Keystone Resource Center-Jose Jr Aparicio

Hello, today I'm going to be talking about Keystone Resource Center. Keystone Resource Center is focused in and originated in Panama City, Florida. I wanted this resource center to be in a place where it is truly needed to help people not just mentally, but also physically. If there are emergencies, or if people need a place to gather, they can feel more than welcome to join us in this small community that is continually growing to meet the needs of our nation.

Some ongoing disasters in this area include hurricanes and tornadoes. This is especially important because Hurricane Michael caused massive, long term damage to many families which left may without a place to stay, and people are still rebuilding. With the help of this resource center, we can also modify spaces to create housing units if needed.

Keystone Resource Center also provides people with counseling, referrals, support groups, and crisis resources. As we know, over the years, cases of mental health crises have increased, and with new developments in our society, mental health support is crucial. We need to do whatever it takes to help people feel open to seeking therapy, coming to resource centers, and connecting with others who share similar struggles. By doing this, we can build a stronger society and reduce the overall number of crises.

Furthermore, this resource center will introduce job training programs to help youth with school and overall development skills. It will provide resources like resume help, interview practice, and career placement services. People will have the opportunity to explore different fields, such as science, math, and other classes, to determine whether they want to continue with college or enter the workforce. If not mentioned before, this will also be a safe place where families can come when needed whether for after-school programs, tutoring, academic support, or mentorship and real-life skill development. These aspects are important for shaping our future society.

Tools:

1. Revit 2026
2. Revit 2027
3. AutoCad 2026
4. Sketch Book
5. Pens
6. Pencils
7. OMEN X16 Extreme Performance Laptop

Panama City, Florida, is one of the most disaster-prone communities along the Gulf Coast. The area experiences an average annual temperature of approximately 69°F (21°C) and receives about 65 inches of precipitation each year, which is significantly higher than the US average. Combined with its location, these conditions make the city vulnerable to hurricanes, heavy rainfall, flooding, and storm surge.

Panama City faces hurricanes, flooding, and other severe weather events on a regular basis. When Hurricane Michael struck in 2018, it caused devastating damage throughout Bay County. More than 58,000 residents applied for FEMA assistance, and over 25,000 households experienced major damage to their homes. Events like these show how important it is for communities to have a place where people can find help before, during, and after a disaster.

The proposed Resource is located next to TMH Urgent Care, which is only about a 5 minute walk away. This location was chosen because it allows quick access to medical care during emergencies. If a major disaster occurs, residents could receive assistance at the resource center while also having healthcare services nearby when needed. furthermore, Many people lose access to work, transportation, healthcare, and basic services following natural disasters. The center could provide job assistance, recovery information, community support programs, and spaces for organizations helping affected families.

The site is also located near major roads, making it easy for emergency vehicles, volunteers, and supply deliveries to reach the facility. By combining emergency services, healthcare access, and community support in one location, this center would help Panama City become better prepared for future disasters

While developing the sketch, I wanted to make sure people felt welcome and could easily get the help they needed. One feature I wanted to include from the beginning was a café area. A café creates a comfortable space where people can relax, do homework, study, collaborate with others, and build connections within the community. It also gives visitors a place to enjoy food and beverages or grab something to go if needed.

Some of the most important design choices were based on the research I conducted. I found that flat roofs can perform very well in hurricane-prone areas because they reduce the amount of wind pressure and uplift acting on the building. Unlike some sloped roof designs, a flat roof can help minimize the forces that strong winds place on the structure during severe weather events.

Another important feature I incorporated was the use of large V shaped structural columns. These columns play a significant role in supporting the building and strengthening the roof system. They help distribute structural loads more efficiently and contribute to the building's overall stability, especially during extreme weather conditions.

Developing the Building in Revit

Throughout my high school career, from freshman year to senior year, my professor, William Brown, taught me one of the most valuable skills I have learned: Revit. Revit is one of the most important software programs used in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry because it allows professionals to communicate and develop their ideas in a detailed and organized way.

As a student, I was fortunate to have access to Revit 2026 and 2027, and I used this opportunity to bring my sketch to life. After years of practicing, becoming Revit certified, and developing my skills, this project allowed me to put everything I had learned to the test.

When designing the Resource and Resilience Center, I wanted the building to feel open, welcoming, and comfortable. One of the ways I accomplished this was by using high ceilings throughout the building. I aimed for ceilings around 10 feet tall because I wanted the spaces to feel open and inviting rather than cramped or restrictive.

The center includes classrooms, offices, counseling rooms, a daycare, food distribution areas, storage spaces, and temporary housing rooms. Each space was designed to serve a specific purpose while supporting the needs of the community. The classrooms provide opportunities for education and training, the counseling rooms offer support in calming and comfortable environments, and the daycare helps families who may need assistance caring for their children. The temporary housing rooms provide a safe place for individuals and families who may need shelter during emergencies or periods of relocation.

One of my favorite parts of the design process was creating spaces that are both functional and architecturally appealing. I wanted every room to feel purposeful while also creating a positive experience for the people using it.

Revit allowed me to transform a simple sketch into a fully developed building. It helped me create floor plans, lighting plans, electrical plans, plumbing plans, fire protection plans, color legends, and dimensioned drawings that communicate every aspect of the design. Looking back at this project, I am grateful for everything I have learned through Revit and for the opportunity to use those skills to create something that can positively impact a community.

AND IF IMAGES DONT LOAD: https://canva.link/48ftzzigoowyy4s

When choosing materials for this project, I wanted to make sure the building could handle Panama City's hurricanes, heavy rain, and strong winds while still feeling open and welcoming to the community.

The main structure is made of reinforced concrete, which is known for its strength and durability. Since this building is meant to serve people during emergencies, I wanted to use materials that could withstand extreme weather and continue operating when the community needs it most.

One of the most noticeable features of the design is the large V-shaped columns. Not only do they give the building a unique and modern look, but they also help support the roof and strengthen the overall structure. I wanted the building to feel strong and secure while still being visually appealing.

For the walls, I chose reinforced concrete and concrete block because they perform well during hurricanes and require very little maintenance over time. The roof is a reinforced concrete flat roof, which I selected after researching hurricane-resistant building design. I learned that flat roofs can reduce wind uplift and help keep the structure more stable during severe storms.

The large windows are made with impact resistant glass, allowing natural light to fill the building while also providing protection from flying debris during hurricanes. This helps create a bright, comfortable environment

After finishing my model in Revit 2026 and 2027, I imported it into Twinmotion, a rendering software that helped bring my project to life. Seeing my building go from a simple 3D model to a realistic environment was one of the most exciting parts of the entire project.

I used Twinmotion to add materials, lighting, landscaping, vehicles, people, and other details that made the building feel real. I then used Photoshop to make final adjustments and improve the overall quality of the renderings.

Using these programs together allowed me to create visuals that were much more realistic and professional than anything I had done before. It helped me better communicate my ideas and show what the building would actually look and feel like if it were built.