After taking an in-depth look at ecology by mapping, researching, precedence, and site visiting our studio divided into 3 separate teams (each further developing their own respective concepts and projects of ecology). While looking at ecology’s most traditional definition, we became partial to the notion that ecology is about the interaction/relationship between organisms and other organisms (more specifically humans). Taken a step further, we defined human ecology as the interdisciplinary study of the relationship between humans and their natural, social, and built environments, and from there developed a few initial goals/ideas:
..design a cultural center originating at the historical 5 points
During the weekend design charette we developed 3 primary concepts that existed on 3 different scales as a means to comprehensively rejuvenate the declining region of South Collinwood: 1) a linear park 2) community gardens and 3) a cultural center. By layering these 3 designs in a specified area (defined primarily by schools/education) of South Collinwood we were successfully able to incorporate issues of population decline, lack of identity/pride, struggling economy, safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
..design a cultural center originating at the historical 5 points
- ..connects the existing primary HS with sports complex
- ..re-purpose existing land/bldgs into complex (interior and exterior spaces)
- ..serves as a place of culture, safety, promotion, sustainability, community relations
- ..bus/transportation hub
- ..after school programs (latch key programs)
- ..plays, sporting events, practices, tutoring, media center, sustainability HUB
- ..locate environmental 'nodes' scattered throughout the boundary
- ..measure water usage, CO2 emissions, etc. (similar to Oberlin)
- ..all info reports back to environmental HUB @ cultural center to teach kids
- ..exposed soil section and/or culverted water to show effects
- ..pedestrian/biking bridges for safe connections to periphery
- ..designate bike lanes + colored sidewalks to connecting nodes
During the weekend design charette we developed 3 primary concepts that existed on 3 different scales as a means to comprehensively rejuvenate the declining region of South Collinwood: 1) a linear park 2) community gardens and 3) a cultural center. By layering these 3 designs in a specified area (defined primarily by schools/education) of South Collinwood we were successfully able to incorporate issues of population decline, lack of identity/pride, struggling economy, safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
