Using Pen Tool for Site Plan

The pen tool was used to create a north arrow and circulation paths for vehicals and pedestrians.

First Day of Google SketchUp

These are images from my first two attempts at Sketch Up during class lab.

Example of a story board design

Nine Square Matrix

In this project we studied the influence of simplicity and complexity, proportion and scale, and relationships between the parts and the whole on architectural design. In nine steps a simple object of our choosing was transformed to a composition consisting of 3 habitable areas, demonstrating 3 levels of complexity.

My composition began as a cube divided into 3 horizontal levels by horizontal planes. The levels were hollow. I created 3 levels of complexity by executed 9 transformations, 3 per each level. Level one contained a recessed plane and a rotated cube. Level two was subtracted creating a large void where a complex object was hung beneath the overhead plane. Level 3 had more complex subtraction involving cutting into 4 planes of the cube. An additive form consisting of 3 cubes were inserted inside the void space.

The simple object was transformed and in the process a lot was learned about simplicity giving way to complexity, voids and planes creating interesting spaces and the relationships of the parts to the whole.

Can Reno borrow from Zen Buddism Gardens?

Because our climate is so dry I have been thinking of ways to add beauty to our landscape and conserve our natural resources. Rock-scapes, typical of the Sierra, are everywhere. To add variety I have been considering our own style of Zen Buddism gardens. Multiple textures and few plantings lend themselves to our climate. I would like to seem them modernized or "Reno-ized" to make them our own local architectureal style.

The above photo link provides an example of the Karesansui Garden. Just scroll down to item 4.