Contextual
Fit
Objective: This project examines the relationship
of form and function in architectural design. It encourages the awareness of
truth, whatever position the designer takes, and promotes the arbitrary
aesthetic of functional beauty.
Assignment: The Smith Family has commissioned you
to design an addition to their house on the shore of Long Island Sound. The
original house, designed in 1965 by architect Richard Meier, has been widely
published and is internationally known. Unfortunately, the Owners needs have
change since the original design, thereby warranting this architectural
intervention. The Owner specifically request that the integrity of the original
design be respected, yet the new addition should have its own presence.
Philosophy: In order to add on this existing
building I had to find a way to incorporate the old Architecture in a new way.
I began with finding a system to physically connect these two buildings which
started out as a pivot but turned into a datum and joint. I used the structural
elements (columns and bearing walls) to mimic the pattern shown in the existing
Meier house which punches straight through my addition showing its importance.
I also used the additional bearing wall to separate private from public (Master
bedroom being private and the gym /family room area being public).
Analysis of Existing Context:
Lower Level Entry Level Upper Level
Structure
Additive/Subtractive
Circulation
Enclosure
Hierarchy
Private/Public
Conceptual Idea Formation in Context:
Hierarchy: Between the existing building and the
addition the addition is the hierarchical element within my design. Within the
addition the balcony is most important.
Existing
Systems being used:
I decided to use Privacy, Structure & Hierarchy from the existing building
to tie both it and the addition together.
Preliminary design: (Massing)
Final Design:
Elevations :: 3D
Views :: Sections