THE SPACES
Alleyways are designed for their utilitarian function. They are uniquely scaled spaces, programed for easy use and access. The spaces identified here, those used for recreation and economic production, are governed by the overall intimate scale of the alleyway. These spaces and activities therein foster social intimacy. Physically restrictive and hard-line boundaries, cast in concrete, define edges of this passageway. Atmospheric conditions created by overhead power lines, steep topography, and adjoining residential buildings frame this thoroughfare. The scale of an alley allows for easy exchange of conversation and social interactions. Thus although designed as an infrastructure, alley has the potential to provide for lingering and communication, recreational activities, social conviviality, and economic productivity. THE TOOLSHED; THE BUILDING
The Toolshed is a shared community resource that supports economic and recreational prosperity. This multi-use renovation project intends to refashion existing infrastructure in order to enhance and promote ecological and economic values for the local urban farm called the Cream City Farms as well as for residents of this Alley. It will function as a storage unit, an administrative facilitator space, and a knowledge database site for the surrounding community. Multiple overlapping spaces foster an atmosphere where community members of all ages and races can interact. Visual connections connect shared spaces throughout the building. THE PROGRAM;
Program includes storage space for farming and recreational equipment and classroom space to promote teaching and learning of urban farming and storm water management. Greenhouse spaces in the building encourage farming throughout all seasons and offer a controlled, didactic environment removed from the farming lots. Office spaces facilitate administrative activities and controlled access to many resources. Meeting or lounge spaces allow community members cozy locations to gather and hold active meetings, share knowledge and brainstorm innovative ideas. |
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