by Katharina Wang

What if a building could provide urban hiking? This question sparked an ambitious design journey, transforming a micro-apartment complex in NYC's East Village into a vertical landscape of terraces and trails. The Village Green chronicles the highs and lows of this experiment and the ever-present fear of losing sight of the original vision. Through collaboration, iteration, and unexpected lessons, the project evolved into something great. In the end, the illuminated final model wasn't just a structure, it was proof that design thrives in the space between challenge and discovery.

This research explores the intersection of architecture and ecology, challenging conventional design paradigms by incorporating non-human actors into built environments. This work examines how architecture can move beyond human-centric approaches to create spaces that support biodiversity and cohabitation. By embracing dynamic, adaptable systems, the projec redefines architecture as a participant in larger ecological processes rather than a static imposition on the landscape.

by Amanda Carambat and Aya Hijazi

This award winning submission for the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) competition earned second place nationwide, showcasing excellence in market-responsive residential design. The project balances efficiency with livability while adhering to industry standards and real-world constraints. Designed as a comprehensive development proposal, the entry integrates thoughtful planning, financial feasibility, and construction methodologies to address contemporary housing challenges.