Architecture Camp Days 4 & 5

The last two days of Architecture Camp we completed a site analysis, learned how to use a scale, studied the local zoning ordinance and the Historic Review Board guidelines. We also learned about sustainable design and some design strategies for green building (notice the green roof on one of the projects!) The students then designed a building for an infill site downtown. Special thanks to local architect Bill Chambers who loaned us the scale model of downtown. The students then built a scale model of their building for the site.

Architecture Camp Day 3

We had a beautiful windy day for flying kites with so-so success in getting them to fly. The smaller kites that followed recommended proportions worked the best. Everyone had a great time trying to get them to fly.

We started our building design project today by learning about the zoning ordinance, Historic District requirements, and green building strategies. We visited the site and did a site analysis.

Architecture Camp Day 2

The students explored the different design elements of spoons by sorting them differently from all previous students. They sorted by size, function, material, cost, texture, sheen, and finish.

We learned about the Design Process by designing, creating construction drawings and building kites. Tomorrow, if there is enough wind, we will test fly them.

Architecture Camp Day 1

Sketching

We started the day with blind sketching where you can't look at the paper while you are drawing. We then learned some new vocabulary words and went on a walk to sketch examples of them.

Toothpick and Gumdrop Structures

The students were divided into teams and were challenged to build the highest structure using toothpicks and gum balls. All the teams figured out that triangular cross bracing made a big difference.

EGG DROP

Our last activity of the day was to design, develop construction documents and build a device that would protect a egg from breaking when dropped from a second story balcony. The design materials were limited to 1 piece of paper, 3 rubber bands, 4 toothpicks, and glue. We had 3 eggs that didn't break!