Design + Research Studio Takes on the Biltmore Block

For the Spring 2026 Design + Research Studio, students tackled development proposals for the Biltmore Block, situated next to Tech Square. For this project, students designed around the Biltmore Hotel, a historic landmark in Midtown Atlanta. Students proposed designs for the entire block and placed their models inside a large 3D-printed model of the area encompassing multiple blocks.

Students placing their model in a larger 3D-printed model of a section of Midtown Atlanta next to Tech Square.
Students carefully place their model of the entire block inside the larger 3D-printed area model.
Light hitting a student architecture model
Placing the models inside the area model allows visualization of context and how surrounding buildings could affect light through the day.
students giving a presentation in front of a video screen, with 3D printed section of Midtown Atlanta visible in the foreground.
Along with the models, students presented plans, renderings, and context for their vision. Here, a group discusses the influence of surrounding preseved nature on their design.
David Yocum pointing out features of an architectural model.
David Yocum led this Design + Research Studio. Yocum is the Niles Bolton Professor of the Practice at the School.

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