COMMUNITY CENTER
My design intention is to create a social space that ties the neighbourhood together, constructing a sense of community and breaking the stigma of the area. The first step to achieve this goal is presenting an invitation to explore the site; this is done with the façade and two staircases at the front(s) of the building creating a dynamic interaction with the sidewalk, eliminating the barriers between the building and the public space. Taking the stairs up to the roof, one sees the roof edge extending out, handshaking with the community.
There are two ways to get into the building from the roof, using the lift or taking the ramps cut through the library into the lobby, further combining the public roof exterior with the interior. The community center includes an exhibition center to serve anything from art shows to public programs in service of the diverse community. Outside, the landscape design integrates with nature, using interactive edges to establish a sense of wholeness, to attach residents to their community, increasing the social connectivity and creating a feeling of belonging.
The Library building forms a bridge above the multi-use exhibition center, below it opens a direct path towards the park. The community center includes an exhibition center to serve anything from art shows to public programs in service of the diverse community. Between the arch corner of the building and the existing bank, a short cut is provided for public, increasing the possibility of welcoming passers-by to join into the community shared space.