Collier

University Life 2nd Annual Art Contest

Second Place, 2009

Kansas State University CAPDEnvironmental Photography Competition

Honorable Mention, 2010

Master of ArchitectureKansas State University

Manhattan, Kansas

Graduation: May 2010

Il Centro Studi Citta di OrvietoOrvieto, Italy

Spring 2009 (Study Abroad)

Honors

Education

R Y A NC O L L I E R2 9 3 3 P E N S T E M O N

c o l l i e r r r r @ g m a i l . c o m

W I C H I T A , K S 6 7 2 2 6 U S A

3 1 6 . 6 5 5 . 0 4 7 8

Adobe Software Suite CS4Photoshop

Illustrator

InDesign

After Effects

Premiere Pro

Flash

Microsoft OfficeWord

Excel

PowerPoint

Drawing ProgramsAutoCAD

DrawingSketching

Technical Drafting

Watercolor Rendering

Modeling Programs3ds Max Design

Autodesk Viz

SketchUp

Rhino

Revit

American Institute of Architecture StudentsHead of Publications / Graphic Designer

August 2008 - May 2010

correspondence with event initiators

incorporation of submitted materials

independent design of posters

OZ JournalGraphic Designer

February 2010 - May 2010

contributed to journal graphics

incorporation of submitted materials

independent design of posters

Spangenberg Phillips Tice ArchitectureWichita, Kansas

May 2008 - August 2008

primary assistant to principal architect

on-site assistance to architects

communication + assistance with clients

computer drafting + modeling

Cocoa Dolce Artisan ChocolatesWichita, Kansas

May 2005 - December 2007

retail specialist

customer / kitchen support

store courier

Skills

Additional ExperienceWork Experience

02 10BUTTERFLY BOX T H E H I V ES E C O N D Y E A R2 0 0 6 - 2 0 0 7 2 0 0 7 - 2 0 0 8

T H I R D Y E A R

28 35 50WELD GALLERY DIE RUEKKHER T H E S P R O U T

2 0 0 8 - 2 0 0 9 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0F O U R T H Y E A R F I F T H Y E A R F I F T H Y E A R

B O XB U T T E R F L Y

002

of the study, release it back into the wild.

A specific species of lepidoptera was to

be selected and further studied as to

provide further insight into the world

of the lepidopterist. The creation had

to be operable and speak to the spirit of

the butterfly selected to be the muse in

this endeavor. Finally, the dimensions of

the 'box were not to exceed those which

would allow for realistic human handling.

This project began as an introduction to

an even larger project involving designing

a retreat for a lepidopterist. However, the

first step involved creating an apparatus in

which the individual might place their

butterfly for study and further research.

The mechanism was to be designed as

a catch and release system where the

lepidopterist could coax the creature

into the box, and at the conclusion

L E P I D O P T E R A

PUPA CONCEPT

003

The creation of the apparatus was initially

spurred on by research done simply on

the life cycle of butterflies, an interesting

topic unto itself. The liberating process of

metamorphosis, as well as the different stages

were of immediate influence when forming

conceptual ideas. In the butterflies' larval

stage, it exists as a caterpillar, armed with

poisonous hairs to ward of potential predators.

(defense concept) During the Pupa stage, the

larva transforms into the butterfly, emerging

from the shell it had been inhabiting. (pupa

concept) A strand of silk is used to suspend

the larva during the creation of the pupa. This

notion started a creative process, thinking of

this strand as being the formation of the box.

(silk concept) Finally, looking towards butterfly

folklore, a belief kept reappearing amongst

various cultures; butterflies are an ethereal

link to the soul, The qualities of a soul are

difficult to determine, but most agree on one

aspect; its enduring nature. (infinity concept)

P R O C E S S

INF IN ITY CONCEPT S ILK CONCEPT DEFENSE CONCEPT

004

8 8B U T T E R F LY

The butterfly which was selected for

further study was the 88 butterfly, or

Diaethri clymena. This species gets its

name from the distinctive marks on the

underside of its wings which usually can

be seen to say 88, but sometimes read

89. They reside in wet tropical forests

and predominantly live in South America.

While other butterflies use markings

similar to these to confuse predators, the

88 butterfly had a natural graphic quality

which was highly appealing. Conceptually

speaking, the species also aided in the

further development of the butterfly

apparatus due to its distinctive markings.

fas t + ac t i ve f l i ers

1 1/2" w ingspan

88 namesake

005

The conceptual idea of

endlessness was further studied,

especially in relation to the

chosen 88 butterfly. Fittingly,

the symbol for infinity was

emblazoned on the underside of the butterfly,

another curiosity involved with this project.

