Midterm markups

Charleston, South Carolina may be recognized for its historical modernity, but the architecture speaks a subtle language, visible to the common eye, but perhaps noticed and significantly emphasized only upon the relation of one building to the next.  Associations neglectful of scale, color, texture, volume, and placement, can be organized by the definition of an edge, a distinct accentuation provided upon any perceptible change. Whether it be for the placement of a window, a door, a corner, a balcony, or an impression, the architecture draws perhaps too much attention to the existing condition by overlapping system upon system, and by hindering any attempt for one movement with the interception of yet another. In the discussion of an edge, there grows the need of a position on definition, meaning we must decide from

the start through which architectural approach we can relate a turn of corner, a facade, or perhaps, a joint. By the designation of an edge, there arises the relative focus of resultant geometries. Much as one moment can be interrupted by another overlaid exterior detail, so, too, can that moment be defined by its link. An ‘edge’ in this sense thus becomes a “hinge,” a connection or a “joint,” a moment indicating change but existing upon impermanent similarities. Still, an edge may form the sole connection of a dispersant breach, a result only visible by the proximity of two contrasting things.

At a broader context, the ornamentation of the architectural edge mirrors the liveliness of the surrounding urban environment. Charleston is a city of food and a social hub for a variety of people. From this knowledge, we find motive for such an expansive program and for a circulation system that accommodates both the public and the student. And with such a large influx and container of people, there essentially comes the need for all-encompassing structure, a variable system in scale and design that provides for the visual interaction across a divide, and for the physical connection along a hinge.

The jury's comments:
Take the structural speculation a step further, and start to find the big gestures that are going to organize the building as whole.
Consider the hierarchy of structure--what holds weight all the way up, versus what is simply a room division wall. 
Look at how the angles can be more controlled, rethink the shape of these culinary spaces.
Find a unifying factor for the facade....hint at the partition that will occur immediately upon entrance, but relate the facade more to the regular context that surrounds.
Shape the overhead to allow for light to filter in.
Consider circulation, and where each stair or elevator takes the occupant....shouldn't go from a lobby right to a room.
Add another fire stair.