . In order to enhance the information management process, BIM is proposed to enable and facilitate an integrated method of project flow and delivery by the collaborative use of semantically rich 3D digital building models at all stages of the project and building life-cycle. It utilizes the object-oriented concept to increase the efficiency of information management in the building life-cycle .

Studio 21 MethodStudio 21 method is a a sustained process where an by a schemes is carried out from the begging to end through a step by step process. The scheme goes through the following steps:

Pre Design- Initial step for gathering research, studying precedents works and understanding the functional needs of the project.

Preliminary Design- Initial design ideas are formulated through sketches, and different types of diagrams such as parti, bubble, etc.

Conceptual models- Having established an understanding of the needs and

HONY, one of my favorite blogs, captured art critic Philippe Daverio summarizing the impotance of the art of architecture in a nutshell earlier this year. “We’re all victims of the architect. Architecture is the only art that you can’t help but feel. You can avoid paintings, you can avoid music, and you can even avoid history. But good luck getting away from architecture.”

parameters of the project. 3 conceptual schemes are created and through critique the best schemes is then carried out and further developed.

Elaboration and Refinement-The selected scheme is developed in detail and goes through several review and refinement stages. The scheme is trans-lated from a concept to a design.

3. CreativityCreativity is the ability to generate new ides and new connections between ideas, and ways to solve problems in any aspect or circumstance of our lives. Creativity, like the term design, tends to be coined as having the ability to produce something of visual merit (usual in the arts), but it is so much more. There is no such thing as uncreative people, because everyone has unique way of interacting with the world that shapes there experiences. However I do believe that having a high level of creativity is a skill necessary for the profes-sion of architecture.

Upon coming to college I learned that all through having the ability to pro-duce pieces of art with visual merit is important, it’s more important to have creative problem solving skills. Architecture is a balance between art, place, function, cost, size and time amongst many other things. You have to be cre-ative in order to formulate and translate and idea that encompasses all or most project parameters. Architecture is a unique visual art medium in that the creative capacity needed channels functionality, and affects the day to day living of people.

4. The importance of the sketchSketching is essential to an Architect’s design process. It is a visual way of working out problem. You don’t have to be an artist to utilize, or be good at sketching. As long as the sketch makes sense to you then thats all that matters.t Sketching is a skill that can be enhanced with time and practice.

5. The opportunity of the digitalexpanded the number of visual mediums through which one can express there ideas. The beauty of technology is that you can better document your design process and that traditional methods of design ( such as sketching, and modeling) can still be done.

Parti Diagram of Steven Holl’s Writing with Light house

Example of a bubble diagramQuick sketch of porch for the Tiny House

BOOK 2 | ON MODELING

1. DrawingsArchitectural drawings are used by architects for a variety of reasons includ-ing for the purpose of developing a design idea into a coherent proposal, to communicate ideas and concepts, to convince clients of the merit of their design, to enable a building contractor to construct it and as a record of the complete work of the project and of the buildings already existing. There are different types of drawings that are used through different stages of the de-sign cycle.

Conceptual design drawings-These diagrams are a visual/spatial configu-ration that represent the core of a design concept. They are different from sketches in that they are not realistic representations of physical objects, but representations of abstractions of the form, layout or spirit of what is to be encompassed.

Conceptual design diagrams-There are a variety of different conceptual de-sign diagrams used by architects. Conceptual diagrams usually target a spe-cific aspect of the design vs. conceptual drawings usually try to expresses a general idea for the design. An example of a Conceptual diagram is a bubble diagram.Bubble diagrams are meant to show the size and spacial relations ships of different areas in the layout of a design.Shop drawings-Shop drawings are usually produced by the contractor or per-son fabricating the design. They are required for pre fabricated components. Usually used for objects sushi as structural steel, trusses, elevators, pre-cast, windows, etc.

Construction documents-These are detailed labels drawings that part of the final design phase within the project delivery model. They turn the needs of the client/architect into a build able format that is universally understood in construction. Construction documents include all building plans, specifica-tions, and supporting documents used during the completion of a construction project.

In design studio and in the world place there are several working drawings of the design that are always asked for, and although design wise they change, view point wise they stay the same. These are your plans, sections, eleva-tions, details, and perspectives.

Example of a bubble diagram

I was use to doing all of these drawings by hand or piece by piece, but through this studio I learned how easy it is to have continuously updated ver-sions of the drawings by modeling on the BIM program Revit and assembling sheets. I was also able to exercise creating conceptual design diagrams and drawings on this program.

