Forest Park
emerging architecture from clichés
Union Square Manhattan, New York
Summer Semester Discourse Block 2014 MArch II Cornell University
In Collaboration with Kristopher Palagi , Yiwei Gao & Jingyan Lio
Instructor: Enrique Walker from Columbia University
From an identified cliché in architecture emerges a new way of understanding it and re-interpreting it. A manual is created from the study of precedents that follow the cliché. This is tested and modified until achieving an innovative use. As a result the cliché is turned into an original piece of architecture. Or perhaps not.
The cliche : Forest Columns
a cluster of columns, distributed in such order so they are perceived as randomly located. The combination of straight and angled columns create a forest-like space. These columns serve as support structure for the program that sits on top, as well as elements that filter the exterior-interior activity.
The site: UNION SQUARE
The site was analysed so the spontaneous activities that happen around the park became the main focus of interest for the project. The intervention's intention is to give a more formal space to the on going activities, such as chess playing, temporary drinking fountains, bike racks, reading, eating, art stand, phone chargers, planters, etc. Through permanent furniture stations that grow from strategically placed columns, there is the opportunity to host the above mentioned uses above ground and to bring structure, natural light and ventilation to the underground subway station.
Concept design. Two layers: up-ground, underground = forest, columns
study of crossed-type prototype.
shade, planter-seating-bike rack, columns
