Undergraduate Thesis
​Fall 2012, Spring 2013​ - Roanoke, VA
For my thesis year at Virginia Tech, I chose to study the movement, interaction, and connection that is discoverable through a program that interacts with its occupants. I chose to start my project with an antithesis - big box retail. This building type is a prime example of built environment driven by economy of means and not the occupants who experience built form. I chose to undergo an exploration of how visible movement of building components can transform a space from background noise to a conscious form of engagement. I have chosen to complete this study throughhand drawings, physical models, and computer software (Revit and AutoCAD). I chose to 'replace' a Food Lion grocery in Roanoke, VA to heighten the differentiation between the existing shopping center and my proposition. The plan was designed to incorporate sustainable design elements, promote health of community members, and impact industry in terms of atmosphere, spatial consideration, products, and relationships. ​
Beginning of the market. Easy access for extreme flexibility. Minimal power requirements. Built in shelving, both sloped and flat.
Enters through angled windows. Seasonal patterns.
Massing supports simple flat roof while levels allow for variety of overhead filtered light.
Massing comparison
Change in roof levels Separate prep and present areas - See chef Niki Nakayama
Cooking, baking, and service shops. Multiple delivery, frequent car, and shipping space. Separate prep, present, and sale areas.
Scale and form of existing concrete pad. Shape determined by development forces Established prior to current ideals regarding the involvement of nature and place in our lives.
Less centralized parking Infiltration more evenly spread across the site. Adjacent grass areas can be programmed for overflow during appropriate weather.
ACCORDION Third shape of one study of building movement Extension and retraction movements. Ideal for program items that must be separate. Dynamic less than 5 times a day.
Movement allows for more flexible programming Horizontal expression creates unique focal point. Exposed structure is typical of extra support buildings deemed required by participants.
PIVOT Second shape of one study of building movement Allows inside of building to participate with market occupants physically outside the building. Ideal for serving multiple spaces. Dynamic less than 5 times a day.
Composite of Market Buildings
Adjacency between buildings meant windows had to be assist with transmitting sunlight to neighboring buildings, irregardless of unit configuration.
Pitched roofs encourage breezes are more appropriate for unconditioned spaces than flat roofs. Upper windows allows more daylight, reducing the heat gain from additional sources.
Beginning questioning and research went into creating direction of environmental questioning
