Generator Building Renovation Project

IND 5615 | Building SystemsProfessor Katie Rothfield

Final Presentation

Jacqueline FailerKatie BrownSabrina Ocner

Part I: Research

• Paul Cejas Architecture Building Research

• Paul Cejas Architecture Building Photographs

• Processes and Methods

• Case Studies

• Interviews

• Summary of Ideas

Paul Cejas Architecture Building ResearchProject Identification

Building name: Paul Cejas School of ArchitectureLocation: 11200 SW 8th St. Miami, FL 33199 Year designed/planned: 1999Year construction completed: 2003Size: 102,000 sq. ft. Architects: Bernard Tschumi Architects & BEA International (Joint Venture)Client: Florida International University School of ArchitectureConsultants: Structural Engineer – BEA International Civil Engineer - CAP Engineers

Mechanical Engineer – Tilden Lobnitz Cooper (TLC) Landscape Architect – Charles A. Alden

http://www2.fiu.edu/~soa/cejas/press_release.htm

Paul Cejas Architecture Building ResearchDesign Intent and Architectural Features

The Paul L. Cejas (PCA) Architecture complex at Florida International University is a hub of student creative activity. Completed in 2001, it was designed by Bernard Tschumi Architects, its principal being a renowned Swiss architect. According to FIU’s School of Architecture (SOA) website, the yellow and red tiled building is speculated by many to be an homage to either Antonio Gaudi or the setting Florida sun. The concept was based on Tschumi’s idea that “Architecture can generate interaction” (http://www2.fiu.edu/~soa/cejas/press_release.htm). In essence, the building was designed to encourage social and cultural connection.  The PCA complex is comprised of an administration building, the Generator, the student workshop/studio building, an auditorium building topped by an outdoor terrace, and an open courtyard connecting them all together. We will be renovating the interior spaces of the Generator, which is the central gathering space holding the student gallery, two critique rooms (rooms 240 and 340), and a large multipurpose space (room 341.)

According to Bernard Tschumi’s team, “The building must act as a generator, activating spaces as well as defining them” (http://www2.fiu.edu/~soa/cejas/architecture.htm). The School of Architecture space as a whole is comprised of three generators and two “sober wings” made of concrete, which house the studios and offices. The area of palm trees behind the main generator, is considered the “landscape architecture” generator. Tschumi’s idea was to bring together these different types of buildings in such a way that Florida International University brings together cultures.

The interior of the Generator has many problem areas, outlined by room-type. Before we began our research, we identified these problem areas:

I. Gallery (140)

• It lacks a true “museum” quality, and it has the potential to feel much more “special” than it does.• Many works end up on the floor due to a lack of exhibit space.• There are inadequate lighting systems in place for the change between daylight and evening. II. Critique Rooms (240 & 340)

• The glare is unbearable, especially during the late afternoon hours, as the window-wall faces west.• Due to the glare, the heat transference is uncomfortable as well.• There is inadequate seating and table-space.• The A/C ducts make a great amount of noise, and in combination with the concrete floors, this creates a major acoustic issue during critiques. 

Paul Cejas Architecture Building Research

Paul Cejas Architecture Building Research

III. Multipurpose Room (341) NOTE: The issues in this room are very important to remedy, as this space is used for meetings and gatherings of stakeholders and advisory-board members, student-organizations, and visiting professionals, including panel/critique judges. This space must represent the dynamic and contemporary nature of FIU’s School of Architecture.

• The carpet is very thin, dirty, and worn…and the color is unappealing.• Immediately upon entering the space, guests are greeted by a hulking six-foot rectangle directly in front of the door.• The glare is unbearable all day, as floor-to-ceiling windows face north, east, and west.• Since there are many strange openings in the room (to be discussed and addressed in detail later in the project) which lead to the gallery, noise pollutes the space and often banging and talking can be heard.• The elevators make a lot of noise. • The strange angles of the space seem to bounce the noises around, rather than absorb them. • The walls are all white, adding to the glare.• The lighting is merely there, it does not make the space more appealing. 

