top of page

Contextual Fit

In this project, we are tasked with designing an addition to the Smith House, built in 1965 by architect Richard Meier. The new design must respect the original architecture by analyzing and incorporating its existing systems and patterns.

​

We are also asked to develop a concept that responds to the homeowners' current needs, while introducing new elements or systems not found in the original house.

image.png

Narrative

The Smith family, long-time enthusiasts of classical music, has submitted a commission to design an addition to their house. The original house, designed in 1965 by renowned architect Richard Meier, is a masterpiece of modern architecture and has garnered international acclaim.
At the heart of the Smith family’s story is a strong emphasis on togetherness, education, and culture. Music, particularly classical music, is a defining aspect of their family life, with the violin holding a special place as both a symbol of their shared passions and a tangible representation of their collective identity. The family has made it clear that the new addition should not only respect the original design’s integrity but also express their unique familial bond and cultural interests.

 The most crucial function to be expressed is the living room—a room where the family can come together for musical performances, discussions, and celebrations of their shared passions.

image.png

Hierarchy: Living Room

Meta Idea: Violin

Sorting of Space

GROUP:

Living Room

Exercise Room

Rooftop

Garden

LOUD:

Living Room

Exercise Room

Rooftop

Garden

PUBLIC:

Living Room

Exercise Room

Rooftop

Garden

PRIVATE:

Master Bedroom

Master Bathroom

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

INDIVIDUAL:

Master Bedroom

Master Bathroom

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

QUIET:

Master Bedroom

Master Bathroom

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Contextual Analysis

Original Floor Plans

ogplans_page-0001_edited.jpg

Existing Building Systems and Patterns

Diagrams_page-0001_edited.jpg

Preliminary Design

Prework_page-0001_edited.jpg
prework2_page-0001_edited.jpg

Conceptual Ideas

Enclosures_page-0001_edited.jpg

Final Design

Final2_page-0001_edited.jpg

Final Floor Plans

floor1_page-0001.jpg
floor2_page-0001.jpg
Existing Livingroom
Existing 
Bedroom
Bath
Existing 
Kitchen
Existing Livingroom
Existing 
Bedroom
Bath
Closet
Family
Room
Exercise
Room
Existing 
Bedroom
Existing 
Bedroom
Bath
Room
Existing 
Bedroom
Master
Bedroom
Open
to
Below
Open
to
Below
Open
to
Below
Closet
Master
Bath
Room

Lower Level

Entry Level

Upper Level

Elevations

3D Section

Render5.png
elevations_page-0001.jpg

Renders

Meta-Idea Variations

Variation1_page-0001.jpg
Variation2.2_page-0001.jpg

Meta-Idea Renders

Render8.png
Render9.png
bottom of page