Architecture - Research Studio

Permanent URI for this collectionhdl:10365/32206

The Architectural Research Studio is a viable curricular offering in a professional, graduate, accredited curriculum in Architecture. It provides the benefits of boosting research productivity in a department, strengthening ties with architectural firms that have an alumni presence, providing career networking opportunities for graduate students, generating valuable intellectual property, fostering research careers, and adding to the knowledge base of the Architecture profession. The all-around benefits far outweigh the challenges that have to be overcome in offering this studio.

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 80

How Can Declining Rural Communities in North Dakota Be Saved?
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Seamands, Sydney
Rural North Dakota has become somewhat of an abandoned land. There are dozens of small communities, with major service gaps and unsustainable populations. With the death of each rural town, the state loses pieces of its history, as unique cultures, and buildings decay alongside the highways. Witnessing these townships fall into despair, going unused with years of embodied energy wasted, has partly inspired this investigation. Why didn't these towns survive? Are all of North Dakota's small rural communities destined to meet the same fate? Exploring the possibility of reviving historically declining rural towns would not only breathe new life into the state, but also respond to modern challenges. This research aims to identify a program for successful rural revitalization in North Dakota. Socioeconomic policies and facility updates and additions will inform best practices for the prosperity of rural towns looking to attract residents, businesses, and opportunities.
Designing a Holistic Environment for Athletic Performance
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Naranjo Mata, Sofia
The goal of this research is to recenter the needs of the athlete when it comes to the design of training facilities and question how this form of architecture can be optimized. To continue to increase the effectiveness and value of architecture, new approaches must be taken in how spaces are designed. By looking into other spheres of knowledge such as mental wellness and sports psychology, more information is gained that can influence a new design protocol that be implemented into this building type. These solutions will provide incentives for these massive teams and organizations to seek an architect that is well versed in this area of design. Athletes will have a higher likelihood of staying where their needs are prioritized and feeling valued can help with overall wellness and performance. This can demonstrate how something seemingly insignificant such as a building’s design in relation to athletic performance can cause a chain reaction that provides people with their desired outcome of success.
Enability: Enabling the Disabled
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Krenik, Piper
Currently, in architecture there is a lack of urgency to design for inclusivity. There are guidelines put forward to create accessible buildings, but these guidelines are the minimum. The ADA guidelines, in general, ensure that all people can use all parts of a building and that people can get required information to get around a space. There are many kinds of disabilities that are not accounted for with these bare minimum rules and just as many creative solutions to include in designs to create a new way to design accessible buildings.
Versatile Venue: How Can the Acoustics of a Space Be Optimized for Varied Performances?
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Freborg, Derek
What are the ideal parameters for designing a concert hall, and how can these be integrated into a versatile venue? This is the main goal this research report aims to solve. Case studies, literature, and simulation help to form a clear thought for design, and venue that can accommodate and maximize acoustical performance of the space. When designing and constructing a performance space there are a wide variety of factors that influence the overall design of the venue. Shape, volume, materials, location, all contribute to the acoustics of space. Each aspect must synchronize with the others to achieve desired acoustics.
Sustainable Design & Ecotourism: A Manual on Sustainable Design Methods and Ecotourism Practices on the North Shore
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Madson, Luke
The Minnesota North Shore boasts vast natural beauty, a plethora of recreational activities, and a thriving tourism industry. In order to protect the North Shore’s natural scenery and tourism industry, sustainability and ecotoruism must be heavily considered when designing here. This research report aims to provide sustainable design methods and ecotourism tactics that are specifically catered towards the North Shore. Through literature review and case study examination, this report is a compiled list of methods and tactics that provide design options to reduce impact on natural scenery, are environmentally concious, and benifit tourism.