Paul Cejas Architecture Building Photographs (Reading Room - Rm. 341)

This awkward large “block” stands in front of the door and takes up too much space and is visually unappealing.The combination of track lighting, A/C vents, and recessed lighting is insufficient, and placement is too high.Vertical blinds do not control the glare and they are not cleaned very often. They are also visually unappealing.

The furnishings are a combination of pieces from different places; they are not unified and look sloppy.The carpet is very worn and stained. Additionally, it is difficult to clean or replace because it is in large strips instead of small tiles. The strange shape of the room gives off odd acoustic qualities for the varying uses ofthe room.

Paul Cejas Architecture Building Photographs(Critique Rooms - Rm. 240 & 340)

The HVAC system is very loud, contributing to the poor acoustic quality of these rooms.

The afternoon glare is compounded by the white walls. There are no shading devices present. This also causes the crit rooms to get very hot.The track lighting looks dated and is too high to move if necessary.

There are either too few or too many chairs in the rooms at any given time. There is no design continuity.The pin-up space needs to be maximized some how. A place for professors to write notes is also necessary, as these rooms are classrooms.The A/C vents are very loud, and sometimes they cause the room to be unbearably cold.

Paul Cejas Architecture Building Photographs(Critique Rooms - Rm. 240 & 340)

The gallery does not give a feeling of pride in the students’ work. There are too many pieces on the floor, and appears to be thrown together.The Space may

be maximized by adding different types of display systems. Chairs are needed for guests, students, and professors.Vertical blinds do

not control the glare and they are not cleaned very often. They are also visually unappealing.

These blocks are visually unappealing. Perhaps they could contain information on the students whose work is being presented.Again, the elegant, modern gallery is lost in the disorganization. The different schools should have their work separated. The track lighting is insufficient. Perhaps acoustics and lighting can be combined.

Processes and MethodsProposed Methods To achieve our goals and objectives, research must be done to determine what needs to be done and how:

1. Student and administrative interviews must be conducted, as these people are the true users of the spaces.

2. Interviews with architects or those involved with the project may help answer important questions.

3. Current architectural plans must be analyzed to help determine interior design limitations and opportunities.

4. Case-studies involving the renovation of other college galleries and workspaces must be analyzed and compared, to further learn about limitations and opportunities or spark a new idea.

5. Furniture brands, ecologically-sound materials, acoustical diagnostics and products, etc. must be researched to find the best fit for the budget.

6. During research, be sure to include as many sustainable features in furniture, fixtures, and/ or equipment choices.

 

Processes and MethodsActual Methods This is the order in which we actually conducted our research, and how we plan on proceeding. We:

1. Researched the building and the goals and concept of the Architect.

2. Took photographs of each space.

3. Conducted loose case-studies involving the renovation of other college galleries and creative workspaces, noting novel ideas and design plans and issues.

4. Interviewed faculty members, stakeholders (department heads and dean), the facilities manager, and students from each school regarding their opinions concerning the utility of all generator rooms.

5. Analyzed architectural drawings and simplified them for future use.

6. Researched furniture brands, choosing some that are very functional and environmentally sound, and others that were innovative and creative. We also researched some space-saving and design options. Sustainable products will be selected whenever possible.

7. Will develop floor plans, 3D models, elevations, choose definitive furniture and finishes, and

anayze the budget for accuracy.  

Processes and MethodsAvailable Resources  Site tours

Student interviews

Administration interviews

Other stakeholder interviews

Personal point of view

Personal digital images

 

Needed Resources*  List of “stakeholders” and contact information for those willing to participate

Contact information for architect associates or someone involved in the building/planning process.

Set of architectural plans

Tour of rooms in which we are denied access

What are the limitations as far as the stakeholders and faculty?

*Currently, we have received all of the resources we deemed necessary at the inception of this project.

