This group project focuses on research, ideation, and final design documentation of a vertical living community with a focus on clientele living with various invisible disabilities. These invisible disabilities will consist of autism, anxiety, and ADHD. The main components of this vertical community will also include a Learning Resource Center, a place for students to work a job, a living space, and a public space found within the Kent State University Main Library that is of 12 floors. The design of these environments will provide a safe, inviting, and comfortable atmosphere while including innovative and sustainable aspects. 

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For the focus of this project I was responsible for designing a workplace where the users have the opportunities to develop their skills in customer service, cooking, art, and music. This work environment consists of job training opportunities that also contribute to the Kent State community as a whole. With the new knowledge and skills the users have obtained, they can feel confidence when moving into the workforce after completing the training. This opportunity is important to those living here considering many of the residents have an invisible disability that may prevent them from receiving the job opportunities they deserve and by giving them a chance they become a well-rounded member of society with the skills and background they need to succeed. 

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With this project focusing on a minimum of 2,000 square feet, the job training opportunity that I designed consisted of a kitchen. Those working in the kitchen would have the opportunity to work alongside trained chefs and learn more about the cooking profession. They will be given hands on opportunities and get to cook themselves. The food that is then prepared is served to the Kent State community and then purchased for them to consume. Those working at the check-out area have the opportunity to learn customer service skills and communicate with the public in a hands on way. This again, allows those working here to develop important and necessary skills.  

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However, this space can not be designed without considering the intent of the design. With the concept of unfold and biomimicry of the lotus flower aided in the inspiration of the floor plan and material finishes. When the lotus flower is deconstructed it consists of the shapes diamonds and triangles, which were expressed in the floor plan in a number of ways. For example, throughout the floor plan the center of the lotus was expressed in terms of a central meeting space that consisted of a diamond shape with rooms or open spaces surrounding that central point. These spaces around the central point would then reflect the angles of the diamond to create rooms or open spaces that varied in shape and form while forming a wayfinding path as well. In addition the biomimicry of the lotus flower, helped inspire the finishes and color palette. This palette would consist of the colors brown, green, blue, and pink, which are earth toned colors that reflect the colors found within the lotus flower. These colors allow the space to be welcoming to all and do not overwhelm those who may have autism. With the concept of unfold in conjunction to the lotus flower helps to create a vertical community that is warm and inviting in addition to being engaging. 

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Skills

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-Revit

-Photoshop