2022 Fall Semester
Mixed use residential development
Located on Lake Street, adjacent to the Midtown Exchange Building, this project marked my first building design endeavor, with a strong emphasis on site analysis and contextual response. Positioned where a Dollar Tree once stood, in front of a parking ramp and surrounded by residential buildings, the project explored how architecture could address both the physical and social challenges of the area.
With a program centered on mental health rehabilitation and community engagement, the design included temporary housing, a mental health clinic, a wellness center, a dog café, and a large community space. Recognizing the lack of mental health resources in the area, I felt a strong personal connection to the project, as mental health awareness and support are deeply important to me. Inspired by Lake Street’s resilience and commitment to community empowerment, the project sought to provide a safe, welcoming environment that encourages healing and social connection.
A key aspect of the design was its response to sound and noise, which I meticulously analyzed to shape the building form. Through three iterations, I explored how the structure could mitigate urban noise pollution while still maintaining an active street presence. The final design incorporated berms and dense tree plantings, inspired by Martha Schwartz’s Minneapolis Courthouse project, to create an urban forest buffer that provides both acoustic relief and a natural refuge in the city.
At the back of the site, a dog park was integrated, directly responding to the dog owners frequently passing by yet avoiding the space due to issues with garbage, needles, and debris. The dog café, in conjunction with the park, aimed to activate the space, making it a gathering point that fosters community interaction and inclusivity.
While the studio did not focus heavily on interior programming, the project was deeply rooted in historical research and site-driven design strategies, ensuring that every move reflected the identity and needs of Lake Street. This project was a pivotal experience in my architectural education, reinforcing the power of design to create spaces that heal, support, and uplift communities.