Gabrielle Fernandez

Building Assignment
August 26, 2022

Below is an image of my building structure which has a height reaching almost 4

toothpick stories high. I started with foundation, knowing that this would carry the building load.
Since the foundation of this building was technically “on grade”, I needed to consider how to
reinforce it without the use of anything around it. I used a grid pattern reinforced by crossing
toothpicks to try and strengthen the edges together. I also added marshmallows around the edge
to create more “studs” on the outside of the structure. The toothpicks and the marshmallows add
weight, so I wanted to concentrate that on the foundation and exterior walls. All toothpick walls
are load bearing in my structure.
Beyond the second floor, the building created would not continue to be structurally sound
as I experienced the structure wanting to lean towards one side. Unlike the Leaning Tower of
Pisa, I believe this occurrence is attributed to verticality of the toothpicks rather than the
foundation. I also found myself reinforcing corners and central “studs” with additional
toothpicks as my building continued. To allow for a taller and more sound structure, emphasis on
spacing and verticality of toothpicks is crucial, along with additional toothpicks taking on the
load in key areas such as corners and centers.
A key take-away from this assignment is the importance of pre-planning. While I had a
plan for the foundation, as I went to add my “studs” I realized the benefit of additional studs
which resulted in me trying to add marshmallows to already completed floor which I believe
contributed to the leaning. I also realized the importance of building so that the weight is evenly
distributed. I noticed when I started on one side and worked towards the other, the building at
times wanted to start leaning to compensate.

Building Foundation Top-down View Side View of Building