Processes and MethodsDeliverables  Full project overview with research, concept statement, etc. on project board and PowerPoint

Plans (Floor, RCP, FF&E only)

Elevations

3D model(s) of new spaces and special student-designed features

Materials/furniture choice board including sustainable choices

Budget analysis

 

Case Studies (Workspaces and Critique Areas)1. Aftermodern Gallery

Location: San Francisco, CA Year construction completed: May, 2009Size: 8,500 square feetArchitect: Sand Studios (Larissa Sand, Principal)Client: Larissa & Jeff Sand, Sand StudiosConsultants: DK Design

o Design Intent

The Aftermodern Gallery, a renovated 1940’s warehouse, has become part of a multifunctional facility housing the gallery, studio spaces, and apartments. The concept revolves around a studio/living culture and combining innovation and conservation; the design was created from the “urban environmentalism” outlook of the architects and clients. Sands saved as much of the existing building elements she could, and used natural and recycled products in place of those she could not salvage. Additionally, she introduced “new elements that complement the building’s humble character.”  

Case Studies (Gallery Renovation & Design)(Aftermodern Gallery)

o Architectural Features | Problems & Solutions

Its existing loft-like appearance contained many windows and skylights, which offered great amounts of natural light. Sculptural steelwork, fabricated by Sand Studios, minimalist plaster walls are the signature elements of the space. She removed existing partitions and drywall to reveal the structural concrete and wood beams, and added floating ceiling structures for the new systems equipment, and added wood flooring made from repurposed gymnasium floors. Additionally, she maximized space by creating a second floor in the high-ceilinged space.  Sand Studios also specializes in doors, hardware, and lighting, so there were many products for her to add to her new space. Many of the doors have special pivot-hinges to space and enhance its transformative quality. The gallery walls are also self-pivoting, moving a full 90 degrees to change as the gallery installations dictate. (http://www.sandstudios.com/afterModern.html 10-31-10)

Case Studies (Gallery Renovation & Design)(Aftermodern Gallery)

o Images and Notes

These images show a most innovative idea for maximizing space. The pivot walls actually increase the square footage of the display space, yet take up only three inches of depth. We would like to implement some sort of pivot wall, similar to those shown. (http://www.sandstudios.com/afterModern.html 10-31-10)

Case Studies (Gallery Renovation & Design)2. Yale Sculptural Gallery

Location: New Haven, ConnecticutYear construction completed: September, 2007Size: 62,000 square feetArchitect: Kieran Timberlake and AssociatesClient: Yale UniversityEnvironmental Consultants: Atelier TenGeneral Contractor: Shawmut Design and Construction

o Design Intent

The newly renovated Sculpture Gallery at Yale University, a LEED Platinum-rated building, is now a unique four-story art studio. The bottom floor is used as the gallery space, and the other three floors are designated for parking. The goal of the design was to incorporate the gothic style of architecture of the Yale campus, while giving it a contemporary spin. (http://greensource.construction.com 11-1-10) 

Case Studies (Gallery Renovation & Design)(Yale Sculptural Gallery)

o Problems & Solutions | Images & Notes

According to John Stoller, an associate of Kieran Timberlake Associates, it was important for the design team to “make the envelope do as much as possible so that the mechanical systems could do as little as possible;” they wanted to change the interior mechanics of the building (http://greensource.construction.com 11-1-10). As a solution, the gallery was surrounded by a large curtain wall that would transmit natural light, but still insulate the building’s core. Other architectural features include large, open transformational gallery space with ample storage and multiple ways of configuration to accommodate the rotating sculpture and installation shows, and display walls that hang on a pulley-system.

http://greensource.construction.com/projects/0807_YaleSculptureGallery/Images/4.jpg

The hanging partitions, also demountable, are a great idea for transforming space as the displays change. The perpendicular walls direct and pull the viewer to each exhibit piece as a story. This would work particularly well in the gallery.

Case Studies (Workspaces and Critique Areas)3. Wong Doody Advertising

Location: Culver City, CA

Architect: Shubin & Donaldson Contemporary ArchitectsClient: Wong Doody AdvertisingConsultants: DK Design

o Design Intent

Wong Doody is an advertising/media/PR firm with offices in Seattle and Los Angeles. They chose Shubin & Donaldson (S&D) to design the interior of their newest office, located in Culver City, CA. As in all of their offices, they wanted the space to convey the image of the modern company as well as their values.

