Spine Wall : A Working Prototype Corry Mears + Austin Loman

Purpose + Objective

Design Research

Schematic Design

Prototype + Construction

Contents :

Since the construction of the Gatewood studio arts building students and faculty have been coping and dealing with the short comings the building has. In order to correct these problems a prototype for a low partition wall was developed. The development of the prototype was designed to react to these issues in a subtle and effective way. Honoring the existing building in form, construction, aesthetics, and configuration the partition wall addresses these issues.

Purpose + Objective

In the design research phase the current problems with the building were observed and documented. Surveys were given to students and faculty. Feedback was given as to what issues needed attention.

Design Research

Design Research : Observations

1 2 3

4

54 61. Poor access to electricity2. Messy spaces3. No sense of organization 4. Lacks uniformity 5. Areas of scraps 6. Excessive supplies

Design Research : Student QuotesVarious students who partook in the surveys said they would like to have...

“Storage separate from desk (shelves or something)-Better lighting (current lighting is AWFUL!)- Desks with sharp corners (to align things (T-square) - Some sort of sound barrier, sounds carry a lot now.”

“A bigger desk, more storage space, bulletin board, more space between desks (walk way), better drafting area.”

“More personal space to pin things up, more storage, and desk space.”

“More personal-open concept-increased storage- warm colors.”

“Magnetic board, marker board, storage/personal lighting, wood desk (no

plastic, yuck!), comfy chairs, easy to reach/use outlets, convenient group meeting space…)

During the schematic design phase we reacted to the student surveys and approached our design with a sense of practicality and an emphasis on functionality. By honoring the existing structure and respecting the current electrical grid the design is at home within the building. We strived to make a useful object for students that was able to resolve some of the issues we are faced with on a daily basis.

Schematic Design

Half partition defines space while still leaving it open

Tackable surface

Storage

Partitions are situated over existing electrical grid

Electrical access

Schematic Design : Response

Schematic Design : Configuration4

The desks are configured uniformly to fit directly over the electrical grid which provides each student with access to power as well as creates a more organized space.

Schematic Design : Implementation

Schematic Design : Implementation

Third FloorScale : NTS

Schematic Design : Implementation

Fourth FloorScale : NTS

Schematic Design : Implementation

In order to explore the design a full scale prototype was developed. The prototype is one module of the system which services two desks. The module was constructed with traditional building methods from 2 x 12 studs. Tackable surfaces were repurposed cork and particle board. Finished materials were selected to compliment the vocabulary of the existing and to introduce color into the space.

Prototype + Construction

2 x 12 STUDS

HARDWARE

TOTAL :

HOMASOTE

UPHOLSTERYSHEATHING

FIBER BOARD

PLYWOOD

$40 $30

$15

$50

$22

$45

$27$229

P + C : Materials

P + C : Elevations

Section 1Scale : NTS

1/2” Plywood1/4” SheathingHomasote wrapped with upholstery

1/2” Plywood

MDF painted with dry erase

2 x 12” Stud

1/4” Sheathing

MDF

Outlet

2 x 12” Stud2 x 12” Stud

P + C : Section Details

Section 2Scale : NTS

1/2” Plywood

1/2” Plywood

2 x 12” Stud2 x 12” Stud

2 x 12” Stud

2 x 12” Stud

MDF

P + C : Section Details

P + C : Construction

P + C : Process

1 2 3

54 6

1. 2 x 12 frame 2. Lateral support Sheathing 3. MDF application 4. MDF application 5. Electrical wiring 6. MDF application

P + C : Process

87 9

7. Upholstered Homasote 8. Mounting tackable surface9. Mounting tackable surface