graduate portfolio

Nedith Ann Margaret WikinaGraduate Design Portfolio [Selected Work]

05 Graduate Thesis

21 Comprehensive Design Studio

31 Furniture Design

35 Historic Rehabilitation

37 Semester Abroad

41 International Competition

45 Photography Work Sample

Contents

“Contemplation in the Public Realm”

Bristol , Rhode Island

Art on Campus, InstallationRoger Williams University, Spring 2014

[Images]

Conceptual Model:Moving through a threshold of gradual change

This is an architectural exploitation of the middle ground, the moment where the existence of the foreground and the background are dependent of the boundary of the other. A boundary line that exists as a condition of space for activity rather than a demarcation between spaces, will allow for a fluid transition between places. The proposed project is an aquatic recreation and fitness facility located long the 23-mile Bronx River in West Farms, New York. It will be situ-ated against the riverbanks and will provide a bridge across the river connecting two urban blocks. The presence of the facility will allow kayaks and canoes from the river to dock, inviting patrons to use the place as a point of entry into the river, across the river and transition from wildlife to man-made life.

Encounters of the threshold transpire as a daily occurrence with the body. Whether it is a physical moment of contact or psychological occurrence, the threshold is a moment that must be crossed so a new state may be inhabited. It is what allows us to move forward. The motivation to cross the threshold is an innate need and movement, it is a lim-inal zone, a moment that is barely perceptible. This thesis inquires about an architecture that exists without conven-tional doorways; an open plan that allows its occupants to move freely between spaces without abrupt encounters of spatial division. Dutch Artist M.C Escher’s 1967 wood cut print, “Metamorphosis III”, is the inspiration from which this thesis draws on ideas of the foreground, the middle ground and the background.

A Reconsideration of the Threshold Constructing a Points of Entry as Transitory Space.

West Farms, Bronx, New York

Master of Architecture Graduate ThesisDistinguished Professor Hassan Uddin Khan,

December 2013

05

[Opposite page-_top to bottom](Trace paper, charcoal, graphite, pastel) An abstract depiction of the Dark Woods, the Inferno, Purgatorio and Paradiso

An architectural translation of the illustration

[Below] A diagrammatic model of the site condition

The epic poem- The divine Comedy- provides an illustration of a journey through distinct environments. Each of the three realms; the Inferno, Purgatorio and Paradiso, embodies a character that identifies a spatial atmosphere and contains additional spaces of varying degrees in which activities occur. An architecture composed of spaces for a calisthenics workout is a narrative that takes a journey through the process of exercising. It is a sequence of taking the body through environments that contributes to the preparation, training, and relaxation of a workout. The architectural idea about the threshold as a condition of space, is inspired by the linear narrative of moving through a series of spaces with a distinct character; stretch, warm-up, conditioning and cool down. The program lies within each threshold with architectural elements supporting the space. The study model is a translation of the character defining elements illustrated in the poem. The inferno is interpreted as a deep heavy space with an entry marked by a woodsy landscape; dense space. Purgatorio is a climb, a space of continues upwards movement; circulation. And paradise is open and airy; a space varying in lightness and translucency.

0.85

1 3000 3000 2100 2550 net 15 200 2 40.00 32.00 44.002 150 300 210 127.5 gross 100 2 1 0.40 32.00 36.003 200 600 420 170 gross 100 2 1 0.40 32.00 36.003 200 600 420 170 gross 300 1 1 0.20 32.00 36.001 500 500 350 425 gross 100 5 2 1.00 32.00 44.00

Total 5000 3500 3442.5 210 7 9 9 3 3 3PreparationPersonal Storage Lockerroom [Women] 1 1300 1300 910 1105 gross 50 23 2 4.60 32.00 44.00

Lockerroom [Men] 1 1300 1300 910 1105 gross 50 23 2 4.60 32.00 44.00Total 2600 1820 2210 46 2 2 2 1 1 1

Rhymthic Dance Studio 3 750 2250 1575 637.5 net 15 50 2 10.00 32.00 44.00Aquatic Canoe + Kayak Dock 1 500 500 350 425 gross 15 29 1 5.80 36.00

Swimming pool 1 1250 1250 875 1062.5 gross 50 22 2 4.40 32.00 44.00Cycling Bicycle Lane 2Sport Running Track 1 1,312 FT 1,312 918.4 1115.2 net 7 188 2 37.60 32.00 44.00

Football Pitch 1 0 0 0 0 net 7 0 2 44.00

Basketball Court 1 0 0 0 0 net 7 0 2 32.00 44.00Total 5,312 3,718 3,240 289 3 4 8 2 2 1

