M.Arch. Materiality Projects

Kiyomi Kumazawa. This mixed-use project, which consists of a gallery and ten residential units, focuses on wood and masonry construction technology, and exploration of context, typology, and urbanism. 1 of 2.

Kiyomi Kumazawa. This mixed-use project, which consists of a gallery and ten residential units, focuses on wood and masonry construction technology, and exploration of context, typology, and urbanism. 2 of 2.

Structures in the Studio module. This project is based on a rural Chinese pedestrian bridge form with wood logs sandwiched between perpendicular logs such that each strut cantilevers beyond the fulcrum of the sandwiched log creating a codependent reciprocal structure. Students wove a random texture of salvaged and recycled 2x4’s into a 30 foot horizontal span rising some 35 feet from the ground and cantilevered six feet at its tip.

Structures in the Studio module. Very thin members are stacked into a series of ascending stable x forms. The secret of the form is that there are five canted arches that brace each other by tipping in alternate directions. Three of the arches also lift the shape off the base in an arched bridge form. In four of the arched forms is a rod compression member bracing the system into a very rigid system. Major and minor tension cables are concealed within the members or slightly above the vaulted forms to provide redundancy against member deflection and sway.

Structures in the Studio module. A parabolic ring cable cantilever spans 80’ in a curving surface and projects 36’ beyond the 40’ wide locker base. This self-anchored structure utilizes a ring cable to resist torsional forces in reference to the work of Jorg Schlaich. The ring cable, positioned above the inner deck edge, pulls inward as the bridge deck pushes outward, counteracting the natural tendency of the bridge to rotate.