Two current M.Arch students have been recognized for design excellence at this year’s 2016 UNBUILT Awards, presented by the Washington Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA|DC). Thuy Do and Haomin Yang won an Award of Merit for “Navy Yard Waterfront Vessel (The Vessel),” the result of last fall’s ARCH 600: Integrated Design Studio.
“The Vessel” was one of several designs conceived for Pigmental Animation Studio, a Los Angeles-based design studio working with Gensler’s Washington, D.C. office, as they plan their relocation to the Washington, D.C. area. The studio was orchestrated by Professor of the Practice Peter Noonan and Gensler Principal Jordan Goldstein, and co-taught by Professor Jaime Tilghman and Associate Professor Carl Bovil. Do and Yang’s design took the client’s directive—create an inspirational space offering connections within the community—and amplified it with imaginative yet functional elements. Using the transitional Navy Yard area of D.C., the two conceived a design that offers opportunities for Pigmental to connect with the community by doubling their campus as a public space. A large waterfront overhang, which hovers over a grand staircase, is able to project movies and entertainment on its underside. Lighting sandwiched between an inner and outer skin turns the building into a riverside landmark at night, echoing the shape and feel of the area’s naval history.
“This is not about being a revenue builder,” explained Haomin. “The studio is very interested in building culture and community, so we looked for ways to foster those objectives in innovative ways.”
The UNBUILT awards recognize excellence in academic, theoretical and other projects that, to date, remain unbuilt. This year’s competition hosted over 91 entries from students, emerging professionals and professional architects from the Washington area. Of the nine UNBUILT winners selected this year, Do and Yang were one of only three student teams. AIA|DC is planning a special exhibit for later this year.