In this core studio, we began to learn ways of shaping (and being shaped by) the urban environment. Our site was situated on the Mystic River in Charlestown, Boston, MA, near the Sullivan Square T transit stop. Historically, the riverfront was zoned for industrial use, while a residential core emerged atop historic Bunker Hill. Our studio first conducted an in-depth analysis of the town, including natural, built, social and infrastructural environments. Individually, we used these data to inform our response to the site and given program: 150-200 residential units (including 3+ BR units to meet the growing need for family housing), ADA accessibility, and a public program (in our case, a Brewery).
Selection of from early in process, representing (clockwise from top left) 1 visualization of flood waters movement around site, 2 isovist lines from key site entries (around existing non-negotiable structures), 3 composite diagram showing negative space of isovist diagram, 4 vertical isovist drawing from Medford street site entry, 5 one possible massing based on view sheds, 6 composite diagram showing only areas of viewshed overlap.
Study of Charlestown housing typologies, showing facade detail and locations in nearby neighborhood (site is pink).
Early site plan. 1/32" = 1'-0"
Site Plan, 1/16" = 1''-0" Massing reflects use of maximally visible areas from view sheds at site entries (Sullivan Square and Medford Street). Brewery complex houses brewery production, shipping and receiving, brew pub and brewery tour circuit. Brewery and residential offices occupy first floor. Residential units (studio and 1 BR) stacked above. Retail complex follows similar public - private model, with retail space on ground floor and housing stacked above. Open air wetland paths provide horizontal circulation between arms of retail area. Overall site development provides flood protection for more vulnerable (i.e. housing) spaces which are set back or elevated above flood plane.
Typical residential floor plan, 1/16" = 1'-0" with ADA accessible unit call out (lower right). Adjoining brewery production facility seen below cut plane.
Site section, 1/32" = 1'-0" cut through site entry at Sullivan Square (Mystic River to left). Cut shows topo changes through wetland paths, with residential units of brewery complex in background.
Section perspective, 1/16" = 1'-0" cut through brewery complex (right) and residential complex (to left). Main road is accessible to pedestrian and automobile traffic and provides access to harbor walk and public boat house.
Public space model, showing wetland park trail structure within outdoor shopping arcade.
UNIT DESIGN
Unit design exercise diagramming unique moments in my own living space (1860s single family home, Providence, RI). Some of these elements made their way into my residential units, such as: a window at the top of the stairs, a reading nook, a main entry which affords a view through the unit, and a window above the kitchen sink.
Three bedroom unit model, 1/8" = 1'-0" scale.
Residential unit floor plans for 3 BR, 2 BR, 1 BR and studio.
