Term 5 Final Project: Advanced Residential / Piano Mansion

Do you all remember me talking about my major studio project for the fall, and then basically disappearing off the face of the blogging earth? Well, let's just say that this project consumed and challenged me more than any project to date, but that the satisfaction of completing it (and getting a great mark) was well worth the long hours, piles of discarded ideas, and even tears.

If you recall, my original concept for the house was the piano (as the client is a family of musicians), but as I developed the project further, I moved away from such a literal shape and idea into a larger concept of the stage and performance, into a liveable concert hall idea. I kept some of my original concept, such as the pitched roof, but basically, I wanted the home to capture and reflect the feeling of grandeur associated with attending a night at the theatre, as well as creating a liveable environment that was simultaneously conducive to entertaining, parties and performance. Here is the final result (click on photos to see them in larger format):

I was basically architect, structural engineer, landscaper and interior designer for this project and I also had to consider barrier free elements as one family member is in a wheelchair...did I mention the plot of land we were given was on a cliff like hill? That's a lot of hats to wear in ten short weeks, but I am so happy I pulled it off and proud of myself for not giving up!

Here's to a new term! xo

Interior Design School Supplies

As you all know, I start Interior Design school this week!!
I just spent a small fortune on the required start up supply kit, but everything is so cool! I walk to campus (it takes about 40 minutes) and this kit weighs about 50 lbs (Luckily most of the supplies are for at home use so I won't have to carry it every day). I had no idea how I was going to drag it all home, when a fellow student in my program offered me a ride. So excited to spend the next three years studying with such kind and creative people!

Here is the entire loot:

         
Here are some of my fave items:

^ 30 individual double-sided Prismacolor Markers.
I've been wanting these pricey markers for awhile now, so excited that they were part of my kit. Someday I hope to own all 156 colors!

^My kit also included Prismacolor pencil crayons and pastels.

^This portable portfolio case was optional, but I'm so glad I decided to get it! At $25, it was a great deal for the size and quality.

^Drafting materials, including a portable drafting table. This might be the class I'm looking forward to most!

^ I got a whole bunch of stencils. I thought this one of the plumbing fixtures was so funny and cute. Who knew?!

Also, my start date (which was supposed to be today), has been postponed until tomorrow. The prof who teaches my Wednesday class lost her mother and today is the funeral. I would like to take this time to offer my sincere condolences, as well as my thoughts and prayers to her family during this difficult time.