Open Architecture Network

Change of Project Scope:

Due to uncertainly of several funding and coordination factors we are unable to move forward with the design of the shade structure in the time frame we have left before our construction trip. Our project scope has broadened to asses other needs in the park that may better suit our timeline and budget.

The development of a master plan of the park will allow us to identify opportunities for design/build and provide our project partners with the tools necessary to carry out the completion of this park rehab once their funding and coordination is in place. A preliminary master plan developed from existing Biloxi park plans and discussed in this charrette calls out 4 major elements of the park which include a defined sports filed, the recent kaboom built playground, the repaired shade structure, and a second play space in the existing grove of trees on the west end of the plot. The plan also features paths connecting N to S ends and garden and seating areas through out.

Several options were discussed for the second play space with the group deciding on creating an exploratory sound garden in the grove. This project allows us to scale down the design and construction process to fit out schedule. The space will provide areas to display community art in the form of painted ceramic tiles as well as a variety of ‘instruments’ exploring different sounds and interactions. This play space gives the park a unique feature that separated it from other neighborhood parks and provides a valuable experience for children using the park.

Next Step:

Each design team member is researching materials and construction of sound features. Another charrette will be held on THURSDAY JULY 31 to pull these materials and ideas together into a sound scape for the park. Drawings will be produced from the discussion at charrette #4 and a construction trip will follow in late August.

Design discussion:

The first meeting of two for design development attended by 9 AFH Austin members.

As everyone began to get their heads around the role this shade structure will have in the community many ideas seemed to focus on materiality and how to address the existing structure. Many questions arose about materials available in the area and the exact condition of the existing structure. We would also like to find a way to involve the community in construction or have a continuous physical interaction with the completed structure.

In the coming 2 weeks team members will be posting their ideas to get feed back and progress into construction documents quickly in the next charrette.