Recovery

Food + Beverage Snack Bar 1 750 750 525 637.5 gross 100 7 1 1.40 32.00 36.00Relaxation Steam Space 1 1000 1000 700 850 net 5 170 2 34.00 32.00 44.00

Total 1750 1225 1487.5 177 6 8 8 3 3 2

Total Net 12,212 14662 7221.42 [70%] 20,820.04 10,2631.29[85%]NASF/ GSF 18,913.98 10,380

Occupancy Loads

* Occupancy Loads given in terms of Gross area are given a re-‐calculated using 85% efficiency

* Classified as Business Occupancy Zone for Plumbing Fixture Calculations

* Classified as Business Occupancy Zone for Plumbing Fixture Calculations

Bathroom Requirments

S-‐1 Storage

S-‐1 Storage

Drinking Fountain

Male Female Male Female

Water Closet

A-‐2 Assembly [considered business because it is less than 750 sq ft] A-‐3 Assembly, standing space

Table 1004.1.2, Maximum Floor Area Allowances Per OccupantSee 1003.2.2.9

Urinals# of Occupants

Business

A-‐3 Assembly, unconcentrated seating [stages, platforms]

A-‐3 Assembly, standing space A-‐4 Assembly, indoor arena

Egress System

Capacity [inches]

# Means of Egress

Minimum Door Width

[inches]

A-‐3 Assembly, unconcentrated seating [tables and chairs]

BusinessBusiness

http://www.americanrestroom.org/code/code_upc_table4-1.pdf

*Occupancy Loads given in terms of Gross area are given a re calculated using 85% efficiency

* Occupancy Loads given in terms of Gross area are given a re calculated using 85% efficiency

* Classified as Business Occupancy for Plumbing Fixture Calculations

Minimum Clear

Corridor Width

[inches]

Table 4-‐, Minimum Plumbing Facilties

* Classified as Arena Occupancy Zone for Plumbing Fixture Calculations

Lavatories

* Occupancy loads given in terms of Gross area are given a re calculated using 85% efficiency

S-‐1 Storage

Space Factor

Building Efficiency

Ration

Floor Area per Occupant [ft2]

Area Type (net Or gross)Area Ratio

[ft2]

A-‐5 Assembly, outdoor arenaA-‐4 Assembly, indoor arena

A-‐5 Assembly, outdoor arena with spectator seating

A-‐5 Assembly, outdoor arena with spectator seating

Use

Cool Down

Total Gross [70%]

Total Gross [85%]

Remarks

Multi purpose room| Flexible space

Fitness

Conditioning

Warm-‐up

Stretching

Total Gross 85% EfficiencyArea NSFTQuantityProgram ComponentProgram Department

Gallery

Relaxation

Total Net Area

Total Gross 70% Efficiency

LoungePhysical Therapist OfficeExamination RoomStorageLobby

Theraphy [Physical + First Aid]

Reception

[Opposite page] Perspective within Bronx River corridor

[A Threshold] Between an Urban and a Natural Landscape

Figure Ground Zoning Public ParksTopography

ResidentialManufacturingCommercial

Edge ConditionsSite Approach, Sun + Wind Direction Existing Buildings

Landscape Site Plan

Site Plan

This architecture is public and seeks a pedestrian accessible realm that can be spontaneously encountered along the way. It desires to be situated between nature and an urban environment, offering its presence as place of entry between the two. A location along the 23 mile long Bronx River Green-way, serves as a threshold for transition between the densely, vege-tated watershed corridor and the surrounding urban environment that once was a land used for manufacturing. The river provides an encounter with the calming amenities of nature. The pedestrian and bicycle paths along the rivers and the elevated subway rail channels individuals through the site providing an opportunity for the site to perform as a platform that stimulates conversations with the surrounding environment.

[Opposite page] Perspective of public entrance via street

[Current page_top-bottom]Southeast ElevationNorthwest Elevation

The elements of M.C. Escher transformation prints depicts alternation between dissimilar possible conditions, where the foreground and background are interdependent. The resultant architectural scale is one that will be driven by the absence of abrupt transitions and continuous movement. The metamorphosis series inspired the organization of the architectural scale and the internal character of the spaces composed within a volume. The presences of thresholds lies within a sequence of spaces. Each space offers an opportunities for exercising the body and serves as a spatial threshold for the next. The collage is an abstract plan, speculating the puzzle like connectivity between the spaces. A literal translation of the drawings extrudes the basic two dimensional shapes and explores the spatial qualities of a raw extrusions. The found qualities were abstractly interpreted into conditions for habitable space.

