Studio 5 aug-dec 2023 | year four | semester one
Course Description: Third studio for integrated architectural design (inclusive design, interior design). Emphasizes principles of composition and responsiveness to a given program. Includes studies of culture, equity, and inclusive design in relationship to building form and planning. Collaborates with an interior design studio.
PROJECT: THE LINK - NASHVILLE STARS timeline: full semester team: 3 Architecture Students + 4 Interior Design Students
Reflection
This project was a great learning experience for me working with interiors and helping lead a team. It challenged me to navigate a diverse group of individuals with varying ideas, visions, and work styles, which enhanced my leadership and collaboration skills within the design profession. The differing expectations and understandings from each discipline made communication and coordination a primary focus, which was at times difficult but ultimately very rewarding.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was witnessing the personal and professional growth of my teammates. I gained a deeper understanding of the importance of concept development and learned how to effectively carry an idea through to its implementation across an entire design. Working with a large group also taught me the importance of staying focused and accountable, as each team member's progress was vital to the success of the whole. I believe that everyone involved, including our professors, gained valuable insights from this experience. One key suggestion I would make is to have both classes meet at the same time for every session to ensure better alignment between disciplines. Overall, this project was an eye-opening experience that will influence how I approach teamwork and design in the future.
PROJECT: HITCH ENTRY DESIGN CHARETTE
timeline: one week solo project award: 2nd place winner
Reflection
This project was especially helpful in my understanding of how to use diagrams to effectively communicate a big story in a concise and impactful way. My diagram, which showed a hand pulling back the curtain of design, was a key factor in securing second place in the competition. This proved to me how vital it is to visually convey ideas in a simple and compelling manner.
One of the most challenging aspects of this project was coming up with a concept. I struggled with finding inspiration and only solidified my idea three days before the deadline. The short one-week turnaround was tough, especially given my initial lack of direction, but pushing through that creative block and making it to the finish line was very satisfying.
Placing second gave me a boost of confidence in my approach to design. It’s easy for me to doubt my abilities, but being recognized as a good designer reaffirmed that I’m on the right path and pursuing something I'm on the right track for.
Overall, I believe that short design competitions are an excellent educational tool. They force you to focus on the essentials of a presentation and put creativity under pressure, which seems to be a valuable skill for real world design challenges.
Marlon Blackwell - Campus Visit
August 24, 2023
To kick off year four of architecture school, award winning architect, Marlon Blackwell, visited our campus following his talk at the AIA Middle TN luncheon. It was an inspiring experience that set the tone for the start of our fourth year in architecture school. After the luncheon, he joined our studio to discuss the importance of sketching and storytelling through architecture. I had the privilege of sitting next to him during the session, which allowed me to ask questions and closely observe his approach to conceptual sketching. He said it's about capturing the essence of "what you feel rather than just what you see." It was a great learning opportunity that energized and inspired me and my classmates for the year ahead.