Project no. 1 - Thesis Project
For my final Thesis Project I decided to design a multi-use facility that would incorporate all areas of design; residential, healthcare, retail, restaurant and more. Emerging Minds Community Support Center is a space that supports teens and young adults that are struggling with mental health illnesses. This facility focuses on healthy eating and living for those who are struggling with these illnesses but can also serve as a resource for anyone that wants to help their loved ones. For this project, I chose a building located on N Fremont Street known as One North. I decided to only design the first floor as well as the common areas on the second level. The lower level focuses on the community and creating unique spaces that integrate different areas of life that can be improved. The upper levels are co-housing suites that allow for a transition into adulthood before college as well as after college. The multi-level housing units will help those that are struggling with independence by focusing on supporting each other through community living.
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The space offers a variety of activities that can influence the users to get active with their body and their mind as well as learn to create healthy foods and lifestyles. There is a marketplace in order to promote individuals that produce art as their hobby as well as a café that promotes healthy foods. There are also yoga and meditation rooms in order to engage the users and their minds. The space allows for job opportunities and actively connects the community with those using the space. The design and choice of naming of rooms was based on local neighborhoods and areas within Portland, OR and each represent the eclectic style of the area.
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The concept for this project was Emergence; the act of becoming prominent. I wanted this space to encourage individuals to step out of their comfort zone and embrace who they are. I reflected this within my project through the use of vertical connections between floors as well as the inviting and bright colors that emerge when you enter the space.
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