The box started to take form with thoughts of

limitlessness pervading the design. How could

this sense of perpetuity be expressed in the

built form? Looking for more direction, the

descriptions of the soul previously mentioned

in butterfly cultural folklore became of more

interest. The soul is described as containing

someone's essence in an ethereal, amorphous

form, moving from this plane to the next to reside

forever. Butterflies were seen as representations

of this notion, leading towards the idea that

the container must represent this infiniteness in

some capacity. Thus, the materiality of the box

must be representative of the beyond. Mirrors,

while not considered to be amorphous do

allow for a certain level of limitlessness when

placed in certain arrangements. The exterior

of the case was developed with a protective

nature, housing the endlessness created by

the mirrors inside. The shape of a cube was

decided upon due to its ability to create the

intended feeling of infinity inside the box. The

cutouts on the cube were to allow for light to

enter, as well as for air to circulate. They are

also mirrored in the construction, yet another

reference to the infinite space held within.

006

bu t ter f l y box axon

con ta ined perpe tu i t y

mi rror p lacement

007

H I V ETHE

010

This project was done with the intent of entering it into the annual American Institute of

Steel Construction competition. The task for that year was to design a structure following

the theme of 'assembling housing'. These designs were to be situated in an urban location

with a heavy emphasis on steel construction. The competition also made it clear that the

housing should provide an evolution on the norm, emphasizing alternative construction

methods. The site that was selected for our studio was located in San Francisco in the Hays

Valley District. Previously used as an off ramp for the nearby highway until destroyed in an

earthquake, the site had sat vacant for years, The project had to be a mixed use residential

structure, with a mixture of strictly commercial spaces, mixed use, as well as live/ work units.

R E B U I L D I N G T H E H I V E

v iew a : towards c i t y ha l l

v iew b : towards the bay

v iew c : towards the h i l l s

011

F E

L L

O A

K

L A G U N A

O C T A V I A

H I C

K O

R Y

A

B

C

012

residential / mixed use

cultural /institutional industrial office

mixed use retail / entertainment

B U I L D I N G U S E S41 - 85 feet 86 - 120 feet

161 - 220 feet

0 - 40 feet

121- 160 feet

B U I L D I N G H E I G H T S

013

The site selected, now vacant, used to be the off ramp for Highway

101 which now filters through Octavia street at the southern portion of

the site. Circulation patterns about the site include all types of motor

vehicles, public transit, pedestrian, and bicycles. Major factors in many

sensory aspects of the location are determined by movement about the

site. Noise from vehicles is prevalent. The site's borders are heavily

trafficked by vehicles moving towards or exiting Highway 101. This

causes the southeastern intersection of Oak and Octavia to be a hub of

traffic. To the south and north, Oak and Fell have one directional traffic.

Laguna, the west border of the block, allows traffic in both directions

and receives many pedestrians moving northward towards the dense

commercial district on Hayes Street, only one block to the north. Octavia

is the most complexly designed street in relation to the heavy traffic from

the highway. Bikes, pedestrians, and vehicles coming off the freeway

share this busy side of the block which ends in a public park at the

north eastern intersection with Fell. There is ample public transportation

nearby to the site, with buses running along Oak and connections to

other lines only a block away. Connection to rail and higher speed travel

is also relatively close, at the most a ten minute walk. Building density in

the area surrounding the site is high, with structures ranging from one

story to five stories depending on the use. Most buildings are currently

being used for residential purposes with a bit of mixed use as well.

Climate, along with density determine the character of the city of San

Francisco as a whole. A very cool and damp climate prevails across

the peninsula with over 22 micro climates within the city. The block is

located on the bay side of the peninsula but will still benefit from the

cool breezes coming over the hill to the west from the Pacific Ocean.

muni bus and street car

golden gate transit samtrans

BART muni metro

S I T E A N A L Y S I S

P U B L I C T R A N S P O R T

014

Looking towards the future of housing,

it's becomes clear that prefabrication

has potential to be the way which many

buildings could be built. Looking for

competent forms with which to base this

prefabrication, I turned towards more

natural components. I started to study

bees, and in their complexity found

a system with which I could base this

new form of housing. The honeycomb

is the basic form from which a bee

hive is built from. Another aspect of a

bee's habitat which became of interest

was a decrease in honey bee hives

throughout the country. This epidemic,

known as colony collapse disorder

has become widespread in the passing

years. It is characterized by a complete

disappearance of an entire colony. When

thinking of how this concept applied to

our society, it became quite apparent

there was a direct correlation. We are

on a road to destruction through our

increased dependence on foreign oil,

as well as our continued involvement in

a variety of different political disputes.

It is with this thought that I started to

realize a concept: rebuilding the hive.

P R O C E S S

015

Creating housing which can be constructed efficiently, offer the amenities that are necessary for human existence and provide aesthetic

pleasure became the main goals in the realization of this project. The hexagon became the fundamental component of this process. Each

necessary component for living, such as the bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom would be contained in a hexagonal unit. These units could then be

interlocked, forming larger units for families of a greater scale, allowing for a variable number of families and residents to interact. Thus, the

building form started to appear as a part of this organic process of interlocking the units. The building eventually would rise to be eight stories

tall, relating to the nearby larger scale buildings a few blocks away. The first two stories along Fell St. were designed to be live/work units where a person could

sell their goods on the first floor, and then have a lofted apartment above that space. The ground floors were to be constructed of pre-stressed concrete, creating a

base to rest the hexagonal units on. The occupiable spaces on Laguna Street were designed to be all retail with facilities ranging from two stories to three stories.

The driving factor in this project was a connection to nature, whether it be derived from the form, or just a physical connection a resident could have. A large semi-

public garden is located in the center of the lot, allowing for all sides to utilize this space, whether it be a restaurant allowing exterior seating, or residents playing

frisbee on the weekends. Gardens were also implemented on each floor of the residential building between units, allowing for residents to grow herbs and

flowers which they could use or potentially sell. These terrace's offer views of the surrounding area, as well as provide the pivotal connection to the natural realm.

017

L A G U N A

O C T A V I AF E

L L

O A

KRETA IL RETA IL

RETA ILRETA IL

ENTRY

ENTRY

RETA IL

RETA IL WORK / L IVE

WORK / L IVE

WORK / L IVE

WORK / L IVE

WORK / L IVE

WORK / L IVE

WORK / L IVE

WORK / L IVE

019

L A G U N A

O C T A V I A

F E

L L

O A

K

020

Each prefabricated unit would also be equipped with prefab

furniture which would be built into the non walkable space created

by the hexagonal shape. This allows for a substantial increase

in the amount of usable space as compared to a conventional

rectangular apartment. While each units walkable space is only

ten feet wide, the added side storage makes the apartment

appear to be more spacious. Living compactly doesn't have to

be an uncomfortable process if livability is the main concern in

the design. Prefabricated furniture would include the kitchen

spaces, as well as built in shelving or benches in the living

sleeping quarters. These units would be able to be customized

by the resident depending on their needs. For instance, if they

required more storage, a set of shelves could be utilized as

opposed to a built in seating area. Light is a pivotal component

when designing residences. Natural light is let in on both the east

and west sides of each hexagonal unit. This allows for ample

daylight, especially since the footprint of the units so minimal.

I N T E R I O R

021

three bedroom apartment plantwo bedroom apartment plan

one bedroom apartment plan

122

33

3L IV ING

L IV ING

L IV ING

K ITCHEN

K ITCHEN

BEDROOM

BEDROOM BEDROOMBEDROOM

BEDROOMBEDROOM

024

user circulation

pre-fabricated structure

pre-fabricated shell

pre-fabricated furniture

unit placement

three bedroom unit

two bedroom unit

one bedroom unit

026

W E L DG A L L E R Y

028

BA

C

The first semester of fourth year involved designing a

structure all the way through to construction documents.

Previous projects were only designed up to schematic

development stage, so this new endeavor was quite an

undertaking. The project selected was that of a mixed use

unit located in the River Market of Kansas City, MO. The

project brief called for a design that would incorporate

a metalworking studio, gallery space, apartments for the

curators/metalworkers, (a husband and wife team aptly

named the Welds) as well as a separate apartment space

for an artist in residence. The site that was selected had

been vacant for some time and had been being used as

a temporary parking lot. Much of the area was overgrown

with vegetation with vacant buildings adjoining its eastern

and western borders. Views of the Kansas City skyline

were abundant from the southern portion of the site, with

the Missouri river within walking distance to the north.

META L S T UD I Oview a: looking south

view b: looking west

view c: looking south

029

BA

C

4TH S TREE T

3RD S TREE T

EXIST ING EXIST ING

030

When presented with designing a metal studio for a group of

artists, one's mind could travel to a number of different places

for inspiration. Taking into mind site considerations as well,

the building needed to address the adjoining wall of the

vacant building to the west, as well as respond to the skyline

to the south. The most compelling image that kept springing

to mind was the process of metalworking and how one shapes

and forms metal from its molten state into something unlike

its previous iteration. Plasticity then became a driving force in

the creation of both the interior spaces as well as a facade.

Spaces formed organically with this sentiment in mind, with

an emphasis on ebb and flow. Molten metal slinking down

structure, becoming part of the building as well as interacting

with the ground became a very seductive thought. Architecturally

speaking, this had the potential for the creation of a variety

of spaces sectionally as well as providing a beautiful aesthetic.

P R O C E S S

031

115114

113

112

111

110

109

108

95

96 97 98 99 100

101

102

103

104

105

1" = 20'-0"1

Site Plan

033

115114

113

112

111

110

109

108

95

96 97 98 99 100

101

102

103

104

105

1" = 20'-0"1

Site Plan

4TH S TREE T

3RD S TREE T

EXIST ING EXIST ING

034

The initial programmatic elements that seemed most opposed the gallery spaces

and the studio spaces. Metalworking can be a clamorous process, and if one

is working on their artistic piece, privacy would be needed. The gallery on the

other hand, while not necessarily needing to be quiet, does demand a composed

demeanor. This sparked the physical exterior separation of the buildings from one

another, forming gallery space This area is used as continuation of the interior gallery utilizing

the natural world to showcase the pieces of art. The studio and gallery spaces are connected

below ground with a private entrance for the artists. The Weld's apartment is located above

the gallery, offering ample lofted space and providing them with an uninterrupted view of the

skyline. The artist in residence's apartment is located above the studio, allowing for them to have

access at all times if needed. The studio space was sunk into the ground, providing a bit of noise

isolation, as well as connecting the metal work back to its origins. As this project progressed,

an interesting notion began to arise; The act of viewing the metal shop itself as a piece of art.

036

2

1/8" = 1'-0"1

Weld Second Floor A

partment Plan

1/8" = 1'-0"2

Artist in Residence A

partment Plan

1/8" = 1'-0"1

Weld Second Floor A

partment Plan

1/8" = 1'-0"2

Artist in Residence A

partment Plan

APARTMENT GALLERY

STUDIO

1

1 2 3

3third floor plansecond floor planfirst floor plan

BBB

A

A A

A A

A

B B B

037

APARTMENT

APARTMENT

GALLERY

1/8" = 1'-0"1Cross-Section Through Gallery

1/8" = 1'-0"2Cross-Section Through Weld Apartment

GALLERY

APARTMENT

STUDIO

section a-a

section b-b

040

A-5012

A-5015

A-5017

1/2" = 1'-0"2Gallery Entry Wall Section

1/2" = 1'-0"1Gallery Corridor Wall Section

Standing Seam Metal RoofFelt Eqaulizing StripWaterproofing Membrane

Plywood Paneling

Wood Nailing Strips

W5 x 16 Steel Joist

Gypsum Ceiling

Glulam Beam

6" Concrete Wall

Bamboo HardwoodFelt Panel2" Rigid InsulationSteel DeckingSteel Open Web Joist

12" Concrete Wall

Cast In Place Concrete Flooring

4" Rigid Inslation

Steel Connector Bracket

Glazing

Steel Connector Bolt

Gravel

PVC DrainagePipe


Plywood Paneling

Wood Nailing Strips

W5 x 16 Steel Joist

Gypsum Ceiling

Glulam Beam

Aluminum Mullion

Bamboo Hardwood FlooringFelt Panel2" Rigid InsulationSteel Decking

Steel Open Web Joist

Aluminum Fronting Panel

Gypsum Board

Gypsum Board

Glazing

4" Rigid Insulation

Aluminum Mullion

041

A-5012

A-5015

A-5017

1/2" = 1'-0"2Gallery Entry Wall Section

1/2" = 1'-0"1Gallery Corridor Wall Section


Plywood Paneling

Wood Nailing Strips

W5 x 16 Steel Joist

Gypsum Ceiling

Glulam Beam

6" Concrete Wall

Bamboo HardwoodFelt Panel2" Rigid InsulationSteel DeckingSteel Open Web Joist

12" Concrete Wall

Cast In Place Concrete Flooring

4" Rigid Inslation

Steel Connector Bracket

Glazing

Steel Connector Bolt

Gravel

PVC DrainagePipe


Plywood Paneling

Wood Nailing Strips

W5 x 16 Steel Joist

Gypsum Ceiling

Glulam Beam

Aluminum Mullion

Bamboo Hardwood FlooringFelt Panel2" Rigid InsulationSteel Decking

Steel Open Web Joist

Aluminum Fronting Panel

Gypsum Board

Gypsum Board

Glazing

4" Rigid Insulation

Aluminum Mullion

042

As was mentioned previously, a full set of construction

documents were created for the Weld's Gallery. Details which

might have been overlooked in previous studio projects now

had to be addressed. Casually stating that the rain water

would naturally flow down the building is much different

than designing drainage system and detailing every portion

of it. The entire project was designed and drawn in Revit,

DOCUMENTAT ION

044

D I ER U E C K K E H R

046

HEI D

ESTRAE

047

S I T E I N T R O D U C T I O N

048

As with many other cities, Berlin has followed an

evolutionary pattern to become the urban space that it

is today. This process has weathered the city through

numerous political scuffles and world wars, developing a

gritty undertone to the earnest efficiency of this German

city. Located in the tenacious Moabit district, the site

selected for our graduate work has endured its fair share

of these struggles, Moabit's urban nature exists due to

its original use as an industrial zone with the site's origins

being derived from its use as a rail yard during the 1800's.

The first rail station erected, located just

inside our site, was the Hamburger Bahnhof. It ceased

to be used a rail station when the Lehrter Bahnhof was

constructed, but has been converted into a contemporary

art gallery currently. Lehrter Bahnhof was used for quite

some time, but due to damage it endured during WWII,

the majority of the station was shut down, excluding

the existing S-Bahn stop. The eventual fall of the Berlin

wall brought forward a resurgence in reconnecting

Germany with their surrounding countries, and thus, a

new station was planned. The Berlin Hauptbahnhof,

which was opened in 2006, now connects Berlin

with a myriad of countries, including such cities

as Prague and Amsterdam. The station could easily

be seen as the new transportation nexus for all

of Europe, especially connecting those coming

from countries not directly adjacent to Germany.

The neighborhood was also home to a bevy

of hospitals as well as a monstrous corrections facility

eventually utilized by the gestapo, whose remains lie

just west of the site. On the opposite edge of the site

lies the canal which separates the Moabit district from

the Mitte district. This canal has a grave past which is

largely unseen today except for a few artifacts located

off the beaten path. It offered a natural barrier between

East and West when the Berlin wall was erected, and

became a resting place for countless individuals trying

to escape to freedom. The wall rested on both sides

of the canal, creating a deadly 'no man's land', so it

is fair to say that our site rests on the convergence of

East and West Berlin. The coalescence which Berlin

experienced after the fall of the wall can definitely be

felt, but the wall still exists in the spirit of the city, an

ever constant reminder of the importance of autonomy.

A study of the massing of the surrounding neighborhood

was necessary if attempting to tie the site in question

back into the natural urban fabric. This study revealed

that much of the site was far less dense than the

surrounding area, much of this of course due to the rail

systems which run directly through the site. This look

into the density also aided in forming a basic idea of

building typologies as well as the variation in widths

and lengths comprising the structures near the site.

The long term unemployed near the site is higher than most

neighborhoods surrounding the site with an average of 6

unemployed per 100 citizens. Unemployment usually has

a direct correlation to poverty levels in a community so

this should be of concern when planning out urban spaces.

Understanding the population already occupying the space

within which our site was located was pivotal, especially

considering their age. The site itself as well as the Mitte

neighborhood across the canal are relatively low in senior

citizens, while the area to the south, near Tiergarten is higher

in the elderly. This study is of importance due to the influx of

young creatives who have stormed Berlin in recent years, and

who might be interested in living in the new urban proposal.

Citizens over 64 years of age per 100 people

The site was found to be relatively vacant with a few

nodes of individuals towards the northern sector. The

area directly across the site from the canal is relatively

low in density but towards the north raises. To the

west of the site the density is also consistently high.

1-4

5-20

21-70

71-150

151-250

251-350

351-450

451-550

>550

An intensive look into the noise levels (dB) reveals that

the site is rife with noise levels which could be harmful

to individuals residing in the space if not dealt with.

The largest producers of noise were the high speed rail

which cuts through the site at the northern end, and the

Hauptbahnhof, located at the southern end of the site.

Traffic ways were extremely loud as well, the most unhealthy

being the main thoroughfare through the site, Heidestrae.

Weaving the urban plan into the existing building

typologies involves understanding what is needed in the

area, as well as what is already in abundance. The land

use study aided with this question, noting that a majority

of the existing land was being used for public facilities,

along with industrial purposes. Residential was dotted

through the area, with very little actually existing on site.

Another aspect which was noted was the abundance of

green space and of what importance this is to Berliners.

Residential

Public Facilities

Green Space

Industrial

Mixed Use

This pivotal historical remnant is a constant reminder

of the struggle of the people who inhabit the city. It's

proximity to our site has a direct impact on how the canal

is treated as well as how one might choose to recognize

the lives lost and the strife caused by its existence.

BUILDING TYPESB E R L I N W A L L

054

One criticism commonly hurled at the modern city is that one loses a sense of community and identity amidst

the greater whole. The ever increasing population, the majority residing in urban spaces, can only bolster this

sentiment more. Working in tandem with the creation of a permeable plan, fostering a sense of community is

of utmost importance. Community zones cut through the normative grid structure, weaving through the site on

a north/south axis. These spaces allow for a communal zone which residents, visitors and commercial entities

would all experience on a daily basis. Uses would be derived by a consultation between representatives from

each zone, but the intent is that they would act as community gardens and green spaces. The zones also break

up spaces even more, offering the pedestrian or biker even more routes when moving between blocks.

Building heights play a role in enhancing this sense of connection, both tying the master plan in

with Berlin's existing structures while making the building's accessible. The normative height of roughly six

stories will be maintained in the urban plan, with the exception of the vertical farms which will pierce this

height considerably. Along with the verticality of the buildings, the forms also foster communal space, with

interior courtyards allowing light and ventilation to pierce the building, creating agreeable spaces to use.

F O S T E R C O M M U N I T Y

056

The site exists in a precarious position at the moment. It is largely cut off from the surrounding neighborhoods, whether it be by rail, road,

or canal. While this disconnection was probably paramount for its original use as a rail yard, the sites successful reuse relies heavily

on re invigorating the space by linking it back up to the surrounding area. The initial moves involved the addition of another boulevard

to offset the increasing traffic piling up on Heidestrae, along with burying the rail lines which created a fissure in the connectivity

before. Secondary streets were then added connecting existing streets on the west to a new bridge crossing the canal on the eastern

side. This bridge would offer both pedestrian and vehicular access to the core node in the master plan, connecting the Moabit district

directly with the Mitte district. Additionally, the inclusion of public transport into the plan is essential to a successfully trafficked urban

space. The existing bus lines B123, B120, and B147 have all been rerouted and extended into the new master plan, along with the M6

tram. The U-55 line which originally terminated at Hauptbahnhof has been extended through the site, with one main stop at a central

point in the master plan. There are numerous pedestrian zones, along with bike lanes and paths along most if not all roads and bridges.

C R E A T E P E R M E A B I L I T Y

057

P R O M O T E U R B A N A G R I C U L T U R EA severe problem with the human sprawl today is the way in which we are consuming land for

farming. 80% of the farmable surface has already been utilized, leaving only a small portion

left. The future increase in population and movement towards the city only furthers this dilemma,

because once produce is farmed, how does it travel to the city? Currently produced is trafficked

from rural areas on the exterior of urban spaces, into the city to be consumed by residents. Not

only does this causes an increase in carbon emissions, but it promotes an unneeded reliance

on the rural areas for food. Along with this reliance comes a disconnect between humans and

the fare they are eating, no doubt spurred by fast food chains whose meals are questionable

at best. We have created a society that is uneducated about the origins of our food, but even

worse, one that is willingly giving into the destructive nature of processed sustenance.

Fortunately, this situation does have a solution, and it lies in returning the

farming to the city. Urban agriculture can be utilized in a myriad of ways, whether it be

growing vegetables on your windowsill, converting large scale green spaces into plots

of farmable land or even vertical farming. The return of agriculture to the city would cut

back on carbon emissions from the transport of goods, as well as reconnecting the residents

with food they are eating. The community zones are twofold in nature, offering a space

for residents to gather, but also offering space for farming. They also act as a farming

spine with horizontal farming on the ground floor as well as vertical farming towers placed

as nodes which drive the form in plan. The canal also acts a space where farming can be

introduced in the form of aquaculture. Fish farms would allow for more than just produce

being created in this district, creating a more cohesive and believable consumptive process.

059

32 The master plan went through various transitions during the course of the design. The original design marked the first step

in connecting the site to the surrounding neighborhoods with a

new bridge crossing the canal. The blocks were split diagonally,

but some were a bit too large to create permeability for the resi-

dents. Existing buildings were kept if possible, while the railway

was buried underground. The next alteration in model form fur-

ther expanded on breaking up the existing blocks with secondary

streets accompanying the diagonal streets. The bay was reduced

in size, allowing for boats to turn around if necessary off of the

canal. Building forms started to become more manageable and the

forms started to dictate the urban space in a much more realistic

way. The community zones also started to appear, weaving their

way through the site. The final alteration of the master plan in-

volved a tightening of certain buildings and a further study of the

communal zones and how light enters into those spaces. Attention

was also given to the bay area, where an textiles school was intro-

duced with a performance space integrated into the waterfront.

The bay was also north to create a core space in the master plan

where a public plaza was created utilizing views of the water.

P R O C E S S

062

Throughout the research process, it came

to my attention that Berlin is a city which

is almost transient in nature. The residents

of the city have come and gone in large

numbers during the course of it's history.

The detrimental image brought on by WWII and the rise of

the Berlin Wall led to a number of individuals fleeing Berlin

in search of a place where they wouldn't be persecuted. The

wall created a barrier that dissected the city, creating varied

living conditions, one being more desired than the other. The

fall of the wall was a catalyst, invigorating the youth across

Germany and sending a message of liberty throughout the world.

As the wall fell, citizens that had once left started to return to

the city they had once resided in, along with a group of new

individuals discovering Berlin for the first time. This idea of a

city returning to its past importance in the modern era became

very influential in the master plan formation, so much so that

the project was eventually titled 'Die Rueckkehr', meaning 'The

Return' in German. This was also formative in the basis for

the re-resurgence of urban agriculture which is present in the

design. The return was not only implying a new breed of creative

citizens, but also, replacing the dated system of food production

which cities currently rely on. A return to the cultivation which

was so inherent in our ancestors is necessary for cities to

continue to thrive and the master plan responds to this notion.

063

HEI D

ESTRAE

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The existing transportation infrastructure was

integrated into the site, including bus lines, the U-55

U-Bahn line, as well as the different tram systems.

There are a number of stops positioned throughout

the site to offer extreme permeability for users.

U-55 M6

Bus 123 S-Bahn

Bus 120

Bus 147

Green spaces are spread throughout the city with

the largest being a public sculpture garden along

the canal. A large cemetery also existed which

has been kept in its original location. The paved

spaces are generally for the public to utilize.

Green

Paved

The site is highly porous, focused on

connectivity between the street and interior of

each block. The main pedestrian thoroughfare

revolves around the farming zones, moving

citizens along the interior spine of the site.

Low Pedestrian

Medium Pedestrian

High Pedestrian

The public spaces in the master plan follow

along the farming zones culminating in a

large central plaza near the major bay off

the canal. A majority of the open spaces

are semi-public and only a few are private,

allowing for public access to most zones.

Semi-Public Space

Public Space

Private Space

Parking is an unseemly eyesore in most

cases and has been placed underground

for the majority of it's existence. There

is street parking along Heidestrae and

along four of the secondary streets,

allowing ample zones for vehicular parking.

Street Parking

Underground Parking

The buildings are split up into various zones

based on their uses. Most are split based on

their relation to the street and pedestrian access.

Property Outlines

GREEN SPACE

P R O P E R T Y PEDESTR I A N OPEN S PACE

PUBLIC TRANSIT P A R K I N G

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10Maple trees are placed along the main boulevards, offering shade to the large sidewalks. Spree Oaks, relatively smaller than the Maple are placed along the secondary streets, while Lindens, even smaller are placed along the waters edge. Maple

Spree Oak

Linden

Heidestrae still remains the main thoroughfare

in the new master plan. A secondary boulevard

was added to aid with traffic coming from

the train station, while secondary streets

connect to the new bridge crossing the canal.

Access Streets

Secondary Streets

Main Boulevards

Green spaces are spread throughout the city with

the largest being a public sculpture garden along

the canal. A large cemetery also existed which

has been kept in its original location. The paved

spaces are generally for the public to utilize.

Green

Paved

The building of the master plan will have take

a number of years to complete due to its

size. The phases are set up to allow for each

portion to be self sufficient on its own, with

each phase adding a piece to the already

thriving community in existence.

Phase 1 (2010-2013)

Phase 2 (2013-2020)

Phase 3 (2020-2025)

Phase 4 (2025-2030)

Phase 5 (2030-2035)

Parking is an unseemly eyesore in most

cases and has been placed underground

for the majority of it's existence. There

is street parking along Heidestrae and

along four of the secondary streets,

allowing ample zones for vehicular parking.

Street Parking

Underground Parking

Public Farming

Private Farming

The farming zones are comprised of two uses,

both public and private. The private facilities

are placed at the end of the pedestrian

zones, allowing for ample light filtration.

They take their form in a vertical direction

while the public spaces are horizontal.

OPEN S PACE T R E E S P H A S I N G

P A R K I N G F A R M I N G V E H I C U L A R

068

SPROUTTHE

072

There are numerous advantages to farming in the city, many of which are outlined in

Dickson Despommier's work. Year-round crop production; 1 indoor acre is equivalent

to 4-6 outdoor acres or more, depending upon the crop (e.g., strawberries: 1 indoor

acre = 30 outdoor acres). There are no weather-related crop failures due to

droughts, floods, pests. All VF food is grown organically: no herbicides, pesticides,

or fertilizers. VF virtually eliminates agricultural runoff by recycling black water.

VF returns farmland to nature, restoring ecosystem functions and services. VF

greatly reduces the incidence of many infectious diseases that are acquired at

the agricultural interface. VF converts black and gray water into potable water

by collecting the water of evapotranspiration. VF adds energy back to the grid

via methane generation from composting non-edible parts of plants and animals.

VF dramatically reduces fossil fuel use (no tractors, plows, shipping.) VF converts

abandoned urban properties into food production centers. VF creates sustainable

environments for urban centers. VF creates new employment opportunities. We

cannot go to the moon, Mars, or beyond without first learning to farm indoors on

earth. VF may prove to be useful for integrating into refugee camps. VF offers the

promise of measurable economic improvement for tropical and subtropical LDCs.

If this should prove to be the case, then VF may be a catalyst in helping to reduce

or even reverse the population growth of LDCs as they adopt urban agriculture

as a strategy for sustainable food production. VF could reduce the incidence of

armed conflict over natural resources, such as water and land for agriculture

FARMING IN THE C ITY

O R

074

The site selected is located in the heart of the master plan, adjacent to the bay and the

main public plaza. The farm site rests at the intersection of the two farming zones which

spread throughout the site, thus offering widespread connectivity to the other vertical farms.

