Integrated Design Studio- Spring 2023 – with Cessily Crain

Micro Mission is a micro community based in the Mission District of San Francisco, CA. The building contains a grocery on the ground level and apartments above. The area has a unique sense of community that can be capitalized on through this project. It has a large latino population therefore this project features screens that use a motif related to this culture. There is a history of screens being used for shading in warm climates, especially in front of one’s residence. The screens follow the path of the sun around the site and is considerate to where more or less shading needs to occur. These screens are made from copper and will patina over time to support plant growth. The screens in this project allow for shading, privacy, self expression, and a feeling of enjoyment in the apartment spaces.

In addition to providing shade, the screens encourage the user to reduce their use of air conditioning. PTACs are implemented for the resident to have complete control over their apartment temperature and one big system isn’t being overworked. Structurally, a light system is needed as the Mission is within a heavily seismic zone. The structure consists of light wood framing above a steel post and beam on the ground floor with the system considerations working with the site. This project consists of screens in order to allow the resident a more comfortable environment, a place for self expression and lower energy consumption.