Shawn DeGraw
102
Winter 2015

In this project, I designed a model with two different brick patterns, one made out of chipboard and one made out of basswood. For the chipboard half, a simple brick made with two walls and a piece that goes diagonally between the two is laid out in rows that alternate between being straight and sticking out, creating a jagged effect. This design allows light to enter the space inside in multiple directions and also allows an individual to see into it from both sides. On one side of the model, the chipboard appears to slowly morph into basswood which creates a different pattern; The basswood pattern is designed to appear to fill in the space between the holes left in the chipboard bricks, but still have its own transparency setting that allows one to view completely through the building with holes being lined up at the same distances. The basswood also creates a smoother look that contrasts with the jaggedness of the chipboard half, while still not being completely smooth ; some pieces are made to stick out to make it appear as if parts were “pushed in” and “pulled out”.

The overall theme for this structure is to create a peaceful place for a small group of people to hang out in, complete with seating arrangements, peaceful ponds, and a viewing deck at the top of the structure, but still remind the individual of adventure, demonstrated with the sharpness of the chipboard, that connects how the two ideas of life should create an even balance. In this project, we were to relate with other group members we were paired with and come up with similar designs that connect all of us together to create multiple spots for people to enjoy. Our plaster landscapes connect all of us together in the middle and sides with a large pond that sits in the middle, and small blocks that connect us at the sides. This pond can be viewed from the top of the viewing deck that also houses the space to see the different lighting effects made from the chipboard brick patterns. On the bottom of the model, I came up with a design process that resulted in the resemblance of a “C” shape. I noticed this shape and chose to take the excavated remains from the space, mold it in plaster, and create a seating area to overlook another small pond and my neighbor’s model in the back of the building.