Dallas College - Dallas, Texas, USA, August 2023-Present
A Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), Dallas College is a community college district that provides a range of academic programs. Among these offerings is an interior design program emphasizing foundational design principles, space planning, color theory, and material selection. Situated within Downtown Dallas, the heart of the city's business activities characterized by towering skyscrapers and corporate structures, the college is enveloped by a backdrop of historic edifices. Five years ago, I first set foot in Dallas. Living in this expansive yet intimate town in 2018 was a joy, and it's exhilarating to be back. The cityscape has evolved notably, with a surge in population and new housing developments. Now, working away from the main campus in a towering building amidst architectural gems from various periods is an absolute delight. From our classroom, my students and I can spot historical landmarks, allowing me to regale them with tales of events that molded this captivating city. The upcoming academic year promises to be thrilling...
Please see my course syllabi here.
Please see my course syllabi here.
Working in a Registered Historic Landmark - One Main Place, 1968
Referred to as the "Main Street District" the vicinity surrounding Main Street has a rich history as a central nucleus for commerce and finance. Iconic structures such as the Magnolia Building and the Mercantile National Bank Building, embodying architectural styles from the early 20th century, have played a role in shaping the city's financial persona. Completed in 1968, One Main Place is a versatile skyscraper encompassing both hotel and office spaces. Soaring to a height of 445 feet, it is the 27th tallest structure in Dallas. Crafted by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, renowned for iconic structures like Chicago's Willis Tower and John Hancock Center, as well as Dubai's Burj Khalifa, One Main Place was masterminded by lead designer Gordon Bunshaft. Originally conceived in the 1950s as part of Dallas's first Superblock, the building's footprint, spanning 30,000 square feet, occupies only a third of the 2.4-acre property, and its 1.1 million-square-foot space features five subsurface levels connected to the Dallas Pedestrian Network, a 700-space parking garage, and recessed plazas for tenants' convenience. Since its completion, One Main Place has changed hands several times, currently owned by the KFK Group.
Steve Brown (The Dallas Morning News) wrote: in 1959, developers, backed by Dallas' affluent Murchison family, embarked on a transformative project in downtown's west side, acquiring and demolishing numerous old buildings. Their ambitious vision aimed to replace these structures with a cutting-edge complex of skyscrapers that would rival New York's Rockefeller Center. The initial plans for this grand endeavor were conceived by Columbia University's architecture department, with award-winning designers from Skidmore Owings & Merrill brought in to actualize the buildings for what was dubbed Dallas' "city of tomorrow". Plans for the even larger Two Main Place, spanning 50 stories and bridging Main Street, encountered delays when the project's driving force, developer W. T. Overton, was murdered by his estranged wife in 1970, halting the development. Eventually, the land was sold off for other purposes. While One Main Place thrived for years as a prominent business address, it fell into decline, with less than 50% occupancy by 2013 until it was transformed into the Westin Hotel in 2015 and became a historic landmark in the National Register of Historic Places.
Video source: texashistory.unt.edu
Steve Brown (The Dallas Morning News) wrote: in 1959, developers, backed by Dallas' affluent Murchison family, embarked on a transformative project in downtown's west side, acquiring and demolishing numerous old buildings. Their ambitious vision aimed to replace these structures with a cutting-edge complex of skyscrapers that would rival New York's Rockefeller Center. The initial plans for this grand endeavor were conceived by Columbia University's architecture department, with award-winning designers from Skidmore Owings & Merrill brought in to actualize the buildings for what was dubbed Dallas' "city of tomorrow". Plans for the even larger Two Main Place, spanning 50 stories and bridging Main Street, encountered delays when the project's driving force, developer W. T. Overton, was murdered by his estranged wife in 1970, halting the development. Eventually, the land was sold off for other purposes. While One Main Place thrived for years as a prominent business address, it fell into decline, with less than 50% occupancy by 2013 until it was transformed into the Westin Hotel in 2015 and became a historic landmark in the National Register of Historic Places.
Video source: texashistory.unt.edu
|
|
|
Fall 2023
INDS 1301 - Basic Elements of Design - Line Theory
The Basic Elements of Design course at Dallas College focuses on fundamental design principles. It encompasses projects involving shape, line, value, texture, pattern, spatial illusion, and form, incorporating both 2-D and 3-D model construction. Our semester commenced with an exploration of the foundational element of 'line' and an ice-breaker exercise followed by a critique session!
