Project 2: Contextual Fit
Objective: Design a thoughtful architectural addition to the Smith House that complements Richard Meier’s original 1965 design while preserving the existing floor plan. The addition should respect the house’s spatial logic, materials, and modernist principles without altering the original structure.
Contextual Analysis
Analysis and Design of integrating new space
This project focuses on expanding the iconic Smith House, originally designed by Richard Meier, by introducing a new wing that includes a family room, an exercise room, and a bedroom suite. The design utilizes a "meta" conceptual framework to ensure that the new construction feels like a natural evolution of Meier's signature style, characterized by its white geometric forms and expansive glass walls. By carefully analyzing the home's original proportions and relationship to the landscape, the addition provides necessary modern living space while maintaining the architectural integrity of the historic site.
Narrative
A nature-loving homeowner envisions purchasing the Smith House and adding a quiet extension that strengthens the house’s relationship with the surrounding landscape while preserving the integrity of Richard Meier’s original design. The addition is conceived as a secondary element in the hierarchy—subtle and supportive—allowing the original house to remain the primary architectural focus. Inspired by light, views, and a deep appreciation for nature, the new space creates areas for reflection, gathering, and connection to the outdoors. The meta idea of the project is to frame nature as an essential part of daily living, using the extension to enhance the dialogue between architecture, light, and landscape without competing with the historic structure.
Hierarchy: Family Room
Meta Idea: Biophilia/Nature
Sorting of Spaces
Public:
-Family Room
-Formal Outdoor Area
- Exercise Room
Private:
-Master Bedroom
- Master Bathroom
Loud:
-Formal Outdoor Area -Exercise Room
- Family Room
Quiet:
- Master Bedroom
- Master Bathroom
Group:
-Master Bedroom
-Master Bathroom
Contextual Analysis
Individual
-Family Room
-Exercise Room
Existing Floor Plans
Existing Building Systems & Patterns
Conceptual Ideas
Conceptual Meta Idea
Existing System Brought Into New Integration
Column & Girders
Bearing Wall
Railings
Half Walls
Preliminary Designs
Preliminary Design 1
Preliminary Design 2
Preliminary Design 3
Final Floor Plans
Lower Floor
Second Floor
Upper Floor
South
Elevations
East
North
West
Final Sections
Section 1
Section 2
3D Section
Transformation Process
3D View
Renders