Through my tiny house interdisciplinary course I learned how to create con-struction diagrams for different aspects of the design, and have been continu-ously using them throughout the production stages of the house.

2. Physical ModelsAlthough most firms don’t produce models of their work any more (because they are time, and cost inefficient) they are a key part of studio projects. Physical models allow one to take a concept into a realistic scaled down version of a design. This process of mini-assemblage is very useful in that it helps one better understand how the skeleton and the skin of the project are going to come together in terms of connections. It is a valuable visual and learning tool for architects and clients. Physicals models can be hand made, laser cut, to 3D printed out of whatever material you think best suits the de-sign, to accurately depicts all real life materials to be used.

3. Models of Site Site models accurately depict the landscape and topography of a chosen site for a prefect. When creating a physical model you usually have to create the topography of the land by stacking different levels of material to mach the site. Architects use to only hand-cut chipboard or cardboard along topography lines to create the representation of site data in 3D. Today’s digital tools allow for highly advanced models capable of not only outputting beautiful physi-cal objects, but also the potential to incorporate accurate and detailed site analysis that can inform the design process. Tools such s CNC cutters and 3d printers allow for the most accurate representation of the site.

4. Models of façade Learning Revit this semester has facilitated the process of modeling the fa-çade thanks to Revit’s family feature. The family editor in Revit allows you to efficiently create and test features such as doors, windows, openings and columns on the facade of your design. You can use existing families imbed-ded in the program, or make your own and customs change the size, shape and materials of the components. The different components must be hosted on a wall in order to work and can be easily alined with other components and moved around from level to level.

These are examples of what the different concep-tual mass edit tools can do

5.Models of massThanks to the different conceptual mass tools on Revit, you can create a composition with free forms easily. Below is a list of different conceptual mass editing tools and what they can do.

Extrude- An extrusion can be made by sketching a 2D profile of a form on the work plane, and then extruding the profile perpendicular to the plane.

Revolve- You can use the revolve command to create a concentric extrusion around n axis or straight line Blend- The Blend tool blends 2 profile boundaries together

Sweep- sweep is created from a 2D profile that is swept along a path. The profile consists of line work drawn perpendicular to the line or series of lines that define the path. ou create a sweep by selecting the profile and the path, and then clicking Create Form.

Cone-Creates a 3D solid with a circular or elliptical base that tapers symmet-rically to a point on to a circular or elliptical planar face. Dome- Use this procedure to create a Dome mass element. The insertion point of the Dome mass element is at the centroid of its bottom face.

Sphere-This design defines a basic solid closed spherical shape. The sphere design describes a closed solid that does not have any start or end angle pa-rameters. The only required input for a sphere is its radius.Torus-This design produces an instance of a torus shaped solid. The shape of the torus can be altered by changing values for the parameters majorRadius and minorRadius.

Loft- Creates a 3D solid or surface by specifying a series of cross sections. The cross sections define the shape of the resulting solid or surface. You must specify at least two cross sections.Pyramid-A pyramid is defined by the center of the base point, a point on the middle of the edge, and another point that determines the height.

6.Models of performanceThe unique thing about Revit is the programs integration of features that not only allow you to produce high quality and life like images ( like rending in the cloud), but it also allows you to integrate structural models, energy simula-tions, cost estimates, quantity takeoffs, thermal and other models of perfor-mance.

Picture of the structual framing of the Tiny house

BOOK 3 | ON MATERIALS

1. Arrangement of Materials-A lesson from the Tiny House This semester through my interdisciplinary community design- build course I learned a lot about the construction processes and the basics on assemblage of buildings by constructing a tiny house. I also learned how to accurately de-pict the different components of the building by using Revit.

The arrangement and type of materials used to build matters. For our Tiny house we constructed the structural framing out of wooden studs made of treated pine for their weather resistance, durability and affordability. We lay-ered the walls by first putting up plywood (sealing the spaces left with calc), nailing a water proofing tarpon top of the plywood and then placing hardy plank on the 3 of the walls, and corrugated metal on one for the exterior. The interior consisted of insulation between the studs and a bead board white was finish.

The part command on Revit makes it easy to model the different layers of material that go into making a wall, floor and ceiling. Each layer of the assem-bly will become an individual part, and each part can then be modified or di-vided into several parts to more accurately reflect the real world components.

2. WoodThe type of wood you choose determines the beauty and strength of the finished piece. Many varieties of wood are available, and each has its own properties. However, there are two main types of wood, hardwoods and soft-woods. The distinction between the two is botanical and not necessarily by their end use or appearance.