Line theory in design delves into the aesthetics and visual impact of lines, elucidating their pivotal role in crafting composition, texture, and motion within artwork, graphics, and architectural design. This knowledge is indispensable for both designers and artists, as lines serve as a cornerstone in conveying visual messages and artistic expression. It was a thrilling experience to observe the students engaging in drawing once again, possibly for the first time since their elementary school days. It's fascinating how, without regular practice, we all find the need to reacquaint ourselves with fundamental mediums and tools like colored pencils or markers.
Line theory in design delves into the aesthetics and visual impact of lines, elucidating their pivotal role in crafting composition, texture, and motion within artwork, graphics, and architectural design. This knowledge is indispensable for both designers and artists, as lines serve as a cornerstone in conveying visual messages and artistic expression. It was a thrilling experience to observe the students engaging in drawing once again, possibly for the first time since their elementary school days. It's fascinating how, without regular practice, we all find the need to reacquaint ourselves with fundamental mediums and tools like colored pencils or markers.
|
In the world of design, creativity knows no boundaries, and it often emerges from the most unexpected sources. Take, for example, my talented design student James, who, inspired by the intricate works of MC Escher, has crafted a mesmerizing and intricate design using the element of 'line'. What's truly remarkable is that James had no prior experience in design, underscoring the boundless potential that lies within each of us.
This achievement is a testament to the transformative power of guidance and mentorship - by avoiding harsh criticism and discouragement, building confidence and encouraging risk-taking - crucial in fostering a positive and productive learning environment which can nurture raw talent and channel it into astonishing creations. Moreover, it highlights how our daily lives are an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Every image we encounter, consciously or unconsciously, is stored in our memory and can resurface in our creative endeavors, weaving a tapestry of ideas and influences that shape our unique design sensibilities. This student's journey is a vivid reminder that the fusion of guidance and the reservoir of visual experiences in our minds can result in extraordinary works of art, regardless of one's prior background or expertise. |
INDS 1311 - Fundamentals of Interior Design - Freehand Sketching
Freehand sketching skills hold immense importance in the field of interior design. These skills serve as a vital tool for designers to visually communicate their creative ideas and concepts to clients, team members, and contractors. Unlike computer-generated images, freehand sketches offer a quick and intuitive way to capture and convey design concepts, fostering real-time collaboration and ideation. They allow designers to explore spatial relationships, furniture placement, and aesthetic elements with a sense of artistic freedom and spontaneity. Moreover, freehand sketches enable designers to convey the tactile qualities and ambiance of a space, providing a richer and more authentic representation of the envisioned design. We're fortunate to study in a historical building, brimming with intriguing design elements to sketch. While learning about design tools - freehand sketching, bubble diagrams, concept boards, etc. - my students took a few minutes in the lobby to discover their freehand sketching skills for the very first time! Watching first-year students who have received no professional training to sketch, especially in the realm of perspective drawing with its unique techniques, is consistently delightful and highly enjoyable.
INDS 1301 - Basic Elements of Design - Shape Theory
Shape theory or shape studies, explores the characteristics, properties, and applications of different shapes in design, including their visual impact, aesthetics, and how they can be effectively utilized to create composition, balance, and meaning in various design disciplines such as graphic design, interior design, industrial design, and more. Understanding the principles of shape theory is essential for designers, as shapes play a fundamental role in creating visual communication and influencing the overall design's perception and effectiveness. Having been inspired by Daniel Libeskind and his unconventional design approach involving crumpling paper, we embarked on a journey to awaken our inner Daniel and experiment with crafting design forms inspired by his work. Through this exercise, my students discovered that with the right guidance and training, we all possess the potential to create remarkable designs!
In their very first model making exercise, students tapped into their inner Daniel Libeskind through the art of paper-model making (as seen above). For their subsequent assignment, they were tasked with incorporating additional structures into their initial paper building. It's truly astounding how much can be accomplished in such a brief span of time - in your very first semester in college - and I couldn't be prouder of each and every one of them. Please click on each image to enlarge.
