A complex architectural wireframe model of a multi-story building structure with detailed framework and support beams.

STICKS. STACKS. COMPOSITES.

Heavy Timber

Through an exploration of heavy timber systems and material performance, this project proposes a commuter hub in Pasadena that integrates a train station and public market, using warmth, structure, and spatial rhythm to shape a civic gathering space.

Mass timber informs every major decision — structural capacity, environmental impact, tectonic assembly. The project composes a two-directional spanning system that slips between roof, wall, and floor: panels stagger between bays to produce an elevation that reads as solid from outside while keeping the floor plan breathable within. On the second floor, panels stagger again so their corners align, transferring load downward through a space-frame logic built from composite materials.

Circulation Grain

That structural system produces two distinct qualities of grain — one unbroken, running the full length of the market, and one that filters the space into smaller, enclosed moments. Vertical circulation mirrors across the tracks, giving equal, easy access to both sides of the station.

A gabled roof establishes hierarchy and opens a direct sightline from east to west, while clerestory skylights puncture the gable to bring indirect natural light deep into the market below.

The project converges around movement, bringing people through the market and into the station as a single, continuous civic gesture.

Architectural blueprint of a building's first floor plan, including rooms labeled as community rooms, restaurant, art exhibition lobby, cafes, office, bar, and loading dock.
Architectural blueprint of a second floor plan showing a cafe area, event space, bathrooms, staircases, and various rooms and open spaces.
Interior of a modern building with large glass windows, tables, and benches, and a fruit display on the right, with people inside and a balcony railing in the foreground.
Modern indoor space with large windows, wooden benches, tables, and several people, including women and men, walking or standing.
Architectural blueprint of a building's longitudinal section showing multiple rooflines, walls, and windows.
A black and white architectural drawing of a multi-story building with detailed structural framework, columns, and floors.
Architectural site plan with outlined building structures, some transparent, and surrounding landscape details.
Modern building with angular roof design and large glass windows, situated in an urban area at dusk with a train nearby.
Architectural drawing of a modern building's transversal section showing structural details.

UCLA 2024

Professor: Heather Roberge

Contributor: Hanna Wittmack