It was a very merry Christmas indeed

Relaxing, filling (to an extreme!), and very memorable.

Next Steps

Now that classes are over for the semester, I have a chance to sit back and.... freak out!
My thoughts throughout the semester on what to do after graduation have tended towards a non-design job with something like a non-profit. Ideally, I thought, I would work with an NGO, do research and learn how to write grant proposals, learn how to run a successful business organization, and hopefully gain focus and clarity on the path in architecture I'd like to pursue.
However, recent conversations have had me second guessing this.... and reconsidering grad school as the next step.

I'm just still not sure exactly what I'm looking for. I want to find something that combines my interest in small projects, really tangible things, research, teaching, history and theory, community, materiality, and making. What does this equation add up to?

I've been afraid of leaving academia (because I love the freedom, constantly learning, and the intense discussion)... and I'm not sure if that means I am just still in love with being a student, or if that means I really want to stay in academia.

I've started looking for grad programs and (unfortunately) the deadlines are closing in. I have only a few weeks (if I choose to apply) to get everything ready and submitted. Time is ticking!

However, a few that I'm pretty interested in (at least from what I can gather from the websites) are:
Oxford Brookes - Development and Emergency Practice
Architectural Association - Design + Make
UT Austin - so I could work with the Center for Sustainable Development

Presentation Photos

"Blahblahblah"

Photos from our final crit are now on the picasa album.

Excellence!

My final review went very well. Without a doubt the most fulfilling final presentation, and warmest reviews, I have had. They loved it, I loved it; but what's more (and certainly most important) is that there were no details I had to skim over, nothing I regretted not doing.

I am very very proud of this project.

Final Boards

The presentation is tomorrow. I am second and present at 12:30. I'm actually excited for this presentation, and I think it will be one of my better finals of my undergrad. We'll see!

I've uploaded JPGs of my final boards, but be warned: they are quite large and might slow down your computer to view. But I think that they are nice, and give a good overall explanation of the project. They will be accompanied by all 12 of the final models.

The odd blank spaces are where physical stuff will be added to the models (material samples, 3d prints, etc).


Concept


Architecture/Space


Details


Structure


Materiality


Costume

Phase 3: dance props

Once removed, the sail shapes become interactive props, that define space and blow in the wind.

Phase 1: Costume

When deflated, the sailshapes become costume. Strategically placed velcro allows the sailshapes to wrap the body in differing kimono-style dresses.

Phase 2: Sail Shapes

How to wear the sail-shapes:
1. connect the compressed gas canister (in vest)
2. wait for it to inflate
3. dance!