Student Profile - Lizeth Hernandez Ortega
Visiting a Registered Historic Landmark - Adolphus Hotel, 1912
Named after St. Louis tycoon Adolphus Busch AKA King of Beer, who in addition to brewing beer, crafted a vast real estate and business empire, the Adolphus was conceived as a grand alternative to the aging Oriental Hotel. Unveiled in 1911 at a cost of $1.5 million, it was hailed as the world's most beautiful hotel and stood 20 stories tall, surpassing any building in St. Louis. Constructed with granite, brick, and limestone, the hotel boasted artesian wells and a basement power plant. Its Louis XIV-inspired architecture featured ornate details, including colossal bronze statues of night and morning gods and a turret resembling a beer bottle. Mr. Busch's mandate to the architect was clear: spare no expense in creating the country's most complete and perfect hotel. The Adolphus was an instant sensation, transporting Dallas residents to a world of old-world luxury. Over the years, it has played host to countless important gatherings, from football games to Big Band era parties, wedding receptions, and fine dining experiences. Like other iconic hotels such as San Francisco's St. Francis, Chicago's Drake, or Manhattan's Waldorf Astoria, the Adolphus holds a special place in Dallas's heart. With the possibility of acquisition by an Ohio investor, it may soon receive a well-deserved makeover as it approaches its centennial, ensuring it continues to shine as a cherished Dallas institution (As told by Steve Brown - Dallas Morning News).
There are over 100 registered historic landmarks in Dallas, Texas, including the Adolphus Hotel, which graciously welcomed my students and me on September 21st. This iconic establishment boasts a rich history, featuring a stunning chandelier acquired during the 1904 Chicago World Fair, a grand mirror from 1912 adorned with a carved likeness of Bacchus, the Roman God of Wine, captivating portrait paintings, renowned guests, and a plethora of magnificent halls and restaurants. Our visit to the Adolphus Hotel was a truly exceptional and enlightening experience thanks to Mr. Sam Tucker and Ms. Alexis, our tour guide. Such excursions to registered historic landmarks are of profound significance to interior design students. These sites serve as living classrooms, imparting invaluable lessons in architectural heritage and the evolution of design aesthetics throughout history. Students, while immersed in these spaces, develop a profound appreciation for the historical context, craftsmanship, and materials that characterized different eras, thereby enriching their design sensibilities. Furthermore, these visits instill a deep respect for preservation and adaptive reuse, emphasizing sustainability and the seamless integration of cultural heritage into contemporary design concepts. Such explorations also nurture creativity by exposing students to a wide spectrum of design aesthetics and challenge them to think critically about harmonizing the past with the present. Ultimately, these experiences shape students into well-rounded and culturally sensitive interior designers, empowering them to craft spaces that resonate with a profound sense of history and timeless beauty.
Visiting Registered Historic Landmarks - Kennedy Memorial by Phillip Johnson, 1970
Philip Johnson was a polarizing architect whose career encompassed both groundbreaking innovation and significant criticism. While he made enduring contributions to the realm of modern architecture and played a pivotal role in the development of the International Style, his later association with Nazi Germany and Hitler understandably raised concerns within the architectural community. Johnson's propensity to adapt and experiment with diverse architectural styles, often lacking a consistent ideological foundation, led some to perceive him as an architectural chameleon. However, regardless of these controversies, it is indisputable that Johnson left an indelible mark on the field of architecture, profoundly influencing the discourse and practice of 20th-century design. He was also known for his playful affinity for Texas, humorously referring to it as his favorite "country" due to the abundance of commissions he received in Texas.
Dealey Plaza, a historic landmark located in downtown Dallas, gained worldwide attention due to the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, while his motorcade passed through the plaza. The plaza itself is situated at the western end of Dallas' central business district and is named after George Bannerman Dealey, a prominent Dallas newspaper publisher and civic leader. Architecturally, Dealey Plaza is characterized by a mix of neoclassical and Beaux-Arts design elements. One of the most prominent structures is the former Texas School Book Depository, now known as the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, from where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly fired the shots that killed President Kennedy.
Philip Johnson was influenced by the International Style of architecture, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of modern materials such as concrete and glass. The Kennedy Memorial Plaza, with its clean lines and minimalistic approach, is a reflection of these principles. The design of the memorial is rich in symbolism; the four columns are meant to represent the freedom of Kennedy's spirit, while the open roof symbolizes a cenotaph, an empty tomb, as Kennedy's actual burial place is located at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The memorial's starkness and abstraction are intended to evoke a sense of solemnity and contemplation. The tragic assassination of President Kennedy in Dallas deeply impacted Johnson, who was a friend of the Kennedys. His design for the memorial sought to capture the somber mood and significance of the event while providing a space for reflection and remembrance.
