Before we begin the recap, we had some terrific publicity with an article in the Amherst Current, UMass DesignBuild Prototypes ADUs for Western Mass by our DesignBuild professor, Rob Williams, AIA.

Week Three was full of exploration and analysis. During the first studio of the week students presented their precedent analyses of existing small houses. Working in pairs, on a selected precedent each pair identified three key objectives: the goals and values of the project, spatial organization of both the interior and site, and an in-depth understanding of the building envelope and technical systems. Students diagrammed relationships essential to their given precedent, such as program, circulation, and sunlight interaction. In addition to this, each pair constructed ¼ scale model that conveyed other key ideas of the structure.

Matthew Kadzis and Isobel Healy presented their precedent analysis on the 1941 Chamberlain Cottage in Wayland, Massachusetts by Walter Gropius and Marcel Breuer. One key analysis of the getaway cottage was of the massive chimney stack and fireplace, located in the heart of the living and dining room space. Renderings were done to understand its implementation, both with and without the fireplace, finding although it was a cozy element, it did restrict space and circulation.

Josey Wermuth and Asher Thomas included a light study in their precedent study of Kieran Timberlake and Bensonwood’s 2020 Open Home. Through daylight studies, they learned how natural light would interact within the spaces, finding the window placement rather limiting with many spaces not receiving enough natural light.

Each presentation taught us about the advantages and disadvantages of a given house, serving as an inspiration for the next conceptual design phase.

During the second studio of the week, students visited the Wistariahurst Museum in Holyoke, Massachusetts. They attended a presentation led by several members of notable Holyoke organizations. Aaron Vega, director of the city’s Office of Planning and Economic Development, spoke about both the historic accomplishments and the current goals of the office. Students learned how Holyoke’s industrial expansion was fostered by the implementation and ready availability of the city’s access to hydro-power.

We also learned that High Street and related areas of Holyoke originally consisted of principally mixed-use buildings, with businesses on the ground floor and residential apartments on the upper floors. Vega noted that the city wished to revive its former mixed-use buildings, many of which are abandoned. All of this while maintaining focus on affordable housing for its underserved community.

Michael Moriarty, Executive Director of OneHolyoke, taught students more about Holyoke’s history. In the 1970s, the city demographics shifted away from blue collar jobs in the mills. Poverty and unemployment increased, while housing became more unavailable.

Juan Flores, a Latino Holyoke resident and OneHolyoke volunteer, gave more insight on the perspective of living in the city with a disability. He felt that the world has not accommodated individuals with disabilities —steps into buildings are often too high and intermediate spaces are too narrow. 

Nayroby Rosa, OneHolyoke Community Engagement Director, discussed her role communicating with Holyoke’s government and advocating for residents. Attempting to ensure that residents have all the information they need to successfully navigate housing issues.

José Maldonado Velez, the Neighbor-to-Neighbor community organizer for the Holyoke chapter, also acts as an advocate for the people. His discussion of “Door Knock” was helpful in understanding the needs of the community. Residents spoke of doors that would not open and holes within their residences due to rodent or cockroach infestation. The solution could come in better material choices as well as more efficient and affordable ways for the maintenance of these spaces. Holyoke has a current median income of $44,000, yet faces massive disparities, with some residents making below $10,000 a year. Listening to these speakers allowed students to gain perspective on the city demographics, needs, history, and resources as we further develop our design.

The final stop of the day was the Hygge House currently on display in Holyoke. It was insightful to see how such a small space (350 square feet) was able to comfortably accommodate a sleeping space, living room, kitchen, storage, and bathroom.

Our precedent research, exposure to the client, program, and the city of Holyoke will serve as tools for the design process ahead!