Charla Ray

I came up with the idea for this project in response to a need I feel exists. This center facilitates the transition of military personnel from active duty back into civilian life. Based on research of PTSD, numerous interviews of veterans, and observation, I identified the program requirements and corresponding spaces necessary to achieve a more successful integration. The existing site I selected is also in a location conducive to reconnecting these individuals to civilian life.
The concept is "connection" and can be seen in the design through a progression of a repeated abstract shape which pulls the user from outside the building into the atrium. The spaces have been designed to encourage social interaction amongst users, including a community kitchen, theatre and Wii rooms and custom dutch doors to The Admiral
apartments. Wood fins visually connect the upper apartment level to the open atrium. Translucent materials allow for spaces to be joined together by sight lines.

• Interior Design