I began this project by researching public spaces that could bring community together while also serving practical use to an urban environment. I wanted to incorporate the outdoor aspect of a city with some sort of open structure for social use. I researched parks and shade structures that people use to lounge and embrace nature. I immediately thought of the bike path that runs along the lake in the city of Chicago. This bike path lines Lake Michigan and is accompanied by grassy sidewalks. I wanted to make a structure that could be utilized alongside the bike path for people to rest, replenish and socialize. The structure itself allows people to escape the sun but also stay outdoors. The swinging chairs encourage people to interact and take a break from their activity on the bike path. Alongside the swings, i incorporated references to the human eye and Asian culture. These details bring welcoming colors into the structure and also make for a more inviting environment.
