mari cruz lopez rojas

With the overturn of Roe v Wade, influx numbers of patient traffic to states where abortion is legal has rose. Our research blocks aims to conceptualize interstate border architecture as a form of resistance, while prioritizing private healing environments for the patients.

Contextual site: Urban Elevation research

Transitioning from wilderness - private - public, the elevation empathized how the communities responded to parks, residential, community centers, and medical centers. Varying from density, massing and scale, the contrast became a key elements for ongoing design choices.

Interim Research

The characteristics of the Maggie center influenced the first iteration of the "Border Block" a term used for exploration of design methods at a small scale. This conceptual Border Block would be placed in the "exact" state border, splitting the mass in between the border of CA-AZ. Treating the opposing sides according to its specific site contexts and histories

Entrances were fortified with large walls to contain privacy on the inside while setting back roof placement to provide the entrance of lighting to the spaces. Study emphasized the courtyard as a space of connectivity to sunlight, landscape and ventilation. Referring to studies which found window views to a natural estate impacted patients recovery process.

Final Project

My ideas and development for this project came from the research block study where I primarily focused on wall fortification, courtyards, and sunlight.

There are three courtyards of varying sizes. The first is an entry courtyard that serves as a transition from the exterior to the building's program. This courtyard is surrounded by the most public areas, including the café, lobby, and pharmacy. Beyond the security point, you enter communal and resting spaces that are adjacent to the courtyards and feature double-height ceilings. As you move towards the ends of the building, the spaces become more private, culminating in hotel rooms and recovery rooms.

The second floor is more private, with no direct access to the courtyard, but it maintains a connection to the exterior without being exposed. This is where the dense produce rooms are located. At the ends of the floor, offices and staff gathering spaces are situated. The middle section serves as an additional layer of security while also providing rest and gathering spaces.