Hardwoods comes from deciduous tress, These are trees that lose their leaves in the winter, They come in a wider variety of colors and textures than softwood. These woods are typicaly used for furniture, cabinetry and floor-ing project. Hardwood is typically more expensive then soft wood and has a higher density.

Some examples of hardwoods include, but are not limited to: ash, basswood, birch, fruit wood, but wood, hickory, oak and maple.

Softwoods are used for general construction, and are also used to make pa-per. These trees come from gymnosperms. These plants have seeds that fall

Wall deatial drawings of the tiny house

to the ground with no covering. Softwood are less dense therefore they are less durable.

Some examples of softwoods include, but are not limited to: cedar, red wood, white pine, yellow pine and cypress.

3. MasonryMasonry is on e of the oldest forms of construction that can be traced back to the Mesopotamian, Greeks and the Romans. today three main types of masonry are used for construction including brick, stone, and concrete block masonry.

Brick Masonry is the process of constructing from individual bricks laid in a specific pattern and bound together by mortar. Brick Masonry can support substantial weight, but does not respond well to shaking, twisting, or stretch-ing. For this reason it is often supported by structural reinforcement with ma-terials like steel. All bricks are created from a mixture of sand, water, clay and heat.

Stone masonry is made of stone units bonded together with mortar. There are several type of stone masonry including random rubble masonry, square rubble masonry, polygonal and more.

Concrete block masonry is done by assembling large rectangular concrete blocks. The blocks come in a variety of sizes and shapers.

4.ConcreteConcrete os composed of water, aggregate, cement and is a compost ma-terial. It is stronger in compression then in tension. It is easily shaped, and curved. Complex forms and ornamental pieces are possible because con-crete can be poured on a cast and then mass produced. This is a common strategy used by architects like Santiago Calatrava who uses the repetition of precast piece.

5.Steel and other metals Steel has plaid an important role in construction, and the world of architec-ture. Initially steel and iron were mainly used for decorative purposes, how-ever, the mass production of iron and steel during the 19th century made its use structural. Steel and metal allow for the quick and tall assembly of build-ings.

6. GlassGlass is at the heart of most modern architecture. It is used for general glaz-ing purposes in windows, shop fronts, buildings and workshops. Glass is very energy efficient, because it allows for exposure on natural light, The use of glass is very commonly used in tall office buildings and for biophilic design because it enhances a persons experience by proving views to the outdoors. Glass is composed of several minerals melted together at very high tempera-tures. Sand is the main ingredient and is combined with soda ash and lime-stone.

7. Gypsum, tile, and finishes-A lesson from the Tiny HouseThe finished of a building can make or break a design. For the Tiny house we spent an extensive amount of time working out the balance between the finishes we wanted for our design, and balancing them out with the construct ability, affordability and style of our design.

On the exterior of our Tiny house we used hard plank siding, and corrugated metal. Hardy plank is a more classic material used in residential housing, and is not typicaly paired with metal. We decided to choose it because we would have the time to learn how to mount it properly, it was cost efficient and very weather resistant. We decide to paint the hard plank a complimentary grey and are using a darker shade to accentuate the different parts of the house like the porch, and the window frame.

We are currently in the process of putting the final finishes on the how and are excited to see the end results.

7.Manufacture and fabricationSeveral tools in the wood shop have defiantly facilitated the production of our project designs this semester. Through our second project we were intro-duced to the CNC machine. CNC stands for computer Numerical Control. Complex and simple designs made on Auto Cad or Revit can be created through the use of this machine upon proper formatting. The CNC’S preci-sion makes it possible to produce complex 2D and 3D shapes that would be very difficult, if not impossible to produce manually.

Example of door families available on Revit

Example of how the scheduale tool allows you to compartmentalize the different area of a space

BOOK 4 | ON CONSTRUCTION

1. Architectonic elementsRevit has several modeling categories from which to choose from . When you first open Revit an option you have is to open a new refit project file. There are architectural, structural and construction template available to choose from. There are different architectural components in the project file. This in-cludes doors, walls, stairs, roofs, and curtain systems. There are also struc-tural components available that you can choose to add to your design such as beams, foundations, trusses.columns etc.

Revit also offers different templates to make families. Families are compo-nents you use to build your model, such as walls, windows, stairs, doors, etc. Each family can have multiple types, such as different size, materials, parameter variables, etc. Any change to a type is updated in every instance throughout the project. For example, if you change the width of a door all other doors placed inn the project of the same type will also change to that size.

