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Aleah Knowles

I am very excited to complete my Bachelor of Interior Design degree. I am now eager to experience interior design in a professional setting. I would like to explore the different sectors of interior design to eventually decide which ones I most enjoy. I love the challenge of creating spatial experiences that are functional yet memorable. I also love working with my hands, and 3D modeling in different programs.

Project Overview

This thesis project is a community center for the arts and design located at 21 Ossington Avenue, that facilitates connection with diverse persons and cultures, and sparks creativity. This facility caters to a broad spectrum of creative skills such as visual art, design, music/dance, and entertainment. Users of the space will have the opportunity to learn, connect with mentors and industry professionals, collaborate, and create.

Conceptual diagram showing parti cell exploration and spacial exploration  Click to enlarge

Cell Exploration.

Concept/Design Process

The body is comprised of millions of different kinds of cells that are constantly moving, growing, changing, and work together to achieve desirable function. The Community Center will be as cells, with diverse people working together, sharing and learning, to create a culturally rich community, connected. Inspiration for a central element came from the layout of a cell; with its large vacuole centrally located, and the other supporting parts surrounding it. Curvilinear shapes were used throughout the space to reiterate the organic nature of the cell and inspire movement and energy in a creative environment. Throughout the space, a cool tone is used, with lots of neutral finishes contrasted with pops of bright colors. This was to create an energetic feeling for this creative learning space and to have it act as more of a blank canvas to showcase and emphasize the art pieces produced by those enrolled at the center.

Site Plan/Floor Plans

The Ossington Community Center of Art and Design is located at 21 Ossington Avenue. It has access to multiple streets with the entrance fronting Ossington Avenue. The community center would be situated near to what's considered the Art and Entertainment District in Toronto. Close proximity to these similar kinds of creative facilities can help to foster greater community involvement through collaborative events.

Map showing the site plan for the community centre.  Click to enlarge

Site Plan.

Diagram of the level 1 floor plan.  Click to enlarge

Level 1 Floor Plan.

Diagram of the level 2 floor plan.  Click to enlarge

Level 2 Floor Plan.

Illustration showing the longitudinal section.  Click to enlarge

Longitudinal Section.

Illustration showing the latitudinal section.  Click to enlarge

Latitudinal Section.

3D rendering of the lounge area.  Click to enlarge

Lounge Area 3D View.

Sections

Longitudinal and latitudinal sections through the space.

3D Views

The Center is divided between two levels connected by a large atrium space. The programming has a mixture of spaces with flexible furniture choices and architectural elements. This provides users of the space with a palette of place and posture to support their different modes of working – whether it be focusing, collaboration, socializing, or finding an area to rejuvenate/ retreat.

3D rendering of the ceramics studio.  Click to enlarge

Ceramics Studio Opened up to Gallery 3D View.

3D rendering of the resource area.  Click to enlarge

Resource Area 3D View.

3D rendering of the stair seating area.  Click to enlarge

Stair Seating/Stage Area 3D View.

Poster showing site plan, longitudinal section, exploration sketches, floor plans, 3D renders, and material swatches of The Ossington Community Center of Art and Design.

The Ossington Community Center of Art and Design

Poster

The Ossington Community Center of Art and Design.

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