Thesis Statement v.3

   The multiplicities of geometry found in nature are often intrinsic to the structural integrity of the organism they sustain. This relationship is analogous to the tectonic systems found in architecture. Just as the human body is encased in a multi-layered, multi-purpose skin that protects us from various exterior forces and helps regulate our bodies, buildings have multi-layered skins which perform in a similar way. This thesis will explore how building skins accommodate the requirements of the program while responding and adjusting to the various needs of the user. It will propose a design strategy grounded in the metaphor of the skin as a regulator and protector of external physical and environmental conditions. 

   The program for this thesis will be a variety of spatial elements that test the effectiveness of the building skin. For example, the building envelope must respond to the various areas within the program that will require different climatic conditions. In other words, environmental conditions within the building will need to be sustained through the use of various material and enclosure systems that mitigate the variations in climate between the inside and outside. The building skin will encompass systems and functions that require the walls to open and close at particular moments to accommodate fresh air and light. It will also promote and sustain usable outdoor spaces. 

Thesis Statement v.2

   The multiplicities of geometry found in nature are often intrinsic to the structural integrity of the organism they sustain. This relationship is analogous to the tectonic systems found in architecture. Just as the human body is encased in a multi-layered, multi-purpose skin that protects us from various exterior forces and helps regulate our bodies, buildings have multi-layered skins which perform in a similar way. This thesis will explore the way a building skin can become a performative enclosure that houses and protects the interior program while responding to the local climate. 
   The program for this thesis will be an activity that will make it necessary for the building's skin to promptly react to changing climatic conditions both inside and outside of the envelope. One possible program may be an indoor swimming pool. In New England both the summers and winters can produce extreme conditions. An indoor swimming pool would be the perfect program to house inside of a responsive and adaptive skin. The enclosure would protect the pool and occupants but also allow heat to escape in the hot summers while trapping heat during the winter. 

Thesis Statement v.1

The multiplicities of geometry found in nature are often essential to the structure integrity of the organism they sustain. The tectonics of these various structures can be instructive for architects wishing for a more meaningful engagement with the landscape. This thesis will explore the way complex forms and structures found in nature can inspire a relationship between the built forms and its external environment. It will also investigate organic-based building materials and their use in creating a structure that is non-intrusive to the landscape. With advances in new technologies and a plethora of new organic building materials, it is imperative for architects to choose materials that are both sustainable and respond to local environments.   

Program 3

Attempt 3: My final attempt involved some "clean-up" of my graphics. I rearranged images in a more linear fashion and adjusted the 'activities and circulation' page to read more clearly. The 'individual spaces & needs' now better represents each block as a different person with different needs. Lastly I included a perspective of a Spa with a transparent wall to allow users to see the skin working and adjusting to the functions it serves. 

f u n c t i o n s  &  a c t i v i t i e s

transition between interior & exterior

changing indoor climate

responsive & interactive

meets needs of individuals

public spaces

private spaces

active spaces

family & community

day & night usage 

Program 2

Attempt 2: For my second pass at program I took a step back and thought of spaces rather than specific functions.  I thought of the building as a whole and what I want the skin to accomplish. I concluded it should work with the program's requirements for example, provide spaces that can be light and dark, hot and cold, or open and closed. I also looked at adjacencies and the need for functions to be neighboring other areas or the individual and their needs.

Program 1

Conceptual Diagrams: This was my first pass at a program for my thesis. I felt it was a little too literal when thinking about specific functions and sizes. I needed to step back and think on a broad level rather than trying to figure out sizes and placement of bathroom, pools, and classrooms.