During the second semester studio, the primary focus is shifted to the construction of a New York City public middle school. The preliminary work was done through the massing of volumes and deforming them to create intersections. A focal point was then chosen which began to modify the overall design based on specific criteria.

In an effort to create unconventional learning environments, the science wing was given precedence and positioned to receive the most daylight. Aeroponics were incorporated throughout the front facade to promote healthy eating habits and interactive learning.

Spring 2017

Studio Critic: Maria Sieira

An idea was begun through the massing of volumes. First, the largest volume of the auditorium was placed at the core. The periphery volumes represented the other aspects of a school. They were placed based on a concept one had about the school’s function. Once the volumes were placed a force was introduced to cause deformation and develop a more formal design.

The volumes and tendrils had two active design strategies. The first was a way to hide the industrial components of the aeroponic system. The second was to create carved out spaces for classrooms. These voids created unique learning environments that strayed away from the traditional classroom.