2. Functional elementsRevit aids the functional programming if a project through schedules. This options offers various classifications of schedules. We used this tool when creating the hotel project. Intitally we used it to document the project program by including the department, name, occupancy, area, and floor level, privacy and more. Schedules also allowed me to input the area required, and showed me the actual being taken up by each room. The square footage being taken up by the different spaces that updated as the space changed. This was par-ticularly useful because digitally we were able to create bubble diagrams that were actuate in size, and we were able to easily move them around.

3. FastenersFasteners are typically made of steel, brass, or bronze. Zinc-plated steel, hot-dipped galvanized steel, stainless steel, chrome and nickel plated steel, and alloy steel all make fantastic fastener materials for a number or different reasons. These materials protect against corrosion and come in a variety of textures, and colors.

4. Assembly Sequence- A lesson from the Tiny HouseThe assembly process of the Tiny house has been a semester long journey. We started by designating roles in our team of 15 ( 4 architects and the rest

constructions science students). We spent several weeks researching tiny houses and presenting conceptual design ideas to the team. Once we came to a consensus on the scheme we created construction drawings of framing model, trailer bed, wall details, elevations, 3D model etc all through Revit.

The construction science students created a cost estimate for the project, as well as a schedule for the project. Through out the project we have been guid-ed by professor Gabriela Campagnol, Ben Bigelow and Michael O’Brian.

1. Architectural philosophyArchitectural philosophy analyzes the aesthetic value of architecture and the implications of its culture. Architecture can be grouped into 3 main philoso-phies, formalism, functionalism and semiotic, that span through the various architecture styles and movements.

FormalismAccording to Le Corbusier, ”Architecture is a magnificent play of form and light.” Formalism derives from the architect’s interest in the visual relation-ships between building parts, and the work as a whole. It is the theory that believes that architecture is primarily art, in that the / form is the most impor-tant part of the design. Many of today’s most distinguished architects such as Frank Gehry, and Zaha Hadid are considered to be formalist because the overall shape of the exterior of their buildings usually tend to make a state-ment. An example of this would be Frank Lloyd Wright’s Guggenheim muse-um, who’s form is internationally recognized.

One of the issues with formalism is that although the buildings usually have a beautiful exterior often sets constraints for the functionality in the interior.

FunctionalismSome architects believe that the sole purpose of “architecture is for special occupancy and human need”.

Functionalists believe that utility should be the most dominant feature when creating a design. This usually applies to buildings that are created for a specific purpose such as schools and hospitals. In both types of architec-ture functionalism should be the primary focus of a design because it can enhanced the human experience and need, and if done poorly it will hinder it. For example in a hospital design the most important part of the design in the client experience and nurse- to client experience. It is more important to make accommodations allowing for the client to best be conferrable and have easy access to the staff when in need of help ro an emergency. This spacial relationship is far more important than the aesthetics of the design because in serious cases this proximity can be fatal.

SemioticSemiotics is the study of signs and symbols that gives the viewer a more in-sightful understanding of a design. Semiotic design is design based purely

BOOK 5 | ON THEORY

on symbols and motifs. In this theory of design meaning is created in the representation of beliefs and ideas through different elements and details in a design. This design theory is used a lot in the designs of religious and gov-ernment building which are meant to evoke a sense of spirituality and power. The problem with this type of design is if the viewer is not informed enough on some of the symbolism the design’s message loses power.

No architectural design can be considered to be purely composed with the ideals of only one of these theories. All designers have to find a balance be-tween the three, or show which one they find to be most important in their design. Although an architect may favor one over the other, it is important for an architect to understand all three.

2.Style

Stylistic familiesAn architectural style characterizes a family of systems that are related by shared structural and semantic properties. According to research done on ar-chitectural styles in Carnegie Mellon University styles encompass four things:

1. A Vocabulary of design elements – component and connector types such as pipes, filters, clients, servers, parsers, databases, etc.

2. Design rules – or constraints that determine the permitted compo sitions of those elements. For example, the rules might prohibit cycles in a particular pipe-filter style, specify that a client-server organization must be an n-to-one relationship, or define a specific com- positional pattern such as a pipelined decomposition of a compiler.

3. Semantic interpretation, whereby compositions of design elements, suitably constrained by the design rules, have well-defined meanings.

4. Analyses that can be performed on systems built in that style. Exam-ples include schedulability analysis for a style oriented toward real-time processing .

