Design Exploration via Models
-How to design a wavy wood pavilion through building physical models
Role
Architectural design
Time
12 weeks
Team
Group of 2
Stats
School project
Background
Overview
Camp Kanawana is in the Great Montreal Area, with a bunch of buildings sitting on the mountain with a breathtaking view to the lake down the mountain. The camp has opened for over thirty years. Each year, over a hundred of kids would spend their summer at the this camp. However, a lot of the buildings are overwhelmed, especially the dinning room.
The dinning room locates at the center of the camp, and it is a place for eating and activities. Therefore, the camp wanted to build a three-season all timber pavilion that could better connect the kids and the context.
Design Process
Problems
Tricky Site
How to build on a such a slope for camp kids that reflects the environment
The site is challenging due to its slope, but we are thrilled to have a stunning view of the mountains and water.
Problem Statement
How might we build a flexible space that can be used for eating and playing for kids on a slope site, while reflecting the mountain and lake view?
Solutions Preview
A contrasting concept of solid mountain versus fluid water.
Function Diagram
Perspectives of the building
Model Making Design
Specify Location
Site model to ensure it fits the environment
We first built a small model at a scale of 1:200 to observe how it sits on the slope and interacts with the environment.
Structure
How to hold it up?
Soon we realized the curved beams are a very challenging. We performed calculations with the assistance of a professional structural engineer and identified the necessary support to ensure the structure functions properly.
Engineer Insight
Through calculations, we found that we need to add in horizontal support to balance the lateral forces.
A structure that stands
We added extra support to successfully make the curved beams stand and function effectively. We are incredibly proud of this achievement.
Space Exploration
A feeling of real-space
We built a large model at a scale of 1:10, approximately half a meter tall, using similar materials to represent a corner of the house.
It is massive and provides a tangible sense of the space. Although it was very challenging to construct, it reflects our exploration of dimensions, materials, and techniques.
Full model
A mode to put up everything together
We built a finalized model at a scale of 1:100, incorporating all the architectural elements and the site. It reflects all our design decisions.
Final Presentation
This marks the end of my journey in architecture school
It is my last day at architecture school, beautifully concluded with a perfect presentation and showcase of my work. I deeply miss those days and am incredibly grateful for all the skills and knowledge I gained.
Presentation Board
Takeaways
Learnings
1
Try it out with your hands
This experience helped me discover the joy of craftsmanship and inspired me to find solutions through hands-on exploration.
2
Fail until you make it
Failure is a natural part of the process. Each attempt may lead to failure, but every failure brings valuable improvements. Keep learning and keep growing!