Meghan Marchie Landscape Architecture Portfolio

Meghan [email protected]

Forging the Path

A1 Studio09.12.

Freehand Drawing

Skill Development10.12.


Orthogonal Drafting

A1 Studio01.13.

Walk, Talk,Run

pARTk

A1 Studio03.13.

3DModeling


DudleyNeighborsPark

A2 Studio09.13.

DudleyNeighborsPark

A2 Studio09.13.

The JadeBracelet

BSLA Submission,B1 Studio01.14.

PromotionalBoards

ProfessionalPractice02.14.

22 WaterStreet


ParcelK


Harbor Garage


ReUnionGateway

B2 Studio07.14.

The use of the timeline is an essential facet of the portfolio, as it demonstrates

A linear approach to learning

The layering and accumulation of skills

Project growth comprehensively and in complexity

The opportunity for continuation and extension

Segment II PortfolioMeghan Marchie

Masters of Landscape Architecture Candidate

Forging the Path A1 Studio - Foundations

As an introduction to the studio course and culture, the project called for a design that provided a path of movement for a marble. Constant experimentation through sketching and the building of diagrammatic models helped to define the marble’s various experiences of space, speed, transition, and sound. Concentrating on the transition space created by the intersection of two diverging planes, as well as the cohesion between two construction materials, the final marble trajectory features a variety of interactions that foster directional change, speed change, enclosure, and arrival.

Learning Objectives Sketching to problem-solve Learning through study models Openness versus enclosure Dictating movement and speed Understanding of materials

Sketchbook: 09.12.

Collection of small-scale study models.Bristol board.

Final plan and sectionsGraphite on vellum

The second introduced material, cardboard, takes on multiple functions. In addition to pro-viding support and creating slope (thus affecting speed trajectory), the cardboard also dictates directional changes.

Final modelBristol board and cardboard

Isabella Gardner MuseumGraphite on bond paper

Freehand Drawing Skill Development

Learning Objectives Human anatomy Freehand perspective Using a variety of drawing materials Achieving depth and shadow Developing a representation style

Above: Human anatomyGraphite on traceBelow: Mt. Auburn landscapeGraphite on bond paper

Isabella Gardner MuseumGraphite on bond paper

The introduction of charcoal as a drawing tool helped to provide a deeper understanding of shadow and depth. The fluiduity of the material resulted in a drastic change in representational skill, allowing me to more effectively communicate emotion, as well as achieve a personal style.

Drawing sessions of live models in conjunction with rapid movement sketches facilitated a more thorough understanding of the human body.

Given the task of sketching objects for a timed five minutes per day helped to rapidly improve drawing skill. This approach to drawing was extremely effective in learning how to quickly capture the essence of an object or view, which is essential in the design profession.

Left: Self PortraitCharcoal on bond paper

Sketchbook: 11.12.

PortraitCharcoal on bond paper

Villa Savoye, orthogonal perspectiveGraphite on vellum Orthogonal Drafting

Skill Development

Learning Objectives Perspective Lineweights Graphic standards Standard views (plan, section, etc.)

Schroder HousePlan, elevation, and axonometric

Graphite on vellum

Walk, Talk, Run A1 Studio - Foundations

Introducing the need for a multi-functional space, this project also highlighted the use of tectonics. Undergoing multiple iterations, I found that the construction if numerous study models helped me to better grasp the needs of the spaces. Ranging from small-scale concept models to enlargement models, embracing different scales allowed various levels of understanding.

Learning Objectives Changing scales Tectonics Hierarchy Iteration

: Time and Speed

Movement Diagram

Sketchbook: 02.13.

Concept modelChipboard, actual size

Above: Iteration modelCardboard, chipboard, balsa wood

Below: Miniature study modelsCardboard, chipboard, balsa wood

Plan and sectionsGraphite on vellum

A height hierarchy was used to define the different speeds that accompany the actions of running, walking, and chatting (with the highest level dictacting the highest speed, and so forth). As the design progressed, a fourth speed emerged, that of explorative action, or meandering. The final design features a layering of the three original speeds that all connect on one plane, in the effort to communicate the convergence of differentiated actions into a fourth speed and shared space.

