Undergraduate Submission Cambridge, Maryland Studio project
In response to Cambridge’s environmental concerns, the Innovation Center is intended to provide both the public as well as residence with a vast array of program while maintaining strong connection to the natural context. This idea is translated spatially by employing the integration of visual communication along relatively long distances at certain moments just as one would experience outside. A series of vista points, wall perforations, and dramatic dimension shifts enable visitors to gain a sense of motion beyond their own path. However the Innovation Center possesses constantly shifting qualities, its site is flat along a field. Landscape modifications are made not only to create play with topography but also to extend the Innovation Center’s paths beyond the built environment causing it to bleed into the earth. These modifications are comprised of nuanced terraces that express sculptural forms allowing visitors to decide how they would like to navigate the landscape. Required programs included a great event hall, cafeteria, lobby space, artist studios, administration, residence, and outdoor spaces. To further facilitate the idea behind the building, a research lab is added to work in conjunction with the University of Maryland Environmental Science. Much of the program is established along a lengthy axis running from north to south in order to catch solar illumination during sunrise and sunset. Having strong geometry project sharp shadows in motion help articulate the Innovation Center’s transformative qualities.
PROJECT SYNOPSIS
C I C 01 CAMBRIDGE
PHYSICAL CONTEXT
C I C 02 CAMBRIDGE
PRELIMINARY DRAWINGS
C I C 03 CAMBRIDGE
PRELIMINARY DRAWINGS - CHRONOLOGICAL
C I C 04 CAMBRIDGE
STRUCTURAL DIAGRAM
C I C 05 CAMBRIDGE
SECTION A
Full building extent
SECTION C
Topographical focus
SECTIONS
C I C 06 CAMBRIDGE
SECTION B Ink on vellum
DETAILS
SECTIONS
C I C 07 CAMBRIDGE
Electrochromic laminated glass mitigates solar gain during hot seasons
Corten roofing extends as a drip-edge Passive ventilation slot accompanied by acoustic panels + semi-permeable insulation Additional corten extension ensures protection against water infiltration Exterior structural protrusion Extensive planters