“The Imperfect Fit” “Creating a Transitional Work Program Designed for Adults with Autism & the Trained Professionals That Teach and Care for them, located in Charlestown MA” Alicia Ventura Thesis II Conceptual Design Mentors: Maureen Finlay BS in Civil Engineering & M.I.D. Amanda Riley BS in Sociology / Master’s Program for Severe/Moderate Disabilities

Literature Review -Understanding the challenges faced by both someone with autism and their professional aid. -Understanding how to create an environment to aid these challenges and stressors.

Common Challenges of an Autistic Individual Sensory Challenges Social Challenges Communication Common Challenges faced by the Professional Aid High Turnover Rates

Literature Conclusions It was found that both autistic individual and the trained professional would benefit from: Low Noise Pollution Areas which provide comfort and low distraction levels Proper Lighting: Artificial and Natural

To create an environment to aid the challenges and stressors faced by both the autistic individual & the trained professional A transitional live – in /work program aided by a trained professionals Cyber Cafe Support Classes Program Thesis

Location: 36 1st Avenue, Charlestown Navy Yard MA Site: Catherine Filene Shouse Building / MGH Exterior Views Interior Views

Floor Plans Section: Forth Floor Plans / Sections Public Spaces: Entry /Café, Offices, classrooms Private Spaces: Living / Sleeping Quarters, Common Space

Key VIEW DESIRED IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT CLOSE & CONVIENT ENTRANCE / EGRESS VISUAL & ACOUSTICAL PRIVACY CONVIENT Entrance Café / FOH Managerial Offices BOH Support Offices Classrooms Entrance Bedrooms Common Space Bedrooms Common Kitchen Aid’s Overnight Shift Space Bubbles

Concept Scheme 1 – Adaptation Designing a space that adapts to its users Adaptation: “ The process of change to better conform with environmental conditions or other external stimuli.” 2D Diagram - Adaptive Space Concept Model

Concept Scheme 2 – Transition Designing a space that will ease transitions Transition: “The act of passing from one state or place to the next” 2D Diagram - Transitional Space Concept Model

Concept Scheme 3 – Convergence Converge/ Convergence: “The occurrence of two or more things coming together.” “To move from a state of having many concepts to a state of having a focus on, and understanding of... “ 2D Diagram – Converging Space Concept Model Designing a space where convergences make focused space