Dm

The premise of this studio was to develop a design system for quarter acre vacant lots in Philadelphia based upon an environmental technology. My design dealt with water in various ways. At one level, a constructed wetland is strategically placed to intercept stormwater run-off. On top of this, a system of treeoids acts to collect rainwater, generate solar hot water, and creates a vertical structure to support a hanging ecosystem.

This system was applied to two sites. On Site One, a play surface and basketball court are integrated into the system, building upon a nearby playground. The treeoids provide shade and a structure for lighting. In addition, a canopy walk connects the tree structures and allows for immersion in the hanging ecosystem. Rainwater and solar hot water are collected and distributed to the neighboring homes.

Site Two is situated on a parking lot in West Philadelphia. Stormwater runoff is redirected into a subsurface wetland. Above, the tree structures are set in an undulating surface which creates an environment for skateboarders. Again, the tree structures collect rainwater and generate solar hot water. At different times, the pools created by the undulating surface can be filled with the solar hot water, creating an urban hot spring oasis.