Spaces that Transition

into Another

[Current page] Abstract collage of plan: deconstruction of Metamorphosis

[Opposite page] First Level Plan: Unisex lounge and change space, administrative offices, and reception

Process study models: Conceptual translation of MC Escher’s two dimensional geometric tessellation into habitable space

[Opposite page]Conceptual Model:

[Current page]Perspective of a public entrance

The proposal for the museum manifests from India’s heritage of achieving introspection through pilgrimage. This self imposed journey is one of the eldest ways of traveling from one destination to another, historically in search of salvation. Mumbai- a city established by foreign hands- has consistently rooted itself as a culture that is thickly woven with rich character. A variety of lineage, language, religion, massive population densities and a sharp contrast in economic status are only a few of the elements that layer, creating the complex energy that fabricates the tight knit atmosphere, present today.

Gandhi’s life mission was to resonate a state of total harmony amongst humanity. A museum of tolerance is envisioned as a journey of stillness and vulnerable consciousness, posing thoughts about humanities self-inflicting recurrent confrontations and moments of harmonious coexistence. In the midst of a massively populated and economically separated diversity, the museum will provide a place that promotes mutual respect and social responsibility to achieve a state of peace.

Dialoguing Sacred HeritageAdvocating Mahatma Gandhi’s mission for peace through a Museum of Tolerance

Worli Waterfront Mumbai, India

Graduate Comprehensive Design StudioProfessor Roberto Viola Ochoa

Fall 2011

21

Edge Conditions Approach TopographyConcept Sketch: A green space with access to water

[Below] Collage of a space to exhibit intolerance

[Opposite page] Perspective of a gallery of intolerance

[Left_top]Site Model: Chipboard, plexi-glass, wood, acrylic paint

Site plan[Left] Conceptual Sketch: gradual steps to the water with increased mass for a gradual transition from a city of noise towards inward reflection

The Museum is sited away from the Haji Ali causeway, allowing the experience of the procession towards the Mosque and the inhabitants of Mumbai moments of pause and interaction with the water. Views towards the water and the surrounding context are removed with entry into the museum and re-introduced through the Gandhi exhibit. The landscape above directs the inhabitants senses to the reflection of the sunlight and the activity of the museum down below. Narrow openings are made through the volumes to provide moments of the viewing the water beyond the large concrete

volumes. The physical language of the spaces maximizes natural ventilation and light through the courtyard room and recessed spaces into the ground to decrease heat gain taking advantage of the earth’s thermal mass acting as insulation. The orientation of the form, allows for partial penetration of the wind to carry cool air through the building. And the internal courtyard provides opportunities for natural cross ventilation. The high humidity and relatively warm temperatures allows the program to be recessed below below grade [above high tide] to mitigate the amount of heat gain in the summer months.

Reconnecting with the Wind

and the Sea

[Bottom]Perspective of entry to the water at high and low tide.

[Opposite]Perspective of the architectural landscape

The staggered linear presence of the architecture was a response to the architectural language of the existing ghats along India’s coastal edge. Four distinct volumes, increase in width moving away from the street to the water. At the center of the largest volume are steps cutting through the thick mass presenting a contemplative meeting with the water. The volumes extend above street level providing areas of shade and protection against the hot, humid climate of Mumbai. The origins of the landscape through the museum begins with the axis of the street edge and extends the beginning of the Haji Ali causeway into a social platform that stretches towards the museum and staggers

towards the water. The landscape is comprised of two linear strips composed of recycled stone and ceramic tile that weaves above the museum below through the concrete volumes. All the program resides below grade, allowing the landscape to weave in between the solid forms, visually connecting with the museum below. The architectural walls are facing north-west and south-east, preventing strong southern and harsh western light from penetrating the museum, the directionality of the walls, facing north east and south will allow for soft light with in the building.

A Landscape for Self- Reflection[Below] Street Level plan of public landscape above the museum located below

[Opposite Page_ top to bottom] Perspective above the museum within the public landscape

Initial collage depicting a landscape made for a journey

Inspired by the Chinese Yin-Yang symbol- the visual appeal of op-posing principles in nature that are interdependent conjured an im-age of two tables that could be composed and used as one. Explo-rations using scraps of wood, investigated the idea of interlocked halves, achieving contrast through manipulation of the grain and the refinement of edge conditions. The coffee table is composed of two mirrored halves that slide together to create one piece.

