community terrace
The Pavilion at Utica Junction - Design Competition
Michigan, USA
First Prize
2017
The project aims to encourage community engagement through multiple means as it meant to develop a proper community space that can be utilized for formal and informal events and gatherings throughout the year whether they are celebratory, market oriented, otherwise, it also aims to connect the site visually to the surrounding historically structures.
Cultural Connection
There are three elements that defines the project “the plaza, the ramp, and the indoor pavilion.” The plaza is a rectangular shaped space consists of series of small terraces that can be used as sitting spaces for the crowd, and it is ordered by a grid of thin pillars that is used for lighting.
The heart of any thriving community is a space where people can come together to celebrate, interact, and share in the richness of their culture. This architectural project is born out of a profound desire to foster community engagement and create a space that transcends mere physical structures. It aspires to be a true epicenter for both formal and informal events, a place that pulsates with life throughout the year, be it for celebratory occasions, bustling markets, or a myriad of other activities. This endeavor also pays homage to the rich historical context of its surroundings by establishing visual connections with the structures that have stood the test of time.
At the very core of this project lies the Plaza, a rectangular expanse meticulously designed to accommodate a diverse array of activities. This space is artfully crafted with a series of small terraces, thoughtfully designed to serve as sitting areas for crowds of all sizes. These terraces are beautifully defined by a grid of slender pillars that not only lend an aesthetic touch but also serve as sources of ambient lighting, adding a touch of magic to evening gatherings.
Layered Spaces
Surrounding the Plaza is the Ramp, a monumental structure that transcends its physicality. Beyond its architectural significance, the Ramp serves as a canvas for local artists to exhibit their work, breathing life and creativity into the space. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in sound isolation, providing a buffer between the Pavilion and the neighboring residential areas during events.
Rising to a height of 26 feet from the ground level, the Ramp offers visitors a captivating visual connection to the historically significant structures that envelop it, seamlessly blending the past with the present.
Facing the Plaza stands the Indoor Pavilion, a multifunctional space designed to accommodate conferences, exhibitions, and a wide range of events. This space is not merely a physical enclosure; it is a platform for ideas, art, and culture to flourish. The Pavilion’s roof integrates with the Ramp, which is thoughtfully stepped back to ground level. This design creates an inviting communal space where the community can gather, sit, and interact amidst the vibrant energy of the events.
The realization of this project unfolds in three distinct phases, each carefully planned to serve a unique purpose.
Community Hub
In essence, this architectural endeavor is a testament to the power of design to shape and enrich communities. It’s not just about structures; it’s about creating spaces where memories are made, where culture is celebrated, and where the past and present coexist harmoniously. This is the Community Engagement Plaza—a space that transcends bricks and mortar, embracing the spirit of community, culture, and connection.
The ramp surrounds the plaza creating a monumental wall that can be used as a place for local artists to exhibit their work. It also separates the pavilion from the residential neighborhoods, reducing the amount of noise during event times. The highest point of the ramp is 26 feet from the ground level, allowing visitors to connect visually to the surrounding historically structures.
The indoor pavilion is facing the plaza and is being used as a space for conferences and indoor exhibitions and events. The roof of the pavilion is connected to the ramp, and it is stepped back to the ground level, creating a place for the community to sit and interact.
The project is proposed to be constructed in three phases. The first phase is creating the plaza—“A place for people to gather and celebrate.” The second phase is creating the ramp—“A place to connect the community to the city’s history.” The final phase is creating the indoor pavilion—“A place for art and exhibitions.”
