Michelle Lynn Armand: Architectural Designer :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: connecting people through design People + Architecture are often looked at as separate entities, but neither could effectively exist without the other. At its very root, architecture is about designing and constructing buildings for humans. My principle concern is how the relationship between architecture and users has evolved over time and how we can reunite the built environment with our communities. It is my desire to greatly influence this process of change not only through what I have learned within my educational and professional life, but through what others have learned, and through what we can create working together in the future.
Transcript
Michelle Lynn Armand: Architectural Designer
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: connecting people through design
People + Architecture are often looked at as separate entities, but neither could effectively exist without the other. At its very root, architecture is about designing and constructing buildings for humans. My principle concern is how the relationship between architecture and users has evolved over time and how we can reunite the built environment with our communities. It is my desire to greatly influence this process of change not only through what I have learned within my educational and professional life, but through what others have learned, and through what we can create working together in the future.
1. Site Stewardship 0 0 111.1 Erosion Controls During Construction (meet all of the following) Prereq. Y
1.2 Minimize Disturbed Area of Site (meet the appropriate requirements) 1 0 0 1Where the site is not previously developed, meet all the following:
OR Where the site is previously developed, meet all the following:
OR
2. Landscaping2.1 No Invasive Plants Prereq. Y
2.2 Basic Landscaping Design (meet all of the following) 2 0 0 2
AND/OR 2.3 Limit Conventional Turf 3 0 0 0
Percentage of designed landscape softscape area that is turf
AND/OR 2.4 Drought-Tolerant Plants 2 0 0 1
Percentage of installed plants that are drought-tolerant
OR 2.5 Reduce Overall Irrigation Demand by at Least 20% 6 0 0 0
Percentage reduction in estimated irrigation water demand
3. Reduce Local Heat Island Effects3 Reduce Local Heat Island Effects (meet one of the following) 1 0 0 1
100%
80%
0%
a) Stockpile and protect disturbed topsoil from erosion.
c) Protect sewer inlets, streams, and lakes with straw bales, silt fencing, etc.
b) Control the path and velocity of runoff with silt fencing or equivalent.
d) Provide swales to divert surface water from hillsides
e) Use tiers, erosion blankets, compost blankets, etc. on sloped areas.
b) Leave 40% of buildable lot area, not including area under roof, undisturbed
a) Develop tree / plant preservation plan with "no-disturbance" zones
c) Develop tree / plant preservation plan with "no-disturbance" zones AND
Rehabilitate lot; undo soil compaction and remove invasive plants AND
Meet the requirements of SS 2.2
d) Build on a lot of 1/7 acre or less, or 7 units per acre.
a) Any turf must be drought-tolerant.
c) Do not use turf in areas with slope of 25%
b) Do not use turf in densely shaded areas.
d) Add mulch or soil amendments as appropriate.
e) All compacted soil must be filled to at least 6 inches.
a) Locate trees / plantings to provide shade for 50% of hardscapes b) Install light-colored, high-albedo materials for 50% of hardscapes
US Green Building Council Page 3 of 22 May 12, 2008
In 2009, I spent a year building LEED certified homes with Habitat for Humanity/AmeriCorps in Dallas, Texas. Through this experience, I grew familiar with the many stages of construction, from the chalking of the floor plan on the concrete slab to the sodding of the grass on the final construction day. I spent many days physically assembling homes and leading countless volunteer teams, all the while ensuring a quality home was delivered. This opportunity allowed me to bridge the often maligned worlds of design and construction. Furthermore, it allowed me to observe the difficulty of appropriately addressing the diverse needs of our homeowners with a “one size, fits all” design approach.
frazier courts inner-city development: under construction by volunteers
morton street: renovation proposal by Armand + LaPlante
After many weeks of neighborhood children asking me to teach them how to build, I developed a community service project to help revitalize the neighborhood. The children wanted to build a playground for their park; however, after researching the proposal, I realized we could not afford it. Our next idea was to build picnic tables, which proved to be a valid goal. After finding an acceptable picnic table design, I translated and enhanced the construction documents into a simple visual guide. The kids worked with adult volunteers to build the tables over several weeks. The project engaged a diverse group of neighbors, helping to bridge an existing communication gap by creating a pathway to improve their local park.
“The kids are doing it; they’re improving their own space. What could be more ideal from a revitalization standpoint?” - Dallas Morning News Excerpt
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: WORK WITH THE COMMUNITY: americorps
axon via watchesser.com
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: EXPLORE RELATIONSHIPS: gresham smith competition
Student User- New charter school emphasizes a focus on education- Abstract playground equipment encourages creativity- Tiered playground zones foster student autonomy
Artist Studio User- Site programming creates varied sources of inspiration- Differing levels of privacy in studios separate functions- Flexibility in studio configurations support artist’s needs
Prop
osed
Ch
arter Scho
ol
Existing
Factory
Gym
Playground
Auditorium
Studios
Proposed ParkArtist Studios
Auditorium
Gym
collapsible wall offers flexibility for different artist needs
This project challenged us to develop an existing industrial site on the south side of Indianapolis. The factory portion of the site was already being redeveloped as a charter school and we were charged with adding artist studios, an auditorium, and a playground. In order to understand how the site would function as a whole, we examined the specific needs of each category of users and laid out the space accordingly. Two main axes formed the layout of the site, providing access from the street to the park and from the Monon Trail to the playground at the heart of the site. Ground levels were manipulated throughout the project to help illustrate privacy, especially among the studios.