Classical languageThe classical language of architecture moves through Antiquity, Renaissance, Mannerist, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Georgian periods. Classicism is a combination of functionalism and purism. John Summerson wrote “The Classical Language of Architecture.” The text enters a number of different topics, including orders to the relationship be-tween the classical tradition to the “modern” architecture of today. Sum-

merson defines a classical building to be now who’s decorative elements are taken from the vocabulary and motifs of the ancient wold,

Modernist language“ Less is more.” - Le Corbusier

\Modern architecture is a simplified, unornamented building style from the late 19th and 20th centuries. International Style, Neue Sachlichkeit or New Objec-tivity, and Functionalism are all used to describe modernist architecture. Famous architects from this period of time include Louis Sullivan and Frank Llod Wright in the, Otto Wagner in Vienna, Victor Horta in Brussels, Le Cor-busier in France and Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona.

“The modern language of architecture is not merely the language of modern architecture; it enfolds the heresies and dissonances of history”

-Bruno Zevi on The Modern Language of Architecture

To get a better understanding of the modernist style, and familiarize ourselves with Revit, we re-created Le Corbusier’s Weissenhoff House located in Stutt-gart, Germany (1927). Le Corbusier designed the house based off of his 5 point of architecture:

1. Pilotis- Showing the influences of the order and regulation of classical architecture, Le Corbusier called for the substitution of supporting walls by a grid of reinforced concrete load-bearing columns, called pilotis, offering in-creased open space.

2. Free Design of the Ground Plan- By removing the constraints of internal supporting walls, the functioning of the interior is left open and unrestrained in its usage. The natural flow of space was a key characteristic of modern archi-tecture, which assumed that the best design does not divide space entirely.

3.Free Design of the Facade- The separation of the exterior of the building from its structural function allows for the freeing up of the facade as a conse-quence of concrete frame construction. Since the walls were then divested of their constructional role, their design became free as well.

4. Horizontal Windows- The inclusion of ribbon windows that extend across the facade of the dwelling horizontally allow all rooms to be lit equally and provide a selective view of the surrounding environment.

5. Roof Garden- As a means of bringing nature into the home, Le Corbusier utilized the flat roof for a domestic garden. The creation of a vegetal rooftop also allowed for increased views over the site.

The MIT Stata center by Frank Gehry is an example of post-modern architecture

Post-modernist language

“less is a bore.” - Robert Venturi

Post-Modernist Architecture began as an international style that began on the 1950’s and became a movement in the 1970’s. Postmodern architecture evolved from the modernist movement, but contradicts modernist ideas. Post modernism is the mixture of historic styles and symbols in modern day build-ings. The men who highly influenced this movement through there work and publications include Robert Venturi, Charles Jenks, Michael Graves and Rob-ert Stern.

Discretist languageDiscretism embodies todays architecture and the digital opportunities that are being explored to form parametric, and new designs. Discretism derives from discrete mathematics. Designs can be traced to numerical patterns such as binary and discrete sampling.

Revit’s parametric modeling tools have the option to enter mathematical formulas and functions that can drive the forms of the parametric models in family and conceptual mass projects. You can make changes accordingly by using the family editor

Building performanceArchitecture is very subjective there for this is not wright answer as to what makes ”good functional architecture”. Personally I believe it is a balance of the three architecture philosophies: formalism, functionalism, and semiotic. I believe architecture is art we live our lives in there for it should be a space that inspires, and serves its function (weather it be a class room or and of-fice), and inevitably architecture will always pay homage to motifs and de-signs of the past for they are what give us the notion of what a “classroom” and “office” look and feel like.

Sustainability should also be at the heart of good functional architecture considering the building industry is one of the worlds largest contributors to global warning. There are many ways to track weather a building is sustain-able enough or not, but one of the most prominent ways is through the U.S’s Green Building Council’s LEED certification criteria. If one would like to do a self evaluation on a building design they created, just for informative pur-poses, the rubies are readily available online through http://www.usgbc.org/resources.

BOOK 6 | PROJECTS

1.The HotelProduct-The boutique hotel is located in Castiglione Fiorentino, Italy. There is a grand portico with large Doric columns that illustrates the entry. My de-sign intent behind the hotel’s functionality was to highlight ands exploit all of the views that Italy, and the hotel had to offer. The hotel design reflects

The design consists of 3 different sectors connecting the building into one. On the street level of the main building there is a cafe, lobby, restrooms, and in the wings adjacent you can find the meeting room, offices, printing room, and laundry. There is also a central court yard area with a pool. The space in the main building on the second floor also serves as a reception/lobby area for guests. To get to the bedrooms the guest can walk through an open terrace. On the 3rd floor you’ll fine the 2 master suites, each with their own balcony overlooking Italy. Almost every bedroom offers a view to the courtyard, and to Italy. At approximately 15,000 gross square feet, the building contains these programmatic spaces along with stairs, a glass elevator, and circulation.