Final modelCardboard, chipboard, balsa wood

pARTk A1 Studio - Foundations

The aim of this project was to create an outdoor space that embraced three different art installations. Re-imagining the experience of the art pieces within a landscape framework, I focused on the perceived density of the installations and sought to engage the user with dictated views and circulation opportunities. The focal point became a space where all three densities could be experienced simultaneously.

Learning Objectives Representation of existing conditions Conceptual models Diagramming Thinking in section Communication through materials Site analysis

Concept models showing densityChipboard, balsa wood, hemp mesh

Subconscious of a MonumentCornelia Parker, 2001

Earth RoomWalter De Maria, 1977

UntitledFred Sandback, 1980

Usage Diagram: art viewing: green space: seating: art installations

Circulation Diagram: art viewer: pedestrian

Sketchbook: 02.13.

Diagramming a variety of elements was an essential step in the design process. Moving from a very conceptual beginning, exploring through diagrams and sections helped to more firmly root the project in reality, as well as produce a more comprehensive understanding of user experience.

Experimentation with materials was necessary to achieve an accurate representation of the art installations as well as to communicate the stylistic direction of the project.

Left: Diagrammatic PlansPen, marker, trace

Sketchbook: 02.13.Study model

Balsa wood, wire, acetate, sponge, cardboard

Left: Diagrammatic PlansPen, marker, trace

Final Site PlanGraphite on vellum

Section A-AGraphite on vellum

Section B-BGraphite on vellum

Axonometric Site PlanGraphite on vellum

Gree Views(trees as natural “gallery”)

Art Views: art installation: views of art piece individually: views of art pieces together

Circulation: inhabitable green space: uninhabitable green space: areas for stopping/reflecting: pedestrian commuter zone

Axonometric DiagramsGraphite, colored pencil, on vellum

Final ModelCardboard, chipboard, balsa wood, sponge, acetate, wire

3D Modeling Skill Development

Learning Objectives Building with Rhino Rendering textures Finalizing with Photoshop Lightingeffects

Left: Day perspective of Tenerife Concert HallRhino, Maxwell, PhotoshopRight: Night perspective of Tenerife Concert HallRhino, Maxwell, Photoshop

Zaha Hadid PavillionRhino, Maxwell

Tenerife Concert Hall AuditoriumRhino, Maxwell

Dudley Neighbors Park A2 Studio - Ecological Analyses and Conceptual Frameworks

The first foray into the digital approach to design was focused around a site in Roxbury, MA. An in-depth analysis at a multitude of scales unearthed a plethora of information that would ultimately inform design intent. Assembling presentation boards that were both clear and concise was essential to the accurate communication of the research and ideas that fueled the final design proposal. Understanding the site within a much larger framework in terms of natural and designed systems was extremely illuminating and therefore impacted the comprehension and scope of the project.

Learning Objectives Graphic design and representation GIS and informational mapping Comprehensive analysis Computer skills Informed design

Initial analysis of the Roxbury neighborhoodArcGIS, Adobe Suite

Final analysis of RoxburyArcGIS, Adobe Suite

Final analysis of siteArcGIS, Adobe Suite

The Jade Bracelet B1 Studio - Housing and Institutional Planning BSLA Submission

Driven by Boston’s history of embracing green space as a functional connecting tool, the proposed “Jade Bracelet” provides a terminal anchor to the Rose Kennedy Greenway, and to the Emerald Necklace as a whole. Responding both in width and elevation to its surroundings, the “Jade Bracelet” merges recreation spaces, community nodes, commercial opportunities, and stormwater management. The “Greenport District” Neighborhood celebrates the industrial and shipping past of the Seaport District through pier-based design, while simultaneously embracing sustainable development by cutting down vehicular reliance, repurposing neglected industrial buildings, engaging a functional landscape that mitigates stormwater, and emphasizing community.

Learning Objectives Urban planning Graphic representation Informing with scale Environmental impacts Historical analysis Proposal writing

: 1810

: 1880: 1900

: 1940: 2013

Infill over time

Final site planAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

The creation of different building typologies not only provided a clear illustration of the neighborhood character, but also informed the living opportunities and subsequent population of the district. The contrast between housing that emphasized mixed-use chararacteristics versus strictly residential helped to determine street-level experience, and further illuminated the resident typologies and relationships. The rejuvination and re-use of pre-existing buildings is aimed to achieve sustainability as well as reinforce the historical, industrial character of the Seaport District.

