HelicoZonia

Summer 2011

Veritas University, San Jose, Costa Rica

Tropical Architecture Final Project

Summer of 2011 I participated in a 5 week course in Tropical Architecture at Veritas University in San Jose, Costa Rica. The objectives were to learn about climate and bio-inspired design, and to develop the skills to analyze a particular situation and be able to offer adequate design solutions that would guarantee a good quality environment. Various pieces of work throughout the course prepared me for the final project, a design and 3D model of a shaded resting structure to be placed near the entrance of the San Jose Zoo. I began by visiting the San Jose Zoo and taking pictures of all the flora and fauna. I then chose one photo to inspire my work. I chose the heliconia flower for its wavy stem, irregular flower shape, and interesting bright colors. Next, I made 2D abstract drawings of the flower using various mediums such as pencil, color pencil, and marker. Then, I selected my black and white 2D abstract drawing to inspire a 3D structure. The final step of the project was to use the 3D structure to inspire the final 3D model.