The location is pivotal for views, as a majority of major buildings lie to the south of the site

which would be visible from taller floors in the farm. The location also is where a number

of pedestrian paths interact, those following along the farming zones, and those following

along both Heidestrae and the secondary streets. Adding to this sense of movement, the

farm also rests directly above a pivotal transport station and is adjacent to a number of

bus stops. The newly constructed U-55 line will stop directly underneath the farm creating

another point of intersection below ground. Solar access is of importance to a farming space,

especially a vertically oriented design. The surrounding space near the site allows for ample

solar access from southern light due to the platz to the southwest, and the bay to the southeast.

F O R M I N G T H E F A R M

075

The vertical farm is a fairly new building type, so new that

there are not any physical precedents as of yet. Most

of the work has been theoretical, ranging from the highly

theoretical to some realistic solutions. The aim for this

project was to be grounded in reality, and the form came

from this intent. Considering that there are no built projects

to study, the initial step was to look towards the function

and uses of the building to determine form. Considering the

needs of a farm came into play here, the main determining

factor being light. The first step was cutting away from the

building to allow ample light penetration from the southern

exposure, as well as ambient light filtering in from other

locations. The agricultural nature of the building led to

many different studies of organic form in the realms of

biomimicry. An pivotal aspect of the organic form was how

the building met the ground. Originally, the intent was for

the building to emerge from the pavement, much like the

shape of an inverted tree, with the foliage being present

on the ground floor and the trunk rising into the tower.

This would allow the building to spread throughout the

site, integrating it even more into the daily lives of those

experiencing the space. This has since changed and been

inverted to allow for extensive light filtration to the site

as opposed to covering the space with structure. The form

morphed from the rigid components of the triangular plan

to a buxom form whose shape is influenced by solar access.

P R O C E S S

078

community could come to learn about

production, as well as healthy living

+ Processing/filtration zones where the

produce makes the transition from growing

to being sold

+ Treatment zones where the produce

could be studied and labs where research

could be conducted.

+ Farming production zones where both

hydroponics and aeroponics would be

utilized to grow produce

The building acts as a nexus, drawing individuals wishing

to learn to how to live healthy, wholesome lives can be

educated and hopefully participate in the vertical farms

production of sustenance. Along with the programmatic

elements of the farm, the subway station below

ground had to be programmed for it's variety of uses:

+ Platform allowing for ample space for

rider's movement to and from the trains

+ Egress from the train station below to the

surface above allowing natural ventilation

and light to filtrate

+ Information desk where tickets could be

purchased as well as an area for ticket

kiosks to placed

+ Public restrooms to be utilized be

travelers on board the U-Bahn

The use of a building is

pivotal to the creation of its

form, and thus programming

played an integral role in

the creation of the vertical

farm. Certain functions had

to exist in a public realm,

while others needed a more private building response.

This interplay between public and private became a

main factor in the creation of the program, as one of

the main goals of the farm is to educate the masses.

If the entire farm was closed off to the public, there

would be no dissemination of information and the farm

would fail at its main purpose. Thus, the building had

to interweave the public and private spaces, offering a

vision of the advantages to the individual, without allowing

full access to the tower. At the core of the program

was the non-for-profit organization who is funding the

project and their needs, along with the demanding uses

of the farm. The program was determined as follows:

+ Public market space allowing for the

goods produced in the farm to be sold

+ Restaurant utilizing the produce created

in the farms

+ General office spaces for the NGO

including open offices and private offices

along with conference zones

+ Education zones where the surrounding

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Given the amoebic nature of the form and the programmatic elements, the skin of the

building must act in a similar notion becoming a diaphanous extension of the structure.

The facade of the building has gone through various renditions, but the main component

which was maintained throughout the design process was the importance of operability.

The skin should act as a living unit, attached to the building to help ventilate and

light the space and protect the interior from the natural elements. This however, does

not mean the interior and the exterior do not have an imperative relationship. The

facade acts as a mediator between the two, creating a harmonious environment to

experience. User control of the skin is of importance as well to negate the use of

heavy mechanical systems being implemented which would create unneeded noise and

environmental disturbances. Considering the agricultural nature of the building, the

skin must not prevent ample light from entering the building, but it must also moderate

temperature conditions through cross and stack ventilation. Acknowledging all of these

issues is quite the task and a majority of it resides in the materiality of the skin. Many

elements were considered for the membrane, but the most efficient one turned out to

be a material used in greenhouse architecture, ETFE sheeting. The sheeting has a low

dead weight, high UV transmittance , a long life and is almost completely recyclable.

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