In phase two of hipster haven, we undertook the detailed design of an individual unit from our joint schematic design in phase one. I chose the bottom right corner unit (see phase one floor plan), with two exposed brick walls, and 2 existing concrete ceiling beams running lengthwise. We were to design around the beams and the other existing structural elements.
concept
I began with the concept of Heather and I's overall building concept, of the environment acting as a human's third skin. From this starting point, I was really excited to look at what skin does for humans, how it works, and how it develops. I got stuck on the idea of creating a kind of "skin" that would attach itself to the existing structure and form spaces more purposed for human living than the warehouse currently is. From these ideas, my research took me to exoskeletons.
An exoskelton acts "not only as a protective covering over the body, but also as a surface for muscle attachment, a water-tight barrier against desiccation, and a sensory interface with the environment." From this starting point, I began forming my space.
stair design
I began with the stairs, as this was the structural element that would be the connection between all the individual spaces. It made sense to start with the stairs, and have everything else branch off from there. I really wanted my staircase to be a strong conceptual element in my space. The white base structure appears to be a suitable staircase in itself, but it isn't, and the orange 3form fills in the unuseable space, making it more comfortable, and better fit for humans.
As the stairs were the most important element in my design, they needed something to act as an exciting and lively contrast, yet at the same time, somewhat belonging, to the space that previously existed. A bright orange color was the solution. The following detail drawing shows how the steps would be supported where the white base structure did not meet every other step.
liveable spaces
Next in the process came the pushing and pulling of my stairs to form the rest of the unit. Working around the beams, incorporating the exposed brick walls, and making sure ceiling heights were accessible to everyone were my biggest challenges. In placement of separate spaces, I focused on the public/private factor, and overall logical circulation needs. Following are the other perspective views, some additional un-rendered images of my digital sketch up model, sections and floorplans to further explain the space as a whole.
The following wall section details how the wall meets the floor and ceiling in most cases throughout my design. I chose a product called Tektrim, a metal piece that easily allows for the drywall and baseboard to be flush. The wooden baseboard would be painted the same color as the wall above, with just a tiny void between the two.
materials, etc.
As the vibrant orange of my staircase came first, it was easy to choose materials that would both compliment and contrast it. For our presentation, we were to design a materials "board" that wasn't just a board. I chose to include the things I used most throughout my space.
White painted reclaimed hardwood would make up all the floors but the 1st, on which the already existing concrete would remain. I chose muted blue paint, walnut wood veneer, and translucent walnut 3form accents to add warmth to the cold, existing industrial structure, as well as the white paint of the main staircase structure. These accents compliment the energetic orange of the stairs, as well as the hue of the 2 large existing brick walls. Following is my final FF&E schedule, outlining the specific materials chosen.
light
As my unit was located on an external wall, I wanted to incorporate as much natural light as possible. I found the solution in floor to ceiling windows, with shades built into the glass, which would be operated electronically. In the case of the bathroom, the most private area, the glass on the window would be frosted. There is also a skylight strip running parallel to the beams within the bathroom and above the living space.
presentation board
Finally, my presentation board. As Heather and I presented together, we coordinated our boards by mirroring the placement of our drawings, with our overall schematic design in the center.
Overall, this project has taught me a great deal about my personal design process, which I hope to continue to develop. What a journey 2nd year has been, I can't believe how much we have progressed. 3rd year is just around the corner! (Though a break is in order first!) :)