Process- The hotel was designed with classic motifs on the facade, and modernist principals in the back. In perpetration for this project we re-created Palladio’s Villa rotunda, along with another Villa, and Le Corbusier’s Villa Sa-voy on Revit through step by step tutorials. These exercises not only allowed us to become familiarized with the program, but allowed us to further appreci-ate the beauty in the gridded designs of two of the greatest architects.

ReflectionLessons from Palladio- Palladianism pays homage to antiquity in its classic forms and motifs, and bespeaks rationality in its clarity, order and symmetry. It is based on the principals of classical antiquity, and on the wrings of architect and theorist Vitruvius. Through recreating 2 of Palladio’s Villa’s I learned to further value the beauty of symmetry, a concept I plan to further explore in my designs. I am looking forward to having the opportunity of visiting Palladio’s Villa next spring, and experiencing their beauty in person.

Lessons from Le Corbusier- Re-creating Le Corbusier’s Villa Savoye was a quick and fun exercise that took no more the 4 hours. His design for Villa Savoye strongly reflects his 5 points of architecture of pilots, free design of ground plan, free design of facade, horizontal windows and roof gardens.

2 Plan View

1 Parametric Wall Left View

3 Parametric Wall Right View

1/4" = 1'-0"4 East 1/4" = 1'-0"5 West

2 Plan View

1 Parametric Wall Left View

3 Parametric Wall Right View

1/4" = 1'-0"4 East 1/4" = 1'-0"5 West

Final Product- The completion of this project was a big milestone for me n that it is my first project made on Revit. Although there is still a lot left to ex-plore with program, I feel my skill were built up quickly in the course of the first 5 weeks of this studio. I am excited to further explore what i can do with this program, and further refine my skills.

2.The Studio Wall

Product-The Studio Wall project was meant to serve at a teaching tool for doing parametric modeling on Revit, and then translating it into a physical model. The project program was to create a 3x6 foot wall that would serve as a studio pin up space on one side, and as a sculptural space on the other side. Our Design intent for the wall was to create a design that allowed for both side to be functional. We created a curvilinear design that also served as a seating space.

Process- Because we knew from the get go we wanted both side to be functional, we spent time studying furniture design, and human proportions. Through ecxerciex and in class lectures we practiced making generic adap-tive models that would allow us to create what we wanted.

We started by calculating our different points of infliction and there sizes relative to the 24 slats of plywood we were to uses. Once we had out table figured out we set up a generic adaptive model with 12 reference points en-closed by a spline line that would allow for the curves on the line to be cre-ated. We input the variables for the 24 different slats, extruded the forms to the thickness of the plywood, and loaded the conceptual mass model and snapped it to the nodes and the base.

The model was then fabricated in the Architecture digitals Fabrication Lab (“the Ranch) on Texas A&M’s Riverside Campus. The 3D model was trans-ferred into separate 2D pieces on AutoCad. The file was then formatted for the CNC machine, and was cut out onto ¾” plywood. Additionally the grooves on the back board were cut out using the table saw at the Wood-shoop. This allowed for the assembly of the wall.

ReflectionThrough this project I learned how to create parametric models using a ge-neric adaptive model on Revit, and how to fabricate using CNC technology. The design choice of making the parametric wall functional allowed for a unique opportunity to learn about standard proportions for furniture. I plan to take the skill I learned through this project and apply them to future projects.

3.The Gate

Product- The Gate designs centers on the idea of an interlocking movement to be created when the gate is in uses. The gate is intended to be made from wooden slats, and steal support from the posts. As seen several iterations of the design were created

Process- The Gate design was meant to be a quick follow up to the Studio Wall project. The idea was to take the concepts and skills learned with project to and apply them into designing a functional gate.

ReflectionThe gate project was an exercise that showed me how fast modeling can be when you know how to properly execute a design using the program of your choosing. It was nice to collaborate with different class mates to create the designs.

As many of my colleagues and friends know, my unofficial title for this semes-ter was “Getting it together 2015”. Upon entering Christmas break from fall semester, I felt uneasy about what I had accomplished. I spent the bulk of the semester in studio, studying, and worrying about classes Although my grades we good, I felt I hadn’t taken advantage of the different opportunities my uni-versity had to offer. I began this semester with the goal of making the most of it. I wanted to expand my technical capabilities, explore my topics of inter-est, expand my network, get involved with new opportunities, and discover where I stand.