Video source: texashistory.unt.edu
Kennedy Memorial, Dallas, Google Earth
Dealey Plaza, a historic landmark located in downtown Dallas, gained worldwide attention due to the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, while his motorcade passed through the plaza. The plaza itself is situated at the western end of Dallas' central business district and is named after George Bannerman Dealey, a prominent Dallas newspaper publisher and civic leader. Architecturally, Dealey Plaza is characterized by a mix of neoclassical and Beaux-Arts design elements. One of the most prominent structures is the former Texas School Book Depository, now known as the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, from where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly fired the shots that killed President Kennedy.
Philip Johnson was influenced by the International Style of architecture, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of modern materials such as concrete and glass. The Kennedy Memorial Plaza, with its clean lines and minimalistic approach, is a reflection of these principles. The design of the memorial is rich in symbolism; the four columns are meant to represent the freedom of Kennedy's spirit, while the open roof symbolizes a cenotaph, an empty tomb, as Kennedy's actual burial place is located at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The memorial's starkness and abstraction are intended to evoke a sense of solemnity and contemplation. The tragic assassination of President Kennedy in Dallas deeply impacted Johnson, who was a friend of the Kennedys. His design for the memorial sought to capture the somber mood and significance of the event while providing a space for reflection and remembrance.
Video source: texashistory.unt.edu
Kennedy Memorial, Dallas, Google Earth
|
|
|
Exploring the Kennedy memorial with my class turned out to be even more thrilling than I could have anticipated. Discovering how Phillip Johnson personally inspected, assessed, and either endorsed or dismantled each precast concrete column before its installation brought a fresh perspective to my students' comprehension of quality control and project management, crucial skills for anyone in the construction industry.
Visiting Registered Historic Landmarks - Thanksgiving Chapel by Phillip Johnson, 1976
Thanksgiving Square, located in the heart of downtown Dallas, is a renowned urban park and religious landmark that serves as a symbol of gratitude and unity. The square was conceived by philanthropist and developer Trammell Crow (real estate developer from Dallas) and was designed by Philip Johnson. Its construction began in 1974 and was completed in 1976, making it a relatively modern addition to the city's landscape. The design of Thanksgiving Square is notable for its distinctive elements. The centerpiece is the Chapel of Thanksgiving, a spiral-shaped chapel with a stunning stained glass spiral ceiling designed by artist Gabriel Loire. The chapel is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and unity. Surrounding the chapel are beautifully landscaped gardens, including fountains and reflecting pools, which provide a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. The Square also features the "Ring of Thanks," a prominent white granite pedestal with a bronze sculpture and a constantly burning flame symbolizing gratitude.
|
|
|
We are fortunate to have our workplace situated just a short five-minute walk from the chapel. Joining our class in visiting the chapel is a pure delight, and being able to immerse ourselves in such a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere alongside fellow creative individuals is consistently a gratifying experience.
INDS 1311 - Fundamentals of Interior Design - Color Theory
Creating a color theory concept board for interior finishes involves defining the objective, gathering inspirational materials, selecting a color scheme based on principles like complementary or monochromatic, choosing interior finishes such as paint colors and furniture, arranging these elements visually on a board for coherence, including texture and material samples, labeling and annotating details, considering lighting effects, reviewing and refining, and finally, using the board as a reference for implementing the chosen finishes in the actual space. The concept board serves as a valuable tool for conveying the design vision and guiding decision-making throughout the project. Observing students as they explored the textile and materials library and witnessed their design process and creative thinking unfold was a truly delightful experience.
Visiting a Monumental Building - Fountain Place by M.I.Pei, 1986
We've been savoring the daily sight of Fountain Place through the canteen window in our classroom building, so it felt entirely instinctive to organize a class visit to the location. Fountain Place, a striking architectural marvel in Dallas, bears the illustrious signature of its designer, I.M. Pei, celebrated worldwide for his iconic creations such as the Louvre Pyramid in Paris and the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong. Rising majestically to a height of approximately 720 feet (220 meters) across 60 stories, the building's design is characterized by a one-of-a-kind stepped, crystalline structure that gracefully tapers as it ascends. Its exterior is sheathed in green glass, imparting a distinct green hue that artfully evokes the imagery of a sparkling fountain. During its construction, Fountain Place was meticulously built with a reinforced concrete frame, and at its base, a grand atrium beckons with an exquisite indoor fountain, enhancing the building's singular design and aesthetic allure.
