Project Overview
This project was part of my Wayfinding Collaborative Studio class at The Ohio State University. This class focused on researching, conceptualizing, and documenting an experiential design package for The Estrella, a forthcoming high-rise mixed-use tower in downtown Columbus owned by Bluestone Brothers. We investigated the interior and exterior graphics, signage, and wayfinding design for spatial layouts, user flow experiences, accessibility considerations, and community engagement. Ideas generated by the collective studio will be utilized throughout The Estrella development.
Rooftop Bar/Grille
Exterior Rendering
Amenity Deck
Exterior Rendering Street View
Collaborators
Professor: Norman Ai
Team Members: Emily Ridinger (Interior Design), Eason Chen (Industrial Design)
Jury: Bluestone Brothers, Berardi Partners, Augment Architecture, Dune House Creative, Realm Collaborative, IIDA
Tools
Miro, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Enscape, Revit, Blender
Context
Influenced by the artistic and cultural roots of Columbus, The Estrella serves as a hub of activity that invites individuals of all different backgrounds in the city to gather. With a gallery at its core, The Estrella ignites creativity and encourages its residents to transform their everyday journeys into an art form. Estrella incorporates sculptural design elements and patterns that fully immerse the user into the space. By focusing on the small details, The Estrella is able to elevate the everyday for its residents.
The People of Columbus:
The people of Columbus fill the city with a vibrant energy. Columbus residents cultivate a sense of community that permeates through the city's streets. Whether gathering at local festivals, cheering on the Buckeyes, or supporting the thriving arts scene, the people of Columbus embrace their city with enthusiasm. With a rich variety of cultures (Somalian, Puerto Rican, Italian, etc.) and backgrounds, the people of Columbus continually breathe life into the city, fostering an atmosphere of creativity, collaboration, and boundless possibility.
Art Galleries in Columbus:
The city of Columbus has always been a city for the arts, yet many galleries have been closing down in the past few years. Galleries play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage, promoting artistic expression, and fostering community engagement with diverse forms of creativity. The city of Columbus has the potential to establish itself again as a city for the arts, and it is our job to cultivate that mission.
How can The Estrella aid in the vital role of preserving galleries that foster community engagement and creativity in Columbus?
How can The Estrella aid in establishing the identity of Columbus?
City of Columbus
Closing Art Gallery in Columbus
Art Gallery in Columbus
How can The Estrella serve as a blank canvas for the city of Columbus?
1st Floor: Lobby & Commercial
2nd Floor: Garage
7th Floor: Office, Fitness Center, & Amenity Deck
8th Floor: Residential
Concept/ Mood Board
Material Palette
Final Deliverables
Entrance Option 1
Entrance Option 2
Exterior Mosaic
Exterior Directory
Parking Garage Option 1: Mural
Parking Garage Option 2: Directional Columns
Lobby Columns: People of Columbus
Lobby Columns: Artwork of Columbus
Bike Room Exterior
Bike & Mail Room Interior
Fitness Center Hanging Sculpture: Estrella Acrylic Weights
Fitness Center: Arnold Sculpture Column & Hanging Playground Sculptures
Amenity Deck Garden: Columns
Amenity Deck: Star Sculptures & Seating
Lobby Desk: Option 1
Lobby Desk: Option 2
Lobby Seating: Option 1
Lobby Seating: Option 2
Elevators Inspired By San Juan Puerto Rico
Elevator Interior Mosaics
Mail Room Option 2: Vintage Stamps from Columbus Districts
Elevator Signage
Residential Signage
Reflection
Overall this project allowed me to practice real-world application and work with real clients. I was able to work with a wonderful team and this project taught me that it is okay to challenge the jury's initial preconception of what the space could be. If we had more time we would have spent time actually curating the art pieces so that they are all cohesive and refining the elegance of the overall space. We also would have spent time experimenting with the residential spaces to provide a full view of what the space could be.