Expand technical SkillsAlthough I had taken three semesters of studio, I felt like I did not know a modeling program concretely. I did my research on what programs were best for architects to know, and found that over 70% of architecture jobs require Revit skills. At that point I had never event used Revit. I was animate about taking Dr. Mark Clayton’s class, because I knew that his studio explored Revit in-depth, and am happy to say they course more than fulfilled my expecta-tions.

Through the course I learned how to create 3D generic and adaptive mod-els, sheets, families, renderings, sections, floor plans, parametric models, the history of BIM, how to use the CNC machine, about Palladianism and Le Corbusier, facts about the college of architecture and so much more. In addi-tion the skills I learned in studio were also applied to modeling my tiny house project.

I am proud to say I have gained professional knowledge of Revit and its use, and have accomplished my goal of expanding my technical skills. I look for-ward to continue refining my skills, and applying what I learned to future de-signs.

Explore my Topics of InterestAcademically I wanted to take classes that interested me, and explored dif-ferent aspects of architecture. In addition to my courses required I decided to take the community Design and Build course, Hip-hop, and the Architecture for Health lecture series.

BOOK 7 | MANIFESTO

Community Design and BuildThe course taught me so much about the building industry, and about my capabilities. The purpose of the class was to design 2 tiny houses that were to be donated to Mobile Loaves& Fishes’s Community First village. The class was an interdisciplinary course between architecture, construction science students, and electrical engineers. I was one of four architects students on a team of 15. Having never worked with construction science students before, I gained valuable communication skills on presenting designs. As a team we voted on a scheme, and concept for our tiny house. Us architect students put together construction documents complete with elevations, renderings, sec-tions, floor plans and details. Through out the design process we received critical feed back from our mentors and advisors as to ways to improve the design, conceptually, and constructability wise.

I learned a lot by woking with the construction science students such as creating a cost estimate, and scheduling. Through the building phase of the project I learned how to use different power tools, how to water proof a house, how to electrically wire a house and so much more. Although at times the project has been both physically and mentally draining, knowing that our designs are to serves as homes for someone in need has kept us all going. I thoroughly enjoyed this course, and have made great friends in the industry that I look forward to one day working with.

Beginners Hip-hopHip hops is more then just choreography, and catchy music, but a cultural movement of expression. I always wanted to take a Hip-Hop class, and I’m glad I did. I was able to take my mind off of studio for a bit, and express my emotions through dance. Although I’m still trying to figure out it’s implication to architecture, the course taught me to let loose and have fun. The urban cul-ture’s influence on the architectural profession perhaps?

Architecture for Health lecture seriesI took this course because of my interest in healthcare design. I wanted to learn more about it’s implications in the global built-environment. The lecture series focused on healthcare projects in Latin America. Each week different professionals in the health care industry took the time to share vignettes of their experiences working in Latin America. The most moving lecture for me was one done by Raymond Cherington, a physician from Honduras. George Mann’s senior studio was designing a second hospital for his hometown Roatan, Honduras. He explained his story on how he worked as a cable man on the Island and worked his way through school to become a Doctor. He now works at the current hospital there that to this day has no running water. The project design done by the students would serve as a scheme for

the new hospital that was going to be built. He was almost in tears thanking everyone who was part of the projects. At that moment it really hit me how much what we do as architects matters. The class strengthened my interest in Healthcare design, and I look forward to exploring it as a possible direction for my career.

“Don’t let your school work get in the way of your education”-George Mann

Expanding my NetworkThis semester I worked hard to expand my professional network. On the first week of class I taped up a business card I had held on to since freshman year from Mark W. Vander Voort, an architect from HKS, to the back of my notebook and made it my goal to fill the page by the end of the semester.

Over Christmas break I prepared my resume, business cards, and portfolio in case I ever needed them. I attended several resume, and professional devel-opment workshops, and actively seemed out the opinion of my professors in order to improve my material. On my spare times I researched ways to im-prove my interview skills.

Through out the semester I looked for opportunities to meet professionals, and learn more about working as an architect. I attended several firm crawls through AIAS, career fair, attended lectures by business professions, and was fortunate enough to attend the AIAS South Quad Conference in New Or-leans, and the PDC International Summit in San Antonio.

I believe my communication skills have improved a lot because of all of these experiences. I now feel a lot more confident approaching professions. Through out my journey of expanding my network, I have been fortunate enough to have met so many incredible people along the way.

I started of with a single business card and have now gathered over 50. I look forward to adding to my collection, and meeting new people.

Getting Involved I decided to take a more active tools in student life this semester by becom-ing a more active member in AIAS, and by joining new organizations.