Right top: Housing Complex ‘D’, Communal Yard Rhino, SketchUp, Adobe Suite

Right bottom: Housing Complex ‘D’, Dock AccessRhino, SketchUp, Adobe Suite

Section of Housing Complex ‘D’AutoCAD, Adobe Suite

The proposed ‘Jade Bracelet’ responds both in width and in elevation to the components surrounding it, thus providing a dynamic pedestrian experience. Areas of the ‘Bracelet’ that are flanked with commercial storefronts are thiner, paved, and have formal planting (in the attempt to encourage movement between both sides of the street). Whereas residential areas provide a wider, more naturalized landscape that facilitates recreational use.

The elongated park functions as an anchor to the Rose Kennedy Greenway, providing a terminal, terraced green space that allows dynamic access to the water, made visible by the changing tide.

Perspective of Commercial CrossingRhino, SketchUp, Maxwell, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite

Promotional Image Board:Baxter Riverfront Park

Promotional Image Board:Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital

Promotional Image Board:Liberty Mutual

22 Water Street Professional Practice - Residential Copley Wolff Design Group

The large-scale roof deck is an amenity to an apartment complex being built in the burgeoning North Point District of Boston. Focusing on both building and planting materials, I attempted to create a cohesive aesthetic that established a dialogue with the building. The roof’s close proximity to the Green Line bolsters the opportunity for a sight garden serving commuters. This fact was taken into careful consideration when determining plant layout and bloom periods.

Learning Objectives Planting Plans Material Selection Construction documents and details Image boards for clients Roof deck construction Collaboration with other design teams Promotional graphics Existing conditions

Planting PlanGraphite, Colored

Pencil, Trace

Above: Material SelectionsLeft: Plant Materials Image BoardRight: Final Planting PlanAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

Construction documents and details became a lot more informative to me as I began to explore building materi-als and physical samples. Choosing appropriate planting based on the limitations of roof deck construction was a valuable learning experience that in turn, has been applied to future roof deck projects at Copley Wolff Design Group.

Large, exhuast vents located within the area of the proposed roof deck were a pre-existing condition that had to beaddressed in an effective way. Wooden enclosures featuring planted panels were designed in the effort to limit vent visibility while simultaneously contributing to the aesthetic of the design. Coordination with structural engineers as well as the architectural team was essential to achieve a design that was both feasible and engaging.

Vent Enclosures, Elevation and PerspectiveGraphite, colored pencil, trace

Right: Elevation of StreetscapeAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

Parcel K Professional Practice - Mixed-Use Residential Copley Wolff Design Group

The design of Parcel K called for a streetscape and roof deck that were accessible for both residential and public use. Overlooking the Bank of America Pavillion in Boston’s Seaport District, the project had to embrace a contemporary design while recalling the site’s industrial past.

The client requested annotated site plans in conjunction with rendered perspectives in order to fully understand the design intent. Using images and perspectives to appeal to professionals outside of the design field is a skill that holds extreme relevance and importance.

Learning Objectives Graphic representation Plan renderings Contextual relevance Public vs. private realms Effectiveprecedents

Perspective of Public Roof DeckRhino, SketchUp, Adobe Suite

Harbor Garage Professional Practice - Design Charrette

Copley Wolff Design Group was enlisted to help develop a proposal for a new skyscraper situated in a dynamically charged water-front location, and nestled between the Greenway and the Aquarium. The sensitivity of the space in conjunction with the opportunity to create a new destination within the city of Boston provided me with an enriching opportunity to work with urban planners, architects, public artists, and developers sharing ideas in weekly charettes.

Learning Objectives Collaboration Fast-paced design Presentation development Public appeal Sustainable design Public waterfront space Large-scale installation art Effectivecommunication

Sketch Diagram of site and contextContributors: ADD Inc, CWDG,

Stantec, Chiofaro

We began with in-depth site analysis, compounding our findings with precedent examples with each passing week. Collaborating with the architects to determine the building’s interaction with street, the focus shifted towards activation of the waterfront within a sustainable scope. The concept of soft edges with the capability to grow and spread as a combatant to storm surges and water level rise was an approach well-received by the design team. Additionally, considering the proximity to the aquarium, we felt that the would need to cater to family populations and large numbers of people. Establishing pedestrian flow and providing views to the water were key components that informed the design.