The key concepts were “1) a democracy of ideas, 2) having fun, 3) continuous improvement, 4) the development and cultivation of relationships with clients and colleagues, and 5) that the space reflect the quality of work that Wong Doody produces.” (www.fastcompany.com 10-31-10)  

Case Studies (Gallery Renovation & Design)(Wong Doody Advertising)

o Problems & Solutions | Images & Notes

In response to their needs, S&D created multi-functional spaces such as conference rooms, “war rooms” (rooms where ideas are discussed and debated), editing bay, storage space, library, and most importantly, open workstations. The workspaces contain concrete flooring, skylights, recessed fluorescent lighting, and cork flooring throughout the remaining spaces. The walls of the war workrooms are multifunctional in that they are clad in idea-inducing materials such as cork, dry erase, and chalkboard paint, all of which are tools for brainstorming, teaching, learning, and presenting.

http://www.sandarc.com

We admire their use of “idea-inducing” materials like cork, dry erase, and chalkboard paint. We definitely want to include some sort of permanent writing surface in the critique rooms. Some writing boards are also magnetic and interactive.

Case Studies (Workspaces and Critique Areas)4. Performance Capture Studio

Location: San Francisco, CA Year construction completed: January 2009Size: 120,000 square feet

Architect: Kanner Architects & Lorcan O’Herliby Architects Client: ImageMovers Digital, Kanner Architects & Lorcan

O’Herliby Architects

o Design Intent

A former aircraft hangar located in San Francisco was converted into a film production studio and architectural firm. The 120,000 square feet Hamilton Air Base closed in 1976, and was restored years later. The space was designed for the collaborative work of ImageMovers Digital and the two architecture firms: Kanner Architects and Lorcan O’Herliby Architects. The concept of this project is a “strange loop,” a term often used in filmmaking to portray a continuous movement in a storyline that returns to the same moment it began.

Case Studies (Gallery Renovation & Design)(Performance Capture Studio)

o Architectural Features | Problems & Solutions

They developed a flexible, adaptable display wall made with 11-by-17-inch “flags” that display images of their current projects. The images are printed on magnetized vinyl and can be easily mounted and demounted. The wall is also comprised of cork material made from recycled plastic, where artists can pin-up their work for discussions. This wall system brings together the different departments to engage in collaborative work in a non-linear format. Additionally, strategically placed curvilinear nodes further promote collaboration and enhance the experience. This intricate wall system serves as a strong way-finding device to move visitors through the space easily and efficiently. It also allowed for the addition of a suspended blackout curtain for flexible horizontal light control in the different workstations. (http://archrecord.constructio.com/projects/interiors/archives/09)

For this program, the architects needed to consider an easy way to orient visitors and guide them through such a large the space; they needed to control the amount of daylight penetrating the space for the editors and animators working there, but at the same time keeping the interiors as open as possible. They also considered sound control issues for a productive working environment. (http://www.designmind.co.za/profiles/blogs/incredible architecture.)

Case Studies (Gallery Renovation & Design)(Performance Capture Studio)

o Images and Notes

(http://www.archdaily.com/55686)

This studio utilizes a variety of conceptual and transformative ideas for showcasing projects. The walls are made of multiple materials and allow for many different ways to display pieces of work.

Each group member interviewed a stakeholder (a department head), three students (one from each school), and a faculty member. We also met with the dean and facilities manager as a group. We asked questions about their opinions regarding the utility of the space. I. Stakeholders IV. Other:

Janine King (Interior Design) Brian Bergwall (Associate Dean of Arch.)Marta Canaves (Landscape Architecture) Patty Ruiz (Facilities Manager) II. Faculty

Phil AbbottKatie RothfieldSarah Sherman

III. Students 

Interviews

Karissa Mason Ismabys SenraRyan Correia Isis FumeroJaime Soto Mario RojoMarcela ArbelaezMohammed Elsayed

Each respondent’s answers were recorded and analyzed, and the common points were recorded. These commonalities are as follows: 

Each respondent mentioned that the acoustics (in every room) need improvement due to the HVAC system not being insulated enough, but funding and preserving the intent of the space may be an issue. The gallery lighting needs improvement, possibly spot lighting or track lights. Student work in the gallery needs some sort of transformable display system, but needs to take into account the storage space and must fit there. The walls of all rooms (unanimously) need to stay light-colored, as are most gallery and pin-up walls. The heat and glare in 240, 240, and 341 are especially an issue. Another major issue is the amount of pin-up space in room 341. While the system they have in place now works, it is an eye sore; a common comment is there must be a better way to increase space.

