Description
The aim of Urban Intervention is to transform the site into a multi-purpose, flexible public space which serves the whole of Seattle centre. The intervention will form the entrance and gateway to the Seattle centre by completely opening up the 5th Avenue from the East, the International Fountain on West and the Music Project on South. It connects 5th Avenue N. to the Experience Music Project, the Space Needle, Centre House and International Fountain by a network of paths. The paths influence each other forming intersecting nodes that become an efficient minimal network connecting local landmarks. The network divides the lower and upper surface creating program fields. Some fields become agricultural plots whilst others become hard-scapes, cafes or sport fields. A second minimal path connects agricultural fields with a water canal network. The network of water canals collect, purify, and reuse rain water while providing meandering waterways and waterfalls as features.
Urban Intervention looks to restructure the existing site condition, where views are blocked, and functions and programs are ineffective. This will be achieved through the generation of a new viewing platform which accommodates and expands the functions of the site and the neighbouring sites. The site becomes a two level landscape increasing the total usable surface area allowing greater site and program integration. By increasing the amount of public space while retaining the characteristics of the existing stadium landscape multipurpose green spaces suitable for games, public activities, and festivals are able to be formed. The new upper layer forms a green canopy that covers the stadium providing shading, increased public space, a viewing platform, as well as facilitates rain harvesting.
Parking is moved underground. The memorial wall will be moved to a more dignified location facing the international fountain. The slope of the site will provide a place for reflection in an otherwise busy public space. Connections are drawn with paths linking the surrounding neighbouring plots making them more usable whilst enhancing the performance of the existing space. These connections combined with the use of electric vehicles will enhance the flow of circulation around the centre and to various landmarks. An electric vehicle recharging station is accessible from 5th Ave. N.
The site incorporates systems of production alongside systems of recycling and the reuse of resources. Agricultural plots produce food, which is then sold in the shops and restaurants on the site. Efficient water storage distribution and recirculation irrigates crops and allows for the efficient and sustainable creation of water features. These processes are used commercially to economically sustain the maintenance and running of the site. They are also used to educate students and the general public about the sustainability.
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