Phi Beta Lambda- wanted to meet more people from the business school (because I am a business minor student), so I decide to rush for the Busi-ness professional Fraternity Phi Beta Lambda. I can honestly say that Phi Beta Lambda is an incredible group of good natured, driven individuals.

At the beginning of the semester, I stepped out of my confront zone, and ran for Pledge class Vice President of External Affairs, and was fortunate enough to have won the election. I lead the community service, and professional chairs in helping provide opportunities for all 80 pledging members meet the hours needed to get into the organization. We organized business basic courses on financial literacy, can food drives, and brought in corporate spon-sors, professionals to speak to the class. Being part of the executive board was a great experience, and I look forward to my future involvement with the organization as an active.

American Institute of Architecture Students- The mission of the AIAS is to promote excellence in architectural education, training, and practice; to foster an appreciation of architecture and related disciplines; to enrich communities in a spirit of collaboration; and to organize students and combine their efforts to advance the art and science of architecture.

I had been part of AIAS since the begging of sophomore year, but I wanted to take a more active role with the organization. I decided to take advantage of the socials, workshops, and South Quad in New Orleans. Attending the conference is what really made me passionate about AIAS. Through the con-ference I was able to connect with individuals passionate about architecture, and learn about the differences we can make as young professionals.

My passion for the organization lead me to run to be an officer of Texas A&M’s chapter. I am now a career fair chair for next year, and will be attend-ing AIAS Grassroots Leadership Conference in DC this summer. I look for-ward to contributing to the organization, and seeing its growth at A&M!

Student Health Environments Association- I became a part of SHAE upon joining the Health Care Lecture Series. SHAE bridges students interested in Health Care with professional in the industry. SHAE does monthly hospital visits, and creates opportunities to meet with professionals. I looked forward to contribute to the organization next by serving as the undergraduate repre-sentative.

Where I Stand

“well building hath three conditions: firmness, commodity and delight” -Vitruvius

I believe good architecture is provocative to the eye, serves more needs then it was intense for, and meets the test of time. Like the work of Palladio, and Le Corbusier, good architecture is timeless. This semester has taught me

that I am more of a functionalist then I realized. I believe architecture that doesn’t serve its function becomes unintentional art. I am interested in health-care, and K-12 design because of human affinity required in the design. I believe architecture has a huge impact in both areas.

Good design for health can help reduce stress, improve one’s cognitive func-tions and emotional wellbeing. Designing the physical learning environments have a direct and measurable impact on student and teacher performance. They create optimism, promote community and belonging, and allow stu-dents, teachers, and faculty to take pride and ownership in their environment and education. I am passionate for impacting education through architecture.

“work smart, not hard”- Mark Clayton

The complication of my experiences this semester through studio, the health-care lecture sereis, conferences, the tiny house, social and behavioral facts of design, AIAS, career fair, Phi Beta Lambda, SHAE, interviews, Sustainable architecture and so much more has gotten me closer to discovering who I am, and what I want. I am thankful to everyone who has influenced my education and growth this semester. Cheers to the end of Sophomore year, and to what is to come!

-fine-

Roxanna Itzel Treviño

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Spring 2015 ClassesARCH 206- Mark ClaytonARCH 212- Xuemei ZhuARCH 213- Phillip TabbARCH 481- Gabriella Campagnol and Ben Bigellow ARCH 481- George MannKINE 199- Alexandria Pooley

Below are links to the sources in the order in which they were used:http://www.mech.hku.hk/bse/interdisciplinary/what_is_design.pdfhttp://info.aia.org/siteobjects/files/ipd_guide_2007.pdfhttp://cdn.intechopen.com/pdfs-wm/47352.pdfhttp://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/topic/creativity/creativityhttp://www.lifeofanarchitect.com/what-is-creativity/http://www.humansofnewyork.com/post/100015452196/were-all-victims-of-the-architect-architecturehttp://images.meredith.com/diy/images/2009/01/p_SBI_034_03.jpghttp://images.meredith.com/diy/images/2009/01/p_SBI_034_02.jpghttp://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-brick-masonry.htmhttp://synergiscadblog.com/2013/05/06/using-parts-in-autodesk-revit/http://www.slideshare.net/prabhazigzag/types-of-stone-masonryhttp://repository.cmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1318&context=tepperhttp://architizer.com/blog/5-buildings-that-embody-le-corbusiers-five-points/http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/439906/Palladianismhttp://blackspectacles.com/uploads/images/2014_06-25_Black_Spectacle_In-fographic_Final-01.pnghttps://aias.org/aias-mission-statement/

7