partners: Armand + Arend
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: DESIGN RESPONSIBLY: designplanWhile working a summer internship with DesignPlan, I was able to play a major role in several projects. In this instance, the Preferred Paint Store was planning on converting an old car dealership into their new sales office. The project was very pragmatic with a focus on a budget-friendly solution. The design team analyzed existing work relationships and developed a floor plan which supported the company work flow. As we were looking for a budget-friendly design, it was important to work around load-bearing walls and existing plumbing access. I was primarily responsible for obtaining field measurements for the existing building and creating construction documents for the new design.
before + after
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ACTIVATE SPACE: thesis researchActivate Space explores the multiplicity of issues plaguing urban redevelopment and proposes a process to help spur regrowth. The decline of social capital, the deterioration of the inner-city, and an antiquated design process are significant pieces to the redevelopment puzzle. To address these issues, one must first understand them. The design process typically occurs between the financing client and the design team. Often, little regard is given to the opinions of the users and/or neighbors of the building. This type of design leads to the perception of an “off-limits” space, creating a barrier to neighborhood ownership. Many other structural and cultural factors feed into these issues exacerbating the cycle of poverty.
RETHINK YOUR ROLE -> RETHINK DESIGN ->REVOLUTIONIZE OUR FUTURE
[understand relationships] A COMPLEX WEB OF ISSUES AFFECT URBAN NEIGHBORHOODS
Crime-Poor or no police response in distressed areas-Unequal prosecution of “the underclass”-Society’s negative perception of economically disadvantaged citizens can influence their self-image/self-worth
Disinvestment-Suffered from redlining (few businesses in the area)-Business present are not locally owned
Low Quality Public Amenities-Underfunded educational buildings + programs-Undermaintained sidewalks, roads, and parks
Abandonment-Few resources are dedicated to the upkeep of abandoned properties-Many residents lack resources/skills to maintain their own home
Biased Public Policies-Local politics often ignore/condemn the wishes and/or initiatives of the neighborhood-Victim of many NIMBY projects
an antiquated design process...
The remainder of this portfolio is a synopsis of my thesis research exploring an interactive design process.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: RETHINK YOUR ROLE: thesis researchArchitecture cannot be about an architect’s ego or a client’s profit; it must be about people. Designers should be trained in how to work with a community, understanding what the residents value and what they need for success. Six key areas must be examined in a neighborhood: the opportunities present, the skills of the community, how to promote local ownership, the educational system, local businesses, and public amenities. Vanessa Quirk of Arch Daily explains, “We need to accept that architecture isn’t just designing – but building, creating, doing...” We, as professionals, need to do whatever it takes to create holistic communities.
“People are aware that they cannot continue in the same old way but are immobilized because they cannot IMAGINE AN ALTERNATIVE.” -Grace Lee Boggs
Reimagining the Street
Learn about ME, MY LIFE, MY COMMUNITY...
Think About:- Dialogue/Interaction/Sharing- Learn how to dialogue with the community: 2 ears, 1 mouth- Offer classes to share knowledge, host block parties, hang out in the area to talk with people, sincerely get involved!- How can you embrace/learn about the cultural values of the community?
Work Towards:- Receiving information about what the community wants improved- Forming a basic understanding of the cultural dynamic in the community- Identifying community leaders- Developing a neighborhood vision
“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” --Barack Obama
Food for Thought: ARCHITECTS
[reconsider] OUR NEIGHBORHOOD NEEDS MORE...CATALYSTS FOR CHANGE
Opportunities Skills Ownership Education Businesses Public Amenities
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: RETHINK DESIGN: thesis researchHow do we create a new approach to community development? We look to others for help. Who knows their neighborhood better than the residents themselves? Architects are in a perfect position to facilitate both bottom-up and top-down discussions. We are able to advocate and mediate with both groups; utilizing our training as problem-solvers. Architects can offer design services, but if/when a group can improve their own space, we must be able to step aside and help other communities. The first step in the process is to engage the community and explore the site. Many different feedback methods can be utilized, but sometimes a simple block-party can be the best idea-generator. It is vital to gain trust in the community.