Visiting Registered Historic Landmarks - Dallas City Hall by I.M.Pei, 1978
Dallas City Hall, a product of the visionary architect I.M. Pei, stands as an iconic testament to modernist architecture, reaching completion in 1978. Its defining characteristic is the striking inverted pyramid design, where a central tower gracefully ascends from a broad, sloping base. The structure's essence is accentuated by the choice of concrete and glass as primary construction materials, accentuating its clean and minimalist aesthetic. Inside the City Hall, a grand atrium unfolds, adorned with a dramatic spiral staircase and bathed in abundant natural light, creating an inviting and functional civic space. I.M. Pei's design for Dallas City Hall not only symbolizes the city but also marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of modern architecture, showcasing a harmonious blend of artistic vision and structural innovation.
Mariza Morin (Dallas Public Library) wrote: 'in the wake of the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, J. Erik Jonsson, a co-founder of Texas Instruments, assumed the role of Dallas mayor in 1964, driven by the mission to restore the city's tarnished reputation. Under his leadership, the 'Goals for Dallas' initiative was launched, sparking public discourse on the city's future and igniting plans for a new city hall. The selection of the esteemed architect I.M. Pei in 1966, a departure from his prior work, exemplified his commitment to understanding Dallas deeply by engaging its residents and immersing himself in local affairs. Overcoming various challenges, including the acquisition of additional land and resistance to Pei's unconventional design, the project culminated in the realization of Dallas City Hall in 1978. The building's bold and contemporary design, featuring the iconic inverted pyramid and a captivating rooftop, became a symbol of Dallas' resilience and forward-looking spirit'.
Mariza Morin (Dallas Public Library) wrote: 'in the wake of the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, J. Erik Jonsson, a co-founder of Texas Instruments, assumed the role of Dallas mayor in 1964, driven by the mission to restore the city's tarnished reputation. Under his leadership, the 'Goals for Dallas' initiative was launched, sparking public discourse on the city's future and igniting plans for a new city hall. The selection of the esteemed architect I.M. Pei in 1966, a departure from his prior work, exemplified his commitment to understanding Dallas deeply by engaging its residents and immersing himself in local affairs. Overcoming various challenges, including the acquisition of additional land and resistance to Pei's unconventional design, the project culminated in the realization of Dallas City Hall in 1978. The building's bold and contemporary design, featuring the iconic inverted pyramid and a captivating rooftop, became a symbol of Dallas' resilience and forward-looking spirit'.
INDS 1301 - Basic Elements of Design - Serial Plane Model Making
Architectural serial plane models are typically used for design and visualization purposes in the field of architecture and interior design. These models are physical representations of a building or interior space that are created to help architects, designers, and clients better understand and evaluate a proposed design. Learning about architectural serial planes is highly significant for architecture students as it provides them with a fundamental understanding of spatial organization, design principles, and the art of translating two-dimensional drawings into three-dimensional spaces. Mastery of serial planes allows students to visualize and conceptualize architectural ideas in a tangible way, fostering their ability to create aesthetically pleasing, functional, and structurally sound designs. These models also serve as essential tools for effective communication with clients and collaborators, enhancing the students' capacity to articulate their design concepts clearly. Moreover, serial plane models encourage critical thinking and problem-solving, enabling students to explore various design iterations and refine their ideas.
Visiting Registered Historic Landmarks - Neiman Marcus by George Dahl, 1914
The Neiman Marcus Building in downtown Dallas, Texas, is a historic commercial structure that serves as the corporate headquarters and flagship store of Neiman Marcus. It is the last remaining original department store in downtown Dallas and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Dallas Downtown Historic District. The building was designed to replace a previous Neiman Marcus store that had burned down in 1913. It opened in 1914 with four floors and was designed to be fireproof and expandable. In 1926, an identical four-story addition was built, doubling the retail space and enhancing the store's design. In 1931, the building was air-conditioned in a notable feat. Over the years, the store underwent several expansions, including the addition of two floors in 1951-1953 and a seventh floor in the late 1950s. In 1964, a significant fire caused substantial damage but didn't destroy the building. It reopened just 27 days later. In 1983, two more floors were added.
George Dahl was primarily associated with modernism but demonstrated versatility by incorporating elements of Art Deco and Streamline Moderne in some of his designs. His most famous works include the Hall of State in Fair Park, characterized by Art Deco influences, and the iconic Dallas City Hall, a modernist masterpiece completed in 1978.
George Dahl was primarily associated with modernism but demonstrated versatility by incorporating elements of Art Deco and Streamline Moderne in some of his designs. His most famous works include the Hall of State in Fair Park, characterized by Art Deco influences, and the iconic Dallas City Hall, a modernist masterpiece completed in 1978.
