For this project, we developed three preliminary design studies. Guided by Peter Rowe’s heuristic strategies, we used them as the foundation for our spatial reasoning and strategic decision-making. Through this framework, we explored multiple approaches to address the design problem. Our design process followed three key steps, Condition, Action, and Intent, which we applied to justify and articulate the reasoning behind each study.


Our final idea emerged from a strong focus on the building’s environmental relationships, particularly its interaction with sunlight. Through our step-by-step form development process, we explored how the massing could respond to the sun’s path, maximize natural light, and integrate sustainable systems. By analyzing orientation, carving volumes for daylight, and shaping angled façades, we discovered that the design could naturally improve energy performance while enhancing interior spatial quality. This led us to integrate solar panels, skylights, and other passive strategies directly into the building’s form.

Ultimately, we chose this concept because it combines sustainability with architectural expression. The building doesn’t just use environmental systems it is shaped by them.