Design Study of Catholic Church Architectural Form and Material Costs
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Rivard, Jeremy
The architecture of Catholic churches has an intrinsic connection with the liturgy, theology, and tradition of the Church. Creating sacred spaces to engage in the worship of God has been an essential part of Catholic life since the earliest days of Christendom, but sacred architecture has undergone many notable shifts over the last century. These design changes in modern sacred architecture have partly stemmed from liturgical reform within the Church, but also from societal turmoil from without. This has resulted in many churches built over the last 70 years that fail to live up to their potential, through a lack of architectural beauty, shoddy construction, and tawdry materials. The era of the beautiful Catholic church building had stopped. The questions this research seeks to address are as follows: How can the beauty of a contemporary church building signify the unchanging solemnity of Catholic worship and aid in the search for the Divine, and how can this beauty be returned to new churches in an economical way through modern construction methods? How can these ideals be applied to design a transcendent sacred space for a small parish with limited resources? This research project examined designs for a new Catholic church building through the lens of each of the following four categories: form, liturgy, structure, and cost. The goal of this research was to find the optimal combination of the above categories for a new church construction project, in order to create a sacred space appropriate for the Catholic liturgy in a cost-effective manner. Variations in form were explored in multiple ways, with the vesica piscis shape serving as the proportioning system for the floorplan shapes and changes in verticality throughout building elements. The progression of possible forms were digitally modeled and the material costs for each were estimated, with the focus being on how each iteration affects the estimated construction costs. The desired outcome will be a joint architectural form and structural method that provides a sanctuary that expresses the four transcendentals of Catholic theology: truth, goodness, beauty, and unity, and does so in an easily constructible way that is financially accessible for small parish communities.
An Investigation of the Performance of Natatorium Systems
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Craven, Jakob
The air quality in an aquatic facility should be the number one priority when it comes to designing these buildings. The aim of this research is to investigate how we can design a natatorium that efficiently circulates the air to keep the air quality at a comfortable level for those sitting in the stands and focusing on the swimmers that are competing and the coaches standing on the pool deck. Focusing on the air movement in any building is vital so it doesn’t become stagnant, helping prevent the development of respiratory issues for those who use the space. This is a major component when it comes to designing any kind of typology that needs a heavy-duty HVAC system. The significance of this research will be to help design a system that keeps air moving and fresh while pushing chlorine particles out. This will provide the comfort needed to stay in an aquatic center for long periods of time.
Phytoremediation: Plant vs Filter: A Nature-Based Solution Against Poor Air Quality
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Gonzalez, Ivan
With an increasing number of wildfire events occurring year after year in California, one of the challenges many cities face today is the exposure to smoke produced by fires that spread faster and burn more intensely. This heavy smoke comprises gaseous pollutants, water vapor, and particle pollution, or particulate matter (PM). Particles generally 2.5 µm in diameter or smaller represent the primary pollutant in wildfire smoke and the leading health threat. The most common advice during a wildfire smoke event is to remain indoors. For this to be effective, buildings should have a tightly closed, air-conditioned space in which the air conditioner recirculates indoor air. According to the 2021 American housing survey released by the U.S. Census, San Francisco has become the least air-conditioned metro area in the U.S. The survey states that about 45% of the 1.8 million housing units have a primary air conditioning source, compared to a national average of 92%. Of those 45%, only about 34% of homes are equipped with central air, while 11% use room air conditioning. This research aims to provide an alternative nature-based solution to today's conventional HVAC systems. This research will integrate the benefits of phytoremediation, a plant's ability to remediate soil, water, and air, with a building HVAC system to combat poor air quality in the urban environment.
Smart City Modeling: Using GIS Capabilities for Urban Areas
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Crawford, Zachary
This research aims to show the capabilities of smart city modeling using GIS and other accessible information to provide accuracy and precision. Through this data collection, architects and urban planners can strategically alter urban areas to promote user experience and contentment. Current well-established cities can become known as smart cities, or cities that are data driven. This collection of data, such as traffic control, can be used to improve the user experience through efficiency and correct implementation. The idea of a "walkable city" is also reinforced as an important design solution that directly impacts the user experience in this urban environment. To do this, urban planners must use data from smart cities to make these decisions.
Cross-Cultural Ties for Craftsmanship in Construction
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Reller, Reed
Construction methods have continued to change over time. These changes have caused the structure of our homes to become simplified in many aspects. This research project aims to analyze this change to identify its reasoning and explore a potential solution to bring back more craftsmanship into the structure of residential homes. Generations before us built structures with care and intent for longevity as to serve more than just their lifetime. Some of these qualities are of less importance than making a profit today. The goal of this research is to adapt the craftsmanship of traditional Japanese carpentry into today’s light stick framing construction methods. This would provide insight into the features of both of these construction methods and identify if today’s practices are the best solution.
