Architecture Studio 2 was our third studio design subject and our first studio for second year. The Shop-House and Public Room required us to propose a mixed-used, medium scale building situated in James Street, Burleigh Heads. The development was to consist of 8 tenancies with a residential apartment directly attached, as well as incorporating a laneway and public room. One of the main challenges of the design was the site in terms of size and that opposite ends connected to both the vibrant commercial  realm of Burleigh and the more quiet residential end (Park Avenue). The site was very long and narrow which meant having to think critically to come up with a solution to fit the spaces in without ending up with a dark and uncomfortable space for the public to inhabit. This assessment also introduced us to Christopher Alexander's "A Pattern Language" and required us to apply various pattern techniques to our design. These patterns guided us to have more direction within our design in terms of spacial arrangement and form. Another challenge the project opposed was to be able to develop a design that could not only unify with the existing built environment, but the surrounding natural environment as well. This was resolved by the incorporation of dense vegetation and using organic materials throughout the design. Going into The Shop-House project after completing the first year of my architecture degree was a significant step up and pushed me to develop my skills in both software and critical design analysis. Additionally, the project gave us more exposure to constraints and restrictions which has helped me to further prepare myself for when I step out into my architecture career.