Material The wood planes are doubled up to achieve a 1 1/2” thickness

8 | 20”X 20” 3/4” thick, Wood Planes2 | 20” x 6”

A Tea Table for Yin + YangFabrication of a Wood Coffee Table

Bristol, Rhode Island

Special Topic: Furniture Design University of Washington

Visiting Professor Carl Safe, May 2012

31

1 1/2” Finishing Nail

1/4” dowels | 2 ” OC

[Opposite page_ top to bottom]Fabrication plans

Fabrication Details

A study model exploring a detail for interlocking

[left]

Two halves Assembled

Initial sketches

[below_ left to right]A progression of study models

The Roger Williams University (RWU) Community Part-nerships Center (CPC) provides project-based assistance to non-profit organizations, government agencies and low- and moderate-income communities in Rhode Island and South-eastern Massachusetts. Their mission is to undertake and complete projects that will benefit the local community while providing RWU students with experience in real-world projects that deepen their academic experiences. The Liberty Street School proposal was organized around a sequence of course assignments that approximated the standard approach used by Design and Preservation Professionals planning for the Reha-bilitation of a historic structure. A proposed mixed-use program, offers flexible space on the first level only occupying the original 1847 portion of the historic building, accommodating administrative office use and gallery exhibition that can hold the collections of one of the historical societies in Warren, RI. The current kitchen and office area, occupying the 1910 addition, will be used as dining and kitchen areas, servicing the bed and breakfast that operates on the second level of the building. A bed and breakfast on the second level would provide temporary living spaces and attract travelers to the historical school, which would increase public awareness of the Liberty Street School. The exterior landscape design of the site will service a handicapped ramp, parking for all occupants of the Liberty Street School, and a leisure garden space for the residences of the historical district.

Historic Liberty Street SchoolCommunity Partnerships Center :Historic Rehabilitation Proposal; Public Gallery and Bed + Breakfast

Warren, Rhode Island

Historic Preservation, Semester Course Professor Arnold Robinson, Fall 2012

35

Mercato di San Lorenzo

[Below]Filling in the missing eighth bay of Palazzo Rucellai with a contemporary infill: Process for constructing the additional elevation

Sketch of the commercial stalls within the Mercato Centrale

Contemporary Intervention in History Retrofitting a historic fabric for new uses and understanding the individual threads through sketching

Florence, Italy Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti

Study Abroad: Advanced Design Studio Professor Carlo Achilli, Spring 2011

37

Section through, Piazza OgnissantiSketch of urban street proportions

Proportion and illusion compose the Palazzo Rucellai facade

Palazzo Rucellai along via della Vigna Nuova A open loggia across the street, along via della Vigna Nuova

As part of a semester design brief aimed at generating col-lective ideas about contemporary architectural space within an urban setting in a historical context, the task was to locate a permanent market space within Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti as well as provide a new entrance with gallery space for the University of Florence School of Architecture and student dormitories.

The urban plan is the result of extending the existing pedestri-an patterns present in the urban fabric, reusing traditional ma-terials with a contemporary language and introducing abstract interpretations of the vernacular architectural forms

A Network of Open Space Immediate Historic Figures Approach

Student Housing

Open Market Space

University Entrance + Gallery Space

Pedestrian Parking Garage Entrance

[Below] Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti

Major streets along the Piazza

Movement through open urban space Understanding pedestrian and vehicular traffic

Adding, subtracting and weaving to create the experience of being within a dream. The spatial experience within the pavil-ion is similar to being in a dream, where views are distorted, visitors meander in and out of the pavilion, and reflections of the environment are present.

Woven DreamscapeTriumph Pavilion 2014: “Dream Pavilion” Dreaming of a place that inspires a series of thoughts, images and sensation.

Museum Gardens, London, England

Competition Submission

41

[Opposite page]

A perspective of an entrance into the pavilion

[Current page]

Axon perspective

A perspective looking up within the pavilion

[Above_ Left to Right]

A perspective walking past

A perspective walking through

[Left]

Axon of a woven and re-flective pavillion to inspire dreaming

0 1 2 4 M

Area of Repose

Overall Grid

Internal Grid of Needles

7.6 meters

7.6 meters

Overall Grid Internal Grid

Combined Grids

The path is subtracted from the two grids and no posts are placed there. This allows for visitors to meander through. The posts, or ‘needles’ are placed on a reflective surface, to further the feeling of den-sity within the pavilion.

Plan

The Eye, where the thread is placed

Two pieces of 1.27 cm dia. metal, custom milled + welded together

Partial Section

Underneath a Closet full of Clothes

45 Photography Work Sample

Coaxing Abstraction Capturing an alternative perception using artificial light and a point of view

Steel Wool Pad Pop-up Toaster Sugar and Metal DispenserSpoon

graduate portfolio

Documents

series of spaces

mile bronx river

condition of space

west farms

architectural exploitation

transitory space

architectural idea

middle ground