24/7 Stadiums: Their Impact on Surrounding Communities
(North Dakota State University, 2023) Becker, Chase
The purpose of this thesis is to provide a clear look into the impact of the theory of 24/7 stadiums on communites. With that, this theis will in turn show how the stadium can be used at all times of the day instead of being a venue used a couple times a week. In theory, the stadium will provide jobs, new establishments, an increase in revenue, and an overall large space to be enjoyed by its community which in turn, creates a strong and greater community. Architects often lead their users on a journey through their design. Keeping that in mind, 24/7 stadiums are a great way to include the user more often than a day or two for a few hours. While there are spaces that are more user dependent like a clinic or data centers, using the designed enviorment at all times allows users to accomidate the space whenever they please. Concourses are hundreds of thousands of square feet that offer many uses besides circulation. Understanding such is key to a successful stadium and even more prevalnt in 24/7 stadiums.
Research Upon Airline Passenger Experience
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Dang, Ly Truong Phuc
Aviation has a rich and long history. The industry has evolved increasingly over the year to accommodate technological advancement. However, along the way, the human part of it has been removed from the conversation. Aviation is one of the most important pieces in today’s society and economy, but at the same time it should be designed with human interaction in mind and not otherwise. Valuing human presence and adapting for the future. This research document leverage today’s technology and software to analyze one of the top airport in the world. From there, one can be evaluate kinks within the system. The data collected in this can be used to inform design choices later on the road. Design choices need to accommodate code and standards while putting human value first and foremost. Respecting and integrating nature and surrounding environmental resources to help reduce its carbon footprint and solving urban issues. Create what architecture means to do in the beginning. Create the physical environment in which people and cultures live.
Efficacy of Modular Design in Healthcare
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Heckmann, Daniel T.
Modular design has become an industry leading philosophy for the future of community-based health services. Modular applied as a design principle subdivides a construction system into independently fabricated units, similar in size, shape, and functionality to formulate a structure. The benefits of this approach include time-to-build efficiency, cost-effectiveness, quality and precision, sustainability, continuity, and modification. This process contradicts traditional construction, pre-fabricating spaces off site to be assembled later. Modular architecture is historically correlated with hotel design and is still in its adolescent stage being integrated into hospice. Forward-thinking medical institutes and design firms have begun to experiment with modular design in their projects aiming to provide accessible healthcare in any context, however, discrepancies have surfaced. The complexity of a functional healthcare facility including circulation, adaptability, materiality, and utilities are being overlooked due to monetary hesitation, high demand, and standardized design. Modular healthcare design is still unpopular amongst manufacturers and firms. Through correlational research and simulation software, modular solutions and traditional construction methods can be compared using operational statistics. The purpose of this research is to study the efficacy of the designs proposed by the industry thus far in hopes to refine the process for a safer, enjoyable, more efficient, and replicable solution.
Spatial Ability Reasoning: The Strengths and Weaknesses Between Virtual Reality and Paper Pencil Testing
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Llapa, John
In the United States, many high schoolers are frustrated about sitting through boring classes and not understanding their classes. This research project aims to explore a potential solution to these problems through the use of VR technology. VR technology has taken massive leaps in sophistication over the decades. Now appearing to be a viable option for school districts across the country. The goal of this research project is to study the differences in spatial thinking between two different mediums paper pencil and virtual reality. This would provide insight into how useful this technology can be within an educational environment.
Adapting Green: A Step by Step Methodology for Integrating LEED and WELL Standards Into Adaptive Reuse Projects
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Trosen, Tanner
LEED is the most widely used green building system in the world. LEED provides tools that clearly lay out the sustainable criteria for a building project. LEED is being implemented more and more every day, as is shown by its 36,835 LEED certified projects constructed between January 2017 and December of 2021. These numbers give a glimpse into the amount of companies and people striving to minimize their carbon footprint on the world. Not only are green buildings growing in popularity by clients, but architecture firms are seeking to design with sustainability in mind as well. LEED primarily focuses on the impact the building has on the environment and less on the impact the building has on the people within it. This is where WELL comes in. The WELL Building Standard was designed to work with LEED buildings to better people’s health and wellness. It too provides a list of criteria as to how to best achieve WELL certification. Both LEED’s and WELL’s list of criteria and considerations, to achieve certification within their programs, are vast and apply to all building and construction typologies. That being said, both programs are geared to be more easily implemented into new builds rather than existing buildings or adaptive reuse projects. This subsequently makes getting, an adaptive reuse building, LEED and/or WELL certified less desirable. The research documented in this article seeks to understand all criteria considerations within both LEED and WELL and create a methodology that shows how to best implement those considerations within an adaptive reuse project.