The furnishings were also an issue that was brought up several times. Common thoughts were that the multiple types or furnishings look like a mixture of different collections. The studio is very short on chairs because many have been moved to any of the referenced rooms. Obviously, the number or types of seating are inadequate. Many respondents also mentioned the need for carpeting instead of concrete.

Ultimately, the four biggest issues are:1. Glare in rooms 240, 340, and 3412. Lighting system needs improvement or more variety3. Pin-up space needs to be increased4. Acoustic improvement

Summary of Ideas

Part II: Program

• Gallery (Rm.140)

• Critique Rooms (Rm. 240 & 340)

• Reading Room (Rm. 341) – Including Budget Analysis

• Materials and Furnishings Options

Gallery (Rm. 140) Program

1. Pivot walls (quantity: 4, varying sizes) will add 68 sq. ft. of pin-up space.

2. Walls – use homosote (as is already being used) and keep white. We believe that adding carpeting and acoustical clouds to the room will be sufficient for acoustical improvement. Another option would be to use fabric backing.

3. Casual bench-seating (quantity: 4). To be placed around the structural pin-up blocks.

4. Carpet tiles throughout – made of recycled content and in a dark gray color to mask wear and tear.

5. Pivot shelving (quantity: 8) – to be designed – pivot 90 degrees from floor, student work display – mounted @ 2 ½ feet from floor.

6. Acoustical ceiling clouds – hanging/floating (acoustical cloud), so as not to disrupt open-ceiling condition. These will be black in color, to absorb and minimize glare.

7. Keep the track lighting currently in use, but add recessed lighting to the bottom side of the acoustical clouds.

Critique Room (Rm. 240 & 340) Program1. Pivot walls (quantity: 1) located in middle of east wall to increase

surface area.

2. Walls – use homosote (as is already being used) and keep white. We believe that adding carpeting and acoustical clouds to the room will be sufficient for acoustical improvement. Another option would be to use fabric backing.

3. Seating – Stackable chairs (quantity: 15) and meeting tables (quantity: 2 , foldable if necessary)

4. Carpet tiles throughout – made of recycled content and in a dark gray color to mask wear and tear.

5. Pivot shelving (quantity: 2) – to be designed, located on east and west walls – pivot 90 degrees from floor, student work display (for architecture

students) – mounted @ 2 ½ feet from floor.

6. Acoustical ceiling clouds – hanging/floating (acoustical cloud), so as not to disrupt open-ceiling condition. These will be black in color, to absorb and minimize glare, and add recessed lighting to the bottom side of the acoustical clouds.

7. White multifunctional (interactive, magnetic, etc.) white-board attached to wall (4’ x 6’)

Multipurpose/Reading Room (Rm. 341) Program1. Pivot/accordion wall (quantity: ) located on the east wall to

increase surface area (12 sq. ft.), made of homasote) Remove large pin-up block.

2. Seating – Stackable chairs (quantity: 40)

3. Meeting tables (quantity: 8, foldable if necessary)

4. Carpet tiles throughout - made of recycled content and in a dark array of colors to mask wear and tear.

5. Pivot shelving (quantity: 2) – to be designed, located on east and west walls – pivot 90 degrees from floor, student work display (for architecture

students) – mounted @ 2 ½ feet from floor.

6. Acoustical ceiling clouds – hanging/floating (acoustical cloud), so as not to disrupt open-ceiling condition. These will be black in color, to absorb and minimize glare, and add recessed lighting to the bottom side of the acoustical clouds.

7. White (interactive, magnetic, etc.) white-board board attached to wall (4’ x 6’) with wall-mounted projector

Multipurpose/Reading Room (Rm. 341) Budget Analysis

Chair Selection (240, 340, and 341) - The Enea Stackable Chair by Steelcase

General Dimensionsheight: 30 in. width: 19.25 in.depth: 21.25 in.

