[par]ket
This project seeks to re-imagine the growing number of vacant parking lots at urban strip malls as potential location to cycle programming through the use of multi-purpose architectural devices. The two programs being examined are farmer’s market and skate park. Both of which attracts a different set demographics and can coexist through clever use of scheduling. By creating an urban space that attracts a wide range of demographic, we can interject life into these vacant parking lots.
Existing Conditions
Big set backs and parking lots in front of strip malls are a result of driver friendly zoning codes that are all but anachronistic in our day and age. Once upon a time the idea was that a retail building should provide plenty of parking for its patrons despite only being opened from 9 to 5. That, and the idea that set backs help create friendlier streets lead us to where we are today.
Ideas Explored
Adaptive Morphology: Are there overlapping morphology that can serve multiple architectural programs?
Modularization: Is there an economy in scaling or modulation that can get more than one use out of architectural forms?
Flexibility: Can things be specific yet flexible at the same time?
Programs
The programmatic elements being explored includes:
Skate Park
Farmer’s market
Outdoor performance
Seating
Adaptable Morphology
The main component that ties these two different programs together is the half pipe, which, with some minor alteration, can double as a farmer’s market stall. With the introduction of a foldable counter at the back side of the half pipes, they can be turned into market stall in mere minutes. The safety railings at the top of the pipe also naturally double as the signage board. Double the uses, double the activity.
Modularization
Skate park elements come together to form gather space and stalls for farmer’s market.
Flexibility
Skate park elements can be arranged in many different configurations to provide new experiences for the user.
Portability
To revitalize other sites, simply pack into semi trucks and go wherever this is needed.
Renderings