Detention Surveillance: A Closer Look Into What Makes a Secure Prison
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Kubischta, Makala
This research will look into case studies to determine what types of floor plans have the best security and safety elements for a prison. By using simulation software, a conclusion can be made for which prison is the most secure of the chosen case studies. The software used is AnyLogic. These simulations will show the congested areas in the floor plans and where the guards should be stationed to control the space. This proposed research is being done so that the security of prisons can be maintained less through the prison staff and more by the prison walls themselves. Additional peace of mind will be found for the inmates, staff and visitors of the prison.
The Methodology of Calculating the Carbon Footprint of a Building
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Kane, Kaitlyn
The thesis research topic I chose is the methodology of calculating the carbon footprint of a building. I chose this topic because I care a lot about our environment and sustaining it. How can I take a site and not wipe it clean and start with my own ideas and design, but to sit back and look at how the site itself can guide my design? I've been working on studying different types of building materials and calculating their individual emissions. I will further research how to adapt or change those materials to reduce carbon emissions. I think it is important to realize that we are first and foremost integrating into nature and not throwing up a build and then going back to integrate nature back within the site. I was at a hunting cabin a couple of weeks ago and they told the story of how they built the cabin and they had said that each tree that was cut down for the location of the cabin was planned out and used for the structure and finishes. Materials that belong on the site are used on the build. I really want to work towards being more aware of the existing site and working more on my perspective of existing elements and how important they are. Destroying existing elements within a single site is “small” & “unimpactful” is not the way to think while designing architecture because the Earth is our site. The more we ruin and destroy individual sites will result in destroying our Earth. I started researching how to calculate a buildings carbon footprint and struggled to find enough information to realistically find out results. This thesis topic intrigued me to study a deeper way to be able to understand the carbon footprint of a design before it is built and how to reduce an existing building’s carbon emissions.
Research of Sandy Hook Elementary, the New and Improved
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Krutsinger, Brooke
School safety has been a part of the political discussion all over the world about both large scale (a country) and small (a city). According to US News, for the school year 2020-2021 alone, there were a total of 93 schools that had an active shooter that resulted with casualties (not including threats), and according to EdWeek, there have been 30 school shootings where there were injuries, including 28 people killed, just in the year 2022 so far. The fact that these numbers keep increasing from previous decades, and that the school year is just starting after having to combat a pandemic, people and families fear sending their kids to schools for more reasons than one. That is why I am studying possible floor plans and materials that ideally prevent the event from happening, or if the tragic event occurs, then the possibility for reinforcements to arrive before there are injuries is greater. I plan on using AnyLogic to study the average foot traffic of secondary age students as well as to see how an emergency plays out. I will stimulate both one and multiple shooters, and the police department on scene right away and later. Once I have a floor plan that can help students stay safe, I will research materials that are thicker and stronger to prevent bullets going through. Safety is always the number one concern to parents and school officials, that is why I believe that the floor plans and materials can be strategically chosen to provide more safety for students and staff.
The Investigation of EEG Responses for Design Tasks Using Traditional and Digital Tools
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Arroyo, Gaius Josiah D.
With the emergence of computers and modern technology, the way professionals do architecture has drastically change over the recent decades and schools have been faced with the task of how they want to guide the next generation of architects. Will the use of technology be taught as a fundamental skill? Or do the traditional techniques take precedent? This has raised the question of how digital technology has affected the minds of architecture students – and more specifically – in the area of design thinking. This research report will take a preliminary look at the neural responses in the brain when using traditional tools and digital tools. The goal of this research project is to compare the brain’s activity when using traditional tools versus digital tools. The document will go over the process of collecting electroencephalogram (EEG) data from human participants while they were using traditional and digital tools. This was made possible using the Ultracortex Headset from OpenBCI. Afterwards, the raw data was analyzed using a statistical analysis program called Igor Pro. Within the program, the waves data was transformed into Lomb Periodograms and then were compared using the Wilcoxon test and the T-test. Finally, those results were organized onto an Excel Spreadsheet.
Border Catalog: Integrated Sense of Border
(North Dakota State University, 2019) Johnson, Helen
Despite the popularity of border issues in today's media, the spatial organization which borders create remain unrecognized. This paper discusses the relationship between architecture and borders through a catalog which organizes borders into three categories; social, personal and a combination of the two types of borders. Looking at a border through the lenses of a designer offers a variety of perspectives into the different ways in which individuals and societies cross borders. From this perspective, they are no longer looked at as a physical line, but as tool, which humans created to bring order to chaos within the mind and the physical world.

Browse

Recent Submissions