http://tillmandesign.com/designmain daily 1.0 2021-02-11 https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4d225a4e0ab36fdd5cc04/1613060199779/Longfellow+Bing.png Projects - What does a city for all look like? Creating a City for All Highlighted by the tumultuous combination of the pandemic and decades of rising systemic inequality, it’s clear that Minneapolis has never truly been a City for All. With our community considering how best to rebuild itself, this design proposes that the Longfellow neighborhood should be rebuilt in a way that prioritizes the empowerment of communities of color after lifetimes of systemic injustice and inequity, providing a healing neighborhood as a center for societal support, healing, and growth. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4ced80766c40604f9af0c/1609879291356/264146845_MPLS+Empowerment+District_Image1.jpg Projects - Healing through Creative Expression Wooden facade panels pay homage to the plywood that protected businesses’ windows and housed beautiful murals expressing solidarity with the Black community. The new panels are similarly intended to be used as a canvas for residents to process ongoing grief and trauma and create a shared sense of community, while providing an informal public gallery for local artists of color. At the marketplace, these panels allow entrepreneurs to quickly create unique business branding. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c96e6eecec7adc4e0087/1610313063788/264146845_MPLS+Empowerment+District_gif1.gif Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4cf0e2845875bfb23a5a9/1609961848950/264146845_MPLS+Empowerment+District_Image3.jpg Projects New parkways create healthy recreational spaces while also reclaiming surfaces from impervious parking lots, reducing flooding and filtering runoff before it reaches the river, as well as supporting biodiversity, pollinators, and urban agriculture. These pull pedestrians from busy streets, creating safer alternative connections to public transportation and bike trails. These parkways and buildings’ green roofs greatly reduce the area’s heat island potential and energy usage, both crucial in reducing climate impacts. Access to green spaces has been shown to reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes (both of which increase vulnerability to COVID) and improve mental health. Urban green spaces also buffer against adverse health impacts, including reducing levels of nitrogen dioxide from road traffic (which can lead to a range of respiratory problems) and road noise levels (which over time can contribute to conditions such as increased blood pressure, higher stress responses, fatigue, and irritability). A variety of exterior spaces provide safer spaces to meet and socialize during the pandemic - individual housing blocks are separated by shared spaces connected along a raised deck, providing opportunities for micro-communities and support networks to form; balconies have been prioritized, spaced for safe socialization with neighbors; wide parkways along Minnehaha provide flexible outdoor space that the various programs can use as needed. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4ca10c60b150768b1d60c/1610313753761/264146845_MPLS+Empowerment+District_Image2.jpg Projects Transitional and affordable housing provide housing stability to residents in need, while career programs, skills training, and business incubation create options for economic empowerment and social innovation. The marketplace provides flexible storefronts for aspiring entrepreneurs to workshop and jumpstart business ideas with real clients. These new businesses and employees would spread across the area, strengthening the community’s legacy of minority-owned businesses. A Black-owned bank supports prospective businesses and homeowners by providing fair financing. Daycare and youth programs support working parents while improving educational outcomes and complementing the local school programs. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4cf958a747b3fdeca0153/1610313684222/264146845_MPLS+Empowerment+District_gif4.gif Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff6131b0ad0a76ea6356f7c/1610313268673/GIF+2_Stats.png Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/6025553c520b9a547cdc98c9/1613059398943/Screenshot_20210210-205018_Instagram+CROP.jpg Projects - An Incredible Honor This inaugural competition hosted by the University of Calgary resulted in a fascinating and inspiring collection of proposals for social change - wildly creative ideas focused around broad systemic issues such as coastal degradation, food insecurity, migrant worker populations, social justice in many forms, and so much more. This breadth and quality of work makes me feel all the more honored and thankful to the jury for honoring this project among such peers. Explore the competition and these amazing proposals here. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c9daaf41aa3cf58cd379/1610313387354/264146845_MPLS+Empowerment+District_gif3.gif Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf86044f6a4120981be79c/1588788292343/St+Paul+Prize+2016+-+Entrant+11+-+Board+2.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf85cfaf500209571fb13e/1588788281352/St+Paul+Prize+2016+-+Entrant+11+-+Board+1-03.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06823bdf346537bcc6831/1588787475166/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_07.jpg Projects The mall building has primarily been converted to health and well-being resources for both residents and the communities. This was seen both as a benefit to local residents as well as a potential boost to the mall’s businesses. A small proportion of retail spaces adjacent to the connection to the rest of the mall creates a buffer between the two space types while also providing job opportunities for residents. Within the housing complex, apartments have been grouped in clusters of mixed types and provided with small shared social spaces in order to encourage the development of social connections and support. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06ab4651ee31d5f02c5ae/1588787545238/omeara%2B-%2Bext%2Baerial%2Bsoutheast.jpg Projects Breaks in the large building masses allow for additional sunlight into the central courtyard. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06878b34a8915d799a016/1588787495248/ Projects The building circulation was designed as a loop in part to provide a secondary low impact exercise option for residents during cold winter months. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06b14bdf346537bcd42e8/1588787564470/omeara%2B-%2Bext%2Beast%2Bcourtyard%2Bentry%2B-%2Boverlooking%2Bcourtyard.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06614ca0ca24071d7c5a6/1588787394371/OMeara%2B-%2BMarketing%2BGraphics%2B%2528option%2B3%2529_Page_2.jpg Projects In many cases, facilities for residents with special needs have resources entirely focused on housing and healthcare, allowing the residents to meet their basic needs but lacking the necessary resources and community support for them to grow and excel as healthy individuals. Providing access to services beyond the occupants’ core needs not only gives them the opportunity to develop richer and more independent lives, but the shared amenities also help the occupants to form connections with the surrounding communities. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06bc033f8ff54cd3a8034/1588787583524/omeara%2B-%2Bext%2Bsouthwest%2Bcourtyard%2Bentry.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb067bda3f9227bb9f4d1d9/1588787412956/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_04.jpg Projects Advantages of Existing Infrastructure This proposal centered around connecting a new housing complex to a community services facility built within repurposed abandoned big box outlet at Ridgedale Mall. In addition to the cost savings from renovating the majority of the project as opposed to new construction, malls are typically located within city / suburban centers, providing nearby connections to necessary resources like grocery stores, gyms, libraries, and job possibilities. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0685d62c8ce2254c8d31a/1588787485588/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_08.jpg Projects The site’s prominent slope requires entries on the east side to be a full level higher than on the west side. The link building at the south face of the mall aids that level transition as well as creating a secure entry space for residents and users of the shared facilities. A wide variety of meeting and education spaces allow for job training, life skills, and other types of classes to be offered to residents and the surrounding community. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0678cb34a8915d7995703/1588787403736/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_03.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06a6c651ee31d5f02b0fd/1588787554170/omeara%2B-%2Bext%2Bcourtyard%2Bfrom%2Beast%2Bstair.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06b67651ee31d5f030205/1588787574361/omeara%2B-%2Bext%2Beast%2Bcourtyard%2Bentry.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb068903d857923b51b3102/1588787504621/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_10.jpg Projects Rooftop gardens on both the existing building and housing complex allow residents to learn new life skills, gain the therapeutic benefits associated with gardening, and have some level of nutritional resilience and independence. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06a8ec0ab82006f5a2fc5/1588787532445/omeara%2B-%2Bext%2Baerial%2Beast.jpg Projects The massing of the building forms helps the courtyard feel open while retaining a sense of privacy and seclusion. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb067fc87cfc00afa2a406a/1588787449667/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_06.jpg Projects The proposed design’s massing prioritizes maintaining natural light and views for occupants as much as possible, while also creating natural flow around the site. The massing steps upward, creating opportunities for rooftop patios and gardens at various points. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb067d9e12cdc068a345257/1588787439741/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_05.jpg Projects Replacing Parking with Park Space Because malls typically have more parking than is required for much of the year, we proposed replacing swathes of existing parking with urban park space. Not only would this be highly beneficial to residents, but it would become an amenity to the local community and mall shoppers as well. The green space would also create the physical and visual separation necessary to have a restorative housing complex connected to a mall, and additionally provide a range of environmental benefits. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb069573c9e9c74eb318f5e/1588787524741/omeara+-+ext+1-01.png Projects View at Southwest Entry https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb068de1f265b6f6d2a4697/1588787513997/2018+10+16_OMeara+-+Concept+Presentation+%28EXPORT%29_Page_11.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0698253413f5fb4c916c5/1588787538470/omeara+-+ext+aerial+1-01-01.png Projects Close attention was paid to retaining sunlight and views for all residents. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb066e812cd060d82ff3f50/1588787383912/omeara+-+ext+courtyard+towards+east.png Projects Supporting a Healthy Lifestyle This design was focused around supporting wellness in a variety of ways, including encouraging movement and activity, providing access to daylight and views, and creating connections with the surrounding community. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae535fa957b826cbc05ab2/1588787687270/6_%28BT%2BSlide%2B8%29%2BGardening%2B%26%2BNE%2BView.jpg Projects Forming Connections with a Front Garden A simple modular wood and steel framework creates the home’s new second skin, which can adapt and reconfigure to fit a wide variety of situations. Due to its use of standard material dimensions and straightforward construction methods, this second skin is an affordable and easy way to create privacy, shading, and gardening opportunities for the homeowners. This configuration shows an option for a vibrant gathering space in the front yard that creates social connections with the surrounding neighborhood. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae5497d9408f5afdc5c8c0/1588787740133/11_%28BT%2BSlide%2B10%29%2BMovable%2BWalls%2B-%2BElder%2BCare%2BLayout.jpg Projects Adaptable Layout | Living Suite This option shows the potential for using the space as a living suite for older relatives. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae54c73f097262cc42e3f7/1588787749438/12_%28BT%2BSlide%2B10%29%2BMovable%2BWalls%2B-%2BFitness%2BLayout.jpg Projects Adapable Layout | Flexible Suite This option shows an open fitness room layout. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae4fea534ec14df0ccf94c/1588787616922/1_Exterior%2BWINNER-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae5458c2d94e4ef4f96f5e/1588787730159/10_%28BT%2BSlide%2B10%29%2BMovable%2BWalls%2B-%2BBedroom%2BLayout.jpg Projects Adaptable Layout | Twin Bedrooms The design uses sliding barn doors which require less energy to operate than standard swing doors. These doors are designed with translucent glazing to increase light transmission into the center of the home while maintaining occupant privacy, improve interior visibility, and reduce the risk of accidents. By demolishing the wall between the two front bedrooms, the floor plan gains tremendous flexibility for future use. Standard closet spaces have been replaced by mobile casework, which provides a much higher degree of flexibility within the rooms as their programmatic functions evolve to reflect the homeowners’ changing lifestyles. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae553f7b605f2924767aa2/1588787769317/14_%28BT%2BSlide%2B12%29%2BHallway%2BView.jpg Projects Hallway Design The hallway was reconfigured to increase the width to meet Universal Design guidelines, providing ease and comfort of use for occupants of all abilities. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae52fdf23882475711b28e/1588787677606/5A_Site+Plan+FINAL.jpg Projects The majority of my design budget was focused on the interior renovation, but through the use of modular and inexpensive design elements, large gardens, patios, and social spaces could be included in the project. These added social, physiological, and nutritional benefits for the occupants at a relatively low cost. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae51b07b605f292476234d/1588787656944/Artboard+1.png Projects Renovation Floor Plan The main interior spaces have been combined into one larger, more adaptable space that incorporates living, dining and cooking functions for much-needed social connections. The small carport has been repurposed as a new flexible room, which can fit any program the family needs. A revitalized front porch creates an attractive overflow space for social and living activities, as well as a connection to neighboring families. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae511a0ef55d3237e40e29/1588787632047/3_ext_front%2B2.png Projects The existing home used for the competition was chosen due to its very typical design, as similar houses can be found in cities across the country. Because of this, many of the design elements within the competition were intended to be replicable and achievable for average homeowners. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae53b1a957b826cbc06152/1588787697714/7_R2_Patio%2BUPDATE.jpg Projects Renovated Patio The new front porch allows for a strong exposure to the neighborhood, encouraging social opportunities with local residents as well as family gatherings. The front corner of the new porch creates a semi-secluded space with easy access to the flex room, helping to complement the flex room’s functions with expansion to the outdoors (such as a children’s play space or relaxing reading area). The modular skin surrounding the patio not only helps to mitigate southern heat exposure into the living spaces, but also creates opportunities for vertical gardening and basic rainwater collection. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae54f8d9408f5afdc5d401/1588787760228/13_%28BT%2BSlide%2B10%29%2BMovable%2BWalls%2B-%2BOffice%2BLayout.jpg Projects Adaptable Layout | Mixed Use The flexibility allows for a myriad of use combinations. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae50f23f097262cc4285c9/1588787624599/2_site.jpg Projects - The Challenge The design challenge revolved around updating an existing home in Memphis, TN, to meet new universal design standards, which ensures that the spaces can be used by occupants of all ages and capabilities, while remaining within a $75,000 construction budget. The winning design was built and donated to a veteran’s family as their new home. The end result of the competition is a home that is more flexible, accessible, sustainable, and comfortable, allowing families to stay in their homes longer and ideally age in place throughout various life stages and situations. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae557bed72103d3a011bf0/1588787778905/15_R6_Garden%2BUPDATE.jpg Projects Backyard Gardens The modular planter framework allows for energetic and easily reconfigurable layouts, providing layout options for yards of all shapes and sizes. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae54160ef55d3237e45c1c/1588787718710/9_R3_Kitchen%2BFINAL.jpg Projects Kitchen and Entry into Flex Room The new kitchen design includes wheeled cabinets housed underneath the countertops. Moving these cabinets opens up space below the countertops, effortlessly creating work surfaces that are more easily used by seated family members, as needed by the occupants and allowing for impromptu movable workspaces as well. The upper shelves in the kitchen allow for customization of mounting heights, providing the ability to easily create layouts based on occupants’ physical needs and preferences, reducing the effort required to use them effectively. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae517cd255432802abc684/1588787641812/4_existing%2Bfloor%2Bplan.jpg Projects Existing Floor Plan The existing layout is comprised of a series of narrow interior spaces with poor circulation and natural lighting. Additionally, there is little meaningful connection between the small kitchen and the living spaces. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae53e82bffcf20e60c4606/1588787707665/8_R4_Living%2BSpace%2BFINAL.jpg Projects Living Spaces The new, simpler layout improves the programmatic adaptability for a variety of purposes and configurations by combining the small living rooms into one large space. It also makes the layout more intuitive, allowing clear lines of visibility across the length of the home. Additionally, light transmission is greatly improved throughout the open space thanks to the open layout, larger windows, and use of white surfaces. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae52b60267457d2700a92c/1588787666694/Artboard+2.png Projects Flexible Systems Diagrams The design incorporates a wide variety of strategies that prioritize user adaptation and comfort, while requiring only a small amount of energy to make the changes. Material choices are used to highlight these systems within the home, such as the bright teal paint applied to the bedroom entries and undersides of the kitchen casework, which gently draw attention to their flexible functions. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf3c3061ee995c5fa4c0ca/1609877574885/IMG_2800.jpg Projects - Sharing the Design I was honored to be awarded Third Place for this design in Home Matters' inaugural design challenge, and had the opportunity to travel to San Francisco to meet and speak with a group of immensely passionate and driven professionals. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf36ca2e269141d8583341/1609877574857/03_BTillman-NEW-LEAF-View-From-South+%28WINNER%29.jpg Projects The Role of Affordable Housing Housing should reflect the needs and desires of the residents, meeting them where they are while also helping to guide them where they want to be. This design responds by creating spaces that feel both intimate and expansive, protected yet exposed. It’s in these moments that residents can thrive in independence with the strong support of their surrounding community. The housing forms highlight a beautiful, graceful imbalance, a broken piece of a hard shell that lets light, color and growth in. The gap in the lower level becomes key for the occupants, as it provides ease of social connections for residents that may need it most, such as young parents or elderly residents. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf3a0b2fe3b4136fb563ce/1609877574875/FLOOR-PLAN_BTillman-NEW-LEAF.jpg Projects Overall Plan The emphasis on education extends to adults as well. A variety of sustainable life skills and job training classes are provided in the education center anchoring the site on the corner to both residents and the surrounding community, allowing them to learn together and form new bonds. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf37d79559c91c270acf69/1609877574865/02_BTillman-NEW-LEAF-Services-Building.jpg Projects - Comprehensive Support The structure at the east end contains a wide range of tenant services configured to help reduce a variety of financial and emotional pressures. A dedicated support staff at the lower floor increases security, while also being on hand to respond to any tenant needs. Childcare services and tutoring spaces support education while providing a safe social space after school, reducing the emotional and fiscal pressure of finding care and allowing parents to put more energy towards pursuing their own opportunities. Finally, a dedicated social space on the top floor provides space for large gatherings and impromptu activities, especially during the cold months. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf3914859ce170c6d86edd/1609877574872/ADD_BTillman-NEW-LEAF-Systems-Diagram.jpg Projects Comprehensive Sustainability The design maintains affordability and low operating costs in many key ways. The buildings employ simple geometric forms, modular systems and adherence to a grid to maximize structural efficiency and minimize material waste. Primarily using economical materials with long lifespans and little need for maintenance reduces construction and lifetime costs. The use of pier foundations minimize excavation and site work required, and raising the structures above the ground plane greatly reduces the risk of flood damage and pests. A series of passive sustainable systems, including rainwater collection, high thermal insulation, and a focus on natural lighting and ventilation, all help to radically reduce the utility costs while also providing a healthier living environment for the residents. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf3c82bfac930dc1151072/1609877574889/IMG_2828.jpg Projects - Awards Pictured here with the First and Second Place winners, DeOld Andersen Architecture (Omaha, NE) and Jerry Kler Architects (Sausalito, CA). Click here to learn more about the winning designs. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf388ff79cfb3497c6c114/1609877574869/04_BTillman-NEW-LEAF-Rooftop-Gardens.jpg Projects Rooftop Gardens A series of integrated gardens act as a multi­-faceted resource, reducing grocery costs and improving dietary independence. They also allow for the therapeutic benefits of hands­-on work, nurturing living things, physical activity and a collaborative experience, with the vertical gardens, medium planters and large agricultural plots providing diverse social opportunities. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf37a48d5f1209a850b7fb/1609877574862/01_BTillman-NEW-LEAF-Courtyard.jpg Projects Replicable Design A core focus of this proposal was to create a design that used a variety of modular elements to not only reduce costs, but also allow the design to be easily scaled to a wide variety of sites. Industrial finishes are used throughout for durability and affordability, while massing and vivid colors bring the project to life. Different types of garden planters provide opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities to reap the physiological and therapeutic benefits of gardening, while also providing opportunities for personalizing their space and gaining food resilience in what may be financially uncertain circumstances. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf3aa2a1745e6be546728b/1609877574878/EXT-ELEVATION_BTillman-NEW-LEAF.jpg Projects Modularity and Durability The exterior facade is primarily comprised of galvanized corrugated metal siding, which is durable, long­-lasting and easy to maintain. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf3b07437a4e57ef54a908/1609877574882/INT-ELEVATION_BTillman-NEW-LEAF.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaffd7a46855d7e4cbec00c/1588788884794/4.jpg Projects The wood decking is separated into small, similarly-sized panels that can be easily removed and carried by a pair of workers, allowing them to be repaired quickly and efficiently. Considering the prominent cantilever over the bluff and possible number of occupants, we designed the deck to be three to four times stronger than was structurally necessary through a combination of concrete and steel construction methods. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb2fe3fc5e14117f34614d8/1588788815281/Overlook%2BBASE%2Bedited.jpg Projects Providing a platform for experiencing the beauty and serenity of the natural Kansas landscape, this structure acts as both an escape into nature and a platform upon which the client can educate the public. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaffb892c604f1a74cf47b9/1588788874548/3.jpg Projects From there, we fabricated the various elements off-site in a warehouse. A large focus of the studio was learning the various skills necessary, such as welding, woodworking, and pouring concrete. The overlook’s deck surface, which is prominently cantilevered over the edge of a bluff, is comprised of a grid of steel structure and smaller Unistrut frames, each of which supports a varied pattern of recycled wood planks. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaff79b728f9a71e765db50/1588788832969/5.jpg Projects - Natural Resource The Overlook was only the first step in a varied series of projects at the KU Ecological Reserves, all intended to draw the public to this beautiful site and educate the public on the many benefits of the native prairie. In 1957, KU began a long-term prairie experiment on the 160 acres of former farmland that continues to this day, testing four methods of management: use of burning, grazing, mowing and no treatment. along with research and teaching programs. While native prairie like this was once prevalent across the midwest, it has become exceedingly rare as farmland and development spread. The client’s goal with this project was to create an evocative space for sharing this natural beauty with the public, educating them on its myriad environmental and ecological benefits. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaff8ea5d49e84b8a361db7/1588788864892/2.jpg Projects Over 13 weeks, our studio rapidly produced a series of varied and imaginative conceptual designs, which were narrowed down to two main options. We then presented these to the client in order to gather feedback, with the two options merging into the final design. Because of the remote nature of the site, our design was limited to modules that could be loaded in a standard trailer, and any tools had to be powered by a portable generator. These constraints led to the highly modular design, which also has maintenance benefits. We refined the construction detailing, verified the cantilever’s structural requirements, and sourced materials. The wood slats were repurposed from retired utility poles - the client appreciated that no new lumber was used for the project, and the wood was pretreated for outdoor use. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0036746855d7e4cbf8f3a/1588788951272/_sb4-01.jpg Projects This project was included in a studio-wide design exhibition called UNDER.ON.GONE., which presented research on the interstate and its effects on the community, along with a series of projects that sought to solve the problems as well as prompt conversation on the issues at hand. The exhibition was honored with the AIA Central States Region Award for Excellence in Master Planning and Urban Design, recognizing the extents of the research as well as the creativity of the design solutions. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb004429b99b76fe1efbb57/1588788968399/_sbr2-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eafffda46855d7e4cbf10cf/1588788914027/_sb1-01.jpg Projects In the process of linking the two neighborhoods back together, large mixed-use and residential infill projects were proposed in order to bridge the two sides. These bridges were envisioned with public amenities and resources such as library branches and cafes, creating destinations that allowed the two populations to meet while enjoying scenic views. In addition, the former highway surface would be repurposed into a large natural amenity for the communities, including a series of large parks and playgrounds connected by various types of pedestrian paths. The greenery between paths and destinations would be a combination of urban farmland (to support the nutritional needs of the local population), tallgrass (which acts as a substantial carbon sink), and more typical grass. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb00016120a192621d314cb/1588788924533/_sb2-01.jpg Projects Repurposing the highway into a swath of sustainable infrastructure would potentially draw developers and funding to an area that would greatly benefit from the attention. In order to help the new infill connections into the neighborhoods feel better integrated, particular attention was paid to the proportions of typical neighboring buildings and homes. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0006ac091671b547c4687/1588788941603/_sb3-01.jpg Projects The northern end of the site houses a new school of the arts and dance, complementing KC’s new Performing Arts Center, with the repurposed highway pathways running beneath it and branching out to different connection points among the nearby neighborhoods. The southern end of the site repurposes an abandoned warehouse building into a large grocery store and urban market, providing a venue for the community to purchase fresh produce and learn proper farming techniques. The master plan also calls for a series of multifamily housing complexes to fill the gaps within the current framework of the two neighborhoods, helping to restore a healthy sense of density in the neighborhoods. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0039246855d7e4cbf9282/1588788933830/_sb4-01.jpg Projects A highway overpass provides an exceptional platform for natural resource collection: tremendous amounts of space that is open to sunlight, wind and rainfall; structurally capable of supporting practically any load; strong connections into existing urban infrastructure and resources. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0046f4f6a4120982a773d/1588789017575/_sbr3-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eafffb1728f9a71e766d97e/1588788905305/_sb1a-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0049936b2d874cef4dcd5/1588789013805/_sbr4-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0040281efc34ecf40c71c/1588788959965/_sbr1-01-01.jpg Projects As part of the project I created a series of research infographics studying the potential sustainable outcomes and yields of the site, as well as statistics to put these figures into context. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4bfccaf41aa3cf58a1e6d/1609875430469/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_16.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c175c60b150768af9938/1609875841817/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_08.jpg Projects The final design option centers around a large and open living space flanked by a variety of storage types, with the small master bathroom tucked behind the existing chimney. A reflective floor finish is intended to bounce the light from the two small existing windows deeper into the space. Warm wood tones and paint colors bridge the space between the century-old woodwork of the main floor and a modern identity. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c1dc6885450535f3f607/1609875946943/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_11.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c072a190792dd30bccfd/1609875586256/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_03.jpg Projects Heights are a major design consideration on this project, as the slopes above very strongly dictate the locations of key circulation and elements. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c10a87c2f36b1199548a/5ff4c10b2d23275b4f00513a/1609875738547/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_05.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c10a87c2f36b1199548a/5ff4c10b7b8caa139cc4a356/1609875749914/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_04.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c10a87c2f36b1199548a/5ff4c116a2b328783879331a/1609875754940/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_06.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c10a87c2f36b1199548a/5ff4c122c5f7ac693efbbfad/1609875763827/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_07.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c009fec52108299019ff/1609875507703/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_01.jpg Projects - Rejuvenating Space The homeowner’s goal is to transform a dark and difficult to use series of disjointed spaces into a calming and refreshing living environment. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c0505e0c647714c4f7ad/1609875544517/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_02.jpg Projects Homeowner education was a major priority in the design process, as I always aim to ensure that clients fully understand and agree with design reasoning. Due to the location of the stairs and a central chimney, this strongly guided the zoning of the space. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c214745adf702dd1cdba/5ff4c214e3a23773d6d45286/1609876001239/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_13.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c214745adf702dd1cdba/5ff4c214af41aa3cf58ad4a1/1609875992463/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_12.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c214745adf702dd1cdba/5ff4c2167ed88f7e270aa1f5/1609876001232/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_15.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c214745adf702dd1cdba/5ff4c2159ea62b56dc91ca59/1609876001599/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_14.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c214745adf702dd1cdba/5ff4c216818e104dd88381f8/1609876001238/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_16.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/5ff4c214745adf702dd1cdba/5ff4c21608e4263ccc1d5fa0/1609876001413/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_17.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf7fc4a7cc6227c0d77bb8/1588788361482/%2115_VIEW+-+Commons.jpg Projects A multitude of reflective surfaces created daily acoustical challenges for the Commons occupants, so in response we incorporated arrangements of vibrant acoustical pads throughout the space to help mitigate the noise. These arrangements energize an existing masonry wall, using color combinations to complement the school district’s strict color standards. Soft seating creates an intimate lounge for conversations and studying, while also contributing to sound mitigation. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf80eeabd97f4ca01f1ea5/1588788390420/%252116_VIEW%2B-%2BHive.jpg Projects - Hive School Store Another of my responsibilities was the design of a school store adjacent to the new event entry, which will sell merchandise during athletic events. I supported the interior design team with space planning, and also took responsibility for the design and detailing of the exterior shell. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf800dcac3d44ef3f4d3e2/1588788374467/%2111_VIEW+-+Media.jpg Projects - Media Center The updated Media Center shares a strong connection with the Commons, allowing it to act as a hub for students throughout the day. Adjacent services open up into the space through the use of large sliding glass wall systems, such as a maker lab, career center, and study rooms. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf7ff73386204430558cbf/1588788368259/%252114_VIEW%2B-%2BCommons.jpg Projects The expanded student-run cafe provides an engaging environment for the students that greatly expands the capabilities of the business, while also providing new spaces for socializing and studying. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf7597338620443053c9f6/1588788341140/edina%2Bplan%2B2-13.jpg Projects Axon Diagram - Commons & Media Center One of my main areas of focus was the renovation of the Commons and Media Center, both of which expanded programmatically, adding new functions that were developed through frequent collaboration with faculty and students. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf7f8ecaf2b173c9423d44/1588788348516/%2112_VIEW+-+Commons.jpg Projects - Commons Old and New A new staircase connects the upper and lower floors of the two story Student Commons, which not only results in a more useful space during lunch and break periods, but also helps to reduce long transition times between classes. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf7fae2c604f1a74c0bd34/1588788354917/%2113_VIEW+-+Commons.jpg Projects Expanded Student Commons - Dining Area Through close collaboration with the interior design team, the Commons became a space for the students that feels refined yet welcoming and energetic. The underused meeting spaces on each side of the existing Commons were removed, opening up the space for more flexibility and use throughout the day. A new monumental stair was added to link the upper and lower commons spaces along the windows, creating a scenic approach that also saved students a long route up the emergency stairs in order to find a spot to eat lunch. Finally, a wide variety of flexible seating options gives students a sense of freedom in how they socialize, study and relax. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf7f29abd97f4ca01ecb9d/1588788382081/%2110_VIEW+-+Media.jpg Projects The design envisions the Media Center as a collaboration hub where ideas from various disciplines come together, complementing the traditional research role of a library. Expanded exterior windows maximize natural light entering into the space. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf7515a7cc6227c0d5bbac/1588788332156/edina%2Bplan%2B1-12.jpg Projects Axon Diagram - Upper Level The project centered around expanding the capacity and capabilities of an existing high school in order to bring 9th grade into the building, as well as offer more comprehensive educational and athletic opportunities. An additional focus involved reworking the school’s circulation to be more logical, which included creating a central hub of student life centered around the renovated Commons and Media Center. Finally, the design team collaborated with district faculty to research and implement a long-term technology plan for the various schools as it applied to teaching, research and Media Center functions. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0966ab34a8915d7a4fb97/1588787337264/IEQ+Info+4-04.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0877933f8ff54cd41f4bd/1588787286055/Energy+Analysis+%28combined%29-01-01.jpg Projects Facility Assessment Graphics As part of the facility assessment for a Twin Cities private school master plan, I collaborated closely with our firm’s Senior Building Performance Analyst to help ensure that the incredibly valuable data they were finding for the client’s existing facilities was visually legible to those without a technical or scientific background. I also advocated for the inclusion of short explanatory summaries of various terms, to ensure that every stakeholder was able to clearly understand the findings in order to be able to actively participate in planning conversations. These strategies have been so successful that they’ve since been used in projects across the firm. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0964a3c9e9c74eb3d0cce/1588787326059/IEQ+Info+3-03.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb086ef397ac92048449681/1588787358167/WBL+Assessment+2+%28Combined%29-01-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb08617c0ab82006f6170d0/1588787295517/IEQ+Summary+%28combined%29-01.jpg Projects While many indoor environmental quality indicators can be objectively measured and monitored in data points, many of these also have crucial subjective indicators that are key to ensuring that occupants are comfortable, healthy, and productive. Combining both subjective data (occupant comfort surveys) and objective data (light / temperature / humidity / acoustic measurements, etc) is crucial to fully understand how indoor environments are functioning and how best to improve them. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0963187cfc00afa365bd6/1588787315967/IEQ+Info+2-02.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb086ddbff5c65291906ceb/1588787348294/WBL+Assessment+1+%28Combined%29-01-01.jpg Projects Existing Facility Assessment As part of a facility assessment process for White Bear Lake school district, our goal was to create a series of data-rich spreads that quickly and clearly illustrate the current state of each school in order to help bring all stakeholders up to speed on the condition of their school district. This was achieved through visual breakdowns of each facility or addition’s age, space types, assessment scores per building system, and brief summaries containing diagnoses and recommendations. A series of photos for each school was also included in the report. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0961812cd060d820b880e/1588787305322/IEQ+Info+1-01.jpg Projects These simple explanations and research summaries were added to floor plans showing IEQ measurement results in order to provide helpful context for why these measurements are important to their staff and students’ well-being. Simple graphs were also created that clearly and simply report occupant comfort survey results at a glance. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a18bbe287a57ac5171a8a/1602711625025/2020%252B08%252B27_sketches%252B%252528floating%252Bisland%252B1%252529.jpg Projects - Exploring Digital Illustration This series showcases my earliest attempts to build my skills with digital illustration using a drawing tablet and stylus. In order to encourage exploration and imperfection, each of these illustrations was created within a short timeframe, ranging from 15 minutes to an hour at most. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a16cfd5b42a62a49998da/1600788195145/2020%2B09%2B05_sketches%2B%2528radial%2Bflower%252C%2Bisolation%2Bwc%2529.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf4f2437ba131c87fcece2/1588788709565/Owl%2BMain%2BDONE.jpg Projects Animal Self-Portrait | Concept Art Class Project An assignment to create a melding of my own physical and emotional characteristics with an animal that exhibits similar qualities, with the solemnity of the barn owl highlighting my own reserved nature. The illustration was created from a template of multiple composite images of myself and pictures of barn owls in order to get the textures, colors and details right. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb2fd99154e393ade2e29d7/1588788718718/Lucy%252BBASE.jpg Projects - The Doctor Is… Concept Art Class Project | The Doctor Is… An assignment that called for an iconic character to be portrayed as a pin-up girl led to this reimagining of Lucy from Peanuts, adding a fair dose of humorous innuendo through the use of her iconic psychiatric role. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a1782e69be65709050762/1600788946608/2020%2B09%2B11_sketches%2B%2528woman%2527s%2Bportrait%2529.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a14f2e548ec6ba84597a6/1600787706695/2020%2B08%2B30_sketches%2B%2528cliffside%2529.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf4f8e61ee995c5fa84b15/1588788714314/Robotic%2BDog%2B-%2BBASE.jpg Projects Otto the Automaton | Concept Art Class Project An undying companion to a lonely inventor, crafted from household objects and everyday materials, still by his side long after everyone else is gone. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf505e606a9567bc4708f7/1588788729995/_vantage-01.jpg Projects Vantage | Concept Art Class Project Drawing from the evocative-yet-sketchy storyboard style of Pixar, which they use to quickly convey action, tone and emotion, I put their technique to use in this trio of images, which illustrate the life of a shy creature from the stars that curiously observes our world from atop a streetlight overlooking a public park. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a1552e3c05c27eb66e865/1600787981577/2020%2B08%2B31_sketches%2B%2528symmetry%252C%2Bswords%2529.jpg Projects - Radial Symmetry Because digital illustration allows for easy repetition and symmetry, it’s given me the opportunity to explore new mixtures of drawing styles that would be very time-consuming on physical media. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a1599d51e6d26b4143d22/1600787872334/2020%2B08%2B31_sketches%2B%2528symmetry%252C%2Bswords%2529.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf4e7d51a1491393286d3c/1588788705364/CG-final-print.png Projects - Portrait at Breakfast Portrait at Breakfast A Photoshop composite portrait that crafts a persona and environment for one particular feline gentleman. The client was so happy was the end result that she married me. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a15b2df06b97dfcf0ab91/1600787957627/2020+09+04_sketches+%28radial+watercolor%2C+etc%29.png Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a1731e548ec6ba84605b6/1600788284730/2020%2B09%2B01_sketches%2B%2528skulls%2529.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5f6a16642468724aa4caf14d/1600788078234/2020%2B09%2B05_sketches%2B%2528radial%2Bflower%252C%2Bisolation%2Bwc%2529.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb05a00ca0ca24071d48512/1588787094171/IMG_1269.JPG Projects - Educational Flexibility In combination with the operable walls, the flexible furniture used throughout the school provides a range of educational and collaborative possibilities. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06259bff5c6529186b107/1588786996729/Paxton_Presentation-Plans%2B%2528BT%2BUPDATES%2529-02.jpg Projects First Level Floor Plan The existing school building was a fairly typical 1950s single level facility - double-loaded corridors, low ceiling heights, and a lack of flexibility and support spaces necessary for modern education. A large multipurpose room acted as the gym, cafeteria, and assembly area. The new Commons and gymnasium more effectively support the school’s needs, while their central location ensures equal access for the whole school as well as straightforward access for the community. The multipurpose room becomes a fully functional media center with connected maker space to better support STEM education. A secure entry complements the school’s new security methods across the school, providing secure options and peace of mind while minimizing the impact on education. Extensive Special Education facilities provide the resources necessary to effectively support those students’ particular needs. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb054cd70ac761fe746c3c2/1588786986217/20190927_190638.jpg Projects Located adjacent to the school’s new main entry and gym, the Commons is also an ideal location for community meetings and gatherings, further solidifying the school’s role in the small town. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0512548977e611b173a0d/1588787077504/20190822_094413.jpg Projects - Collaborative Spaces The operable walls not only help teachers easily supervise students, but also can allow for multiple classrooms to collaborate on large group activities or lessons at a whim. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb059e21f265b6f6d2632bc/1588787087414/IMG_1268.jpg Projects Classroom Interior The classrooms receive ample amounts of natural light from the Project Spaces. Additionally, the upper level classrooms use large clerestories to bring in indirect light. Motorized roller shades on the clerestory windows provide the ability to block light during presentations. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb04f76ceef4f6ad0f91e11/1588787106185/20190928_095205.jpg Projects Media Center Interior The former multipurpose room was repurposed into a bright and inviting media center. The highlight is the central reading nook and its decorative ceiling baffles, which were designed to abstractly evoke the feeling of reading below a tree. The baffles also help to filter some of the direct light from the existing clerestories. The rest of the space is zoned into areas for focused reading as well as flexible learning and collaboration. Extensive acoustical treatment on the walls and ceiling help to make the space much more conducive to its needs. A large sliding barn door at the back of the space connects to the new maker space, allowing those activities to be closed off or flow into the media center when needed. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb05f1433f8ff54cd36d889/1588787143167/IMG_1298.jpg Projects Renovated Classrooms The existing building was updated as well, with particular attention paid to the classrooms. The large existing windows supply ample natural light and ventilation. Flexible furniture, updated technology, and improved lighting help bring these classrooms in line with modern educational practices. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0515f8f40e52c639d955d/1588787069378/IMG_0363.jpg Projects Project Spaces Natural light and ventilation combine with energetic colors and design elements to encourage more active education and research, while also helping occupants feel calm and productive. The accent colors in these spaces vary by grade, giving each group of students a sense of pride and shared identity in addition to aiding with wayfinding. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0500ecab6ea6e4312d145/1588787126950/20190928_111744.jpg Projects - Surrounded by Books A full-height bookcase along an entire wall helps energize the space visually, while also providing another unique seating option for students. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb05f67f7982055375c3842/1588787149316/20190529_132332.jpg Projects - Revitalization The existing classrooms were very traditional, with most rooms still using the original chalkboards. The original building also lacked HVAC - while the fairly low structural height made the use of ceiling ducts impossible, large ventilator units were able to bring these rooms up to modern ventilation standards. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb062a9397ac920483adaf1/1588787007955/Paxton_Presentation-Plans%2B%2528BT%2BUPDATES%2529-03.jpg Projects Second Level Floor Plan Most crucially, the new classroom wings on both levels of the addition are organized around shared Project Spaces, providing each grade its own dedicated space for breakout, collaboration, and educational exploration. The back wall of each classroom uses a full-width operable glass wall to provide as much or little separation as the curriculum requires, allowing teachers the ability to adjust the classroom around what they’re teaching. Students are able to work separately outside of the classroom while teachers are still able to supervise them at a glance while still within the room. A small lab space located in the center of each classroom wing provides a space for more hands-on technical learning when needed. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb054f91fdf7773104d67a3/1588786976212/20190928_094550.jpg Projects Gathering Space A new Student Commons serves as the heart of the school’s updated layout, while encouraging a greater sense of community and collaboration that the client aimed to impart throughout the project. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0508a78f33066d87827a0/1588787113376/20190529_132730.jpg Projects - Solid Foundation Many original elements are very beneficial to the renovated design, including the elegant wood beams, large clerestories, and high ceiling. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb05609fa6fc466f05e45c8/1588787158733/IMG_0369.jpg Projects New Gym The new gym provides an additional competition-sized athletic facility for the district and community’s needs. A mix of minimalist whites and grays help balance the school’s traditionally bold blue and yellow, creating a refined and modern palette while still embracing school pride. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb04fa822b4d05970315727/1588787134621/20190928_111757.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb04fd022b4d05970315e75/1588787120084/20190928_110432.jpg Projects - The Magic of Reading The design helps create a unique sense of peace and tranquility within the central reading nook. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf88a84f6a4120981c5477/1588788432331/Charlottesville%2BECs%2B-%2Brender%2B1.jpg Projects Many high profile stores are located in unique or historical buildings that require additional attention to detail in order to ensure that the new detailing integrates well with the existing features. One example of these practices is this model of a historic 1800s-era building on the East Coast with original exterior and interior detailing that had to be carefully accommodated. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb300c72e83c10cd4bae7d6/1588789453206/_sbux04-01-01.jpg Projects This position allowed for a very high level of personal responsibility and design freedom, and required a strong sense of self-management, as each designer is generally handling 8-12 projects at a time under simultaneous timeframes. The necessary daily interaction and design collaboration with the clients, engineering consultants, construction teams and various vendors provided invaluable experience and insight into the construction process. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf886f6468d57b5ba3416a/1588788421199/_sbux01-01.jpg Projects Many of the locations I designed for required thorough levels of detailing and customization, which was shown through highly detailed renderings. This location in Downtown Chicago was the third Starbucks in the country to serve wine in the evenings, so the design included open shelving to display wine bottles and glasses, luxurious lighting and finishes, and more. A spotlight table in the back is highlighted through feature lighting, while a feature wall comprised of repurposed wine crates creates an elegant yet modern backdrop. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf89a30c24ba7906bf0f77/1588788442123/_sbux05-01-01-01.jpg Projects A portion of my projects included High Profile locations, which were typically located in major urban centers and experienced very high traffic. These projects allowed for much more conceptual and programmatic freedom than the standard stores, and therefore put a higher priority on space planning, material and lighting quality, and the overall customer experience. These stores would often also have unique concepts and themes that would define the store's design language, in order to better reflect the individual qualities of the surrounding community. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf8a112907e509153e3a3e/1588788459801/_sbux03-01-01-01.jpg Projects We also designed custom tables with integrated, adjustable lighting that would provide excellent spaces for freelance workers to meet and gather throughout the day. Based on feedback from the store employees, the new seating features have been very successful and popular among the customers, adding new options in addition to the company’s standard standard configurations. This store provided an excellent opportunity to design specifically for the community that will be using it every day, and is a great showcase for the benefits of Starbucks’ new design philosophy at work. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf89d8cdd1ec31d6df6bc8/1588788451283/_sbux02-01-01.jpg Projects For a high profile store in Alexandria, VA, while conducting demographics studies, we found that the city contains a high proportion of educated residents and has been named the Best-Read City in America. The neighborhood also contains a large amount of freelance workers. We focused the renovation concept in response to these facts, providing a built-in reading nook with shelving and integrated chalkboards, allowing customers to make recommendations to future visitors. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf8a436468d57b5ba391d8/1588788470114/_sbux06-01.jpg Projects Many of the projects involved the design of high-concept solutions for displays and merchandising, many of which included integrated, specialized lighting solutions, in-depth material studies and iterative design visualizations. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b507b2f2aa04386f04db/1588787211393/191111%2BDraft%2BSchematic%2BOptions%2BPresentation%2B-%2BSite%2BOptions_Page_3.jpg Projects Existing Site Plan Given the tight schedule, we started the design process by identifying three potential locations on the site to explore. Within the span of a single week, we created a wide and creative variety of simple 3d massing options for each of the three site locations, helping the client to quickly and effectively make a decision to move forward with. While the central location was tempting for the possibility of forming a courtyard shared with the media center, ultimately the decision was made to proceed with the east site. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b58df6285f55de3dbc46/1588787219102/New%2BSite%2BPlan-01.jpg Projects New Site Plan The east site location had many benefits, including fewer immediate constraints and more convenient connections to the main parking lot. As part of the construction process, the site’s parking and traffic flow was reworked to accommodate the higher capacity. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b65a2d668b7c8252b17c/1588787247054/2020+01+17_LME+Typical+Classroom.png Projects Typical Classroom Axon Per the client’s request and district security priorities, the design was required to include the students’ lockers within the footprint of the classroom in order to provide an area for the class to quickly shelter in place in the event of an active shooter. By also focusing the class’s typical casework and storage to those areas, the primary portion of the classroom area is completely open and flexible for a variety of activities and group sizes. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b638d581fc1295d317e5/1588787228568/Presentation%2BPlan%2B-%2BColored-01.jpg Projects Addition Floor Plan Primarily envisioned as a fourth and fifth grade wing, the addition’s classrooms free up space for the remaining grades and special education program to expand and meet their capacity needs. The classrooms for each grade are split with shared collaboration and breakout spaces (in blue), providing alternative teaching opportunities as well as bringing additional natural light into the corridor. The majority of the classrooms also include operable whiteboard walls for most of their width, allowing two classrooms to easily collaborate on group activities. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b60e3868b76299ed464c/1588787238214/200323_LME+Corridor+Rendering.jpg Projects Corridor and Collaboration Spaces Bold accent colors, strategic use of ceiling soffits, large expanses of glazing at both ends of the addition, and placement of the collaboration spaces on either side of the corridor help the space feel open and energetic, avoiding the feeling of a typical double-loaded corridor. Large display boards on the corridor walls provide areas for class displays and student personalization. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b6cdf6285f55de3df417/1588787200501/200323_LME%2BNorthElevation.jpg Projects The new addition (left) draws from the character and palette of the existing 1990s building, but expresses those characteristics in subtly more modern ways. Breakout and collaborative spaces are highlighted with high glazing and dark metal panel caps, breaking up the facade and massing without greatly increasing costs. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b47a92074027771cd00e/1588787257057/200323_LME+Storefront+Corner.jpg Projects A Step Forward While the district originally preferred that all building additions perfectly match the style and character of the original in order to feel as if they’d always been there, through strong design and persistence our team was able to convince them that the addition could retain the character of the original while still feeling modern. This is emblematic of the project as a whole - in many ways, we were able to help guide a conservative client to implement new ideas and educational practices that will better support their students’ needs and growth. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eae56ff58a30f3d45bb523c/1588483843566/6_%28BT%2BSlide%2B8%29%2BGardening%2B%26%2BNE%2BView.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf3f9869e7b43ab7e5b41a/1609877574852/02_BTillman-NEW-LEAF-Services-Building.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf52111b9bdf28c85a1618/1588548119644/CG-final-print.png Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf834faf500209571f440e/1588560736029/%2112_VIEW+-+Commons.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf86a19f9ec36aee4a28b2/1588561572388/St%2BPaul%2BPrize%2B2016%2B-%2BEntrant%2B11%2B-%2BBoard%2B2.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaf8d6eee13ec478756ba8d/1588563312283/_sbux03-01-01-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eaff5490c24ba7906cb509c/1588589902129/Overlook+BASE+edited.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eafff1527184c612fe12c85/1588592406859/page+thumb+filler-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb043233ab7073371c7fd38/1588609832371/2020+01+17_LME+Corridor+Rendering.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb06c184b525e14b5c2c467/1588620334696/omeara+-+ext+courtyard+towards+east.png Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0986e33f8ff54cd45f5cf/1588631667424/Energy+Analysis+%28combined%29-01-01.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5eb0b99fb727847b0ded9813/1588640163442/20190928_095205.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c77c46fdcc2b9d7f33e4/1609877377265/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_16.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff4c88bf11256461531322a/1609877656034/264146845_MPLS+Empowerment+District_Image1.jpg Projects https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/60089bc89665063753bc003e/1611177009458/VR%2BHappy%2BHour%2BPoster.jpg Projects http://tillmandesign.com/about daily 0.75 2021-10-14 https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/57d8e9e69de4bb459f756fa8/1588690075998/DSC_9418.JPG About http://tillmandesign.com/application daily 0.75 2021-01-10 https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5fa6e7fed9418b491288c839/1609958917105/2.jpg Application - New Leaf Affordable Housing New Leaf Affordable Housing (Redefining Home Competition) Portfolio Page | Competition Page https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5fa6e9674f8f02449aad8322/1610316538763/BTillman%2B-%2BProject%2BArchitect%2BApplication_Page_02.jpg Application - Resume Documents Resume | Combined CD Work Samples https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff5f241433738306a209be4/1610314642328/264146845_MPLS%2BEmpowerment%2BDistrict_Image1.jpg Application - Lake Marion Elementary Minneapolis Empowerment District (CBDX Cities for All Competition) Portfolio Page | Competition Page https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff5f2f4c5011d21e4e01962/1610311431113/x_Curley+Renovation_Page_16.jpg Application - Client & Data Graphics Curley Renovation (In Progress) Portfolio Page https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5fa6e71afa0fbb2386f0fc21/1610314795122/20190928_095205.jpg Application - Clara Peterson Elementary Clara Peterson Elementary (DLR Group) Portfolio Page | Drawings | Construction Photos https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/5ff5f42303b38f3377b9804a/1610314819677/%2528BT%2BSlide%2B8%2529%2BGardening%2B%2526%2BNE%2BView.jpg Application - Community Housing Concept Flex House (Home Today, Home Tomorrow Competition) Portfolio Page | Competition Page http://tillmandesign.com/graphics-arch daily 0.75 2021-01-20 https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/60089c31b59fd67d567ffb43/1611176911010/VR%2BHappy%2BHour%2BPoster.jpg Graphic Design (Arch) http://tillmandesign.com/graphics-data daily 0.75 2021-01-20 https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/60089cc8a1ae162918569a67/1611176911010/VR%2BHappy%2BHour%2BPoster.jpg Graphic Design (Data) http://tillmandesign.com/graphics-print daily 0.75 2021-01-20 https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5070f225c4aa65eb3b6391e9/t/60089cfa33aa833c3b9fc38b/1611176911010/VR%2BHappy%2BHour%2BPoster.jpg Graphic Design (Print)