Sketchbook: 04.14.

Shadow StudySketchUp, Adobe Suite

Diagrammatic Site PlanAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

Sketchbook: 04.14.

ReUnion Gateway B2 Studio - Urban Design and Infrastructure Networks

Focusing on the city of Hartford and its proposal for a new mass-transit system, we analyzed the effect of the exisiting highway infrastructure and explored means of revitalizing city neighborhoods.With the intention of framing Hartford within the salvaged infrastructure of I-84 (proposing to sink the highway under-ground), I chose to celebrate the underpass condition while refocusing the emphasis on pedestrian experience. By creating a focal point and grand entry down a vibrant, mixed-use corridor, existing commercial pathways were reinforced directly into the heart of downtown Hartford.The introduction of a programmed space caters to burgeoning neighborhood needs, while the language of the green spaces establish a connection to the adjacent, historic Bushnell Park.

Learning Objectives Block size and arrangement Sociological analysis Context-specificdesign Large-scale urban diagramming Mixed-use planning Building typologies and street setbacks Pre-existing urban conditions Proposal graphics

The overarching design problem was to overcome the elevated train tracks that cut through the center of the site, dividing the proposed neighborhood from downtown and, subsequently, the waterfront. Initially, my plan was centered around the interaction between the existing Bushnell Park and a new, proposed green space. Using the topography of the site, I hoped to take advantage of the views over downtown to establish a visual connection. The position of the train station and bus depot at the nexus of the site inspired me to create a multi-modal hub that emphasized the layering of uses. As analysis continued, I found that taking people off of the street would only worsen Hartford’s existing commercial decline, and I therefore sought a way to more effectively activate the street and the potential for connection between downtown and the neighborhood.

Diagrammatic Site PlanGraphite, colored pencil, trace

Final Site PlanAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

I found it very necessary to consider the block sizes and building typologies in order to establish a dialogue with the surrounding areas and downtown. Embracing large block sizes and building heights closer to downtown, smaller lots and housing opportunities arise as you move away from the main commercial centers, with the intention of creating a more intimate residential experience.

Perspective view of proposed neighborhoodAutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp, Lumion, Adobe Suite

The issue of the elevated highway as a divider of the site was tackled by folding the landscape over the train tracks. This move established am experiential connection between the two parks, both featuring sloping lawns and views over the city. More structured planting and paving highlight the multi-use dimension of ReUnion Park, a park that is anchored on both sides by heavy user activity.

Above: Section of ReUnion ParkAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

Below: Section of Bushnell ParkAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

Though the site is adjacent to Bushnell Park, the historic area lacks programming, a necessary feature to activate and engage the community. Using pre-existing highway infrastructure, I chose to create a “disintegrated pergola” that would bring character to the space as well as provide a locally relevant gateway to downtown. The space features a mix of hardscape and landscape that is meant to be engaged at different times and in different places, thus creating a widely-used area that serves all the needs of the community. The existing slope of the space created an opportunity for views over the downtown skyline, further heightening the connection between the new neighborhood and its context.

Enlargement of ReUnion ParkAutoCAD, Adobe Suite

Though the site is adjacent to Bushnell Park, the historic area lacks programming, a necessary feature to activate and engage the community. Using pre-existing highway infrastructure, I chose to create a “disintegrated pergola” that would bring character to the space as well as provide a locally relevant gateway to downtown. The space features a mix of hardscape and landscape that is meant to be engaged at different times and in different places, thus creating a widely-used area that serves all the needs of the community. The existing slope of the space created an opportunity for views over the downtown skyline, further heightening the connection between the new neighborhood and its context.

The aesthetic is meant to celebrate the beauty of something reclaimed by nature, a condition that is very visible in the landscape of Hartford today. The re-use of the highway infrastructure highlights a sustainable approach to design, while simultaneously embracing the character of the city that has been defined by its elevated highway system.

By reinforcing commercial pathways, re-using infrastructure, highlighting established connections, and introducing a high-density, mixed-use community, Hartford can have a contemporary, vibrant gateway that overlooks and connects to historic downtown Hartford.

Perspective of ReUnion Park promenadeAutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp, Lumion, Adobe Suite

Perspective over Hartford from ReUnion ParkAutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp, Lumion, Adobe Suite

Documents

Meghan Marchie Landscape Architecture Portfolio