The Master of Architecture studio taught by the three principals of the firm Bade Stageberg Cox had its midterm review last week. (quick review: this group is designing a branch library for Williamsburg in Brooklyn). For students, this was a chance to assimilate the ideas and processes that they had been exploring to this point and to present their work to fresh and highly experienced eyes – guest critics. The guest critics were: Andrew Benner (architect + studio critic at Yale), Martin Finio (architect + studio critic at Yale), Justin Korhammer (architect + studio critic at PennDesign), and Tina Manis (architect), in addition to our studio faculty, Timothy Bade, Martin Cox, and Jane Stageberg.
Stuart Pidcock presenting his work to the critics
(photo by Luke Erickson)
Each student was given a bit less than half an hour to present their work – in the form of printed drawings and physical models – and to engage with the critics in a discussion of concept and ideas about the library as well as consideration of site conditions and integration of building systems. One student addressed the project using the site’s history as a rail yard for a formal investigation. Another focused on the idea of a story book and the user’s ability to choose his or her own story within the building. Twelve different approaches to the same problem on the same site – it will be exciting to see how the projects continue to develop.
Allen Chhav presenting his work to the critics
(photo by Luke Erickson)