our first project of the new year will be a nation wide competition that requires entrants to design a shading structure over/on the new pedestrian bridge that is being built down at the US/Mexican border in san ysidro, ca. the old border patrol center is being torn down and replaced by a winning design from the Miller Hull Partnership firm. clicking on the link will give you information as to what the rest of the center will look like. our job, however only entails building on the pedestrian bridge.
however minor this bridge may feel to the rest of the project, it is an important element to many visitors because, for some, it is the first glimpse into our great country. therefore this bridge needs to be a symbol of what the United States stands for and how we want to be perceived by oncoming visitors.
i have already started researching materials, forms, other bridge designs, etc., in order to spark some inspiration. stumbling on a few materials that are also being incorporated in the new border patrol center, strong progress has already been made on my part in the design process.
elements in the design that will need to be addressed first and foremost:
- shading from the weathers elements; sun, wind, rain, heat...
- what materials to use to keep cost down, construction possible, and durability
- passive heating and cooling systems for pedestrians on the bridge
- form that establishes inspiration and excitement into this wonderful country
- connection from US to Mexico and the surrounding san ysidro area
the project must be received in SF by Oct. 27th which means i have a little under three weeks to complete the project. this will definitely test me as a designer and as a student because i will need to allot enough time for each element of the design process while also staying current with my other school courses. i am very confident that i can produce great work and will strive to establish a successful and thoughtful design. when it comes down to it all, even though the first place prize is $5,000, having my design actually built and realized comes at a simple cost...priceless
No comments:
Post a Comment