Architecture

Studio III Project III: Single Family Residence

Overview

In December 2021, I designed a single family residence for the last project of my Architecture Studio III class. I drew inspiration for my design based off of vernacular architecture.

After preliminary research on different global vernaculars, including Icelandic Turf houses, Filipino Nipa huts, and South African Rondavels: I decided to base my design off of the New Orleans Shotgun House.

Adapting to the hot and humid climate of the region, the shotgun houses developed long and narrow forms, that acts as a natural, cross ventilating system, funneling air through the house when the doors and windows open.

Design Intent

Most vernacular buildings adapt and live through their local climates. Through this adaptation, they become very efficient and do not require the same expense and management as modern cooling and heating systems. This lead to my design intent: How can incorporating ventilating systems from vernacular architecture provide natural ventilation and lower utility costs?

03. I incorporated a shed roof to allow heat to rise through the roof more efficently.



02. Through further research of ventilation systems, I added large, concrete walls on either side of the house to aid heat circulation. I connected the two houses with a corridor to connect the public and private houses.



01. Simple form inspired by the functionality of the shotgun house. I included large windows to allow air to pass through the house easily.

Conclusion

This project solidified my understanding of architectural design. Through an extensive design interation process and research on vernacular architecture, I developed a house that not only uses local, evironmental material, but cut development costs. I discovered that I could fully see a design through all stages and defend my design choices in front of a jury, and by feedback and perserverance.