Private InterestsTop Down Organization:
Bottom Up Organization: Private Interests
Architect: Public + Private Interests
-Building guidelines-Property acquisition-Zoning/planning development policies-Financing initiatives-Large-scale, medium-scale institutional interests
-Design leader-Producer of drawings/documents-Communicator/facilitator-Bridger of ideas/philosophies
Citi
esIn
stitu
tions
Non
-Pro
fits
Cor
pora
tions
Com
mun
ityM
embe
rsSm
all
Busi
ness
es -Large knowledge base creates individual, place-based solutions-Sense of personal ownership encourages future success-Personal investment leads to community advocacy influencing large-scale policies-Small-scale personal, community interests
www.renewnyc.com; www.neighborland.com
Websites/Blogs
Social Media/Texting
Photography/Graffiti/Stickers/Messages within the Urban Fabric
Community Model Building + Charrettes + Idea Process Pin-ups
Basic Feedback Methods
The Development Process: implementing change
Private InterestsTop Down Organization:
Bottom Up Organization: Private Interests
Architect: Public + Private Interests
-Building guidelines-Property acquisition-Zoning/planning development policies-Financing initiatives-Large-scale, medium-scale institutional interests
-Design leader-Producer of drawings/documents-Communicator/facilitator-Bridger of ideas/philosophies
Citi
esIn
stitu
tions
Non
-Pro
fits
Cor
pora
tions
Com
mun
ityM
embe
rsSm
all
Busi
ness
es -Large knowledge base creates individual, place-based solutions-Sense of personal ownership encourages future success-Personal investment leads to community advocacy influencing large-scale policies-Small-scale personal, community interests
www.renewnyc.com; www.neighborland.com
Websites/Blogs
Social Media/Texting
Photography/Graffiti/Stickers/Messages within the Urban Fabric
Community Model Building + Charrettes + Idea Process Pin-ups
Basic Feedback Methods
The Development Process: implementing change
Private InterestsTop Down Organization:
Bottom Up Organization: Private Interests
Architect: Public + Private Interests
-Building guidelines-Property acquisition-Zoning/planning development policies-Financing initiatives-Large-scale, medium-scale institutional interests
-Design leader-Producer of drawings/documents-Communicator/facilitator-Bridger of ideas/philosophies
Citi
esIn
stitu
tions
Non
-Pro
fits
Cor
pora
tions
Com
mun
ityM
embe
rsSm
all
Busi
ness
es -Large knowledge base creates individual, place-based solutions-Sense of personal ownership encourages future success-Personal investment leads to community advocacy influencing large-scale policies-Small-scale personal, community interests
Revolution:- Establishes a new social order- Requires a struggle against existing establishments- Demands an individual and institutional philosophical/spiritual change
Architects have the ability to facilitate a paradigm shift in how new community projects are implemented.
[reimagine the process] WHAT IF INDIVIDUALS FELT EMPOWERED?
unicator/facilitator-Bridger of ideas/philosophies
CitiesInstitutionsNon-ProfitsCorporations
CommunityMembersSmallBusinesses-Large know
ledge base creates individual, place-based solutions-Sense of personal ow
nership encourages future success-Personal
investment
leads to
comm
unity advocacy
influencing large-scale policies-Sm
all-scale personal, comm
unity interests
Basic Feedback Methods
step 1
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: REIMAGINE THE PROCESS: thesis researchIt is important to establish a base method to get other designers thinking of alternative design approaches. In my proposal, the first step involves engaging the community, while the second step looks to identify neighborhood assets. This can range from locating local leaders to finding non-profits to exploring local building materials. The third step brings the community together for a brainstorming event. By hosting this in a public place and creating incentives for residents to attend (i.e. food, music), designers can gain a more complete understanding of what everyone needs. Step four involves the execution of ideas within a collaborative feed-back system, with the building of these ideas through a community partnership completing the process.
step 1: engage the community: SITE EXPLORATION
step 2: engage the community: ASSET DOCUMENTATION
step 3: engage the community: BRAINSTORMING + COMMUNITY BUILDING
step 4: executing the design: COMMUNICATION + COLLABORATION
step 5: engage the community: BUILDING
- Communicate with Community Members
- Organize Kick-Off Construction Event- Identify Site Leaders to Manage and Recruit
for each Construction Day:Community Volunteers
Habitat VolunteersAmeriCorps
- Locate Supplies/CDs- Develop Construction Task Schedule
- Manage Contracted Tasks
step 5step 2 step 3 step 4 community comments on mock-up for improvement
display graphic renderings of ideas + step-by-step pictorial construction documents
user roles + transferring responsibilities
[reimagine the process] ESTABLISH A METHODOLOGY
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR FUTURE: thesis researchThe ideas behind this design method were implemented in a case study. Frazier Courts was chosen because I was familiar with it from Habitat. The information collected from residents was translated into graphic diagrams for analysis. Building material options were discovered near the site including: masonry, conveyor slats, and fencing. After research, it was clear the most pressing issue was a large privacy fence which divided the community. The process feedback loop was then simulated through peer review using a series of models and drawings. It was decided that the first step in this renewal project would be the creation of a CNC workshop and community garden in the area where the fence once stood dividing the neighborhood.
ventilated roller ceiling privacy screen play equipment
slat facade system slat floor system louvers furniture
roller facade system
wooden facade communication srf furniture shelving building components mulch
communication surface privacy screen trellis structure planters light fixtures
landscape mounds with cmu base fillcmu gabion wallcrushed cmu with resin
