Pre-Studio Activity - Design a Tree House

Before our studio begins, we would like you to explore your current understanding of architecture and design by building a tree house model that fits within the constraints of 6" x 6" x 6". We would like you to construct a model that represents a specific design concept of your choosing. Design concept examples are listed below: 


The Escape - Designed to promote adventure and an ideal escape through the experience of the treehouse within its environment. Ex: A Spa in the Trees

The Studio - These are treehouses which are created to promote the visionary work/studies/artistic endeavors of the occupant. This treehouse is a space which allows the person to live fully in their own fantastical world while appreciating the unique environment they are sited in.  Ex: The Writers Nook

The Object - These treehouses are exciting experiments pushing the boundaries of architecture forward. They challenge the idea of what a treehouse has to be by creating striking architecture through pushing the boundaries of structure, space, and material. Ex: The Bridge in the Jungle, The Invisible Treehouse

The Collection - The main purpose is to create spaces which emphasize the interaction with, storage of, and or display of a certain collection. Ex: The Treehouse of Glass Objects


Including restrooms and kitchen space is not necessary. The primary function of the tree house is determined by each designer and may be a residence but it could also be any number of programs. Ex: gallery, playground, tea house, greenhouse, umbrella making shop, studio, library, observatory, etc. 


Directions:

- Create a study model at LEGO figure scale using Bristol paper. This model is based on complete intuition and the extents of your imagination. Sketch out multiple quick ideas testing out a few potential concepts. Build a model within 45 minutes, capture the essential aspects of the idea. Your 3D model can be supported by drawings and writing. We will discuss our concepts on the first day of studio.