Earth-Friendly

Many of Steelcase’s products are long-lasting, space-saving and multi-usage furniture solutions means fewer resources needed; and thus fewer affects on the environment, contributing to their overall LEED-credit.

SCS Indoor Advantage™ Gold Certified

82.6% Recyclable

18.8% Recycled Content

http://www.steelcase.com/en/products/category/seating/stackable/enea-guest-stacker

The Enea chair is timeless, modern, and space-saving. When necessary, or to provide extra space, these nifty chairs can be stacked. Additionally, they come in many finishes and colors to complement any décor.

These tables work anywhere you decide to use them, so it's logical they'd be called Everywhere tables. Two traits give them their anywhere versatility.

Fine lines—a refined, single aesthetic means they complement any space, bringing unity and visual calm. No boundaries—a simple kit of top shapes and leg styles can be combined in nearly limitless ways. And if these choices aren't enough for you, feel free to create your own because Everywhere tables are easy to customize.

Table Selection (240, 340, and 341) The Everywhere TableBy Herman Miller

Nearly Limitless Choices

Begin with your table shape—even a shape you design. Choose your finish, then select from among several leg styles and finishes. Then choose a height—standard, adjustable, or standing. Choose casters or glides. Add power and data with Connect inserts which allows for easy access to power and data.

You can even specify tops that flip, so that the tables can be nested for efficient storage—perfect for education areas.

Feel Better. Work Better.

Everywhere tables with adjustable height give you an easy and ergonomically sound way to vary posture throughout the day. As one of the performance tables in our Thrive portfolio, all the Everywhere tables are designed to help people work safely, effectively, and comfortably.Adaptable to Change

Everywhere tables adapt to big changes and small ones. Whether you're moving or reconfiguring, use Everywhere tables in different ways to make the most of a new space—or an old one.

Rearrange the tables—without disrupting power applications—to change a conference room to a training center. Move grouped tables to single workstations to accommodate new employees. Or group tables to support impromptu gatherings.Earth-Friendly

Everywhere tables are made of 67 percent recycled materials and are up to 27 percent recyclable at the end of their useful lives. They are also GREENGUARD certified.

The simple kit of 15 parts also provides environmental benefits: Not only is replacing components easy on you, but replacing a part instead of an entire table is easier on the environment.

General Dimensions height: 22-48 inches width: 24-84 inches depth: 18-42 inches

http://www.hermanmiller.com/Products/Everywhere-Tables

Introduced in 1946, the Nelson platform bench remains a landmark of modern design. The clean, rectilinear lines reflect designer George Nelson's architectural background and his insistence on what he called "honest" design - making an honest visual statement about an object's purpose. The bench serves as a multipurpose display and resting place in offices, public areas, and homes.

Gallery (140) Casual Seating – Nelson Platform Bench by Herman Miller

http://www.hermanmiller.com/Products/Nelson Platform Bench

General Dimensionsheight: 14 in. width: 48 in.depth: 19 in.

Pivot Shelving (self-designed)

Window Screens (self-designed)

These window screens are made of stainless steel and frosted glass, and are custom made to fit inside the inner window frame. The round elements will act as a shade, keeping out some of the distracting glare.

The pivot-shelves are designed to add display space, while also saving room when not in use. These handy shelves simply pivot back onto the wall, should extra pin-up space be needed,

Materials and Color Palette

Part III: Architectural Plans

• Gallery (Rm.140) Floor Plan and RCP

• Critique Rooms (Rm. 240 & 340) Floor Plan and RCP

• Reading Room (Rm. 341) Floor Plan and RCP

Gallery (Rm.140) Floor Plan

Gallery (Rm.140) Reflected Ceiling Plan

Critique Rooms (Rm. 240 & 340) Floor Plan

Critique Rooms (Rm. 240 & 340) Reflected Ceiling Plan

Reading Room (Rm. 341) Floor Plan

Gallery (Rm.140) Floor Plan

Part IV: 3D Visualization

• Gallery (Rm.140)

• Critique Rooms (Rm. 240 & 340)

• Reading Room (Rm. 341)

Gallery (Rm. 140)

Critique Rooms (Rm. 240 & 340)

Reading Room (Rm. 341)