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Situation|ˌsi ch oōˈā sh ən | - a set of circumstances in which one finds oneself; the location and surroundings of a place.

Each new situation requires a new architecture. - Jean Nouvel Hamrick

How can we engage the ‘living’ conditions on UM campus? What are the opportunities in the life and lifestyles on campus? How can we think beyond our utilitarian preoccupa-tions and establish more sensible relationships with/within our campus life/environment?

Student groups will choose a specific ‘site’ on campus to situate/localize their study. The groups will examine the inter-relationships (the ‘living’ conditions) of material/ im-material, human/non-human, and functional/phenomenal dimensions of the site and speculate possible ways to implement their study. Based on the speculation students will develop ‘projects’ individually. The projects are expected to relate specifically with conditions/dynamics of the site and must be relevant to the site’s operational/living conditions (functional/phenomenal) through its corporeal presence. The projects should question the site’s existing relationship(s) but also establish new ones.

THE BRIEF.

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THE SITE.

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PRECEDENTS.

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A series of precedent research provided the basis for the design and concept for the project.

1. Research into traditional quadrangle design/ usage. The iconic University of Alabama Quad in Tuscaloosa, Alabama is pictured.

2. Studies of urban wind breaks, and the varying effects of solid versus porous surfaces at blocking/redirecting wind.

3. Ice material usage, primarily in ice walls for climbing was researched to learn about ice as a building material and potential wind-break.

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THE IDEA.

A dynamic shading and windbreak system implemented on the Duckworth Quadrangle Walkway, at the University of Manitoba. Vertical planes of ice and image delineate a path, and lighting signifies presence.

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TESTING.

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MODELS.

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MODELS.

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THE PROJECT.

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THE PROJECT.

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THE PROJECT.

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THE PROJECT.

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THE PROJECT.

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CONCLUSION.

1” = 2’ - 0”

By observing a specific situation, on a specific site, a plan was made to establish a project that would both question the site’s specific relation-ships, as well as establish new ones. A dynamic wall/shade system that would reinforce the sense of path and space was conceived, utilizing the materials of metal and ice. The wall works to continue and strength-en the quadrangle’s role in the university environment. To provide a space for:

Recreation, pathways for walking routes, open space for organized events, and comfort for outdoor studying or socializing.

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AFTERWORD

What a semester it has been! It definitely was a roller coaster ride; ups and downs, super fast speed, and of course... its more fun if you put your hands in the air and scream. All cheesy metaphors aside, I want to say that I feel that I have grown as a designer, and have found my studies thus far to be very rewarding. Not only in academics, and project work, but in the friendship and camaraderie I share with my peers as well. It is a great time for me, when I can be working on what I am passionate for; design, in all its forms. ED2, Semester 1, it’s

been real.

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DESIGNS