Location: RISD Campus, Providence, RI

Building footprint: 3018 sqft

Total area: 6035 sqft

Building Materials: Masstimber, hempcrete, concrete

The idea is to design a research space that evokes students' awareness of nature.

The design is based on this sketch highlighting haft of the ground floor is immersed into the earth which sets the eye level equal to the ground and a vortex structure that emerges from the ground to the roof, creating a radial grid that guides the placement of rafters, beams, and openings in between.

On top are roof panels that are angled differently to capture natural light from dawn to dusk. Light at noon and rain can also enter into a circular gathering space on the ground floor through a large opening in the center of the vortex structure, blending the outer environment with the indoor ambiance.

This creates space for students to research, experiment, discuss, and question the new inventions in sustainability in making and designing. It is divided into three spaces: a workspace on the Ground floor where students make prototypes, a space around the fountain where everyone has a chance to gather and discuss, and a small library on the First floor where students can research and study from a collection of books and other resources.