For this assignment, we had to create a collage concept board of words and images. This collage would include your ideas and answers to constraint questions leading up to the project idea. Below is my concept board for my design solution.
I want to create a space that makes good use of the underutilized or vacant spaces in the neighborhood. After thinking about this, I realized that the roofs of most of the stores and housing are simply empty. Roofs could be transformed into spaces that bring together the residents, for example restaurants that have authentic cuisines that are prominent in Crown Heights. With gentrification, the community is breaking apart and people feel unsafe within their own neighborhood. I want to create an environment where the residents feel safe and believe that Crown Heights isn’t losing its own originality. I also added a graffiti rooftop because it is one of the features of this place and although may sound like a rebellious move, it serves art. The houses are all lined together and the huge staircases and front patio do not really have any function, instead if it was all cleared and made into a single extending green space for children or simply anyone to walk, jog or relax on. I think overall these projects focus a lot on sustainability and green design. With a self-functioning garden on the roof of local grocery stores and different services, it might be possible that the area becomes more livelier. The aim is to not lose the essence of Crown Heights and get a sense of togetherness.
Below are few of my concept sketches as well:
